Wind Chill's Hearth's Warming

by Nebula Star

Rating: everyone
Tags: Adventure, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Drama, Original Character
Length: 16544

Wind Chill has her holidays changed forever by Maestro a young colt and musical prodigy.

An ice unicorn, Wind Chill has been an outcast all her life. But when she meets Maestro, a young colt and musical prodigy who has found himself an outcast as well, they forge a friendship that will change both their lives forever.

Only the first chapter of Midnight Star: Recovery, is related to this story and is all the background that's really needed.

Published 2020-12-25 19:30:00 UTC
Last updated 2022-01-02 18:59:32 UTC

Chapter 1: A Cold Desert

Author's Note

This was a little side story I originally thought of years ago, based on my Midnight Star series. All the way back when I was first writing The Frozen Empire, I had planned these characters to play a minor role in what will be the third story of the main series, but also had this idea for a little holiday themed story.

Chapter 1: A Cold Desert

Wind Chill’s Hearth’s Warming
By: Nebula Star

Chapter 1: A Cold Desert

***

“Seven bits.”

Wind Chill gaped at the produce salespony. “You just sold a dozen apples to the last customer for four bits!” She objected.

The stallion just continued glaring back at her; she could feel the hatred pouring off of him, like waves of cold air. “Seven bits.”

Wind Chill clenched her teeth, glaring back for a moment, but she knew all too well it was futile. “Fine.” She growled tossing the bits on the counter and taking the bag in her magic. With a huff, she turned and continued on her way through the marketplace.

All around her she could hear the hushed voices that always seemed to follow her. The whispers and disdainful looks. She tried not to notice; keeping her eyes down, plodding along, and trying not to call attention to herself. Just a few more things, she thought to herself. Just need to get a few more things and I can go home…

She sighed; it was always like this in the market. They saw her horn, her icy white coat and her silver and pale blue mane and they knew exactly who she was… what she was. Never mind that the war had been before she was even born; that she’d been born right here in Dodge and lived here her entire life. She was one of them, an ice unicorn, and that was all that mattered. That was why she always hated running errands. If she had her way, she would simply avoid Dodge City and stay at her family’s home. Out on the edge of town, surrounded by orchards and farm land, well away from the rest of the community. But with her father on duty and her mother busy maintaining their garden; it usually fell to Wind Chill to run the errands in town. At seventeen, she was more than capable, but she didn’t enjoy it.

Pulling out her list with a sparkling of magic, she looked to see what else she still had to get. It wasn’t much really, but it would still take her a while longer before she could finally go home. Taking a deep bracing breath, she started toward the next stall.

Wincing, Wind Chill rubbed the base of her horn. She could feel a headache coming on. That was never a good sign. At least she was done with her errands and could finally head home… once she’d relieved the pressure.

“Hey there Kiddo!”

Despite everything, a smile broke across her face as she turned toward the voice. An orange and gold pegasus stallion wearing the armor of the day guard stood there smiling back.

“Hey dad!” She said tiredly stepping forward to give him a hug.

Blazewing returned the hug wrapping his wings around her. “You getting those errands done?”

She sighed. “Yeah. I was just about to head back...” she said tiredly.

He tilted his head looking at her curiously, catching her tone. “Something wrong?”

She shook her head. “No, it’s just… my magic is getting too strong again. I have to go release it.”

He frowned thoughtfully; he knew all too well what caused Wind Chill’s magic to grow stronger; and what it meant if it was so strong that it was causing her trouble. “Alright, well you take care of that… If I get home before you, I’ll let your mom know where you are.”

Wind Chill smiled sadly. “It shouldn’t take that long.”

~~~

Snowfall in Dodge was almost unheard of; at least it was until Wind Chill’s magic came in. Even then, it was never very widespread, and only a select few knew that it ever happened at all. But every week or so, in a small ravine beyond the eastern edge of the city, snow would fill the air, just as it did now. It was just a small swirling cloud, that didn’t even reach above the edge of the ravine, but it was steady; a constant gentle snowfall that had already coated the ground in a layer of white. And there, in the center, lay Wind Chill.

She was sprawled out on her back, staring up at the sky as the falling snow slowly buried her, her horn glowing softly as she released her magic in a slow, carefully controlled stream. Ever since her magic had come in when she was eight, she’d had to do this whenever her magic grew too strong. If she didn’t, she’d risk losing control. Something she hoped would never happen again. She could still remember the looks of terror in her classmate’s eyes the first time it had happened.

Nopony had been hurt, fortunately, but the damage was done. All the progress her parents had made, any hope of their family ever truly being accepted into the community, had been swept away in an instant. She’d spent all her years in school as an outcast, feared by the other students; a fear that had slowly transformed into hate. Hate that had then spread through their families and neighbors until nearly the entire town had turned against her and her mother.

She sighed… By the time she’d finished her primary school she’d been done. She’d had no desire whatsoever to continue to higher education. She just lived at home these days; helping her mom run their little farm while her father was on duty with the guard. She didn’t care to spend time where she wasn’t wanted.

Land of friendship… yeah right, Windchill thought bitterly. More like land of prejudice. It was hard to think of the ponies of Dodge positively when she could literally feel their hatred whenever they saw her. That was what fueled her magic; why its power grew and grew until she could no longer contain it. It was fed by the hatred. Fortunately, her own emotions didn’t feed it or she’d never get a moment’s rest. Hatred breeds hatred after all; and one can only be the subject of petty slights and angry glares for so long before they too began to feel anger in turn.

With another sigh, Windchill decided that she’d expelled enough magic for now and cut off the flow from her horn.

“Hello!”

“AAAH!” She let out a startled shriek as a dark and befanged face appeared up-side-down mere inches from her own. She kicked her hooves only to find she’d let herself get more buried in the snow than she’d thought and the motion resulted in an explosion of white that momentarily blinded her. With a jolt of adrenaline running through her, it took her a moment to recognize it was a young colt and not a monster standing above her.

Sitting up, she put a hoof to her chest as she tried to get her breathing back under control.

Unperturbed by her shout and the snow she’d kicked up, the young colt fluttered up above her on bat wings looking around as the last few white flakes fell around them. “Are you the one making it snow!?”

“Yes.” She breathed. Just a nocturne colt… not a monster, just a nocturne.

He smiled at her seemingly unaware of how badly he’d startled her. “That’s so awesome! I saw snow once, when my mom took me to Canterlot! But it never snows here! You can make it snow whenever you want?”

“Uh… yeah.” Wind Chill said a little unsure how to react. She couldn’t feel even the slightest bit of hatred from the colt. In fact, she couldn’t feel any negative emotions from him at all. He seemed genuinely thrilled by her magic. It was… nice. But it couldn’t last.

“Aren’t you cold?” He asked, seemingly just noticing that she was still covered in a large amount of snow that wasn’t melting.

“No…” she answered automatically, then shook her head. “Listen, kid; your parents wouldn’t want you talking to me. So you should probably just go.”

He landed and looked up at her confused. “Why not?”

“Because I’m an ice unicorn.”

His eyes widened with recognition. “Are you Wind Chill!?”

She sighed heavily. “Yeah, so you see; your parents wouldn’t want you talking to me… So you should just go.”

“Nuh uh! My mom says you’re nice!”

“…What?”

“But she says ponies treat you bad just because of what you are…” He went on, sympathy filling his voice.

She stared at him stunned. “Really?”

He nodded. “Yeah, my mom’s friends with your mom; but she doesn’t see her that often ‘cause my mom sleeps during the day.”

“Who’s your mom?” Wind Chill asked.

“My mom’s name is Whisper Song.”

“Oh, the night guard.” Wind Chill said recognizing the name. Whisper Song had been friends with Wind Chill’s mother since she was born, and her father even longer. Though they rarely saw each other these days, the night guard mare had helped her family a lot early on. Wind Chill remembered her well from her early years. And now that she thought about it, she did remember Whisper Song having a foal, but she hadn’t seen him since he was only a year or two old.

He nodded. “That’s right. My name’s Maestro.”

Wind Chill smiled; the little colt’s upbeat attitude was refreshing after her time in town. “Well, I’m pleased to meet you Maestro.”

“Me too!” He said returning her smile. “So why were you making it snow?”

“I have to. My magic is a little different. It just builds up more and more each day, and ever so often I have to release it or I might lose control,” she explained, leaving out what made her magic build up. She didn’t need to burden this little colt with such heavy thoughts.

“Huh… well I think it’s Awesome!” He said galloping around kicking up the snow.

Wind Chill couldn’t help smiling at the little colt’s enthusiasm. A smile that became a grin as a mischievous idea came to her. “You really like the snow, huh?”

“Yeah.” He said looking back at her with a grin just before a snowball impacted his muzzle. He blinked, in shock as the snow began melting and dripping down his face.

Wind Chill just whistled, feigning innocence.

He stared at her a moment and slowly a huge smile spread across his muzzle. “You’re gunna get it now!” He said and scooped up a bit of snow.

Wind Chill laughed and following half hour was a one-on-one battle for the ages. With the exception of the few minutes that Wind Chill took to show Maestro how to pack a snowball properly, it was a constant barrage of icy fun. Eventually though, the summer heat began to take back the ravine. Before long the snow was becoming heavy and wet. Soon, their coats followed suit, and while it didn’t bother Wind Chill, she didn’t want the little colt to get sick from the cold, or get too messy from the slushy snow that would soon be mud.

“Aaah!” She flopped over dramatically after getting hit in the side by one last slushy snowball. “No more, I yield!”

Laughing Maestro galloped over. “Ha ha! The nightguard reigns supreme!” He shouted triumphantly, posing with his little bat wings spread wide, and one forehoof raised.

Wind Chill giggled. “This has been a lot of fun, Maestro, but I think we better call it here before this place becomes a mud hole.”

He looked around a little disappointed. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

Wind Chill smiled reassuringly and turned to retrieve her saddlebags, that she’d set aside before releasing her magic. Being chilled as it was, the contents would still be fine for a while, but she should still be getting them home. “So why were you out here, anyway?” She asked as she levitated her bags in place across her back.

“Oh, I like to fly around a bit after school, before I head home.”

She looked at him in surprise. “Wouldn’t your parents be worried if you don’t come home right away?”

He looked down. “Well, my dad’s still at work, and my mom is usually still asleep until later.”

“Kind of quite at home, huh?” Wind Chill asked with an understanding smile. She was fortunate enough to always have at least her mom around, but she’d still experienced enough isolation in other ways to get what the colt was feeling.

He nodded. “I know mom works at night and needs her sleep.”

“But it’s lonely, huh.”

“Yeah.”

Wind Chill stepped up next to him and put a foreleg around him in a brief hug. “Tell you what, I need to drop this stuff off at my place. Why don’t you come with; you can say hi to my mom, then I’ll walk you home. Maybe your mom will be awake by then.”

He looked up at her and smiled. “Okay. I haven’t seen Mrs. Blossom in a while.”

“I’m sure she’ll be happy to see you.” Wind Chill told him, then let go and gestured for him to follow. “Come on.”

Wind Chill set a leisurely pace as they started toward her family’s home. “Sorry I didn’t recognize you. I think the last time I saw you; you were only about yay high.” She briefly held a hoof up barely at the height of her barrel.

“It’s okay, I don’t even remember meeting you before,” he told her cheerfully.

“Well, I think you were only two. Our families should probably try a bit more to keep in touch.”

“I guess so. Do you think you can make it snow again sometime!?”

She laughed. “I told you, I have to, in order to keep my magic in check.”

“Could we have another snowball fight!?”

“We’ll see.”

Chapter 2: The Prodigy

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Chapter 3: The Concert

Wind Chill’s Hearth’s Warming
By: Nebula Star

Chapter 3: The Concert

***

As Wind Chill had thought, Tundra Blossom was more than happy to have Maestro spend the afternoons at their home. And while Whisper Song had told her a bit about Maestro’s talents, she hadn’t had a chance to hear any of his work. So when Maestro showed up the next day, carrying his trumpet in its case, she was just as excited to hear him play as Wind Chill. Then after Maestro had regaled them with his amazing talent, he had eagerly agreed to help in the garden, especially since it gave him a chance to try the berries and other fruits that Tundra had taken to growing. Many of which were not usually grown in the desert climate.

Growing up as an ice unicorn in the Frozen Empire, Tundra had learned the ice unicorns’ unique magic for adapting plants to almost any climate. Of course, once it became known that she enjoyed working in the fields, she hadn’t been allowed to anymore. But now, after nearly two decades of being able to practice her talent, her garden was certainly something to behold.

After that, it quickly became routine. Maestro would arrive, often with an instrument or some of his music collection, they’d spend some time just hanging out and either listening to him play or listening to music together, which usually led to the two of them dancing around the living room. Then they’d help Tundra out in the garden for an hour or so before Wind Chill would usually take Maestro home.

Wind Chill did still have other responsibilities though, and still had to go into town, but she found the chore to be less of an issue now. Her magic still built up every time, but now that just meant that When Maestro arrived on those days, they’d go out to the ravine to have a snow day. Snowball fights, snow-ponies, and a couple times they found a good smooth slope that Wind Chill would cover in snow for them to have fun sliding down. Neither of them owned a sled.

A few months passed and before long, the holidays were coming. Maestro got busier with the orchestra as they prepared for their holiday concerts. He had finished several winter themed songs and was to be the guest conductor when the orchestra played them at their annual Hearth’s Warming concert. He still spent the afternoons at Wind Chill’s, but would then have to get home for a quick dinner before going to the concert hall for rehearsals. The first concert was planned for two weeks before Hearth’s Warming and there would be repeat performances the following weekend, and then on Hearth’s Warming itself. It was about a week before the first concert that Maestro surprised her.

Wind Chill stared at the ticket in her hoof. Trimmed with gold, and decorated with holiday red and green, it was a ticket for one of the best seats in the concert hall on opening night. “You want me to come to your concert!?” She gasped, still unsure.

He nodded eagerly. “Then you can hear some of my music how it’s meant to be played!”

She stared at the ticket a few moments more in shock. She’d love nothing more than to go and hear Maestro’s work. Both to support him, but also because the young colt had taught her quite an appreciation for music in the past months. But there was a problem. To go to the concert would mean being in a crowded auditorium for a few hours at the very least. An auditorium that would likely contain a great deal of ponies from Dodge; ponies that knew who she was; that hated her. She had a hard enough time walking around the town market. To be in close proximity to so many ponies that hated her; she might not be able to control her magic in such an environment. But at the same time the holiday concerts usually drew ponies from all over Equestria. It was possible that most the crowd would be from out of town and to them she’d just be a white unicorn… with a snowflake cutie mark. Maybe she could get a dress, in fact, it would likely be a good idea to get something to wear anyway. It was a special event after all. That might help.

She looked up at Maestro seeing his happy grin. She couldn’t turn this down. It would be difficult, but it was only a few hours, right? She’d just be sure to drain her magic before she goes and then again right after if she needed to. She smiled despite her misgivings. “Thank you, Maestro!” She said and pulled him into a quick hug.

He hugged her back. “I wanted to get enough for your whole family, but they were already sold out, so I could only get this one.”

“That’s okay. Maybe next time you can invite my mom and dad too.” Wind Chill assured him.

The rest of the afternoon, Wind Chill couldn’t help worrying about the concert, though she tried not to show it. Maestro had a rehearsal that night, so they had to get him home a little earlier so that he could get ready. As usual, Wind Chill walked him home.

“Mom! I’m home!” Maestro called as he entered the house, Wind Chill following behind him.

“There you are!” Whisper Song said coming out of the kitchen. She was usually awake by the time Maestro got home these days. “I was beginning to wonder if you were going to be late,” she said as her son ran over to give her a hug. She hugged him back smiling. “You’d better go get ready.”

He nodded and galloped off to his room.

“I’ll see you tomorrow!” Wind Chill called after him.

“See ya then, Windy!” He called back, followed almost immediately the sound of his door shutting.

After he was gone, Whisper Song looked up at Wind Chill. “You have a good day?”

She nodded. “Yes, we helped my mom with weeding in the flowerbeds.”

“Oh, fun.” Whisper Song said sarcastically.

“We had fun with it.” She said with a shrug. “Then Maestro gave me a ticket to his concert next weekend.”

“He did? I wondered when he would give that to you.” Whisper Song said, having known about the ticket.

Wind Chill nodded. “Yeah, I’m a little worried about it though. Because of my magic.”

Whisper Song looked at her concerned. “Are you worried you won’t be able to go?”

“No, I… I think I can handle it.”

The older mare looked at her for a moment, frowning. “Have you told Maestro how your magic works? I’m sure he’ll understand if you think you can’t handle it.”

She shook her head. “I don’t want him to worry about that. I’m pretty sure I can handle it. I mean, it will mostly be ponies from out of town, right? So most probably won’t even know me and if I wear a dress as well, they won’t even know I’m an ice unicorn. I’ll just be sure and drain my magic before I go.”

“You’re sure?”

“Yeah, it will be alright, and I really don’t want to disappoint him.” Wind Chill told her, trying to sound more confident.

Whisper Song watched her for a moment, still concerned, but eventually nodded. “Alright, well I’m going to be on duty that night, so I won’t be there, and Astro won’t be home from his trip until Saturday, so could you make sure Maestro gets home safely.”

She nodded, smiling. “Of course.” She likely would have waited to walk home with Maestro anyway, so it wasn’t a big deal. “Well, I should probably get back home then. I’m sure Maestro’s going to take a bit to get ready.”

“Thanks again for looking after him.” Whisper Song said, seeing her out.

“It’s really no trouble at all.” Wind Chill assured her as she stepped back outside, and with one last wave, started her walk home.

~~~

The following week seemed to pass far too quickly. Wind Chill did go into town and purchase a nice dress for herself, which the local seamstress sold to her begrudgingly. Her uncle had died in the battle of the badlands pass, as she was sure to mention at least four times while Wind Chill was there. It was a nice dress in a shade of blue that complimented her coat and mane well and cut in a style that hugged her figure in a way that was slimming while still accentuating her curves. She did have some vanity after all. Most importantly, it covered her cutie mark so there’d be at least one less clue that she wasn’t just a simple unicorn. Still, she couldn’t help feeling more and more nervous as the day of the concert approached.

More than once she considered not going, but quickly disregarded the idea. She didn’t want to disappoint Maestro. The young colt was getting more and more excited each day. Busy as he was with recitals almost every night, he still stayed at Wind Chill’s for an hour or two after school before he had to get home in time for dinner before going to the concert hall. Finally, the day of the concert arrived, and Wind Chill found herself alone in the ravine draining her magic as far as she could possibly manage. After nearly an hour she was certain that even the effort to put on her dress would likely be enough to drain the last of her magic. It wouldn’t last long, as soon as she got near almost anypony from Dodge, her magic would rapidly begin building again. But hopefully she could avoid any direct attention from them and so would be able to last the night.

Returning home, she quickly got dressed and spent almost an hour on her mane and tail, wanting to look her best. She was in one of the best seats in the house after all. Finally ready she went to find her parents to let them know she was heading out.

“Oh! You look lovely, Windy.” Tundra Blossom said seeing her daughter as she entered the kitchen.

“Wow, if Maestro were a few years older I’d say he was one lucky colt,” Blazewing teased.

Wind Chill just snorted. “Aren’t you supposed to be overprotective and try to keep colts away from me?”

“Oh, right. Maestro’s lucky he’s not a few years older or I wouldn’t let him near you with you looking like that!” Blazewing tried again.

She rolled her eyes at her father’s antics. “I’m heading out. I’ll be back after I get Maestro home, I don’t know how long he’ll have to stay after the concert, but it will probably be late.”

“Alright, we’ll see you when you get back!” Tundra said knowing that that was the plan.

“Have fun, kiddo!” Blazewing said and with one last wave to her parents, Wind Chill left and started toward the concert hall.

The concert hall was on the northeast edge of Dodge, so it wasn’t difficult for her to skirt the edges of the city and avoid most of the crowds. Once she got to the concert hall itself, she had no choice but to join the mass of ponies heading toward the entrance. Fortunately, as she’d thought, many were from out of town and didn’t know who she was. She slipped into the flow among ponies she didn’t recognize and was glad that she didn’t feel any negative emotions from the ponies around her. They were on their way to a concert after all.

Upon reaching the hall, however, she began to see some of the locals. Not many saw her, but even those who didn’t harbored a small bit of hatred for her and her family. It wasn’t much, but she could feel it; more importantly she could feel her magic beginning to grow stronger.

A few more locals saw her as she reached the entrance causing a spike in the negative emotions coming her way, but so long as her seat wasn’t near any she was confident they would forget about her almost as soon as she was out of their sight. The biggest problem came when she had to show her ticket. The staff of course, were all locals, and the usher glared at her as she nervously levitated up her ticket. He looked at it, seeming surprised at what seat she had, then begrudgingly gave her directions. She said thanks, despite not really wanting to, and quickly made her way down the aisle finding the correct row.

There were already a few ponies seated in the row she needed, fortunately none of them were locals, in fact most looked to be rather wealthy tourists, here specifically for the hearths warming pageant. Some might have even been nobles from Canterlot, judging by the cloths and jewelry on display. Despite her new dress, Wind Chill suddenly felt very out of place. Still, they weren’t locals so it should be alright.

As politely as she could, she made her way past the ponies already seated, and took her seat, just a little to the left of center, only a few rows back from the stage. Widely considered one of the best seats in the house, being in the center of the concert hall’s impressive acoustics. Maestro had said that from here, the music would practically surround her. She smiled. Though she could still feel some of the negative emotions the local townsfolk had for her, it was just in the background; not the burning anger or hatred she felt when they were actually thinking about her. It seemed none were close enough to notice her and even if they did glance her way, they probably wouldn’t believe it was her sitting among the wealthy. To everyone else she was just another unicorn, even with her white coat and icy blue mane. Settling in, she waited for the rest of the audience to take their seats.

Slowly the auditorium filled, and eventually the seats around her were claimed by more wealthy looking ponies. She noticed rather quickly the looks she was getting from some of them. Most just seemed annoyed to see her sitting in one of the best seats in the house. But a few looked at her in disgust. It was unclear whether they’d guessed she was an ice unicorn. That might have been it, but Wind Chill suspected it was more likely that they recognized that she wasn’t one of the rich and elite and were disgusted that a commoner was sitting among them. She hadn’t considered the possibility that the ponies in the seats around her would resent her for not being wealthy as they were. Still the negative emotions were nowhere near as intense as the hatred that many of the townfolk held for her.

She’d probably be fine. If needed, there was a half hour intermission, perhaps she could find a place nearby to quickly drain a bit of magic just to be safe. Besides, Maestro’s first song which he would conduct himself was scheduled to be just before the intermission. If worse came to worse, she could just leave at the intermission and come back to walk Maestro home after the concert. He’d probably be disappointed, and she’d likely have to explain how her magic works to him, but she was sure he’d understand. And at least she’d get to hear one of his songs.

A wealthy couple and their teenage daughter made their way past her with a friendly enough greeting which she politely returned, letting them pass. They took the seats just past her while more came in from the far aisle to take the seats past them. It looked like almost everypony was seated when the couple that had the seats to Wind Chill’s left finally arrived. Obviously very wealthy, they had the look of what Wind Chill had always imagined Canterlot nobles to be. The mare took one look at her and sneered in disgust, but took her seat without a word, right next to her.

Wind Chill had to fight not to show any emotion while she groaned inwardly. With how much negative emotions the mare was radiating toward her, she’d almost definitely have to find somewhere to drain her magic during the intermission. She decided it would be best just to not call any attention to herself, and hopefully the mare would forget she was there once the concert started, and her negative emotions would subside.

“You excited for the concert?” The mare on Wind Chill’s other side asked politely. Distracted by the negativity of the other mare, at first, she didn’t even realize the question was directed at her.

“Oh, yes. I’ve been looking forward to it.” She replied conversationally.

“We have as well.” She replied indicating her family. “The Frontier Orchestra is our favorite. We just love their more modern spin on classical music.”

Wind Chill nodded having gained an appreciation for the Orchestra’s music as well. “Yeah, even when they play the old classical pieces, they add their own touch that makes them feel fresh and new.”

“And the modern compositions they play are just as impressive. In fact, I understand a few of the pieces tonight were written by an eleven-year-old prodigy, and that he’s going to conduct them himself.”

“Maestro.” Wind Chill provided, smiling fondly. “He’s actually the main reason I’m here.”

She looked at her curiously. “Oh?”

“His mother and mine are old friends, but his mother is a nightguard and she sleeps during the day, so I watch Maestro for her for a few hours after school most day.” She explained.

“Really?”

She nodded. “He’s the one that got me the ticket for tonight. He often practices his music while I’m watching him, and He said he wanted me to hear his music how it’s meant to be played.”

“Oh, I see!” She smiled “It must be interesting looking after such a genius.”

“Well, when it comes to music, Maestro is incredible, but in just about everything else, he’s just a little colt like any other.” Wind Chill said with a smile.

“But tonight, is all about the music.”

Wind Chill nodded. “And he’s definitely been excited for it. The first of his pieces will be just before the intermission, if I remember correctly.”

She levitated up her program to check, and nodded smiling. “Looks like it. I’ll look forward to it.”

Just then the lights were dimmed, and the audience quickly quieted, taking the que that the concert was about to begin. Wind Chill and the other mare quickly turned their attention to the stage where the members of the orchestra were quietly taking their places. Soon the sound of each of the musicians checking the pitch of their instruments filled the hall. As they did, Wind Chill began to notice an increase in the negative emotions around her. Something she hadn’t noticed due to her conversation. None of the negativity was coming from the mare or her family of course, but all around she could feel mild negative emotions; annoyance, disgust; much of it directed toward her. Even the mare on her other side seemed to be putting out even more negative energy than before.

With a sinking feeling she realized that her conversation with the other mare had likely confirmed for them that she wasn’t wealthy or of noble birth, but a simple commoner who had been given the expensive ticket as a gift. Many of the snobbish ponies likely believed she didn’t belong among them in that section of the auditorium. She’d almost definitely need to find a place to drain her magic during the intermission. Suppressing a sigh, she tried to ignore it. She should be fine at least until the intermission.

For a few minutes the cacophony of sound as the musicians tuned their instruments continued until one by one, they were satisfied with their instruments. Then even as the last of them finished their tuning, the orchestra’s head conductor and the host for the concert stepped up to the podium. After a brief introduction, the concert truly began.

The first few songs were the more traditional Hearth’s Warming carols with a bit of a modern touch. The musicians’ skill was on full display and Wind Chill found herself getting lost in the music for a time. They went through half a dozen traditional songs, before moving on to some modern compositions.

That was about when she began to realize she was in trouble. Distracted by the music, she hadn’t noticed that her magic had been building up faster than she’d thought. There were still four songs left before the intermission, the last of which would be the first of Maestro’s, but already her magic was beginning to feel strained.

By the end of the next song, she began to worry; already a headache was coming on. She might not make it to intermission.

Looking around she realized she was trapped. She’d have to make her way past near a dozen ponies in either direction to get out. Taking a deep breath, she tried to keep calm and focused on keeping her magic under control. Unfortunately, the mare on her left noticed her fidgeting and her annoyance with her grew.

Trying to keep calm, she made it through the next song, just two more to go… Perhaps she would be alright waiting until intermission. She closed her eyes, just listening to the music, trying to block out everything else.

That was a mistake. The mare next to her noticed her closed eyes and seemed to take it as her being disrespectful to the performance, by the sudden surge of annoyance and disgust that washed over her. That was it. As the last song before Maestro’s began to wind down, she knew she had to get out.

Turning to the snobbish mare, she said, as politely as she could, “Excuse me, I need to leave.”

The mare’s eyes narrowed, anger flaring up in her. “You can wait until the intermission.”

Wind chill winced as the strain of her magic trying to escape surged. “Please, I have to get out of here now or something very bad is going to happen.” She said, not as a threat but as a warning.

The mare seemed to take it as a threat anyway, and her anger increased while several others around them took notice of the confrontation. Wind Chill was engulfed by a surge of negative emotions sending a spike of pain into the base of her horn, making her grimace. “You can wait one more song,” the mare repeated angrily. “Didn’t I hear you say the guest conductor was your little coltfriend?”

Wind Chill glanced toward the stage where Maestro was being introduced. Her heart fell, knowing how disappointed he’d be, but she had to go. She turned back toward the mare. “I have to leave!”

“Sit down, you can wait one more song!” The mare said loudly enough to call even more attention to them. More negative emotions poured in, causing her magic to surge. She fell to her haunches, her forehooves going to her forehead, her teeth clenched. Pain like she’d only felt once before spread from her horn to her entire body as her magic grew too powerful for her to contain any longer. A scream tore from her lungs making her throat raw in an instant. The concert hall fell silent as every eye turned toward her, anger pouring in from all around her.

Wind Chill opened her eyes and much of the anger turned to fear, as they saw her eyes were glowing pure white with raw power. She saw their fear, the same expressions she’d seen on her classmates all those years ago. But this time, she knew what was about to happen.

“Run!” She said, her voice weak.

Those closest to her took a step back, bumping into the ponies behind them. Then Wind Chill’s horn burst to life as the magic would no longer be contained.

“RUUUNNNNN!!!”

Chaos erupted around her as her magic burst from her horn. It took all her focus to direct the first torrent of icy energy spiraling upward away from the ponies nearby. All around her ponies pushed or tripped over one another trying to get away. Wind Chill put her all into controlling the magic just a little longer. The first time this had happened, she’d still been young, her magic relatively weak. This time the damage would be much worse. She had to keep it under control until everypony got out… if she could.

Already the magic was slipping from her control, spiraling around her, covering everything in ice and snow. Quickly the ice storm expanded, spreading toward the fleeing ponies. She clamped down on her power, trying to slow down the flow as much as possible. She couldn’t let anypony get hurt. She screamed once more, in pain and determination, though the sound was almost lost in the howling winds of her ice storm. Soon she could no longer see the rest of the hall. Still, she held on as long as she could, giving everypony as much time as she could to escape. Finally, though, she couldn’t hold on any longer. The magic broke free of her grasp and the world became white.

The concert hall was almost unrecognizable. Ice crawled up the walls. Snow flowed in drifts, spiraling out from a point near the center just in front of the stage. Here and there part of an instrument or one of the seats was just visible mostly buried under the snow.

While only a short while before it had been filled with festive music, now it was silent, save for the soft sobs of one young mare, lying in the center of the devastation. She was almost buried in the snow; heedless of the icy temperatures. Wind Chill laid there, her hooves over her eyes, not wanting to look, afraid of what she might see. So she cried.

She didn’t hear anyone approaching until she felt a touch on her shoulder. She looked up sharply to see a mare wearing the dark armor of the night guard. With her eyes full of tears, at first she didn’t recognize her, but the lack of negative emotions toward her meant there was only one pony it could be. When her vision cleared, she saw there was only pity and understanding in Whisper Song’s eyes.

“Did everypony…”

Whisper nodded understanding what she meant. “You held on long enough for everypony to get to safety. There were a few minor injuries in the chaos, but nothing serious.”

Releif filled her and she cried a few more soft sobs. Whisper pulled her into a hug, embracing her with her wings, holding her as she cried.

“I’m sorry, I…”

“Shhh. It’s not your fault.” Whisper said softly.

“Maestro… I…”

“He’s fine.” She assured her softly. “I’ll explain everything to him; he’ll understand.”

Wind Chill whimpered. “I’m sorry… I thought I could handle it.”

“You shouldn’t have to handle it.” Whisper Song said firmly, then gave her one last squeeze before standing back up. “Come on. Let’s get you home.”

Author's Note

Been a while since I posted any updates. For this one, once it got to be a couple months after the holidays, I decided to wait until this holiday season to finish it. I intend to finish it over the next week. I'll be posting a blog soon with some progress updates on the rest of my stories and series as well.

Chapter 4: The Aftermath

Wind Chill’s Hearth’s Warming
By: Nebula Star

Chapter 4: The Aftermath

***

It was early morning by the time Whisper song was finishing filing her reports for the night. After taking Wind Chill home, she’d then ensured Maestro was safe at home as well. But since then, she’d hardly had a moment’s rest, and she wasn’t the only one. All the Dodge night guard had been brought in to handle the incident. They’d spent most of their time interviewing the civilians that had been present. To say most were not happy with what had happened was an understatement. Many of the locals wanted Wind Chill arrested, calling her a monster and terrorist. It had been all she could do not to shout back that what had happened had their own damn fault, that it was their hateful hearts that had fueled Wind Chill’s surge. She’d managed to hold her tongue though, knowing it was useless trying to convince them when they were already angry.

Fortunately most of the nightguard knew that Wind Chill and her family were favored of Princess Luna and so were willing to trust Whisper that what had happened was a magical accident. But she worried what would happen when the captain of the dayguard arrived. She knew all too well that he was highly prejudice. He’d withheld Blazewing’s well deserved promotion within the guard for years due to his marrying Tundra Blossom. It wasn’t just ice unicorns either; he was prejudice against nocturne as well and not so secretly resented Princess Luna for pardoning all their past crimes and working to bring them out of the shadows. He’d often tried to work against anything the nightguard tried to accomplish simply because of the nocturne within their ranks. There weren’t even that many; only about a quarter of the nightguard in dodge were nocturne. Of course, that she, a nocturne, was the highest-ranking officer for the night guard in Dodge, didn’t help.

He’d likely try to take advantage of the incident to go after Wind Chill, and though he didn’t have direct authority over her or the rest of the night guard, he’d likely try to overturn her judgement on the night’s events. And unfortunately, as a Captain, he did outrank her even if she wasn’t in his direct chain of command.

She was glad so many of her fellow nightguard were going to be working late that morning, so that they’d still be there when the Dayguard captain arrived. Hopefully they’d be able to prevent him from doing anything to Wind Chill. She was almost certain he’d want her arrested.

Sure enough, he’d obviously been informed of the night’s events when he arrived, so the first thing out of his mouth was; “Why hasn’t that little monster been arrested!?”

Whisper took a bracing breath, knowing that as it had been her call, it was up to her to explain. She knew the others would back her up, but it was up to her as Lieutenant of the night guard, to bear the brunt of the captain’s displeasure. “Captain, the incident was a magical accident and we responded appropriately for…”

“Don’t give me that! That monster has been terrorizing our community for years!” He countered with a sneer.

“Wind Chill is not a monster, nor has she ever done anything wrong.” Whisper Song told him firmly. “I have already reported the incident as a magical accident, and I stand by that decision.” Absently she noticed a few of her fellow nightguards gathering behind her in a show of support.

Not that it phased the captain. “Then I suppose the dayguard will have to clean up the nightguard’s mess again!” He snarled. “And we’ll start by arresting that wretched creature for this obvious act of terrorism!”

“YOU WILL DO NOTHING OF THE SORT!” A powerful voice said from the entrance. A voice Whisper Song knew, though it had been a while since she’d last heard it. Immediately she fell into a deep bow as Princess Luna strode toward them. Her eyes fixed angrily on the captain.

“Your highness!” He said his voice suddenly far less confident. “The young mare is responsible for endangering thousands of innocent ponies, and causing severe damage to one of the city’s most important landmarks.”

“I am well aware of what happened, captain. I have been keeping track of young Wind Chill ever since her first surge. What happened last evening was a magical accident and nothing more. As such, the crown will be paying for the damages, and that will be the end of it!” She said with finality. “Is that clear!?”

“Yes, your highness.” He said bowing, though Whisper thought he sounded a bit like a foal being told he couldn’t have a toy, and planned to take it anyway as soon as nopony was looking.

The princess seemed to notice as well. “Know that Wind Chill and her family are under my direct protection, and I will be most displeased if you or anypony else pursue this further. As I said, I have been keeping watch over her since her first surge, and know much more about the matter than you’ve ever bothered to learn; if you had, perhaps then you’d understand how it was ponies such as yourself, that caused this incident rather than Wind Chill who is more a victim. Truly, knowing what I do about her magic, this incident only serves to make me deeply disappointed in the ponies of this city.”

Turning away from him, her expression turned kinder, “You may rise my nightguards,” she said and Whisper gladly stood back up. “I am proud of your handling of the situation thus far, but I know you all are likely tired from your night’s work, so I will not keep you from your dreams any longer. Whisper Song; if you would escort me to Wind Chill’s home, I do wish to speak with her about the incident as well as her magic.”

Whisper Song nodded. “Of course, princess.”

“Thank you,” Princess Luna said with a smile.

Taking the lead Whisper led the princess outside a little smug, noticing the captain was silently fuming while trying not to show it. Trying and failing. Once they left the guard headquarters, Princess Luna stepped up alongside her, her longer stride easily keeping up with Whisper’s quick trot.

“How has Wind Chill and her family fared in recent years, Whisper Song? I have kept tabs on them through the years, and especially Wind Chill and her magic. But nothing that would tell me how they are treated within the community. By last night’s incident, I take it, it is not very favorable.”

Whisper Song sighed. “No, it’s not. Tundra Blossom has never really been accepted in Dodge and rarely interacts with the townsponies more than is necessary. Blazewing has been held back in the guard, thanks to the captain back there…”

Luna snorted derisively. “Yes, him. Were he a member of my Nightguard, I assure you he wouldn’t hold his rank for long. As it is, I’ve assured that he will never go any further within sister’s dayguard either.”

“He certainly doesn’t deserve it. I’m a little worried he might try something even against your orders.” Whisper admitted.

“Let me worry about that. I intend to keep a closer watch on Tundra Blossom’s family from here out,” Luna said in a reassuring tone. “And what of Wind Chill, how has she faired in the community?”

She sighed. “She’s been treated as just as much of an outcast as her mother. Tundra told me that early on in school, most the other foals’ parents told them they couldn’t be friends with Wind Chill. At first a few were still friendly with her, but then, when she had her first surge and terrified all her classmates…” She shook her head. “From what I understand, she never had a single friend all the rest of her school years. Since then, she’s mostly stayed at home and helped her parents.”

The princess gave a disappointed sigh. “I feared as much, and it makes sense from what I understand of her magic.”

Whisper glanced over at her. “Do you know why her magic is the way it is?”

“I have a theory. That is one reason I wish to speak with her.”

“Do you think you’ll be able to fix it?”

She shook her head. “If I am right, I don’t think ‘fixing’ it will be possible. But we’ll see.” She then glanced over at Whisper Song and smiled. “You are a lot more confident than you were the first time we met.”

Whisper blushed. “Well, I am a mother now.”

“Indeed, I suppose it is to be expected.” Luna said with a smile. “While I have not had such experience myself. I have witnessed many mares become mothers over the years, and a certain amount of confidence is definitely required for the role. And little Maestro is certainly a foal to be proud of. I really must make it out to hear one of his pieces performed.”

“You know of my son’s work?” Whisper asked, a little surprised.

Princess Luna smirked. “I am not as behind the times as I once was, and I have always been a great appreciator of the arts. Even were he not your son, or even one of my nocturne, I still would have heard of such a talented young colt.”

“He is the pride of my life.” Whisper said fondly, then sighed. “I’m going to have to explain what happened to him.”

“Well, perhaps after our visit, you’ll be able to explain all the better.”

~~~

There hadn’t been much sleep for Blazewing and Tundra Blossom that night. When Whisper Song had escorted Wind Chill home and explained what had happened, they’d both known there wouldn’t be. Their daughter needed them. They’d gathered in front of the fireplace, and there huddled together as a family, in a pile of soft cushions. Tundra and Blazewing on either side of Wind Chill, with Blazewing’s wing stretched around the mother and daughter, and a blanket over them all. There they’d stayed, providing their daughter what comfort they could as she cried.

It had taken hours but eventually Wind Chill had fallen asleep between them, having cried herself out. Still, they didn’t move, instead staying vigil over their daughter. Very little had been said. Nothing needed to be said.

They were still there, Tundra Blossom and Blazewing still keeping watch over their daughter, when there was a knock on their door. Blazewing looked, debating whether he wanted to answer it, not wanting to disturb Wind Chill. That proved in vain however as a second knock caused Wind Chill to stir.

“Is that the door?” She asked drowsily.

“Yeah, I’ve got it.” Blazewing said softly. Tundra caught his eye, looking worried. She knew there was no telling who might be at their door. He nodded back that he knew. He wouldn’t let anyone harm his family. Getting out from under the blanket and climbing to his hooves, he saw Wind Chill look up at him, and he gave her a reassuring smile, before going to answer. He wasn’t ready for who he’d find at their door. His eyes widened seeing the regal figure of the night princess waiting; he barely noticed that Whisper Song was with her. “Princess Luna!” He exclaimed, dropping quickly into a bow.

“No need for that, Blazewing. This is just an informal visit. I know it is still early, but I would like to speak with Wind Chill if that is alright.”

“Oh yes, come in, Princess. Wind Chill just woke.” Blazewing said, stepping back to let the Princess enter. Tall as she was, she only had to duck her head slightly to keep her horn from hitting the doorframe.

Tundra Blossom and Wind Chill both, jumped to their hooves to bow, or tried to. Wind Chill managed, but Tundra somehow got herself tangled in the blanket they’d been under, and nearly fell trying to struggle out of it.

“Be at ease, my little ponies,” Princess Luna said gently, stepping over to join them in front of the fireplace, there she levitated over one of the unused cushions and laid down, gesturing for them to join her. “Let us relax, there are a few matters I wish to discuss with you all.”

Nervously Wind Chill, Blazewing and Tundra Blossom looked at each other briefly before Wind Chill took a spot directly in front of the princess, while her parents laid down by her side. Whisper Song decided to simply stand guard nearby.

Luna smiled as they seemed to relax, at least a little. “First of all, Wind Chill, I wanted to assure you that I am making sure that what happened at the concert hall will be treated as the magical accident that it was.”

Much of the tension left Wind Chill as she let out a sigh in relief.

“Thank you, princess.” Tundra Blossom said, her voice full of gratitude.

She nodded. “I do fear that somepony may try to take matters into their own hooves; so for the time being, I’m going to arrange for you to be given leave of your duties for the next couple weeks, so that you may be here for your family. In addition, I’m going to ask Whisper Song to assign a pair of night guards to keep watch over your home at night for the next couple weeks, and I wanted to ask you if there were any of the dayguard that you would entrust to do the same during the day?” She asked, looking at Blazewing.

Blazewing thought about it for a moment. “Well there’s Iron Hoof, he and I have been in the guard together for years and he knows Blossom,” he suggested, and Tundra Blossom nodded. She knew Iron Hoof well enough, he wasn’t a close friend, but he was friendly enough and had never held anything against her. “Othewise, probably Shieldwall would be my second choice.”

Princess Luna nodded. “Very well, I will make the arrangements. Now, Wind Chill, I wanted to speak with you about your magic. I’ve seen the reports from your first incident and your own description of your magic at the time; as well as the doctor’s reports. Now I wish to hear from you directly. How does your magic work?”

Wind Chill looked nervous, but she’d lived with her magic for years. She knew very well how it worked. “Every negative emotion around me increases my magic, makes it stronger. Active emotions are stronger, but even somepony with a passive hatred in their heart near me will feed my magic, and any emotions directed toward me are the strongest of all. Once my magic grows too strong, I have to release it. When I do, it takes the form of ice magic; wind, snow, cold; so I usually go to a gorge out away from town, but… If it grows too strong…”

“It breaks free?” Luna suggested.

She looked down and nodded. “I thought I’d be able to handle the concert. I drained my magic before I left… and…”

“Wind Chill.” Luna reached out with one wing touching her lightly on her shoulder. “As far as I am concerned, it is something you should not have to endure. I suspected your magic worked in this manner, and truly I am disappointed in all the ponies that hold enough hatred in their hearts that they granted you such power in such a short time.”

Wind Chill looked up at her and sniffed softly. “Thank you, princess.”

She smiled kindly and nodded. “I am curious though, why your magic is this way. I have a theory about it; with your permission, I’d like to check if my theory is correct.”

“Okay.” Wind Chill said a little nervous.

“Do not worry, I’m just going to do a scan of your magic, see what I can find,” Luna assured her, and her horn lit up. Wind Chill held still as the princess’s magic enveloped her in its soft blue glow. It took nearly a minute during which time the princess seemed to be concentrating quite intently on her scan. Whatever it was she was looking for, it must not have been something easy to detect. Finally, the princess looked satisfied and let her magic fade. “It is as I thought.”

“What is it?” Wind Chill asked curiously.

“You have windigo magic merged with your unicorn magic to such a degree that they are almost indistinguishable from one another.”

Wind Chill looked at her in shock, it did make sense. In fact, she had wondered if her magic could be related to windigo magic, but that it actually was windigo magic had never even crossed her mind.

“I assure you; her father was an ice unicorn.” Tundra Blossom said, sounding flustered. Wind Chill glanced at her, unsure what she was saying, then blushed as she realized what her mother thought the princess was implying.

Princess Luna understood as well, and gave a smirk. “I believe you. Truly, I can only guess how this could have happened. If I recall correctly, you were already pregnant at the time of the battle and you were found comatose on the battlefield after the battle had ended?”

Tundra Blossom nodded. “That’s right.”

“My guess is that while you laid there on the battlefield on the edge of death, so too was Wind Chill close to dying even as her life was only just begun. In desperation she reached out with her magic and latched on to a nearby source of magic, a windigo that had returned to the battlefield. At that point, her magic would have still been primal, unpredictable and powerful.” She looked back at Wind Chill “I’m guessing you absorbed the windigo’s magic, in order to survive even as your mother was likely fighting for her own life; and as your own unicorn magic was still developing, the two then merged into one.”

Wind Chill looked down. “Is there any way it could be removed?”

Luna gave her a sympathetic look but shook her head. “I could barely distinguish that there were two types of magic, they are so merged. To try to remove it now would be to remove your magic and would kill you.”

“I see.”

“But perhaps we can find a way that you can at the very least, drain your magic safely without having to seclude yourself. Then you’d need not worry about such an incident as last night, happening again.”

“That would be helpful.” Wind Chill agreed.

Luna smiled and nodded. “I will look into it. I do not think it will be too difficult, and I have a scan of your magic now to work with.”

“Thank you, princess.” Wind Chill said softly.

“Yes, thank you.” Tundra Blossom said sincerely. “You’ve done so much for me and my family, princess.”

“Well, you’ve done more for myself and Equestria than I think you know.”

Tundra Blossom looked up at her seeming confused. “What do you mean?”

“Have you kept in touch with any other ice unicorns?”

She shook her head.

“Well, to put it simply, many have followed you in turning away from their old ways and becoming citizens of Equestria. And many of them have spoken of you as their inspiration for giving Equestria a chance.”

“Me!?” Tundra Blossom said somewhat alarmed.

Princess Luna nodded. “After your wedding, the other princesses and I made your story known to the rest of the ice unicorns, so that they could see that we would stay true to our word. Since then, your name has become fairly well known among those of the ice unicorns that chose to seek a new life here. And most have succeeded, only a very small group have stubbornly held to their old ways.”

Tundra Blossom stared at her a moment more, eyes wide. “I had no idea…”

Blazewing smiled and put a wing around his wife. “It’s good to hear they’ve found a new life here. I think Tundra’s just a little surprised to hear she’s become famous among ice unicorns.”

Wind Chill smiled and Princess Luna did as well, glad to see her mood improved. “Well, needless to say, you have proven to me that I was very much right to grant you citizenship all those years ago, no matter what any narrow-minded individuals may think.” With that she stood. “As much as I would like to stay longer, I do have other duties I will need to get back to. I will be sure to check in with you all in the future. For now, should you have any trouble, Whisper Song knows how to contact me.”

Standing, they all nodded that they understood. “Thank you, Princess.” Wind Chill said sincerely.

Princess Luna smiled and reached out once more, placing a wing on Wind Chill’s shoulder. “Try not to let the ponies of Dodge get you down. Perhaps they will come around in time, but if not, it is their own loss. And try not to think of your magic as a curse, you are unique among unicorns, and if you put your mind to it, I don’t doubt you will find a good use for your power.”

“I will try.”

The princess gave her shoulder one last pat, then “Then I bid thee all farewell.” With that, the family saw Whisper Song and the Princess from their home.

~~~

The next evening they heard from Whisper Song that repairs were already underway on the concert hall, and that fortunately there wasn’t any structural damage, so it wouldn’t take long, but it wouldn’t be repaired in time for any of the planned concerts, and the tickets were being refunded. Though the crown was covering both the cost of repairs and the refunds, Wind Chill knew the incident wouldn’t gain her any good will from the ponies of Dodge.

Her biggest fear however was how Maestro would react. Even if Whisper Song had explained everything to him, she had still ruined the concert, just as he was coming on stage. By the time Monday came around, she was worried Maestro wouldn’t show up after school as he usually did.

Her worry was unfounded.

“Windy!?” Wind Chill heard as the front door opened followed by the sound of small hoof-beats galloping through the livingroom and down the hall to her room. The door flew open and Maestro rushed in finding Wind Chill sitting up on her bed.

“Hey Maestro.” Wind Chill said softly.

“Windy, are you okay?” He asked, concern clear in his voice.

“I’m doing alright… Sorry about your concert.”

“That’s okay. Mom told me about your magic.” He said, taking a step closer.

“Yeah, turns out I have some windigo magic in me.”

Maestro hesitated just a moment more, then suddenly sprang forward, jumping up on the bed with a flap of his wings and throwing his hooves around her in a hug. Caught off guard, Wind Chill caught him in her own hooves, holding him as he hugged her. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know it was so hard for you to be around other ponies…”

Wind Chill smiled, tears coming to her eyes as she hugged him back “That’s okay, I should have just told you how my magic worked.”

He held onto her a moment longer then sat back on the bed looking up at her. “So you really feel every negative emotion from ponies around you?”

Wind Chill nodded solemnly.

“And it all makes your magic stronger?”

“Especially if the negative emotions are directed toward me.”

“And since a lot of ponies don’t like you…” He trailed off.

“Just going into the market is hard for me.” She gave a weak smile. “You know all the times I made it snow and we had snowball fights?”

He nodded.

“Those were days that I had to run errands in town and my magic got way too strong.” She smiled and gave him a gentle tap on the snout. “I didn’t mind so much then, because we got to have fun.”

Maestro smiled back but then turned more serious. “Ponies shouldn’t treat you badly. You’re too nice.”

Wind Chill smiled sadly. “Well, ice unicorns did some bad things a long time ago and hurt a lot of ponies.”

“Mom told me about the war,” Maestro said frowning. “But she said it was before you were even born, ponies shouldn’t hate you for that. It wasn’t your fault!”

“I know, but I’m still an ice unicorn, so they hate me for it.”

“That’s not right.”

“But it’s how things are,” Wind Chill said softly.

“Well, they’re being dumb then.” Maestro said firmly. “They shouldn’t hate you just because of what you are.”

~~~

The next few days were better for Wind Chill. Maestro came by again every day after school, and other than occasionally catching glimpses of the guards patrolling around her home; life started to get back to normal. At least until a rather surprising package arrived for Wind Chill bearing Princess Luna’s crescent moon, as well as the six-star mark of Princess Twilight Sparkle.

Wondering what it could be she opened it to find an etched silver crescent moon pendant, and a couple letters. Picking up the one with Princess Luna’s mark, she read:

Dear, Wind Chill

As I told you, I looked into finding a way for you to safely drain your magic without secluding yourself every time. Working with Princess Twilight Sparkle from the scans I made of your magic, we managed to find a solution. The enclosed pendant bears a specialized enchantment that should allow you to drain your magic into it at any time. The pendant will then slowly release that magic back into the ambient magic field while producing little more than a faint silvery glow. It will take time to release all the magic, but we estimate the pendant should be able to contain nearly three times the magic that you can contain yourself. As an added bonus, you can also draw the magic back out of the pendant should you ever need extra power, though I know that’s not really something you’re worried about. Still, it’s nice to know that is an option.

Princess Twilight has included more detailed instructions on how to use the pendant. It is our hope that this will make your day-to-day life easier, and prevent any more traumatic experiences in the future.

Her Royal Highness:

Princess Luna.

Wind Chill looked at the second page and saw that it was indeed more detailed instructions from Princess Twilight Sparkle. She then lifted up the pendant in her magic staring at it in shock. Two of the princesses had worked together on it for her…

She was still holding it in her magic when Tundra Blossom came in from the garden. “What’s that, Windy?” She asked, seeing what Wind Chill held.

“Princess Luna and Princess Twilight Sparkle made it for me.” She said in a stunned voice. “They said I can drain my magic into it and it will safely release it over time.”

Tundra Blossom looked as surprised as she felt. “Oh my… that’s wonderful!”

“I’ll have to read the instructions how it works. But Princess Luna said that it can hold a lot of magic, almost three times what I can.”

“That will be so helpful for you.” Tundra Blossom said with a smile. “And it’s such a lovely pendant.”

“Yeah… I guess I should read how to use it.” She picked up the letter that was marked from Princess Twilight Sparkle and lifted it up in her magic. That was when she realized it was a scroll folded up. She let it unfold and her eyes widened as it reached all the way to the floor, and then unfolded twice more.

The instructions were very thorough; probably a lot more thorough than was really needed, but by the end she knew how to use the pendant as well as some important details about how it works. While it could hold nearly three times the magic she could, it would take three full days to release that much through its passive release. She could still release the magic manually if she needed to, but she didn’t think she’d have to if the princess’s estimates were right. As Luna said in her letter, it would emit a faint silvery glow when releasing magic, and if she ever did come close to filling the pendant, it would begin to glow red. In addition, since it would be very important for her and for safety’s sake, they’d enchanted it with security enchantments that would prevent anypony from taking it.

When she put it on, she was able to drain some of her magic into it, though she hadn’t really needed to, and was happy to see the faint glow that indicated it was working just as they’d said it would. What was more, the glow was faint enough that nopony would be likely to notice it unless they were looking for it, or it was very dark. All together she was very grateful to the princesses for the gift and intended to write them a letter of thanks and perhaps ask Whisper Song to make sure Princess Luna got it.

Wearing her new pendant, she was in a good mood when Maestro arrived that afternoon. That Maestro wasn’t was quickly evident. At first he just went on like nothing was wrong, and they spent some time listening to music from Maestro’s collection. But when his mood didn’t improve, Wind Chill decided to see if she could cheer him up as he had done so many times for her.

“Maestro, is something wrong?” She asked as he took the last record off of the player. His shoulders slumped slightly.

“The orchestra had a meeting last night.” He said, continuing putting his record away. “They wanted to plan a new concert, get a head start since the Hearth’s Warming concert had to be canceled.”

“Are you bummed that the concert was canceled, and they didn’t get to play the songs you wrote?”

He didn’t look at her, instead looking through his pack for another record to play. “I told them I didn’t want to work with them anymore and I didn’t want them playing any of my music.”

Wind Chill stared at him stunned. He didn’t want to work with the orchestra anymore!? “Why?” She almost gasped.

“Because they were being dumb jerks!” Maestro said stomping his hoof.

“What do you mean?”

He looked back at her finally and she saw there were tears in his eyes. “They kept saying mean things about you, calling you a monster and saying the guard should have arrested you. I said they were being dumber than Chancellor Pudding Head and that what happened was their own fault.”

Tears came to Wind Chill’s eyes as well and she walked over to embrace him in a comforting hug. “Maestro… You didn’t have to do that,” she said softly.

He hugged her back. “I couldn’t let them say those mean things about you.”

“But what about your music?”

“I still have my music.” He said though he wasn’t able to hide a little disappointment, but he tightened his grip on her. “Besides, you’re more important to me than some dumb concert. You’re my big sis.” He said firmly.

Sis? Wind Chill thought stunned, but then slowly smiled as she realized she felt the same. “Thank you, little brother.”

Chapter 5: Hearth's Warming

Wind Chill’s Hearth’s Warming
By: Nebula Star

Chapter 5: Hearth’s Warming

***

“You know, if more ponies saw who you really are, they probably wouldn’t hate you anymore.” Maestro suggested the following Monday, the week before Hearth’s Warming. He hadn’t had school, but had come over in the afternoon anyway, since his father was still working and his mother was of course asleep. Currently they were helping to harvest the small orchard of orange trees. One of the only crops they had that needed almost no magic from Tundra Blossom to thrive.

“Maybe. But I don’t think they’ll even give me a chance.” Wind Chill said sounding resigned as she levitated a few more ripe oranges into the basket Maestro held on his back, balanced with his wings.

He looked up at her. “They can’t give you a chance if you don’t give them a chance.”

Wind Chill raised a brow at that. “What do you mean?”

“Well, if you always avoid everypony, how could they ever get to know you?”

She looked at him unsure how to answer. Finally, she smiled and gave him a nudge with her hoof. “Are you sure you’re only eleven.”

He grinned back. “Yep, turning twelve next year!”

“You’re probably right, I should make more of an effort to let ponies get to know me.” She smiled. “And now with my new pendant, it will be a lot easier.”

“Yeah, see. I could even go with you sometimes.” Maestro said eagerly.

“Maybe we’ll have to start doing that. But for now, little brother, catch!” She tossed a couple oranges his way and with a laugh he jumped forward to catch them in the basket on his back.

Wind Chill did think about Maestro’s suggestion. It made sense, but she also knew it would take time. She knew the ponies of dodge wouldn’t give her much of a chance at first, but perhaps if she just kept getting out there, spending more time around the ponies in town. Maybe eventually they’d begin to see the real her, instead of the monster they all seemed to think she was. With her new pendant, she could stay in town longer without getting a headache. And if Maestro was with her; well, she always felt better with him around.

That afternoon when Wind Chill walked Maestro home, they were both enjoying some fresh orange slices. It was just a little later than usual, but Whisper Song was already awake when they arrived. “Hey you two, have a good day?” She called as she saw them come through the door.

“Yep, we helped pick oranges! And they were good!”

“You like them, huh? I always thought the citrus fruits were too tart for my tastes,” Whisper Song said smiling.

“I like ‘em!”

“Well okay then, I guess I’ll get some from the market once in a while,” She said tussling his mane a bit with her wing. “How about you Wind Chill, how have you been holding up?”

“I’m doing a lot better.” She assured her. “And we haven’t had any trouble.”

“Good I was worried. But I think the princess put the captain in his place. He’s been grumbling a lot about being forced to assign patrols to protect you, but follows orders.”

“He’s a jerk.” Maestro said matter-of-factly.

“Maestro, that’s not a nice thing to say.” Whisper said in a mock scolding tone.

He shrugged. “It’s true.”

“Yes, it is, but it’s still not nice to say it.”

Wind Chill giggled softly, and Maestro grinned.

“By the way, Maestro, a letter came from the Orchestra this afternoon.” Whisper Song told him.

His smile fell. “Oh… okay.”

“I’m not sure, but I think they want to apologize.” Whisper song said encouragingly.

Wind Chill looked down at Maestro and put a hoof around him hugging him. “Maybe you’ll get to do another concert after all.”

“I don’t know… I’m still mad at them.”

She gave him a squeeze. “I know, but remember, they don’t know me, so they don’t know what you do.”

“Yeah… But they still shouldn’t say such mean things about you.”

“Well thanks for sticking up for me, little brother. But if they want to make amends. Maybe you should give them a chance. After all, you can’t change their opinions of me, if you don’t ever talk to them again.” Wind Chill said with a smile.

He looked up at her looking surprised, then slowly grinned. “Yeah, okay, sis.”

Whisper Song smiled. She’d been surprised the first time she’d heard her son call Wind Chill ‘sis’ but definitely didn’t object.

“Well, I’d better get back.” Wind Chill said turning to go.

“Okay, bye Windy!” Maestro called after her waving.

“See you tomorrow, Maestro! By, Whisper!” She said waving back.

~~~

The next day it was clear that something good had happened at the meeting with the Orchestra, but Maestro refused to say anything about it. It was clear he was excited about something though. She wouldn’t find out, though, until two days before Hearth’s Warming. She knew something was up when Maestro showed up, completely dressed up in his full conductor’s attire: a tailed suit coat, over a white shirt with a black bow tie.

Wind Chill raised a brow, smiling. “Hey Maestro. Special occasion?”

He grinned and nodded. “Come on, I have something to show you!” He said taking her hoof with his wing.

“Okay, where are we going?”

“Out to the canyon!” He said starting to pull her away.

“The canyon? In your nice suit?” Wind Chill asked, more than a little confused. “What’s going on.”

“You’ll see when we get there!”

“Okay.” She said then called back into the house. “Mom, Maestro is taking me somewhere!” Then Maestro was leading the way at a fast trot. It was a familiar path; she and Maestro had taken it often enough, in fact he seemed to be leading her to a section that formed a small bowl with sloped sides that they had used to slide down the snow, once Wind Chill had covered it. Though with Maestro’s current dress she doubted that was the plan.

“You’re not going to tell me what this is all about?” She asked.

“You’ll see!” He insisted.

Instead of following the canyon rim to the top of the bowl, he instead took a path down into the canyon to approach the bowl from the bottom. Wind Chill was starting to wonder what Maestro had planned when then finally came around a bend into the bowl and it became very clear.

There, set up in the bottom of the bowl, was the Orchestra, or at least most of them. They had their instruments, had brought down stools or chairs, everything they needed. There was even a conductor’s stand set up, one that appeared sized for a colt. All together it looked like around two thirds of the orchestra was there. So there weren’t as many strings or brass as the full thing, but they did have at least one of each instrument. And there, a little way in front of them was a comfortable looking chair which Maestro was guiding her to.

Wind Chill followed him in a state of shock, and allowed him to guide her to her seat. He then went up to the conductor’s stand where they orchestra’s lead conductor stood waiting. He passed the baton to Maestro and stepped aside as Maestro jumped up on the stand. The orchestra members immediately began checking the tuning of their instruments.

Maestro waited until it sounded like they were harmonizing well, before tapping the stand with the baton. The orchestra fell silent as their full attention went to Maestro. Once he was sure they were all ready, he raised the baton, held in one wing, raising his other wing as well, then brought them down together, and they began to play.

It was one of Maestro’s songs, Wind Chill realized, recognizing the tune as Maestro had played a few parts for her. He had been right, it was so much better with the orchestra, and the canyon bowl amplified the sound beautifully. She sat, listening, with tears falling from her eyes and a grateful smile as she realized Maestro must have convinced the orchestra to do this for her. The song was quiet at first and slowly built with a playful tune that reminded her of a dance, or perhaps snowfall.

When it eventually ended, Maestro waited just a moment, then started the next song. This one had a quicker tempo and invoked a feeling of the more hectic parts of the holidays, still full of cheer, but often sounding exhausting. Wind Chill found herself grinning though she’d never really had a very hectic holiday herself, she’d been in town during those times and had seen how hectic it can get.

The third song was a more traditional sounding Hearth’s Warming song. In fact, if she didn’t know it was one of Maestro’s, she probably would have assumed it was a traditional song that she just wasn’t familiar with. It captured the style of many of the traditional songs so perfectly.

As that song came to an end, Maestro turned giving Wind Chill a smile. “This last song… I actually wrote it for you, Windy.”

She smiled back as more tears filled her eyes. Maestro turned back, and again raised the baton. When he brought it down, what Wind Chill would remember as the most meaningful song she’d ever heard began. It started soft, almost somber with a gentle tune that made her think of her life before meeting Maestro earlier that year. Even as she had that thought, the song turned a bit more playful, more hopeful, the music bringing to mind the times she’d spent with Maestro, when she’d make it snow and they’d play together in their own winter wonderland. Then the song slowly built, becoming an almost triumphant sounding march and Wind Chill felt as if Maestro was promising her an even brighter future. By the time the song reached its climax, Wind Chill was almost trembling, her tears flowing freely.

Maestro turned and seeing Wind Chill’s expression, galloped over to her and gave her a fierce hug. “Merry Hearth’s Warming, big sis!”

“Thank you, Maestro.” She said softly hugging him back. “This is the best Hearth’s Warming gift I’ve ever recieved! How in Equestria did you convince them to do this?”

“Miss, Wind Chill?”

She looked up to see the orchestra members had gathered in front of the conductor’s stand behind their head conductor. “After the events at the concert, many of us were upset and I am ashamed to say that most of us were blaming you. Then young Maestro got furious with us, and said some things that forced us to reevaluate our own feelings toward you, as he made us realize that none of us had any reason to hate you as we did. When he later explained about your magic, and how it was our own hate that fueled your surge. That your entire life you’ve been forced to feel the hatred of all the ponies around you; we decided we needed to do something for you and Maestro both. This was his idea, though I’m sorry to say a few of our number weren’t willing to go along with it.”

Wind Chill smiled, still with a few tears in her eyes. “Thank you, all of you! I don’t know how much Maestro told you, but Princess Luna herself confirmed that I have windigo magic merged with my own and likely have since before I was born. So yes, I feel every negative emotion in the ponies around me; every bit of anger, or hatred, and every bit of it fuels my magic. Even now, I can feel that a few of you still have hatred for me that you’re trying to put aside.” She smiled sadly. “I do thank you for trying. Even that is more than most have ever done for me.” Even as she said it, those few points of suppressed hatred faded, just a little bit more.

Maestro stepped forward. “This isn’t all we have planned, Windy.”

She gave a soft laugh, almost in disbelief. “There’s more?”

The head conductor nodded. “Maestro thought that it would help improve how the ponies of Dodge think of you, if they were to see you in a more positive light. Every year the orchestra has a marching band in the Hearth’s Warming Day parade, we wanted to invite you to march with us. And Maestro thought it would be quite a treat for the ponies of Dodge, if you could use your power to make it snow along the parade route and then in town square for the Hearth’s Warming celebrations.”

Wind Chill stared at him, unsure what to think. She’d never attended the Hearth’s Warming Day Parade before and so had almost forgotten about it all together. To be in the parade herself especially marching with the orchestra, she’d never imagined… Then she looked over at Maestro. He smiled and gave an encouraging nod.

Wind Chill looked back at the orchestra members and saw many of them echo Maestro’s encouragement. Slowly, she smiled feeling overwhelmed with their kindness. “Alright.”

~~~

It was a simple matter for them to include her in their marching formation. She would be just behind the first few rows, marching alongside Maestro who would be playing his trombone. She’d then be casting her magic up to create a gentle snowfall across the width of the road they’d be traveling. Just enough that it would still melt upon hitting the ground. They’d been hoping that her using her magic along the way would help prevent her from losing control, though she’d assured them that that wasn’t likely anymore, and shown them her necklace. Many had been in awe that she’d received such a gift made by two of the princesses. They’d still wanted her to make it snow however, since it would also provide a nice bit of chill air as their marching uniforms weren’t the most comfortable in the city’s normally hot weather.

When Hearth’s Warming arrived, she and her family had a quick breakfast together, having celebrated the evening before, and afterward, headed into town for the parade. Wind Chill went directly to the staging area while her parents were meeting Whisper Song and her husband to watch. Maestro was waiting for her when she arrived and led her to where the orchestra marching band was preparing. Many of the other ponies in the parade saw her arrive, some seeming simply surprised, especially when she joined the orchestra. Though there were also a few who were angry seeing her in their parade. She didn’t mind, they were just giving her plenty of power for her part in the parade. There were also a few among the marching band that clearly didn’t like her being there, but being in the minority, there wasn’t anything they could do.

She wouldn’t be in uniform, they wanted ponies to recognize her after all, instead she would simply be wearing her pendant and a white cloak with a fur lined collar and a silver crescent sewn into the back. It was more a costume piece than actual fashion, but it would look fancy enough from a distance.

“You ready?” Maestro asked with a big grin.

She looked down at him and smiled nervously. “As I’ll ever be.”

“You’ll be fine!” He assured her confidently, giving his trombone a quick twirl.

“You know, I haven’t really been in town since the concert… There’s probably a lot of ponies angry that I got all the Hearth’s Warming concerts canceled. They usually bring in a lot of business.”

“That’s why marching with the band is such a great idea. It will show everypony that even the orchestra members aren’t upset with you.” Maestro insisted.

“Since you yelled at them anyway.” She looked down at Maestro with a smirk. “Maybe I should just have you yell at the rest of the town.”

He giggled. “I think this will work better.”

She smiled and gave him a brief hug. “Okay, we’ll save that for a backup plan.”

“I’ll do it. You know I will!” Maestro said with a grin, getting her to laugh as well.

After a few more minutes waiting the first parts of the parade started to move. Bit by bit the various marching groups, acts and floats started moving. Finally, the first rows of the band started marching. Wind Chill and Maestro waited until the row in front of them took a few steps to space out, then followed, keeping the same pace. Once they left the staging area, the band began to play, and that was her cue to begin. She’d practiced the day before how much magic to use to just get a light snowfall. Casting upwards, she sent her magic up and let it spread out to a little over the width of the road, and snow began to fall. As it did, the air around them chilled just enough that the snow wouldn’t melt before reaching the ground.

The first ponies watching the parade seemed surprised, and she felt what she knew to be ponies that recognized her as their hatred came to life. Even so, Wind Chill smiled. She still didn’t like feeling their hatred, but what made Wind Chill smile was the cheers of the foals, many of whom may have never seen snow before, growing up in the desert town.

The parade route was long enough for the band to play eight full songs, the last of which would be an arrangement of the song Maestro had written for her, but adjusted for the marching band to play. Maestro was marching, very enthusiastically playing his part, while Wind Chill kept up her constant stream of magic conjuring a light snowfall. By the second song, she began sending up pulses of magic with the beat of the song, causing the snow to come down in pulses as well, as if even the snow were marching in time with the music.

Wind Chill marched on, focusing on keeping her magic going and listening to the cheering and excitement of the foals as the parade slowly made its way toward the town square. Between songs, Maestro would look over at her and grin as he saw her smiling. She really was enjoying herself. Soon enough, they were nearing the end of the route, and the final song began; her song.

The marching band version had the first part shortened so the soft somber part quickly gave way to the more playful segment that had Maestro almost dancing with his enthusiasm. Even Wind Chill felt a little extra bounce in her step as she listened to her song being played for the entire town. By the time the song began to build toward the triumphant finally, she was skipping along, tossing her head from side to side, matching Maestro’s enthusiastic playing. The timing was perfect and the band reached the final measures of the song just as the band reached the square. In time with the final climax, Wind Chill sent up one final burst of magic that spread over the entire square chilling the entire area as the snow began to fall.

All around them surprised shouts and cheers filled the square as the gentle snowfall fell on the town that usually never saw snow. Wind Chill smiled hearing her magic appreciated.

“See, you did great!” Maestro cheered happily. Together they followed the other orchestra members as they split off from the rest of the parade, making their way toward a large stage in one part of the square where the orchestra, as well as a few other groups would be performing throughout the festivities. There was a preparation room next to the stage where the orchestra members would be changing out of their marching uniforms, including Maestro. Wind Chill however would continue wearing her cloak. When they arrived, Maestro hurried in to change with the rest of the orchestra while Wind Chill waited outside.

A number of ponies nearby had recognized her, some of whom were going so far as to glare at her. She didn’t care, she just kept a constant stream of magic going to continue the snowfall over the square. It wasn’t long before Maestro reemerged from the prep room. Even as he did, though another pony approached looking angry. Wind Chill had only seen him a few times, but still recognized the mayor of Dodge, followed by two guard ponies.

“You, what is the meaning of this!?” The mayor shouted angrily, not even bothering to use her name, though she was sure he knew it. Most of the town knew her and her mother’s names just so they’d know who to hate.

Wind Chill was unphased however. “It’s Hearth’s Warming, Mayor! There should be snow!” She said casting an extra pulse of magic, increasing the snowfall for a few moments. All around the cheer of the local foals could be heard.

Still the mayor glared at her. “What makes you think you can just bring snowfall down on our festivities.”

“It’s not hurting anything, and can’t you hear the foals? They’re loving it!” Wind Chills said, still not really worried.

“Yeah, the snow is great!” Maestro agreed moving to Wind Chill’s side.

The mayor didn’t seem to care. “You and your family have been a blight on this city for too long!” He said angrily and turned to one of the guards by his side. “Arrest her, immediately.”

The guard just sighed. “Mayor, we are under orders directly from Princess Luna to do nothing to Wind Chill and her family. They are under the Princess’s protection. Unless she were to try to kill somepony, there’s nothing we can do.”

The mayor stared at him, slack jawed for a moment. Then wildly gestured to the sky. “She’s trying to freeze us all right now!”

The second guard snorted and Wind Chill was surprised to find she didn’t feel any hatred coming from the unicorn stallion. “Sir, I saw what she did to the concert hall when she lost control. If she were trying to kill us, I doubt she’d do it with flurries. The fact that she’s had such power, and hasn’t once used it for nefarious means speaks well of her character.”

The mayor glared at him a moment more, then in a huff, turned and left. The first guard snorted in annoyance then turned to return to whatever duties the mayor had pulled him from while the second hung back.

“Thank you.” Wind Chill said sincerely when the other two were out of hearing.

He nodded. “You’re welcome. To be honest I did used to think poorly of you, in fact, after the concert I was one of those that wanted you arrested. My sister was there. But I’ve always had a great deal of respect for Princess Luna. So when she ordered us to leave you alone, it made me really think about what happened.

“I read through all the reports, the eye-witness testimonies, everything. There were a couple who witnessed your final loss of control. They saw how quickly the magic had erupted outward, and said that if they hadn’t already been practically out the door, that they wouldn’t have made it. I also read how you told all the ponies around you to run, and directed the magic upwards to give them time. So I’m grateful; if you hadn’t held on as long as you did, even my sister, way up in the cheap seats, may not have been able to escape in time.”

“It still must have been frightening for her,” Wind Chill said softly.

“It was, but she’s alright, and it could have been a lot worse,” He assured her.

“Well, in any case, tell her I’m sorry for frightening her, and ruining the concert.”

He smiled and nodded. “I’ll do that. Anyway, I better get back to my post, hopefully the mayor won’t drag me away again,” he said with roll of his eyes.

Wind Chill smiled, “I’ll see you around then.”

“See ya around.”

“Told ya,” Maestro said when the guard was out of sight.

“What?” Wind Chill looked down at him confused.

“Once ponies see how great you are, they’ll stop hating you.”

She laughed. “I guess you’re right.”

“So let’s get out there and start showing everypony the real you, big sis!”

She smiled and nodded. “Lead the way, little brother.” Together they went out into the square to find their families and enjoy Hearth’s Warming together. It would still take time, and might be difficult at times, but Wind Chill began to have hope that it was indeed possible. It was turning out to be the best Hearth’s Warming she’d ever had, all thanks to little Maestro. And as they crossed the square under the gentle snowfall her magic had provided, for the first time, she stopped fearing what the world thought of her, and instead began to wonder just what other wonders she could bring to the world.

Author's Note

This concludes Wind Chill's Hearth's Warming. Slow as I am, this story was originally thought of at least seven years ago and of course, even once I really started it, it took two holiday seasons to finish. Anyway, I thought it made a nice holiday story in addition to introducing a few minor characters from the Midnight Star universe who will be playing a small part in future stories.