Snowflakes Of Past Friendshipsby Lonely Fanboy48ChaptersTraveler Of The WinterRough Friendship UnderstandingReunion After A Thousand YearsTraveler Of The WinterTwilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie are placing boxes filled with Hearth's Warming decorations by the front door of the Castle Of Friendship, ready to give them to the citizens so they can put them on the Hearth’s Warming tree in the center of Ponyville. “I think that’s the last of them.” Twilight said. “I know, I can’t wait to see what the Hearth’s Warming tree is gonna look like tonight!” Pinkie cheered. “Are Applejack and the others gonna get back here in time?” “I’m sure they will, they’re just taking their time to get more citizens from the outskirts of Ponyville.” The Princess Of Friendship took out several ornaments in different colors. “Princesses Celestia & Luna are gonna be here tonight and we really want to make this Hearth’s Warming ceremony really memorable.” “What’s the difference? Last year, we had the ceremony at Canterlot and it was just as memorable as it was.” “But do citizens from Canterlot come to Ponyville to be part of the ceremony?” Twilight snarkily asked, giving Pinkie a casual look. “A few are debatable, but not a whole lot.” She placed the ornaments inside her saddle bag. “I guess you're right.” Pinkie putting the Hearth’s Warming lights in her saddle bag. “But at the same time, it would have been sweet to see something unexpected.” As the two ponies put on their winter gear, they placed their saddle bags on their backs. “What do you mean by that?” Twilight put her winter earmuffs on. “I love the Hearth’s Warming holiday more than any other holiday, and I always wanted something new every single year.” “Don’t you think that’s praying for too much? You always pray during this time of year.” This caused Pinkie to give her friend a sorrowed look. “You know it’s always different with every single year that passes right? Not better than the last but still to expect the unexpected.” “Yeah, I guess that is true.” Twilight smiled. “I always think this holiday can be unpredictable in a good way.” “That’s what I just said.” Pinkie walked up to Twilight with her eyes closer to hers. “Expect the UNEXPECTED!” The alicorn backed away from the party pony’s confession. “Maybe we should leave instead of discussing this.” “I’m just being honest.” Pinkie backed away. “But yeah, the citizens are probably waiting for us.” Twilight and Pinkie head to the town square after leaving the Castle Of Friendship. Every single pony is pepearing the ceremony by placing the decorations on trees or making food for the feast inside the town hall. The two walk up to Mayor Mare, who’s been waiting to receive more supplies. “Here’s more decorations.” Twilight opened her saddle bag, using her magic to lift the ornaments out of her saddlebags. “Do you think this is enough?” Pinkie asked, taking out the Hearth’s Warming lights. “It’s okay.” The mayor responded. “By the looks of it, there’s enough ornaments for this one.” She pointed at the biggest tree that was set up by the citizens of Ponyville. “Well that’s a relief.” Twilight commented. “Is there anything else we should get?” “I think we should be fine.” Mayor Mare placed the decorations in the bucket. “Just don’t be late and miss the ceremony.” “Don’t worry, we won’t miss it!” Pinkie cheered. As Twilight and Pinkie leave the town square, they take a walk through Ponyville to see the houses being decorated with families putting on their winter gear. “So what do you want to do to pass the time Pinkie?” Twilight asked. “I don’t know, usually I want to check out what Mr. & Mrs. Cake made for this holiday.” “Well we should wait because it could be a surprise since you're not helping them.” Twilight looked at her surroundings. “I was thinking maybe we should head back to the castle until the cenemory comes. Maybe we can make cupcakes for our friends when they come back.” Pinkie begins to shake in excitement, eager to make more cupcakes like she always does. “For only a few hours!? Perfect idea!” She squealed. As the two friends head back to the Castle Of Friendship, they realize that the block they’re at in Ponyville only has one other pony besides them, who’s sitting on a bench all alone. She’s wearing a hood, disguising her appearance from anypony she comes across. “Is that...a pony over there?” Twilight looking closely. “What’s the deal? That sometimes happens when ponies are lonely during this time of year.” Pinkie commented. “I don’t think this is really the case. Every single citizen from Ponyville and even outside of Ponyville hasn't been like this in years. I expected a filly, but by the looks of it, this pony is too old.” As Pinkie looked closer to the pony, she noticed that her eye color was lighter than darker like everypony else. “She doesn’t seem...depressed whatsoever.” Twilight took her time to think about her choice on either helping the pony or have her handle it on her own. But she made up her mind, knowing that there’s plenty of time before the ceremony comes, she could be the only one missing it. She makes her next move as she walks up to the pony with Pinkie by her side. When she sat by the pony to the left, Pinkie sat on the right, which caused the visitor to take notice. “Sorry to bother you but...do you need any help?” Twilight asked, trying to be kind. The pony slowly looked at the Princess Of Friendship face to face without anything distracting her. “I’m actually waiting for somepony.” She responded. “Who?” Pinkie wondered. “Princesses Celestia and Luna. They’re gonna arrive here later tonight, right?” “Yes, they won’t miss a ceremony involving a holiday like Hearth’s Warming.” Twilight answered. “What’s your name.” “I’m Snowdrop, I left Equestria to go on journeys by myself.” “Why do you want to do that?” Pinkie asked. “I wanted to see more mountains...where more snowflakes fall down. I love winter.” “Well that’s actually nice, creatures usually travel during the seasons.” Twilight said, looking at the snow covering the ground. “How about we take you to our castle so we can continue our conversation?” “Is there anypony in there?” “Well it was until our friends headed out of Ponyville to get citizens from Canterlot and The Crystal Empire.” Pinkie smiled. “Come on! It will be a great way to pass the time.” Snowdrop and Twilight followed Pinkie Pie all the way back to the Castle Of Friendship. “You seem very anxious, huh?” Twilight asked. “I have partial blindness. It’s hard to make friends for myself.” Snowdrop replied. “You don’t have any friends?” “Well...Celestia and Luna are my only friends.” This made Twilight feel very surprised. She may have Celestia as her teacher, but not so much as a friend. She wondered what her time was when she met Celestia and Luna for the first time. Inside the Castle Of Friendship, Twilight, Pinkie and Snowdrop are sitting by the Cutie Map table. “So you’re actually a princess like Celestia and Luna?” “Well...not internally. Let’s just say I’ve done something that hasn’t been done in Equestria history.” Twilight said, looking at her wings. “A lot has happened between us and our friends.” Pinkie added. Snowdrop could only imagine there could only be two princesses in the land she once lived, but it goes to show a lot has happened since she was gone. “So Snowdrop…” Twilight getting the attention from Snowdrop. “When you told me that Celestia and Luna are your only friends...do you wish they were with you on your journeys?” “Well yes, but they’re princesses.” Snowdrop looking at the map where Canterlot is located. “They told me they want to show their support in the season of winter from where they live, so others can receive the recognition.” Twilight looked outside the window with more snowflakes falling from the sky. When it comes to her favorite holiday, she always prefers Spring, but Winter to her feels special, not only for her, but like what her long time friends experienced. “I truly give Winter the recognition, mainly when Hearth’s Warming comes. Without snow, it wouldn’t be the same.” She smiled. “However Princess Celestia never told me who you are.” “She usually keeps her past to herself.” “You mean...like keeping you invisible in the present?” “That seems a rude thing for Celestia to do.” Pinkie frowned. “You do understand that her life isn’t always to be spoken to everypony right?” Snowdrop said in concern. “If I was the ruler of the land, my personal life wouldn’t be that exposed.” Twilight took the words in progress from Snowdrop and saw the point. “I guess you're right.” She responded. “Every creature, whatever if there is a pony or other, sometimes keeps their personal information to themselves.” “But I’m wondering,” Pinkie spoked. “If Celestia and Luna do keep some of their personal information, how are they gonna feel when you meet them again?” Snowdrop took notice from Pinkie’s question. “Oh...I guess I never had a reunion other than with my parents since returning.” “You really are too timid to make any contact with others.” Twilight commented. “I’m not really the best at making more friendships.” The three ponies went into silence when the visitor made her confession. As much as Snowdrop wants to meet the friends she made as a filly, she never had an actual reunion with a friend she missed for so many centuries. Especially where her only friends were the ruler of Canterlot and her sister who appears in the dreams of other ponies. After leaving the room where the Cutie Map is located, Twilight takes Snowdrop to the crystal library. She found a way to help Snowdrop to make a good impression when she meets Celestia and Luna again. “I never imagined that you were able to run a school where creatures can learn more about friendship.” Snowdrop replied, walking by the alicorn. “I’m trying to make Equestria a better place than it was in the past.” Twilight responded. “We’re here because there’s something I want to show you.” As she walks up to the amount of books being placed on the shoves, there’s only one book she took out, thanks to her telekinesis. She places it in front of Snowdrop with a closer look which surprised her. “What’s this?” She blinked. “This is the Journal Of Friendship.” Twilight answered. “This is where me and my friends write friendship lessons during our journeys in Equestria.” “Believe us, we went through a lot to learn what friendship truly means.” Pinkie squealed. “If you read some of the lessons in here, you might be able to make a good impression when you meet Celestia and Luna again.” When Snowdrop grabbed the journal from Twilight, she opened it and felt over the hundreds of pages. She didn’t think there were so many lessons involving Friendship while she was gone. Upon feeling several pages involving the importance of making good impressions, it caused Snowdrop to become interested. “Give me about thirty minutes until I’m ready, you and your friends learnt about some great friendship lessons.” She commented as she sat on the floor.. “Thanks Snowdrop, we'll be in the kitchen if you need us.” Twilight smiled. “We're gonna make Hearth’s Warming cupcakes!” Pinkie cheered. Twilight and Pinkie left the library, giving their visitor some time herself as they prepare to make cupcakes for their friends. “Do you think she’s gonna do well once she meets Celestia and Luna again?” “We'll just find out when she’s ready.” Twilight responded. “I can’t do much for her since Celestia never once told me about her.” Pinkie turned to the door, she and Twilight came out, as well as Snowdrop reading in there. Even for her, she can’t find a solution to help Snowdrop after the centuries, and all the journeys she took outside of Equestria. She wanted the ceremony to be memorable, not something Snowdrop would want to forget. Rough Friendship UnderstandingIn less than thirty minutes, Twilight and Pinkie finished baking the cupcakes after taking them out of the oven. All that’s left is to frost them once they cooled down. “I’m glad we managed to make these in such a short time frame, and before we left for the ceremony.” Twilight said, taking off her apron. “See what happens when we make something to pass the time?” Pinkie smiled. “I’m so thrilled for when the ceremony begins!” Once Twilight covered the unfrosted cupcakes with napkins, she almost forgot how Snowdrop is doing by reading the lessons from the Journal Of Friendship. “We should check on Snowdrop to see if she’s making any progress.” “I’m with ya!” The two left the kitchen as they headed back to the crystal library. When they enter inside, they notice that the Journal Of Friendship is placed back on the shelf with Snowdrop sitting at a table by herself with her face on the table. “Snowdrop?” Twilight nervously asked, heading up to her. “What happened? Was the journal too complicated or something?” “It’s not that!” Snowdrop replied, lifting her head up. “Then what’s the problem?” Pinkie wondered. “Don’t you want to meet Celestia and Luna?” Snowdrop didn’t bother to respond to Pinkie’s question. Many minutes of reading and understanding the importance of impressions, it simply wasn’t enough for her. In fact, it made her more nervous than confident. “I’m just...just…” “Just what?” Twilight replied. “I’m just not good at reunions!” She answered, causing both Twilight and Pinkie to back away. “What!?” Pinkie reacted. “Why would you say that!?” “Didn’t you say you had a reunion with your parents?” Twilight asked. “Yes, but they are the only ones I’m truly close with. Celestia and Luna aren’t as close.” Snowdrop said, getting off the chair. “Twilight, I appreciate the help you gave me but I’m sorry. I’m not the type of pony who’s into friendship even during this holiday.” She lowered her ears in shame as she left the library. “Where are you going?” “I’m leaving.” “You mean...back to your journeys outside of-” “Yes!” Snowdrop interrupts Pinkie Pie as she continues to walk, leaving the two ponies alone in disbelief. Pinkie felt depressed and disappointed while Twilight became speechless. She never had this issue from any other pony, even from ones who tend to keep to themselves. Not only was she couldn’t able to help Snowdrop’s solution, but now she won’t be able to be part of the Hearth’s Warming ceremony. “Twilight?” Pinkie lowered her ears. “Let’s just head back to the kitchen so we can frost the cupcakes.” Twilight lowered her head. “I doubt we can fix this now.” She turned around and looked at her journal Snowdrop read. To think she rejects those ideas for a proper impression is just unbelievable. She and Pinkie returned to the kitchen as Twilight used her telekinesis to lift the bag of frosting. The pink party pony didn’t even bother to help her friend after how Snowdrop just gave up. All she wanted to see during the Hearth’s Warming holiday is every single pony who’s nice, very happy with each other and with friends and family. “Pinkie.” Twilight spoke. “Standing there feeling sad isn’t going to fix anything. We shouldn’t miss the ceremony.” “And Snowdrop shouldn’t either!” Pinkie responded. “Does any creature willingly spend their time traveling during ceremonies?” “I’m sure, there are different ways to celebrate Hearth’s Warming. She’s probably heading back to her parents house before she gets back to traveling.” After frosting the first four cupcakes, Pinkie walked up to Twilight, giving her a serious and concerned look. “You saw the way she apologized to you. She just couldn’t handle it.” “Yes, I’m fully aware of it. But if she can’t handle it on her own with this amount of time, I don’t know what I can do to help her.” Once she frost the final cupcakes, she put all of them into the box. “We may have a lot of time, but we shouldn’t bother her if she decides to leave.” Pinkie lowered her head with no other option to resolve Snowdrop’s reunion with Celestia and Luna. “Do you think Celestia and Luna will be happy once they arrive?” “We didn’t tell them that Snowdrop was just here so...probably?” This caused Pinkie to place her hoof on her face. “You know it’s not going to exceed their expectations one hundred percent, right.” “They’ve been to Ponyville once in a while, they don’t expect much, unlike Canterlot.” Pinkie sighed to herself, agreeing with her best friend’s answer. “I think I’m just gonna wait in the main hallway.” As Pinkie left the kitchen, Twilight had to face the facts that not everything can work out at the end. She would try to cheer Pinkie up, however, with how she’s feeling at the moment, the ceremony might lighten up her mood. “This has to be the roughest Hearth’s Warming holiday in recent times.” She thought. The sun sets over the mountains by Ponyville with the citizens turning on their Hearth’s Warming lights before it turns pitch black. The ceremony is only an hour away from starting with a still growing crowd gathering around the town square. With families and friends arriving from Canterlot, it’s only a matter of time before the rulers of Equestria arrive. Several miles away, Snowdrop is walking on the trail, all alone with her hood up. She thought she picked the right time to return, but at the same time, she just wasn’t ready. The mindset she only has is to continue her travels to more places with large amounts of snow. However even after all that, she felt ashamed for rejecting Twilight’s offer of helping her. “What have I done?” She spoke to herself. “How is friendship such a healthy subject when I don’t get the chance to make it work?” She turned around and looked straight at the Castle Of Friendship. She also remembered there was a school located to the left. So much has happened since the last time she left Equestria and the citizens never stayed the same from back then. When she turned and looked straight back to her trail, she saw five ponies and a dragon, after sending invitations to citizens outside of Ponyville. “Are they...Twilight and Pinkie’s friends?” She commented to herself. “Well, that must be all the invitations.” Applejack smiled. “It’s only a matter of time for them to arrive in Ponyville.” “I really hope the ponies at Manehattan can enjoy our holiday ceremony.” Rarity added. “I’m sure they will, the creatures we gave them to are aware of what and where Ponyville is.” Spike smiled. “They’ve just never been to Ponyville.” “You’re right Spike.” Starlight added. “Ponyville isn’t always the place to come over for a ceremony. For outside citizens that is.” As they were about to arrive at Ponyville, they soon took notice of Snowdrop standing in the snow with the wind blowing her hood down. “Who are you?” Fluttershy walking up to Snowdrop. “We’ve never seen you before.” Rainbow Dash looked closer to the traveler, looking her straight in the eyes. “I’ve never seen a pony’s eyes so lightly coloured.” “Rainbow, darling!” Rarity retorted. “It’s true, look at her eyes!” Snowdrop didn’t move a muscle, nor say a word when she encountered Twilight’s friends for the first time. Soon Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Starlight and Spike looked her right in the eyes, making her a little uncomfortable. “You’re right Rainbow!” “I never thought ponies can have lightly coloured eyes.” Spike commented. “They almost look like a snow color.” Applejack added, which caused Snowdrop to back away. “What’s that supposed to mean!?” She reacted. “Wait, we didn’t mean to offend you.” Starlight responded, stopping the traveler. “Where are you from?” Snowdrop sighed, being honest with Twilight’s friends. “I don’t usually have a home because I travel a lot.” “So you stay at motels most of the time?” “Yes.” Snowdrop took a deep breath, while trying to stay on topic. “Are you...Twilight and Pinkie’s friends?” “You know who Twilight and Pinkie are?” Starlight asked, tilting her head. “Did you meet them?” Rarity added. “Yes and...They offered to help me meet Celestia and Luna after so many centuries of being away.” Twilight’s friends became speechless. They’ve learned about Celestia and Luna’s relationships with the likes of Starswirl, but with a pony who mostly travels the land seems a little off. “What’s your name?” Fluttershy blinked. “I’m Snowdrop.” She responded. “I came here to think about reuniting with Celestia and Luna, thinking the time was right but...I guess I’m not ready no matter how long I wait.” She turned around to see Ponyville with more ponies appearing. Not only that, she noticed that Twilight and Pinkie are waiting outside even at a far distance. Little did she know, Twilight’s friends have a vast knowledge of friendship when they’re together. After heading to every major city and kingdom in Equestria, they have no issue helping a pony just before they head to the ceremony. “Snowdrop?” Spike spoke with the traveler’s attention. “Are you sure traveling is a good idea right now?” This caused Snowdrop to lower her head. “Not quite.” She answered. “Yeah. It seems you’ve been doing that for way too long.” Rainbow added. “Is traveling the only thing you do on a day to day basis?” Rarity wondered. “Well, not completely. I only go to mountains when it’s snowing. Winter is the season I enjoy the most.” Snowdrop confessed. This gave Starlight and the others an idea to help Snowdrop. An idea that Twilight and Pinkie hadn’t thought of yet. Reunion After A Thousand YearsThe sun slowly sets beneath the horizon, with the sky slowly turning darker by the minute. Everypony has gathered around the town square waiting for the Hearth’s Warming ceremony to begin. Twilight and Pinkie are sitting on a bench together, waiting for their friends to arrive. Starlight and the others walk down the street after dealing with Snowdrop with her problem. “Twilight?” Starlight spoke to the ailcorn’s attention. “You feeling down?” “Not completely, but this ceremony isn’t going to make Pinkie Pie better.” Twilight turned to her party pony friend, who was down in the dumps. “Even the buffet wouldn’t make me any happier!” Pinkie replied with tears coming down her face. “Wow, she really wants everypony to be happy at Hearth’s Warming.” Rainbow commented until her friends made a glare at her. “Hey, I don’t spread the cheer like she does!” “You’re not helping Rainbow.” Applejack said curtly, rolling her eyes while turning back to Twilight. “Anyway sugarcube, we heard from a visitor who came here to meet Celestia and Luna right?” “You mean Snowdrop?” Twilight lifted her ears up. “You met her before she left?” “Just an hour ago.” Fluttershy responded. “She told us everything when you invited her to your castle.” “She’s really sensitive from the way she stopped reading your journal.” Rarity added. “She’s not sensitive, did she tell you she’s into friendship?” Twilight asked. “Not really.” Spike answered. “But she did tell us of how long she’s been waiting for her chance to do it.” Twilight and Pinkie had nothing to express from Spike’s statement. With the amount of time they have before the ceremony begins steadily running out, they have little time to show what they have to offer in order to help Snowdrop. “Spike, Girls, I’ve just wanted to make sure this ceremony would turn out well. I didn’t expect a traveler to be sitting by herself on a bench.” Twilight replied. “Like what you and Pinkie are doing right now?” Starlight guessed. “I’m just waiting for the ceremony to start after being exhausted from baking and trying to help Snowdrop and Pinkie is too upset that Snowdrop declined.” As the gang turned their attention to Pinkie Pie, Pinkie took notice while trying to keep her voice. “I know I’ve been doing this year after year, but you all know why! Hearth’s Warming is supposed to make every creature happy if you're kind enough. Snowdrop has always felt like a lonely traveler throughout her journeys.” “Pinkie darling, I doubt she was that lonely.” Rarity said. “Now I haven’t heard everything about her experiences, but if she came here for a reason to meet Celestia and Luna, I don’t think she wants to travel anymore.” “Well it’s too late to say that now, because she’s already left Ponyville!” Starlight friends looked at each other after hearing Pinkie’s complaint. “Actually.” Rainbow spoke in a normal tone. “She decided to stay for the ceremony.” “Wait, what!?” Twilight responded with her eyes suddenly opening. “Where is she?” “Is she...somewhere in Ponyville?” Pinkie added. “Yes but she wants to handle this by herself.” Starlight stated. “You'll find out when the time comes.” Twilight and Pinkie looked at each other in confusion on what Snowdrop’s goal is in all of this. In little to no time, the bell at the town square rang, indicating that the Hearth’s Warming Ceremony had begun. Twilight and her friends head to the back of the crowd, watching the ceremony with still a good view to see the rulers when they arrive. At the other side of town square, Snowdrop is hiding by one of the houses while wearing her hood again. She wanted to make sure no pony is looking at her while keeping her reveal secret until the time comes. Mayor Mare ordered the ponies to stop ringing the bell so she can do her part. With all the citizens from within and out of Ponyville remaining silent once the bell rang, the mayor took a deep breath and spoke through the microphone. “I wanted to thank every pony to be part of the Hearth’s Warming ceremony, here in Ponyville.” She began. “For the past few years, we barely did ceremonies for this holiday, but we still show our support of this wonderful occasion of this time of the year.” The crowd, including Twilight and others stamp their hooves as Mayor Mare continues her speech. “After we sing our traditional song in front of the tree,” She pointed at the dedicated Hearth’s Warming tree. “We’re gonna have a feast inside the town hall. But right now, I’m glad to welcome you, the rulers of Equestria, Princesses Celestia and Luna!” Upon finishing, she moved out of the way while giving the rulers their entrance cue. Snowdrop put her focus on Canterlot in the distance once the mayor finished her speech. In less than three seconds, Celestia and Luna flew over the buildings, catching the attention from the citizens. Snowdrop backed away once she saw them for the first time in a long time. She noticed that Celestia’s mane isn’t just pink anymore but with more colors and Luna’s mane is longer and has a darker blue hue. “I’ve been gone for longer than I thought.” She thought. As Celestia and Luna landed on the platform, the citizens gave them an ovation which they accepted. As the ovation slowly but surely tuned down, it gave the rulers the chance to make their speech with Snowdrop watching from behind. “It’s always nice to celebrate Hearth’s Warming in Ponyville.” Celestia smiled. “Sometimes a small village should get some recognition.” Luna added. The rulers looked at their surroundings with the houses and trees dedicated to the holiday. When Celestia turned around, Snowdrop hid, but for a split second, Celestia spotted her. She was confused if it was just her imagination, but she was sure it wasn’t. “Luna?” She spoke to her sister. “Did you see somepony hiding?” “Why do you say that?” Luna responded. “We never had an intruder ruining a Hearth’s Warming Ceremony before.” Celestia looked back again, however Snowdrop is still hiding, still worried if she got caught. Twilight can see what’s going on with the rulers up at the platform. She knows that Snowdrop wants to handle her opportunity by herself, but the fact that she rejected her help before makes her wonder what she can do to try and find a solution. The rulers turned their attention back to the citizens, continuing their speech. “We’re gonna be joining the feast later but in the meantime, let’s have our chorus sing our Hearth’s Warming song while we look at the Hearth’s Warming tree.” Luna pointed at the tree. “While we remember our important memories of this holiday.” Celestia finished. It was the cue for the chorus ponies to sing their song. Usually for other choruses in Canterlot and The Crystal Empire, they sing three to five songs but in Ponyville, they normally sing three songs but occasionally, they only sing one. And for this year, they all agree to sing one song that fits the holiday. They sing Silent NIght. “Silent night, starry night All is calm, all is bright 'Round the forest, parents and young Gentle creatures everyone Home in burrows deep Home in their burrows deep” The pony continued her solo while the citizens and rulers kept silent, allowing the song to continue. Meanwhile Snowdrop continued to eavesdrop the chorus and the lyrics from the song itself. She did remember the old Hearth’s Warming songs from her childhood at school, but they were nothing like this. Each word she heard from the solo pony can only be described as beautiful. Slow songs is what she admires, not just during the Hearth’s Warming season but in all the different seasons. And the more she listens to it, the more confident she is on her goal. She slowly moved out of her hiding place while the ponies continued their chorus. The weather was also changing with the clouds from the night sky, dropping snowflakes from the years before. “Oh-whoa Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa-oh-oh Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa-oh-oh Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa Sleep in beautiful peace Sleep in beautiful peace Sleep in beautiful peace...” Once the final lyrics came out from the choir of ponies, all the citizens of Ponyville stamped their hooves in delight from hearing Silent Night. Snowdrop decided to take off her hood, no longer hiding herself from anypony out in the open. After Celestia and Luna thanked the choir for doing a splendid job, Celestia looked from her left, seeing Snowdrop for the first time in a long time. Then Luna looked to where her sister was staring at, remembering who that individual pony was, ever since the first day she met her. Twilight and the others noticed who the rulers are looking at. The Princess Of Friendship flew off the ground and realized that Snowdrop is well out of her comfort zone. All she had was a smile on her face. “What’s going on?” Pinkie looking at Twilight from above. “I think you'll find out when it comes Pinkie darling.” Rarity smiled. Soon the citizens stopped their applause when they noticed that the rulers weren't looking at them. The mayor and choir saw who Celestia and Luna were looking at, without interrupting the moment. Snowdrop didn’t move from the spot she stood at, but she blushed when the two rulers' eyes made contact with her. This is nothing like before when she made a stand for herself. In the present, it’s always a new chapter to be revealed. She made her first steps to the stage, not bothering to walk away. Luna began to shed tears when her oldest memories from her prime years are coming back from the depths of her heart. Celestia wanted her memories to be revived in a way she can relive, even if everything never stays the same forever. When Snowdrop walked up the steps of the platform, she looked to Celestia and Luna face to face, with the citizens looking at her in full. “Oh my goodness.” Mayor Mane commented. “Snowdrop…” Luna looked at the traveler in her level. “You’re back?” All that Snowdrop did was nod with a straight smile. “You’ve been gone for so long...I thought you would never come back.” Celestia responded. “I needed to realize how time will tell its story for me.” Snowdrop smiled. “Time took too much for me.” The rulers looked at each other. They know time requires less or more and once they let go of the snowflake Snowdrop had made, they thought it was the last time they would remember Snowdrop due to her constant traveling. But a moment will always come out of the ordinary, even during Hearth’s Warming. “I’m sorry it took me this long to come back. I’m just not the type of pony who’s like everypony else...who spend their lives around others.” The traveler confessed. Celestia and Luna can only admire those choices of words from the ones they’re close with. And Snowdrop is one of them. “We don’t mind how long it takes you to come back to us.” Celestia lidded her eyes. “As long as is needed, until the point when the timing feels right for you.” Luna finished. She and Celestia gave the traveler a hug by wrapping their wings around her. But when they realized that the Hearth’s Warming Ceremony was still going on, they stopped the hug immediately as they turned back to the crowd. “Umm...was this supposed to happen?” Mayor Mare asked. “It’s fine, let us do the talking.” Celestia whispered. “Citizens of Ponyville.” “We would like to introduce you all to Snowdrop.” Luna smiled as she gave the traveler some space. “She’s been traveling for nearly a thousand years outside of Equestria. And now, she has finally returned.” With the audience putting their full attention on Snowdrop, she blushed a little more. There were many more ponies compared to the Spring Sunrise festival during her childhood. She also saw that Twilight and her friends are at the back of the crowd, impressed that she managed to take her chance. She also saw Pinkie crying in happiness that she appeared in the ceremony, which made her even more happy. “I know you all didn’t expect this to happen, but it’s not like anythings ruined.” Snowdrop spoke to the crowd. “I can see that you're not only celebrating the Hearth’s Warming holiday, but also the Winter season since it began.” With more snowflakes falling from the sky, the citizens took notice with the flakes becoming bigger than the last. Snowdrop decides to catch a flake in her hoof as she shows it to the citizens. “Everytime we see a flake that’s bigger than the others, it shows that the seasons are quickly changing, which is something I admire about this season. When Winter comes, it comes to be special and is very special to me. Not because it has a purpose for any land in Equestria, but to make Hearth’s Warming feel way more meaningful.” Celestia and Luna have never forgotten the speech she made a thousand years ago. And the speech she’s giving right now was just as good. “During my travels, I’ve gone to several Hearth’s Warming celebrations where it sometimes snows and sometimes it doesn’t. I always get to feel how much the holiday means for my family and me, which is the only thing I really care about.” This caused the citizens to gasp, learning the fact that she’s very anxious unlike them. It caused one of the fillies to raise their hoof, allowing Snowdrop to take notice. “Yes?” She pointed. “Have you ever been to a celebration with friends instead of your family?” Pipsqueak asked which his question hit Snowdrop. “Actually, I’ve never made friends when I was a filly. I always got bullied for who I was.” “That’s something I didn't see when I was her age.” Twilight commented to herself. “My point is, back then, friendship wasn’t as big a deal, compared to the present. But when I read a journal that involves friendship, it was helpful but...let’s just say reunions is a subject I barely do.” The rulers figure out what journal she’s referring to, not to mention they realized that The Princess Of Friendship and her friends were around, which caught Twilight off guard once she saw Celestia giving her a wink. “But later on, things will never stay the same in society, which is something I’ve learned just when I was about to leave Ponyville. So...since I’m no longer going to travel anymore...I should probably get some support on making friends so I can understand more. That way, I can no longer be in the same position after all these centuries.” Upon finishing her speech, the crowd remained silent. For the times they’ve met newer ponies, they always give them the time they need to fit in. And they will have no issue giving a traveler some advice on friendship. They begin to give Snowdrop an applause which makes her blush return in force. “Don’t feel that way, I’ve remembered my first audition when I almost embarrassed myself.” Celestia said, walking up to Snowdrop. “There’s a school where we learn about friendship, and I bet the principal will be grateful to see you make friends in her school.” “Not to mention, they're other creatures who need friends to keep them occupied.” Luna added. “I’ll think about it.” Snowdrop smiled. “Right now, I’m hungry.” “Then join us, we’re gonna have a feast inside the town hall.” “You’re always welcome after giving us a lesson of this season.” Celestia said, giving the traveler a sweet look of approval. Back from the end of the crowd, Twilight and her friends loved the speech Snowdrop gave. “I got to say, she might be perfect to be a student in the School Of Friendship.” Twilight smiled. “Pinkie, are you feeling alright?” Rainbow looking at Pinkie, who has tears still coming down on her face. “Sorry...I’m just happy that everypony is happy on this holiday as I hoped!” She hugged Fluttershy in pure happiness. “At least we can meet her once we head inside the town hall.” Applejack added. “I think we should give her some space.” Starlight suggested. “She needs to fit in and we shouldn’t pressure her.” “But I will say, she should thank us for helping her.” Fluttershy spoke in her kind tone. “Definitely.” Spike added. “As a friend should do.” Twilight finished.
Traveler Of The WinterTwilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie are placing boxes filled with Hearth's Warming decorations by the front door of the Castle Of Friendship, ready to give them to the citizens so they can put them on the Hearth’s Warming tree in the center of Ponyville. “I think that’s the last of them.” Twilight said. “I know, I can’t wait to see what the Hearth’s Warming tree is gonna look like tonight!” Pinkie cheered. “Are Applejack and the others gonna get back here in time?” “I’m sure they will, they’re just taking their time to get more citizens from the outskirts of Ponyville.” The Princess Of Friendship took out several ornaments in different colors. “Princesses Celestia & Luna are gonna be here tonight and we really want to make this Hearth’s Warming ceremony really memorable.” “What’s the difference? Last year, we had the ceremony at Canterlot and it was just as memorable as it was.” “But do citizens from Canterlot come to Ponyville to be part of the ceremony?” Twilight snarkily asked, giving Pinkie a casual look. “A few are debatable, but not a whole lot.” She placed the ornaments inside her saddle bag. “I guess you're right.” Pinkie putting the Hearth’s Warming lights in her saddle bag. “But at the same time, it would have been sweet to see something unexpected.” As the two ponies put on their winter gear, they placed their saddle bags on their backs. “What do you mean by that?” Twilight put her winter earmuffs on. “I love the Hearth’s Warming holiday more than any other holiday, and I always wanted something new every single year.” “Don’t you think that’s praying for too much? You always pray during this time of year.” This caused Pinkie to give her friend a sorrowed look. “You know it’s always different with every single year that passes right? Not better than the last but still to expect the unexpected.” “Yeah, I guess that is true.” Twilight smiled. “I always think this holiday can be unpredictable in a good way.” “That’s what I just said.” Pinkie walked up to Twilight with her eyes closer to hers. “Expect the UNEXPECTED!” The alicorn backed away from the party pony’s confession. “Maybe we should leave instead of discussing this.” “I’m just being honest.” Pinkie backed away. “But yeah, the citizens are probably waiting for us.” Twilight and Pinkie head to the town square after leaving the Castle Of Friendship. Every single pony is pepearing the ceremony by placing the decorations on trees or making food for the feast inside the town hall. The two walk up to Mayor Mare, who’s been waiting to receive more supplies. “Here’s more decorations.” Twilight opened her saddle bag, using her magic to lift the ornaments out of her saddlebags. “Do you think this is enough?” Pinkie asked, taking out the Hearth’s Warming lights. “It’s okay.” The mayor responded. “By the looks of it, there’s enough ornaments for this one.” She pointed at the biggest tree that was set up by the citizens of Ponyville. “Well that’s a relief.” Twilight commented. “Is there anything else we should get?” “I think we should be fine.” Mayor Mare placed the decorations in the bucket. “Just don’t be late and miss the ceremony.” “Don’t worry, we won’t miss it!” Pinkie cheered. As Twilight and Pinkie leave the town square, they take a walk through Ponyville to see the houses being decorated with families putting on their winter gear. “So what do you want to do to pass the time Pinkie?” Twilight asked. “I don’t know, usually I want to check out what Mr. & Mrs. Cake made for this holiday.” “Well we should wait because it could be a surprise since you're not helping them.” Twilight looked at her surroundings. “I was thinking maybe we should head back to the castle until the cenemory comes. Maybe we can make cupcakes for our friends when they come back.” Pinkie begins to shake in excitement, eager to make more cupcakes like she always does. “For only a few hours!? Perfect idea!” She squealed. As the two friends head back to the Castle Of Friendship, they realize that the block they’re at in Ponyville only has one other pony besides them, who’s sitting on a bench all alone. She’s wearing a hood, disguising her appearance from anypony she comes across. “Is that...a pony over there?” Twilight looking closely. “What’s the deal? That sometimes happens when ponies are lonely during this time of year.” Pinkie commented. “I don’t think this is really the case. Every single citizen from Ponyville and even outside of Ponyville hasn't been like this in years. I expected a filly, but by the looks of it, this pony is too old.” As Pinkie looked closer to the pony, she noticed that her eye color was lighter than darker like everypony else. “She doesn’t seem...depressed whatsoever.” Twilight took her time to think about her choice on either helping the pony or have her handle it on her own. But she made up her mind, knowing that there’s plenty of time before the ceremony comes, she could be the only one missing it. She makes her next move as she walks up to the pony with Pinkie by her side. When she sat by the pony to the left, Pinkie sat on the right, which caused the visitor to take notice. “Sorry to bother you but...do you need any help?” Twilight asked, trying to be kind. The pony slowly looked at the Princess Of Friendship face to face without anything distracting her. “I’m actually waiting for somepony.” She responded. “Who?” Pinkie wondered. “Princesses Celestia and Luna. They’re gonna arrive here later tonight, right?” “Yes, they won’t miss a ceremony involving a holiday like Hearth’s Warming.” Twilight answered. “What’s your name.” “I’m Snowdrop, I left Equestria to go on journeys by myself.” “Why do you want to do that?” Pinkie asked. “I wanted to see more mountains...where more snowflakes fall down. I love winter.” “Well that’s actually nice, creatures usually travel during the seasons.” Twilight said, looking at the snow covering the ground. “How about we take you to our castle so we can continue our conversation?” “Is there anypony in there?” “Well it was until our friends headed out of Ponyville to get citizens from Canterlot and The Crystal Empire.” Pinkie smiled. “Come on! It will be a great way to pass the time.” Snowdrop and Twilight followed Pinkie Pie all the way back to the Castle Of Friendship. “You seem very anxious, huh?” Twilight asked. “I have partial blindness. It’s hard to make friends for myself.” Snowdrop replied. “You don’t have any friends?” “Well...Celestia and Luna are my only friends.” This made Twilight feel very surprised. She may have Celestia as her teacher, but not so much as a friend. She wondered what her time was when she met Celestia and Luna for the first time. Inside the Castle Of Friendship, Twilight, Pinkie and Snowdrop are sitting by the Cutie Map table. “So you’re actually a princess like Celestia and Luna?” “Well...not internally. Let’s just say I’ve done something that hasn’t been done in Equestria history.” Twilight said, looking at her wings. “A lot has happened between us and our friends.” Pinkie added. Snowdrop could only imagine there could only be two princesses in the land she once lived, but it goes to show a lot has happened since she was gone. “So Snowdrop…” Twilight getting the attention from Snowdrop. “When you told me that Celestia and Luna are your only friends...do you wish they were with you on your journeys?” “Well yes, but they’re princesses.” Snowdrop looking at the map where Canterlot is located. “They told me they want to show their support in the season of winter from where they live, so others can receive the recognition.” Twilight looked outside the window with more snowflakes falling from the sky. When it comes to her favorite holiday, she always prefers Spring, but Winter to her feels special, not only for her, but like what her long time friends experienced. “I truly give Winter the recognition, mainly when Hearth’s Warming comes. Without snow, it wouldn’t be the same.” She smiled. “However Princess Celestia never told me who you are.” “She usually keeps her past to herself.” “You mean...like keeping you invisible in the present?” “That seems a rude thing for Celestia to do.” Pinkie frowned. “You do understand that her life isn’t always to be spoken to everypony right?” Snowdrop said in concern. “If I was the ruler of the land, my personal life wouldn’t be that exposed.” Twilight took the words in progress from Snowdrop and saw the point. “I guess you're right.” She responded. “Every creature, whatever if there is a pony or other, sometimes keeps their personal information to themselves.” “But I’m wondering,” Pinkie spoked. “If Celestia and Luna do keep some of their personal information, how are they gonna feel when you meet them again?” Snowdrop took notice from Pinkie’s question. “Oh...I guess I never had a reunion other than with my parents since returning.” “You really are too timid to make any contact with others.” Twilight commented. “I’m not really the best at making more friendships.” The three ponies went into silence when the visitor made her confession. As much as Snowdrop wants to meet the friends she made as a filly, she never had an actual reunion with a friend she missed for so many centuries. Especially where her only friends were the ruler of Canterlot and her sister who appears in the dreams of other ponies. After leaving the room where the Cutie Map is located, Twilight takes Snowdrop to the crystal library. She found a way to help Snowdrop to make a good impression when she meets Celestia and Luna again. “I never imagined that you were able to run a school where creatures can learn more about friendship.” Snowdrop replied, walking by the alicorn. “I’m trying to make Equestria a better place than it was in the past.” Twilight responded. “We’re here because there’s something I want to show you.” As she walks up to the amount of books being placed on the shoves, there’s only one book she took out, thanks to her telekinesis. She places it in front of Snowdrop with a closer look which surprised her. “What’s this?” She blinked. “This is the Journal Of Friendship.” Twilight answered. “This is where me and my friends write friendship lessons during our journeys in Equestria.” “Believe us, we went through a lot to learn what friendship truly means.” Pinkie squealed. “If you read some of the lessons in here, you might be able to make a good impression when you meet Celestia and Luna again.” When Snowdrop grabbed the journal from Twilight, she opened it and felt over the hundreds of pages. She didn’t think there were so many lessons involving Friendship while she was gone. Upon feeling several pages involving the importance of making good impressions, it caused Snowdrop to become interested. “Give me about thirty minutes until I’m ready, you and your friends learnt about some great friendship lessons.” She commented as she sat on the floor.. “Thanks Snowdrop, we'll be in the kitchen if you need us.” Twilight smiled. “We're gonna make Hearth’s Warming cupcakes!” Pinkie cheered. Twilight and Pinkie left the library, giving their visitor some time herself as they prepare to make cupcakes for their friends. “Do you think she’s gonna do well once she meets Celestia and Luna again?” “We'll just find out when she’s ready.” Twilight responded. “I can’t do much for her since Celestia never once told me about her.” Pinkie turned to the door, she and Twilight came out, as well as Snowdrop reading in there. Even for her, she can’t find a solution to help Snowdrop after the centuries, and all the journeys she took outside of Equestria. She wanted the ceremony to be memorable, not something Snowdrop would want to forget.
Rough Friendship UnderstandingIn less than thirty minutes, Twilight and Pinkie finished baking the cupcakes after taking them out of the oven. All that’s left is to frost them once they cooled down. “I’m glad we managed to make these in such a short time frame, and before we left for the ceremony.” Twilight said, taking off her apron. “See what happens when we make something to pass the time?” Pinkie smiled. “I’m so thrilled for when the ceremony begins!” Once Twilight covered the unfrosted cupcakes with napkins, she almost forgot how Snowdrop is doing by reading the lessons from the Journal Of Friendship. “We should check on Snowdrop to see if she’s making any progress.” “I’m with ya!” The two left the kitchen as they headed back to the crystal library. When they enter inside, they notice that the Journal Of Friendship is placed back on the shelf with Snowdrop sitting at a table by herself with her face on the table. “Snowdrop?” Twilight nervously asked, heading up to her. “What happened? Was the journal too complicated or something?” “It’s not that!” Snowdrop replied, lifting her head up. “Then what’s the problem?” Pinkie wondered. “Don’t you want to meet Celestia and Luna?” Snowdrop didn’t bother to respond to Pinkie’s question. Many minutes of reading and understanding the importance of impressions, it simply wasn’t enough for her. In fact, it made her more nervous than confident. “I’m just...just…” “Just what?” Twilight replied. “I’m just not good at reunions!” She answered, causing both Twilight and Pinkie to back away. “What!?” Pinkie reacted. “Why would you say that!?” “Didn’t you say you had a reunion with your parents?” Twilight asked. “Yes, but they are the only ones I’m truly close with. Celestia and Luna aren’t as close.” Snowdrop said, getting off the chair. “Twilight, I appreciate the help you gave me but I’m sorry. I’m not the type of pony who’s into friendship even during this holiday.” She lowered her ears in shame as she left the library. “Where are you going?” “I’m leaving.” “You mean...back to your journeys outside of-” “Yes!” Snowdrop interrupts Pinkie Pie as she continues to walk, leaving the two ponies alone in disbelief. Pinkie felt depressed and disappointed while Twilight became speechless. She never had this issue from any other pony, even from ones who tend to keep to themselves. Not only was she couldn’t able to help Snowdrop’s solution, but now she won’t be able to be part of the Hearth’s Warming ceremony. “Twilight?” Pinkie lowered her ears. “Let’s just head back to the kitchen so we can frost the cupcakes.” Twilight lowered her head. “I doubt we can fix this now.” She turned around and looked at her journal Snowdrop read. To think she rejects those ideas for a proper impression is just unbelievable. She and Pinkie returned to the kitchen as Twilight used her telekinesis to lift the bag of frosting. The pink party pony didn’t even bother to help her friend after how Snowdrop just gave up. All she wanted to see during the Hearth’s Warming holiday is every single pony who’s nice, very happy with each other and with friends and family. “Pinkie.” Twilight spoke. “Standing there feeling sad isn’t going to fix anything. We shouldn’t miss the ceremony.” “And Snowdrop shouldn’t either!” Pinkie responded. “Does any creature willingly spend their time traveling during ceremonies?” “I’m sure, there are different ways to celebrate Hearth’s Warming. She’s probably heading back to her parents house before she gets back to traveling.” After frosting the first four cupcakes, Pinkie walked up to Twilight, giving her a serious and concerned look. “You saw the way she apologized to you. She just couldn’t handle it.” “Yes, I’m fully aware of it. But if she can’t handle it on her own with this amount of time, I don’t know what I can do to help her.” Once she frost the final cupcakes, she put all of them into the box. “We may have a lot of time, but we shouldn’t bother her if she decides to leave.” Pinkie lowered her head with no other option to resolve Snowdrop’s reunion with Celestia and Luna. “Do you think Celestia and Luna will be happy once they arrive?” “We didn’t tell them that Snowdrop was just here so...probably?” This caused Pinkie to place her hoof on her face. “You know it’s not going to exceed their expectations one hundred percent, right.” “They’ve been to Ponyville once in a while, they don’t expect much, unlike Canterlot.” Pinkie sighed to herself, agreeing with her best friend’s answer. “I think I’m just gonna wait in the main hallway.” As Pinkie left the kitchen, Twilight had to face the facts that not everything can work out at the end. She would try to cheer Pinkie up, however, with how she’s feeling at the moment, the ceremony might lighten up her mood. “This has to be the roughest Hearth’s Warming holiday in recent times.” She thought. The sun sets over the mountains by Ponyville with the citizens turning on their Hearth’s Warming lights before it turns pitch black. The ceremony is only an hour away from starting with a still growing crowd gathering around the town square. With families and friends arriving from Canterlot, it’s only a matter of time before the rulers of Equestria arrive. Several miles away, Snowdrop is walking on the trail, all alone with her hood up. She thought she picked the right time to return, but at the same time, she just wasn’t ready. The mindset she only has is to continue her travels to more places with large amounts of snow. However even after all that, she felt ashamed for rejecting Twilight’s offer of helping her. “What have I done?” She spoke to herself. “How is friendship such a healthy subject when I don’t get the chance to make it work?” She turned around and looked straight at the Castle Of Friendship. She also remembered there was a school located to the left. So much has happened since the last time she left Equestria and the citizens never stayed the same from back then. When she turned and looked straight back to her trail, she saw five ponies and a dragon, after sending invitations to citizens outside of Ponyville. “Are they...Twilight and Pinkie’s friends?” She commented to herself. “Well, that must be all the invitations.” Applejack smiled. “It’s only a matter of time for them to arrive in Ponyville.” “I really hope the ponies at Manehattan can enjoy our holiday ceremony.” Rarity added. “I’m sure they will, the creatures we gave them to are aware of what and where Ponyville is.” Spike smiled. “They’ve just never been to Ponyville.” “You’re right Spike.” Starlight added. “Ponyville isn’t always the place to come over for a ceremony. For outside citizens that is.” As they were about to arrive at Ponyville, they soon took notice of Snowdrop standing in the snow with the wind blowing her hood down. “Who are you?” Fluttershy walking up to Snowdrop. “We’ve never seen you before.” Rainbow Dash looked closer to the traveler, looking her straight in the eyes. “I’ve never seen a pony’s eyes so lightly coloured.” “Rainbow, darling!” Rarity retorted. “It’s true, look at her eyes!” Snowdrop didn’t move a muscle, nor say a word when she encountered Twilight’s friends for the first time. Soon Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Starlight and Spike looked her right in the eyes, making her a little uncomfortable. “You’re right Rainbow!” “I never thought ponies can have lightly coloured eyes.” Spike commented. “They almost look like a snow color.” Applejack added, which caused Snowdrop to back away. “What’s that supposed to mean!?” She reacted. “Wait, we didn’t mean to offend you.” Starlight responded, stopping the traveler. “Where are you from?” Snowdrop sighed, being honest with Twilight’s friends. “I don’t usually have a home because I travel a lot.” “So you stay at motels most of the time?” “Yes.” Snowdrop took a deep breath, while trying to stay on topic. “Are you...Twilight and Pinkie’s friends?” “You know who Twilight and Pinkie are?” Starlight asked, tilting her head. “Did you meet them?” Rarity added. “Yes and...They offered to help me meet Celestia and Luna after so many centuries of being away.” Twilight’s friends became speechless. They’ve learned about Celestia and Luna’s relationships with the likes of Starswirl, but with a pony who mostly travels the land seems a little off. “What’s your name?” Fluttershy blinked. “I’m Snowdrop.” She responded. “I came here to think about reuniting with Celestia and Luna, thinking the time was right but...I guess I’m not ready no matter how long I wait.” She turned around to see Ponyville with more ponies appearing. Not only that, she noticed that Twilight and Pinkie are waiting outside even at a far distance. Little did she know, Twilight’s friends have a vast knowledge of friendship when they’re together. After heading to every major city and kingdom in Equestria, they have no issue helping a pony just before they head to the ceremony. “Snowdrop?” Spike spoke with the traveler’s attention. “Are you sure traveling is a good idea right now?” This caused Snowdrop to lower her head. “Not quite.” She answered. “Yeah. It seems you’ve been doing that for way too long.” Rainbow added. “Is traveling the only thing you do on a day to day basis?” Rarity wondered. “Well, not completely. I only go to mountains when it’s snowing. Winter is the season I enjoy the most.” Snowdrop confessed. This gave Starlight and the others an idea to help Snowdrop. An idea that Twilight and Pinkie hadn’t thought of yet.
Reunion After A Thousand YearsThe sun slowly sets beneath the horizon, with the sky slowly turning darker by the minute. Everypony has gathered around the town square waiting for the Hearth’s Warming ceremony to begin. Twilight and Pinkie are sitting on a bench together, waiting for their friends to arrive. Starlight and the others walk down the street after dealing with Snowdrop with her problem. “Twilight?” Starlight spoke to the ailcorn’s attention. “You feeling down?” “Not completely, but this ceremony isn’t going to make Pinkie Pie better.” Twilight turned to her party pony friend, who was down in the dumps. “Even the buffet wouldn’t make me any happier!” Pinkie replied with tears coming down her face. “Wow, she really wants everypony to be happy at Hearth’s Warming.” Rainbow commented until her friends made a glare at her. “Hey, I don’t spread the cheer like she does!” “You’re not helping Rainbow.” Applejack said curtly, rolling her eyes while turning back to Twilight. “Anyway sugarcube, we heard from a visitor who came here to meet Celestia and Luna right?” “You mean Snowdrop?” Twilight lifted her ears up. “You met her before she left?” “Just an hour ago.” Fluttershy responded. “She told us everything when you invited her to your castle.” “She’s really sensitive from the way she stopped reading your journal.” Rarity added. “She’s not sensitive, did she tell you she’s into friendship?” Twilight asked. “Not really.” Spike answered. “But she did tell us of how long she’s been waiting for her chance to do it.” Twilight and Pinkie had nothing to express from Spike’s statement. With the amount of time they have before the ceremony begins steadily running out, they have little time to show what they have to offer in order to help Snowdrop. “Spike, Girls, I’ve just wanted to make sure this ceremony would turn out well. I didn’t expect a traveler to be sitting by herself on a bench.” Twilight replied. “Like what you and Pinkie are doing right now?” Starlight guessed. “I’m just waiting for the ceremony to start after being exhausted from baking and trying to help Snowdrop and Pinkie is too upset that Snowdrop declined.” As the gang turned their attention to Pinkie Pie, Pinkie took notice while trying to keep her voice. “I know I’ve been doing this year after year, but you all know why! Hearth’s Warming is supposed to make every creature happy if you're kind enough. Snowdrop has always felt like a lonely traveler throughout her journeys.” “Pinkie darling, I doubt she was that lonely.” Rarity said. “Now I haven’t heard everything about her experiences, but if she came here for a reason to meet Celestia and Luna, I don’t think she wants to travel anymore.” “Well it’s too late to say that now, because she’s already left Ponyville!” Starlight friends looked at each other after hearing Pinkie’s complaint. “Actually.” Rainbow spoke in a normal tone. “She decided to stay for the ceremony.” “Wait, what!?” Twilight responded with her eyes suddenly opening. “Where is she?” “Is she...somewhere in Ponyville?” Pinkie added. “Yes but she wants to handle this by herself.” Starlight stated. “You'll find out when the time comes.” Twilight and Pinkie looked at each other in confusion on what Snowdrop’s goal is in all of this. In little to no time, the bell at the town square rang, indicating that the Hearth’s Warming Ceremony had begun. Twilight and her friends head to the back of the crowd, watching the ceremony with still a good view to see the rulers when they arrive. At the other side of town square, Snowdrop is hiding by one of the houses while wearing her hood again. She wanted to make sure no pony is looking at her while keeping her reveal secret until the time comes. Mayor Mare ordered the ponies to stop ringing the bell so she can do her part. With all the citizens from within and out of Ponyville remaining silent once the bell rang, the mayor took a deep breath and spoke through the microphone. “I wanted to thank every pony to be part of the Hearth’s Warming ceremony, here in Ponyville.” She began. “For the past few years, we barely did ceremonies for this holiday, but we still show our support of this wonderful occasion of this time of the year.” The crowd, including Twilight and others stamp their hooves as Mayor Mare continues her speech. “After we sing our traditional song in front of the tree,” She pointed at the dedicated Hearth’s Warming tree. “We’re gonna have a feast inside the town hall. But right now, I’m glad to welcome you, the rulers of Equestria, Princesses Celestia and Luna!” Upon finishing, she moved out of the way while giving the rulers their entrance cue. Snowdrop put her focus on Canterlot in the distance once the mayor finished her speech. In less than three seconds, Celestia and Luna flew over the buildings, catching the attention from the citizens. Snowdrop backed away once she saw them for the first time in a long time. She noticed that Celestia’s mane isn’t just pink anymore but with more colors and Luna’s mane is longer and has a darker blue hue. “I’ve been gone for longer than I thought.” She thought. As Celestia and Luna landed on the platform, the citizens gave them an ovation which they accepted. As the ovation slowly but surely tuned down, it gave the rulers the chance to make their speech with Snowdrop watching from behind. “It’s always nice to celebrate Hearth’s Warming in Ponyville.” Celestia smiled. “Sometimes a small village should get some recognition.” Luna added. The rulers looked at their surroundings with the houses and trees dedicated to the holiday. When Celestia turned around, Snowdrop hid, but for a split second, Celestia spotted her. She was confused if it was just her imagination, but she was sure it wasn’t. “Luna?” She spoke to her sister. “Did you see somepony hiding?” “Why do you say that?” Luna responded. “We never had an intruder ruining a Hearth’s Warming Ceremony before.” Celestia looked back again, however Snowdrop is still hiding, still worried if she got caught. Twilight can see what’s going on with the rulers up at the platform. She knows that Snowdrop wants to handle her opportunity by herself, but the fact that she rejected her help before makes her wonder what she can do to try and find a solution. The rulers turned their attention back to the citizens, continuing their speech. “We’re gonna be joining the feast later but in the meantime, let’s have our chorus sing our Hearth’s Warming song while we look at the Hearth’s Warming tree.” Luna pointed at the tree. “While we remember our important memories of this holiday.” Celestia finished. It was the cue for the chorus ponies to sing their song. Usually for other choruses in Canterlot and The Crystal Empire, they sing three to five songs but in Ponyville, they normally sing three songs but occasionally, they only sing one. And for this year, they all agree to sing one song that fits the holiday. They sing Silent NIght. “Silent night, starry night All is calm, all is bright 'Round the forest, parents and young Gentle creatures everyone Home in burrows deep Home in their burrows deep” The pony continued her solo while the citizens and rulers kept silent, allowing the song to continue. Meanwhile Snowdrop continued to eavesdrop the chorus and the lyrics from the song itself. She did remember the old Hearth’s Warming songs from her childhood at school, but they were nothing like this. Each word she heard from the solo pony can only be described as beautiful. Slow songs is what she admires, not just during the Hearth’s Warming season but in all the different seasons. And the more she listens to it, the more confident she is on her goal. She slowly moved out of her hiding place while the ponies continued their chorus. The weather was also changing with the clouds from the night sky, dropping snowflakes from the years before. “Oh-whoa Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa-oh-oh Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa-oh-oh Sleep in beautiful peace Oh-whoa Sleep in beautiful peace Sleep in beautiful peace Sleep in beautiful peace...” Once the final lyrics came out from the choir of ponies, all the citizens of Ponyville stamped their hooves in delight from hearing Silent Night. Snowdrop decided to take off her hood, no longer hiding herself from anypony out in the open. After Celestia and Luna thanked the choir for doing a splendid job, Celestia looked from her left, seeing Snowdrop for the first time in a long time. Then Luna looked to where her sister was staring at, remembering who that individual pony was, ever since the first day she met her. Twilight and the others noticed who the rulers are looking at. The Princess Of Friendship flew off the ground and realized that Snowdrop is well out of her comfort zone. All she had was a smile on her face. “What’s going on?” Pinkie looking at Twilight from above. “I think you'll find out when it comes Pinkie darling.” Rarity smiled. Soon the citizens stopped their applause when they noticed that the rulers weren't looking at them. The mayor and choir saw who Celestia and Luna were looking at, without interrupting the moment. Snowdrop didn’t move from the spot she stood at, but she blushed when the two rulers' eyes made contact with her. This is nothing like before when she made a stand for herself. In the present, it’s always a new chapter to be revealed. She made her first steps to the stage, not bothering to walk away. Luna began to shed tears when her oldest memories from her prime years are coming back from the depths of her heart. Celestia wanted her memories to be revived in a way she can relive, even if everything never stays the same forever. When Snowdrop walked up the steps of the platform, she looked to Celestia and Luna face to face, with the citizens looking at her in full. “Oh my goodness.” Mayor Mane commented. “Snowdrop…” Luna looked at the traveler in her level. “You’re back?” All that Snowdrop did was nod with a straight smile. “You’ve been gone for so long...I thought you would never come back.” Celestia responded. “I needed to realize how time will tell its story for me.” Snowdrop smiled. “Time took too much for me.” The rulers looked at each other. They know time requires less or more and once they let go of the snowflake Snowdrop had made, they thought it was the last time they would remember Snowdrop due to her constant traveling. But a moment will always come out of the ordinary, even during Hearth’s Warming. “I’m sorry it took me this long to come back. I’m just not the type of pony who’s like everypony else...who spend their lives around others.” The traveler confessed. Celestia and Luna can only admire those choices of words from the ones they’re close with. And Snowdrop is one of them. “We don’t mind how long it takes you to come back to us.” Celestia lidded her eyes. “As long as is needed, until the point when the timing feels right for you.” Luna finished. She and Celestia gave the traveler a hug by wrapping their wings around her. But when they realized that the Hearth’s Warming Ceremony was still going on, they stopped the hug immediately as they turned back to the crowd. “Umm...was this supposed to happen?” Mayor Mare asked. “It’s fine, let us do the talking.” Celestia whispered. “Citizens of Ponyville.” “We would like to introduce you all to Snowdrop.” Luna smiled as she gave the traveler some space. “She’s been traveling for nearly a thousand years outside of Equestria. And now, she has finally returned.” With the audience putting their full attention on Snowdrop, she blushed a little more. There were many more ponies compared to the Spring Sunrise festival during her childhood. She also saw that Twilight and her friends are at the back of the crowd, impressed that she managed to take her chance. She also saw Pinkie crying in happiness that she appeared in the ceremony, which made her even more happy. “I know you all didn’t expect this to happen, but it’s not like anythings ruined.” Snowdrop spoke to the crowd. “I can see that you're not only celebrating the Hearth’s Warming holiday, but also the Winter season since it began.” With more snowflakes falling from the sky, the citizens took notice with the flakes becoming bigger than the last. Snowdrop decides to catch a flake in her hoof as she shows it to the citizens. “Everytime we see a flake that’s bigger than the others, it shows that the seasons are quickly changing, which is something I admire about this season. When Winter comes, it comes to be special and is very special to me. Not because it has a purpose for any land in Equestria, but to make Hearth’s Warming feel way more meaningful.” Celestia and Luna have never forgotten the speech she made a thousand years ago. And the speech she’s giving right now was just as good. “During my travels, I’ve gone to several Hearth’s Warming celebrations where it sometimes snows and sometimes it doesn’t. I always get to feel how much the holiday means for my family and me, which is the only thing I really care about.” This caused the citizens to gasp, learning the fact that she’s very anxious unlike them. It caused one of the fillies to raise their hoof, allowing Snowdrop to take notice. “Yes?” She pointed. “Have you ever been to a celebration with friends instead of your family?” Pipsqueak asked which his question hit Snowdrop. “Actually, I’ve never made friends when I was a filly. I always got bullied for who I was.” “That’s something I didn't see when I was her age.” Twilight commented to herself. “My point is, back then, friendship wasn’t as big a deal, compared to the present. But when I read a journal that involves friendship, it was helpful but...let’s just say reunions is a subject I barely do.” The rulers figure out what journal she’s referring to, not to mention they realized that The Princess Of Friendship and her friends were around, which caught Twilight off guard once she saw Celestia giving her a wink. “But later on, things will never stay the same in society, which is something I’ve learned just when I was about to leave Ponyville. So...since I’m no longer going to travel anymore...I should probably get some support on making friends so I can understand more. That way, I can no longer be in the same position after all these centuries.” Upon finishing her speech, the crowd remained silent. For the times they’ve met newer ponies, they always give them the time they need to fit in. And they will have no issue giving a traveler some advice on friendship. They begin to give Snowdrop an applause which makes her blush return in force. “Don’t feel that way, I’ve remembered my first audition when I almost embarrassed myself.” Celestia said, walking up to Snowdrop. “There’s a school where we learn about friendship, and I bet the principal will be grateful to see you make friends in her school.” “Not to mention, they're other creatures who need friends to keep them occupied.” Luna added. “I’ll think about it.” Snowdrop smiled. “Right now, I’m hungry.” “Then join us, we’re gonna have a feast inside the town hall.” “You’re always welcome after giving us a lesson of this season.” Celestia said, giving the traveler a sweet look of approval. Back from the end of the crowd, Twilight and her friends loved the speech Snowdrop gave. “I got to say, she might be perfect to be a student in the School Of Friendship.” Twilight smiled. “Pinkie, are you feeling alright?” Rainbow looking at Pinkie, who has tears still coming down on her face. “Sorry...I’m just happy that everypony is happy on this holiday as I hoped!” She hugged Fluttershy in pure happiness. “At least we can meet her once we head inside the town hall.” Applejack added. “I think we should give her some space.” Starlight suggested. “She needs to fit in and we shouldn’t pressure her.” “But I will say, she should thank us for helping her.” Fluttershy spoke in her kind tone. “Definitely.” Spike added. “As a friend should do.” Twilight finished.
