Thunder and Magic: Darklos First Hearths Warming

by Rapane443

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Original Character, Adventure, Main 6
Length: 10422

Darklo (A child of alchemy reincarnated as a colt) realised that Hearths Warming was actually tommorrow! Hijinks ensues.

Taking place sometime after Episode 7 and before Episode 8 in Thunder and Magic: Season 1, Darklo realises much too late that Hearths Warming (The Christmas equivalent) was actually tomorrow!

So watch as the colt despirately uses all of his skills to try and sneakily bring gifts to all of his friends and family. Will he be caught? Will he find and sneak the gifts before the dawn? Find out in this short story!

Published 2024-12-28 17:10:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-12-28 17:10:00 UTC

Hearths Warming Eve: Last Minute Parade

The dusk was as magical as the land it basked, shining beautifully on the snowy humble town of Ponyville. The soothing choir of Hearths Warming carols streamed the cold air while the residents went about their day with all smiles. But among all of the happy ponies preparing themselves for the fun of the event, there was another pony with a different agenda.

Darklo, previously known as Lux from his old world, was currently shivering beside the fireplace, huddled in a warm blanket while also taking comfort from the lit fire he conjured from the alchemical symbols on his hoofpads.

"Brrr, okay. Next time, I should think twice before letting Bloom pick the-e-e area." He grunted through jittered teeth, recalling the immediate feeling of impacting snow after an unfortunate sled turn.

While he continued embracing the flames, Twilight came downstairs with Spike in tow. The little dragon had 2 cups of hot chocolate and dutifully placed it by the colt while the mare took the towel in her magic, replacing it with a new one.

"Feeling any warmer Darklo?" Spike asked, placing a claw on his back and feeling the occasional shiver.

"A bit. I just hope I never have to go through that a second time thi-is winter." Darklo responded, extinguishing the fire in his hooves to take a sip of Spikes home brew, lighting up in satisfaction.

"If you just came home right away, you wouldn't be experiencing hypothermia, now would you?" Twilight replied rhetorically, wrapping the colt around the fresh towel. "Your stubbornness is gonna get you into trouble eventually, so consider this a miniature friendship lesson."

"Stubborn? Heh, I had to get it from SOMEPONY." Darklo emphasised with a cheeky grin, forcing the lizard to cover his chuckles whilst his adoptive sister blankly stared at him, unamused. "Oh come on sis, that was funny."

"To you maybe." Twilight scoffed playfully before trotting to their Hearths Warming tree and adding some extra ordiments to its branches. Looking at the festive tree, Darklo had to admit that she had an eye for decoration as it gleamed gracefully like a beacon of hope. And from closer inspection, he could see a few baubles had the names of her friends etched in them, from Rainbow Dash to Fluttershy and even the Princesses. He even saw Spikes and his own by the top of the tree which had a glistening silver sun that stood proud like a particular celestial goddess.

"Well, as much as I hate being stuck like this, I can at least appreciate that I'm not in school yet."

"..." Twilight froze, as if a sudden epiphany had came by her. She slowly rotated her head to meet her brothers gaze, revealing her unnerved and unblinking face. "Did... did I really forget about school?"

"To be fair, with all your lessons, I thought you were homeschooling me so I didn't say nothing."

"OK...OK..." Twilight shifted back and forth, the redness present on her cheeks. "This is mendable, I can fix this. Send a letter in the mail for Miss Cheerlie and figure it out. No worries!" And so, she hastily teleported a purple scarf and wooly hat onto herself before galloping out of the house. "Il be right baaaack!"

Spike sighed at what just occurred and shut the door for her, downing his own hot chocolate as he caught eyes with Darklo who had a raised eyebrow. "What? Did you expect her to be calm?"

"Kind of. She doesn't need to be so worried about me. She's doing just fine taking care of me."

"You haven't seen the most of it." The lizard agreed, setting his mug on the table and kneeling down to the presents underneath. "But you DID just give us an opportunity!" Spike micheviously grinned at the colt who rolled his eyes, understanding quite quickly. "Now I can get a peek at what Rarity got me. Oh what if its a really shiny gem? That would be perfect!"

"Really Spike? It's not even Hearths Warming yet, you need to be patient. Now get off your presents."

"Oh come on Darklo." Spike moaned. "It's literally Hearths Warming Eve. Just one day off can't hurt."

...

What?

"Wait, today? Hearths Warming Eve is today?"

"Well duh, of course it's Hearths Warming Eve! Don't tell me you don't consider it a special day. No way your dad was that much of a buzz kill."

The revelation was certainly a shocker to the child of alchemy. From what he could deduce, most of the holidays shared an equal equivalent from his own world. Hearts and Hooves Day was Valantines Day, Nightmare Night was Halloween and Hearths Warming was Christmas. But on deeper consideration, he didn't check what the exact date for it was, assuming it was the same as the parallel.

Immediately, he fled to his room and despite the chill still present in his skin, he checked the calander that he often failed to keep to date, flipping the pages to December and looking at the text of Hearths Warming under-

23rd... FRICK!

"So it really is tommorow. Dammit, I haven't even sent my presents over yet, I was gonna do it on the Eve... but it IS the Eve!" Frantically, the foal zipped under his bed and telekinetically tossed the pile onto the mattress. Cards, presents and all.

Frantically, he paced back and forth, mumbling to himself in quick succession. "OK...OK...this is mendable. I can fix this. I just gotta take all these presents to their locations, set them down and flee when I knock on the door. No worries!"

But a quick glance at the window instantly made his eyes wide. The sun was down and the moon was up. Ponies will be sleeping.

"Dammit, dammit. So I rather have to wake everypony up for their gifts or leave them on their front door like some antisocial loser?" His body couldn't take the stress and widdled out from under him. "Man, I messed up BIG TIME."

As he wallowed in his inaccuracies however, a few ideas popped into his head as the angel and devil made their entry.

"Theres nothing to be ashamed of. I dont think anypony would be upset if you gave them their presents on Hearths Warming. They'll understand!"

"Are you kidding me? They are SO gonna see us as lazy asses. And that aint us! Now how about we just sneak into their homes and put down those presents like we're Santa Claus.

"Uhm, if this is really what we want to do, how about just teleporting the stuff inside? Less harm would be done that way."

"Either way, we'd be trespassing at night. Plus, we've done this in the academy before. How hard can it be?"

Although Darklo didn't wanna admit it, the devil on his shoulder was spouting some decent points. Everything he had done in Equestria from training to fighting had always been witnessed by the ponies of Ponyville. If he didn't act, who knows what they'd think of him. Maybe not lazy per say, but it would be somewhat negative. And he was not gonna let that happen. Besides, after all of the presents he was able to sneak into Ira and Zelus' rooms on Christmas Eve, he felt confident he could make the next 6 hours work.

"I warned you..."

"Spike. I'm heading to bed so just tell Twilight to keep it down."

"Sure thing." He heard from below. "Il tell her when she returns. Goodnight Darklo."

Grinning mischeviously at his succesful ploy, the colt teleported a yellow sack, tipped all of his gifts inside and heaved it over his back before jumping out the window and blasting wind from the hoofpads, hopping across the rooftops for his first festive delivery.

Immediately, the colt knew who to start with as he bounced onto the humble walkway of Fluttershys cottage. He'd never had the opportunity to visit but after all the care she had in mothering him prior, Darklo felt like he had to repay her somehow.

Gently bringing out the pink present wrapped in a pastel bow with his magic, he grinned.

"Fluttershy wouldn't mind right? I mean, it's not criminal if you LEAVE something."

So with his mind all set and free of conscience, Darklo fiddled with the old fashioned lock until a satisfying click entered his ears. The colt sneakily jammed through the gap and took a gander at the inside.

The inside was honestly as humble and cozy as Darklo expected from Fluttershy, a large but sleek wooden room that took up the living room and kitchen all in one. Along with the many nurtured plants and artistically pleasing birdhouses, the whole first floor radiated a calming glow.

The colt took a moment to take it all in before creeping up to the Christmas tree snugly fitted in the corner. Though, as he took careful steps towards it, there was something... off about the it.

Jeez, I havent felt this nervous since Principal Vir... that man always knew how to make my skin crawl. It's probably just my nerves.

Darklo eventually was by the tree and gently left the present underneath, smiling at a job well done and turned to leave...

Until he hit a stubborn floorboard. It groaned in frustration which forced the colts ears to hastily point up from the sudden noise. Freezing in place, he surveyed the ceiling, listening for movement above. But what came next wasn't from above, but beside him as a snarl cascaded his ears.

Quickly, Darklo snapped to its attention and came face to face with a resting grizzly bear.

"Ga-" He clamped his jaw shut so he couldn't make more noise. The bear kept its animalistic glare on him, studying the colts movements. He had to think of something fast, or this bear could-

Wait... what am I saying? This ain't Earth!

"Hey Mr bear..." You whisper gently, "Just came with a very late gift. Sorry for waking you..."

It's hulking body stretched outwards before it's eyes took a glance at the new present under the tree. Once it's suspicions were confirmed, it sleepily yawned and pointed a claw to the door.

Sighing in relief, Darklo nodded in appreciation. "Thank you... Il just, be on my way then... Happy Hearths Warming."

Darklo steadily walked out the door, a particular rabbit giving him the death stare as he left. "And Happy Hearths Warming to you too, Angel." The colt grumbled while he locked the door like his illusive flank wasn't even there. He almost wished it was the first time he met the rabbit. Would've been a better first impression than it was a week ago during the sleeping dragon incident. "Tsk, brat gave Spike and I so much trouble... geez I would've SO helped against that dragon but nah, Twilight haaaad to be protective."

Darklo sigh, hoisting the sack and dashing away on hovered air. "Oh well, no use being salty of the past. Now who's next?"

The moon continued its journey over the dark sky as the colt sped along the empty streets with small streaks of fire propelling him forward. Energy still prime for use, Darklo made haste weaving past the stalls of the market just for fun until he skidded to a halt in front of his next destination. Sugar Cube Corner.

Taking a second to stomp his hooves in the dirt and equinguish the flames from his alchemical attained flight, the colt glanced up at the sweet shop.

"Next up, Pinkie. And can't forget the Cakes too." Darklo bemused, scurring through the sack. "Now where in blazes are they- aha!" Finding the correct colours inside, he lifted them out in a magical grasp, a proud smirk on his snout whilst he prepared his horn and teleported just a few centimeters inside.

"There we are. Just the ones I need.... gotta make up for all my messes in this joint somehow."

-Flashback

A little over two days since Twilight fully took the colt in her care, Darklo persuaded her and Spike to visit the establishment with minimal begging required. The minute he stepped hoof into the bakery, his enhanced nose picked up a plefera of sugary sweets and freshly baked bread that put starry eyes and a gradual drool on his childish sweet tooth.

Immediately, his nose took action and sped to the counter to the Cakes surprise.

"Hello! Do you make chocolate brownies?" The colt bounced excitedly which almost gave Mr and Mrs Cake deja vu. "Oh, oh! And add some chocolate fudge to that, and add a vanilla milkshake to boot!"

The Cakes blinked for a short second before flashing an equally friendly smile at him. "Oh, why of course we can make that for you dearie. We'll have that right in a jiffy for you!" Mrs Cake beamed, akin to a doting mother. Meanwhile, Carrot Top nodded at his request and passed into the background.

Twilight was half amused by the sudden shift in character as she stepped beside the peppy foal. He was almost a totally different pony with how he was acting.

"So you must really like sweets huh?" She ruffled his mane as his adoptive sister stated the facts.

"Yeah, heh." Spike piped up, poking his cheek. "You're like a foal in a candystore!... well, you kind of are, but you get the point."

Darklo chuckled, his mind only set on one sugary track. "Well how can I not! Having sweets and stuff is like a luxury for me. And chocolate..." his mouth watered. "Oh sweet lovable chocolate, I love it so much!"

Spike awkwardly guided the colt to a table while Twilight passed the bits to Mrs Cake, the unicorns smile twitching a bit. "Gah... I'm so sorry, I didn't know Darklo would be like this. He's not normally this hyper."

The older mare didn't seem to mind though, squishing her cheeks to contain her affection. And she was failing at it. "Oh, it's alright Twilight! It's quite relieving to see a foal in their element. And with the whole Nightmare Moon debacle still on his plate, I think he does need some time to be a colt." Carrot Top passed by the two as he set down the sweet treats to Darklo who looked about ready to chow down if his open jaw gave any clues.

And just as Twilight turned her head to face them, Mrs Cakes breathy whisper flicked her ear. "You have a very good son there. I know you'll do great."

There was never a day where Twilight felt so heated before, the lavender fur on her face practically turning red as her eyes shoot open.

"Ah-" She cracks, "M-Mrs Cake! I'm... I'm not his mother!"

"Oh dear me, I'm sorry sweetie I just assumed. You know since you adopted him and all."

"Wait who-"

"Pinkie Pie, she works with us remember?"

"Oh... right. A-Anyway, no I see him more as a little brother to me. Like Spike."

Mrs Cake softens up as she pat her on the shoulder fondly. "Well, no matter what you see him as, he's a part of your family now. And I'm sure he appreciates your care just as much as you appreciate his company-"

NOM! NOM! NOM!

...

Silence. Mrs Cake and Twilight has felt a bit of sticky fudge simmer on their coats. And as they look to the scene of the crime, they are left flabbergasted. There was Darklo, mouth and barrel covered in chocolaty goodness. The plate and glass holding the milkshake were the only thing that had no traces of food, not like the chairs, the table and Carrot Top who was unfortunately in the blast zone. Each pony stared in surprise at Darklo, besides Spike who licked the chocolate from his scales as he shook himself from the shock of it all.

And the colt of the hour? He just awkwardly flashed his teeth at them, all mucked up from chomping on brownies.

"Hehe... uhm, thanks for the meal?..."

-End Flashback

Darklo looked on at the same table he made a mess of, sweat coursing his brow as he reminisced whilst walking along the shadow-filled building.

"Man..." His cheeks flushed at the thought. "Definately not one of my finest moments, heh."

"Totally!"

"I know, thanks Pinkie- ah!" Darklo jumped in shock as he glanced up at the party pony.

"Hehehe! I couldn't belieeeeeve the amount of chocolate you splatted around in one bite! I gotta say, you might even rival my sweet tooth. Hmmmm, maybe not, but it's close!"

Darklo twitched his eye, his brain taking time to process the mare in front of him. "But... I was thinking about that- how did you know what I was thinking?" He asked with genuine confusion.

Pinkie Pie chuckled with giddy amusement, her mane and tail poofing out even more than it was before. "Oh silly billy, I just assumed! Thanks for confirming for me Darky!"

"No." The colt frowned immediately. "Just Darklo. That sounds way too cute... and mildly racist." He shook his head and passed the presents to the mare who gasped at what she had in her hooves.

"Oooooh you shouldn't have little guy! I knew we were missing a few gifts for Hearths Warming! Always happens with a shivering bouncy backflip."

"Shivering bouncy what now? Ugh, nevermind. Sorry for being so late."

Pinkie grinned with zero disappointment in her movements. "No worries Darklo. The presents are here and that's what matters, hope you have a good festive delivery!"

And so, she fled upstairs with the presents. The colt didn't even hear any signs of steps from her hooves, which was slightly off to him.

He sighed, teleporting out of the store and back out to the cold night. "Heh, geez... that mare. Now then," Darklo rubbed his eyes before hoisting the sack on hid back and flew off. "I've still got time."

Another hour passed as he ventured through home after home. These being much less impactful than from Fluttershys cottage and Sugarcube Corner, just move in, plop the present and dip. Piece of cake.

The targeted ponies like Zecora, Mayor Mare and the flower sisters were none the wiser and Darklo intended to keep it that way.

Well, Pinkie found out but she's Pinkie so it doesn't count!

Surprisingly, the easiest one was Rainbow Dashs home as although it took time for his air alchemy to take him to the clouds, he just flew into the floor and set it down before descending. The simplicity of it put a smile on his face, it was like he was a super spy or something.

"Heh, enjoy your new Spitfire figurine Rainbow," He declared smugly as the he glided to Ponyville, "I just hope it IS new, there were an awful lot of wonder bolt memorabilia so maybe I just gave a duplicate... eh the thought that counts right?"

Darklo finally met solid ground and he breathed steadily, slightly feeling the effects of his alchemy use. "Gee... maybe I should've used my two legs- ah, I mean 4 hooves more often. Can't get totally spent before I return home."

Affirming his decision, Darklo strolled through the vacant streets and basked his vision with the night sky until he arrived at the Carosel Boutique.

"Hmm, I guess I haven't actually seen the inside have I? Must have some good ascetic if Rarity is in charge."

Taking a present onto his back that looked like it got dunked in glitter, the colt lit his horn and tried unlocking the door, but the magic rebounded which generated a slight shock, surprising him. "Wha-! Well, I suppose I should've expected a locking spell. Gee sis, haven't even taught me that yet... maybe I can teleport in, can't be too draining if it's just a step or two."

Again, Darklo lit his horn and attempted the spell, only to feel as if the whole building was blocked off, inaccessible for his magic to detect a space inside and relocate. His golden brow furrowed as his mind hastily thought of a solution, wandering around the outskirts until he found his way. From the back, there was an open window on the second floor which would be childplay to hover into.

The colt exhaled and sweat pored from his coat as he nervously floated in the air and snuck inside, hopping onto the marble floors with a gentle clop. The first thing that came to his attention was the abhorrent snoring coming from the bed. It was Rarity, slobber drooling from her mouth and a royal purple bed mask attached to her face. Her mane was also far from styled as it strung around on the pillows in a random assortment which seemed surreal for a noble fahsionista. Darklo could even make out the sparks of magic on her horn, attempting to coax her out of heavy slumber.

"Huh... looks like the locking spell signal did its job. Man, this would've gone so much worse-"

"U-uh?... oh what's with this pain?" Rarity groaned and lazily detached the mask, wiping her eyes as she looked to her horn. "I see... tsk, not again. Who would dare attempt to steal on Hearths Warming? Have these scoundrels got no tact?" The mare dragged herself out of bed with an annoyed force. "At least Sweetiebelle is still with mother and father, I swear, if this miscreant took any of my new line up- huh?"

Raritys potential rambling was cut short by the out of place present left in the middle of her room. Raising an eyebrow, she took it in her magic and read the label.

"Hmmm, To Rarity. Merry Hearths Warming, from Darklo..." A mix of relief and frustration wash over as she read it. "So that's what happened. That colt... but don't think Il be letting you off easy. Breaking and entering, hmph! But I suppose since it's technically Hearths Warming right now..." Rarity took a moment to stabilise herself before she sat on her bed and lit her horn to rip open the gift.

Darklo fled as fast as he possibly could, heart beating destructively and muscles working overtime as the buildings became nothing but blurs. Eventually, he slowed down by the edge of Ponyvile and caught his breath.

"Hoo... hah... wow... okay. That was close! Though, Rarity isn't Pinkie, she'll tattle for sure... drats!"

"I did warn you, this was completely unnecessary!" The angel on his shoulder snarkily proclaimed, poking at his temple joyfully.

A quick shake of the head and his mind focused again. "It's fine... I think? Just one more house to go and the last ones can be done at home."

The colt sighed as he continued his trek along the array of apple trees, easily finding his way around despite the darkness filling his vision. "Guess all my trips here have come to use. Thanks Bloom." He remarked with a deep fondness, traversing the field like he'd been there all his life.

Eventually, Darklo cleared through the thick orchard and towards the Apple family barnhouse. Luckily, he already knew the ins and outs of the place from his previous visits so this should be an easy final delivery. Surged with confidence, Darklo unlocked the door with his magic and entered the hall.

The place was dark as all the houses were, but with the scent of familiarity on his nose, he happily walked to the living room and set the presents down.

Easy peasy... He thought, taking the opportunity to look up at their tree. It was nothing less than gorgeous. The tree sprouted in the corner while wrapped in a decorative glimmer of holly, baubles and colourful lights. Along with that, there were many wood carvings, each with the name of each family member. Looking at their names does put a smile on the colts face. They were one of the first families he got so close to after all.

"Hm... hope they'll like the gifts. I tried my damndest with these ones."

But as he turned around, he just noticed somepony on the couch. And it was a filly he immediately recognised. She was curled up in a snuggly ball, her pink bow left on the solid table which allowed her rosey unknempt mane to run down her neck freely. She even had an eye open, drowsily watching her friendly trespasser.

"Shoot...uhhhh hi Bloom."

"Hi. Little late for a sleepover, ey Darklo?" Apple Bloom stretched her hooves and released an adorable yawn whilst she rubbed her eyes.

"Uhm... yeah, apologies. Say.... uh you wouldn't tell Applejack right?" Darklo asked nervously. There were not many things from his old life that made him shiver, but a stern and deserved reprimanding? Oh yeah, that's one for sure.

"Hehe. Nah, don't put yah fiddles in a twist bud. Ah promise my sis won't hear a peep from me." The filly sat upright and placed her hoof by her chest. "Yah have mah word. Friends honour."

A warm feeling surged like waves in Darklos heart. It was almost like he was back with his closest friends in the academy again, and he loved the feeling every time it reared its beautful head.

A smile of appreciation later and the colt nodded, completely trusting her honesty. "Thanks Bloom. You're the best... say, why are you down here anyway? Too excited for your presents?"

Applebloom stroked her mane into a slightly cleaner appearence before smirking knowingly at him. "Heh, oh nah. Yah see, Ah noticed that mah best friends name wasn't of any of mah presents. So Ah thought yah'd rather do somethin' stupid, or yah'd come in the mornin' with a surprise."

"Oh... of course." Darklo averted his gaze, embarrasment very evident in his body language which left the filly in a good mood. "Damn, you've got me figured out huh?"

"Yah have no idea." Applebloom grinned at the state she put her normally stoic friend into, her tired eyes glimpsing at the new presents under the tree. "So yah got each of us a lil' somethin' huh... how cute."

"Uh yeah." The crickets creak from outside the window, filling in the silence of the slumbering home. Eventually, the awkwardness got to the colt as he steadily backed away to the open door. "Well, I've done what I needed. So, Happy Hearths Warming?"

"Yeah... Happy Hearths Warming Darklo. See yah in a bit." Applebloom yawned again, hopping off the couch and dragging herself upstairs to her room as Darklo shut the door and in a few seconds and a flash of light through the gaps, he dissapeared.

Back in Golden Oaks library, in the middle of the floor in Darklos room sat the symbol of portal alchemy, Ianue. The sketched symbol then glowed from pure black to a light gold, following with a spark of light. And out came Darklo, sack in hoof and horn flashing in exhaustion.

"Phew... man... what would I do without portal alchemy?" He rhetorically pondered as he took a look in the sack, seeing just two more presents inside. "Okay now... let's get this over with."

The colt, with half lidded eyes, then dragged himself out of his room and trickled downstairs before plotting the presents under the tree.

Once they were all set and planted, Darklo sighed deeply, the exhaustion finally catching up with him. However his mind did take comfort in a mission completed.

"Guess after all of my efforts, I could do it all in one night..." Though a tad bit of shame hit him as he ponders what the Princesses would think, but that shame is drastically overtaken by the exhaustion of both his constant magic and alchemy consumption.

So back to his room he went and flopped onto his bed, the sleepiness quickly consuming him. And as his mind slowly shut off and slid into dreamland, he silently smirked to himself. The colt even smothered his face in his pillow, hiding from the gradually rising sun.

Geez... these 5 hours better not kill me...

...

"Twilight, Darklo. Wake up! It's Hearths Warming!"

...

His eyes shot open as he eventually registered Spikes words...

"Uuuuuuuuuuuggh!"

Hearths Warming Day

"Twilight, Darklo wake up it's Hearths Warming!" Spike boomed in delight, the pitter patter of his tiny feet happily moving downstairs as the Heath Warming spirit fully enveloped the lizard in a joyous glow.

Twilight though, was a different story, arising from her bed with messy locks and a half lidded gaze. Steadily, the mare took a few seconds to read the clock and aimlessly checked the stairs.

A breathless sigh exited her mouth which gradually shifted into a deep yawn, lifting herself from her slumber and dragging herself down the steps. "Ugh... Spike, I love Hearths Warming as much as the next pony... but could we have celebrated..." -Another yawn escaped her as she finally descended to the living room- "A little later? It's still midnight for petes sake..."

"Aw come on Twi, lighten up!" Spikes tail did a little wag before he jumped over each present under the tree like he were an olympiad. "It's tradition to wake up early you know? Darklo would agree with me, right Darklo?"

The colt in question waddled out of his room and slid onto the couch, a far cry to the excitement the young lizard would expect. Quizzically, Spike prodded his fuzzy side with a claw.

"Uh, Darklo?"

"Hrgnnn? Mmmph... yeah?" He couldn't even be bothered to open his eyes, choosing to slur his words instead.

"Well uhm... ha! This only proves my point Twi, Darklo was so excited for the clock to strike that he couldn't sleep!" Spike threw a proud pose for the unicorn to see, the colt already drowing them out. "Only proves to show that us young folk are so much cooler!"

"Uhuh." Despite the claws of sleep pulling on her eyelids, she could tell there was more to her adoptive brothers lethergic mannerisms. Twilight, sternly lowered her head to look at the colt on eye level and calmly asked. "Darklo, what were you doing?"

The only sign of cognitive thought was a few mumbles that escaped him, followed by a quiet answer. "Mmm... uh nothing... just... just took a walk."

"A walk... really?" Twilight questioned, one ear raised in skepticism. The amount of sweat glistening from Darklos fur was more than enough to cover an hour long gallop, he even had his runic engraved hoofpads used for his strange magic still fitted on his hooves. It didn't take a lot for the studious mare to see horse radish, especially from Darklo. "Then how about you tell me what you were actually doing on this 'walk'."

A moment of silence, covered by the rhythmic beats of snowfall hitting the windows as she awaited a response. After a minute of nothing but gentle snores, she let out a sigh and rested on the couch, lighting her horn and taking the tired colt into her hooves. "Spike, could you brew up some coffee for him?"

"Huh? But you always say coffee-"

"Il make an exception," Twilight gently stroked his back, like a mother would do for their foal, "he's gonna need it if I want an explanation."

"Alright. One coffee with 2 sugars and milk coming right up!" Spike then vanished into the kitchen which left Twilight alone with the sleeping heap on top of her, the comfort of the fireplace soothing her mind just as much as the slow, steady breaths Darklo was pushing onto her chest fluff.

At that moment, she felt oddly at peace in this position.

Is this how mom used to feel holding me and Shining?

It was a simple, but heartwarming thought. Just the act of holding such a small fluffy thing felt so natural. "Hm, you know I'd have much less headaches if you were like this more often." She nuzzled the side of his neck, an unrecognisable fondness in her eyes as she did so. "Oddly cute too, when you're not running off on your own and fighting monsters... seriously, you have a knack for making me worry. Still, as long as you still call me big sister... I'll protect you, little rascal.

It was almost subconscious, but Darklos ears flickered in delight as a gentle smile curved his lips, resting his chin on top of her mane whilst leaning on the back of her horn like it were a headrest. Finally letting the comfort of the moment win, she lay herself deeper into the couch pillows soft exterior and shut her eyes. At least she could enjoy the fact that this unexpected mystery would grant her just a few more seconds of slee-

SLAM

The sudden bang of the front door made the cuddled duo jump out of eachothers hold, planting themselves back on the floor and like clockwork, they both slowly recovered to their feat.

From the door came Rainbow Dash, a tad panicked with her wings extended and rainbow trail quickly receding. A step in and a quick sigh later, the speedy mare shook off the accumulated snow that packed her fur before landing her gaze of the frazzled duo.

"Hey, Darklo, I came the moment I opened your cool gift!" The eager pegasus shut the door with the flick of her tail and glided towards them, present clamped in her front hooves. "You can't just get me a new Spitfire figurine and expect me, the greatest flier in all of Equestria, NOT to bother getting you something. Like, who would do that?"

Rainbow Dash let out a short lived laugh as she planted the gift with the rest of the pile, Twilights exhausted glare cutting through the back of her head like butter. Like she could sense the exhausted hostility, the mare turned back with an apologetic smile. "Hehehe... bad time?"

Darklo made an effort to end his tiredness and stretched his body out before speaking up, though barely a whisper to human ears. "No, you're fine Dash. Thanks... for the gift. I prolly should've taken your approach over mine anyways..."

Twilight raised an eyebrow at the cryptic comment while the rainbow pegasus nodded absentmindedly and ruffled the sleepy colts mane.

"Thanks buster, knew you'd understand! Though I think you should get some more shut eye. You look like you're ready to fall over." Rainbow snorted as the last of her sentence left her lips, causing the colt to pout in responce, much too exhausted to attempt a witty come back.

Twilight meanwhile, had decided to finally preach her concerns to her adoptive brother, bringing him up to her with magic. Both looked unfazed by the sudden act, but that was probably the drowsiness taking hold. "Your approach? Darklo, now you're getting me worried. Just what in the hay were you up to last nigh-"

And like the universe wished to cut her off at every turn, the door opened up again and left even more snow to push onto the wooden surface. There walked two more ponies. Rarity, whom arrived in a cozy coat that matched her mane along with a silky scarf, and Pinkie Pie who surprisingly didn't have a spec of snow on her body. Rather the mare was secretly a powerful unicorn or she dodged the snowfall like some speed demon.

"Darklo, you have some explaining to do!" Rarity fussed, shrugging off any icey slush stuck to her clothing.

"Oh! You're here for Darklo too? Well what a coinkidink, cause that's exactly why I'm here too!"

At that point, Twilight groaned with a hoof stroking through her mane. She was gonna need to wake up earlier than she would've liked.

"...Spike?"

"Yeah?" The dragons small head came popping out of the kitchen door frame.

"Add some tea to the mix." She peered down to Darklos small form, giving her an apologetic hum as he lazily glanced back. "Now I'M gonna need it."

"Wait wait WAIT. Hold on a second, so you spent till midnight flying around Ponyville with those weird rune doohickies JUST to deliver the presents you forgot to send over?" Rainbow Dash struggled to understand what was just laid out in front of her, and neither could Twilight. The whole party was resting at the table with cups of tea readily in front of them. Meanwhile, Darklo sipped on his coffee, a little more lively than he was prior thanks to the sugary concoction.

"Mhm," the colt affirmed, the stupidity of the whole situation dawning on him well before returning home, "when I got the first one downed, I felt like I delved too deep to stop there."

The studious unicorn mirrored the colts action, sipping on her tea in peace while passing glaces towards him. "Still, I thought you would've known better Darklo. You essentially trespassed on numerous homes which is quite the heafty crime." Darklos ears dropped and his teeth showed on one side, letting out a steady 'sheesh' in childish ignorance. "Il assume that you already know what you've done wrong?"

"Uh... yeah. Sorry." He turned away from them to focus on having more of his coffee that had been drunk a while ago.

"Seriously darling, that was beyond reckless!" Rarity chimed in, pointing a hoof at him in a dissapointed manner. "You spooked me half to death, triggering my magical lock system like that. I honestly expected to be rough housing with some big brute until I found your friendly little drop off."

"To be fair if I were a robber, I'd have ransacked the whole place before you woke up. Quite the heavy sleeper ey?" It was fairly evident that Darklos state didn't effect his straightforward spunk as Raritys face contorted into annoyance, which Rainbow found the most amusing.

"Kehehe! Not gonna lie though, pretty slick of you little guy." The pegasus beamed, flashing the first smile since the lecture started. "I mean, not everypony has the balls to sneak into so many places in the middle of the night, especially one of... your teeny stature." She cheekily hovered her hoof parallel to the top of his head, emphasising her point.

"Geez, I'm not that short!" Darklo finally let go of the cup to show her a snarl. "My abilities can knock down many creatures well above my weight class."

"Yet we aren't talking about fighting, pipsqueak. And besides, it was a compliment! Take it or leave it, hehehe."

The colt grumbled under his breath along with the pegasus steady chuckling, filling the air with a more light hearted atmosphere.

"Hey Rainbow, don't encourage him!" Twilight straightened up in her seat, sending daggers her way.

"Absolutely!" The fashionista nodded firmly. "As adorable as the sentiment was, it was a dangerous move that could've ended poorly. If Sweetiebelle were home, I would've looked like a paranoid grandma!"

"Eh...Sweetiebelle? Whose that?" The colt broke his grumpy cycle, a gleam of interest in his eyes.

"Oh, I suppose you haven't met her yet. She's my darling little sister and oh- she's just the cutest little filly! You'll fancy her for sure~"

Darklo tilted his head, his mind trying to catch up. Wait, fancy as in like her or fancy as in like like her?

Whilst Rarity had her hooves clasped on the table, a cheeky smirk on her face as she awaited for the chance to break the colts witty responce streak, Twilight made her presence known as her jaw dropped for a moment before tapping her hoof on the hard wood. "Rarity! We are not mashing our siblings together."

"Oh really?" The mare gleamed, sensing an easy target in her flustered friend. "And here I thought you'd be interested in your little colts love life."

"Ugh. I'm not you, Rarity."

"Of course not dear, but it's still our responsibility to make sure they find the right partner, so why not with future close friends? It worked wonders with Applebloom and Darklo, so why can't my Sweetie join the fray?"

Twilight shook her head, still too tired to take this kind of talk while Pinkie Pie poked at Darklos cheek, a little confused about the sudden mention of his friend. "I don't mind letting them meet up someday, I just don't see the need to be so pushy with him, I'm not his mom.

"But you kind of are in a sense darling. You clothe him, feed him and bring him to school every- wait now that I think about it, I've never seen him leave when I pick up Sweetie. Does he even go to school?"

"Don't remind me, I'm working on it..." For a brief moment, Twilights brain processed the information so far. At first, she was like all ponies would be finding out their little friend decided to break into homes. But she knew to keep a level head. It's what Celestia would do after all. "So Darklo, what do you have to say to them?"

"Uh, right. Sorry for the rude entry. I promise I won't do that again."

"Meh, it's ay okay." Rainbow Dash flashed an encouraging grin. "I can't say no to an awesome Spitfire figurine after all! It'll go along nicely with the other 12 in my possession."

Spike was in awe, imagining the long line of premium figurines whilst Twilight and Darklo were at a loss for words.

"Aw dammit, well what did I expect? Of course you'd have the same one. But 12?" The colt pondered it, ears drooping in minor disappointment.

"The more, the merrier if I say so myself!" Pinkies voice rang out excitedly, causing the colt flinch in surprise.

"Damn, I forgot you were here. Anyway, how was my gift Pinkie?"

"Hehehe, couldn't ask for anything better Darky!"-

"I told you not to call me that-"

"Now I have a brand new baking tray to put to the test! Especially with the star patterns on it, I wonder what I should call the batch." The smiley mare scratched her mane with her tongue sticking out, until the group could practically see the lightbulb flash over her head as she gasped. "I know, Starfall Cookies!" Pinkie then continued to brainstorm multiple suggestions out loud while the colt tried his best to listen.

Meanwhile Twilight eyed up Rarity. "So, what did he get you?"

"Why I'm wearing it dear." The fahsionista proudly held her head high to give more visual access to her neck where the scarf was hugging. "I would've hoped for a little more aquamarine in the stitching but the material is quite fit for the winter and I can't forget the gorgeous amethyst colouration. That colt really knows how to dress!"

A warm, but small smile pulsated Twilights lips. At least in the end, everypony here was happy. "Yeah, though I bet he only bought that one cause it was purple like your mane. Right Darklo?"

"... uh, guilty as charged."

Such a simple answer and yet a chorus of giggles sung through the living room, everypony dropping the air the seriousness at the beginning of the lecture. If it could be called a lecture anymore.

"Say, you said you delivered one to everypony you know, what presents did they get? Not better than mine I bet!" Rainbow Dash propped up on her seat, wings fluttering with interuige.

Spike also looked interested, emerald eyes fully focused on the colt whilst the rest were more relaxed in their seats.

"Well, it wasn't anything too expensive. I got Fluttershy a birdhouse since she's so in tune with animals, though I didn't know she had an array of them fitted inside her cottage! That was probably another blunder..."

Noticing the colts lowered gaze, Rarity hopped from her seat and patted his back warmly. "Oh, don't be upset little thunder cloud. It's Fluttershy, I can bet my lucky horseshoe that she'd be pleased with anything. It's the thought that counts, not the gift."

"Yeah, I suppose. She's just that kind of mare, always so appreciative." Darklo remarked fondly. It didn't matter what time of the day it was, there was nothing that could sour his mood with the caring pegasus.

Maybe thats why she has the best hugs... thought for later.

Breaking himself from his positive daze, he rubbed his eyes and yawned openly to the group. Pinkie made an effort to pull the colts head into her fuzzy neck which put his tired mind through a loop as she's usually so direct and loud with her affections.

"So that leaves one lucky pony on the list. Whatcha got for Applejack Darklo?" Pinkie lightly petted his ears, further lulling the colt into her fur.

"Well, I got stuff for the whole family. Thought it would be right since they've all been so nice with me, and treated my dad so well..." Just mentioning the stallion that taught him the ropes brought the colt back to earth. As a human, he never really had parents. Never knew them either. The only remote figures that he could percieve as such figures were Principal Vir and his teachers. But Heatwave, he provided the alchemist with a warmth he'll never forget. It made him wonder if he was watching him right now, resting in the heavens with his wife and the real Darkloud. "Yeah... I had to show my appreciation. I bet they're opening them now since they wake up so early."

Everypony nodded affirmatively, all knowing how committed the Apples were to their work. "You still didn't answer my question buddy." Pinkie Pie eyed the colt that looked like it would cartoonishly press even closer.

"Oh! Right, you see I got them-"

"How about we see for ourselves?" Twilight hopped off her chair, not paying attention to Darklos curious gaze as she lit her horn. It took a few seconds for the mare to fully visualise the spell in her head, but eventually a magical apparition of a purple screen appeared. In the center was a minor glitchy image of the Apples gathered around their living room, opening their gifts.

Granny Smith was the only pony on the couch, her old hooves clasped over a new set of dentures and testing if they were able to be fit in her mouth. Big Mac though, was paused ripping a rather large present with his teeth. But despite being partially covered in red, apple adorned wrapping, the robust shape and the visible leather plating made the harness obvious to the eye. Meanwhile, Applebloom was underneath the tree, scrounging through all the presents with her name on it. However instead of her signature pink bow in her mane, there was an sunny orange ribbon that flowed around like it was untethered by the land.

And finally, there was Applejack who watched the scene from the opposite side of the room. Though the lower half of her body was cut from the edge of the screen, she was smiling warmly at her little sister with a single hoof gripping the rim of her hat. To the naked eye, it would seem like she didn't open any presents yet, but upon closer look the ponies viewing could see two rims stacked on eachother.

"Wait you got Applejack another hat?" Rainbow Dash tilted her head in bewilderment, eyes on Darklo. "The same one too?"

"Well I think it was a lovely gift. You can never go wrong with a spare!" Rarity chimed in, a proud smirk on her lips as she spouted her wisdom. "And Rainbow, isn't it a bit hypocritical when you have multiple of the same figurines on your shelf?"

Flustered from the light jab, the pegasus spread her wings and immediately retorted like her pride was on the line, "Hey, t-that's totally different and you know it!"

For what seemed like the first time today, Darklos eyes were open at an acceptable point and left the conversation in favour of the gifts littered under the tree. "Anyhow, we're all awake and ready for the day, so how about you all stay around for the holiday. We can invite the others at a later time." As he was ready to use his magic and pick up a present though, he realised just how strenuous it was. As consequence for his previous venture, most likely. So with a sigh on the side, the colt took the wrapping with his teeth and opened the first one.

"Oh, don't count me out Darklo!" Spike eagerly rushed over and took another gift by the claws, ripping it up with giddy ferocity while the mares watched on. At the same time, the two took out the goods and what was released furrowed the lizards brow. "Oh but of course, this is obviously from Twilight." And Darklo couldn't agree more as he held a hefty book in his hooves. However, there was a clear difference in the nature of the literature as Spikes had the cover of a dragon flying in the sky, the title just named 'Dragon' to boot. If the colt had to guess, it was one of those happy fairytales about the adventures of a species outside of pony culture to broaden horizons.

Darklos book on the other hand, had a bit more bulk to it, its cover picturing an old unicorn stallion with the fashion style of a cartoon wizard and long dashing beard. But despite the senile appearance, he held a confident, proud gaze up at the reader. It almost reminded the colt of Principal Vir from his old life, though the colt knew better than to judge a book by its cover.

"Uhm, who's this guy?" Darklo asked as he skimmed the title, "'Starswirl, the life of a legend' is he a real pony? Actually scratch that, this looks like a self biography so-" Unfortunately, the colt failed to realise the error of his ignorance as Twilight was already on him with a mission.

"You DON'T know who Starswirl The Bearded is?!" Twilight shook the colt senseless, forgetting both of their exhaustion entirely. "Not only was he the most prestigious and most powerful unicorn in the past, but he was a generational scholar that advanced magic as a whole! He was even the mentor of the Princesses. He was THAT good!"

The mention of this magic powerhouse was enough to put the little alchemist into a ball of amazement. Back as Lux, he had read through many historical and philosophical figures to understand his role in Bellica. From the greats like Julius Ceasar, whose cunning in earth alchemy (Terra) helped construct a long lasting Empire in the Middle East, to a personal favourite of his, Soctrates the Coward who wielded the Philosophers Stone to learn the gift of life rather than fight wars for his people. So learning about such figures and adapting their minds into his skill set was right up his alley.

"Wow, really?" An excited grin flashed his teeth as he eyed the book, forgetting about his exhaustion entirely. "So he's like the proprietor of modern magic? What kind of stuff did he make?"

Seeing somepony actually share her interest, Twilight jumped at the opportunity, her eyes sparkling in adoration. "Well I don't want to spoil the book but if you insist..." And so Twilight regaled most of the scholars past exploits to the colt as he listened carefully with intrigue. Meanwhile, the rest looked on with mixed reactions.

"Oh come on, excited over a book? Are we sure he's not her long lost brother that coincidentally got adopted back into the family?" Rainbow Dash slumped in her chair, already drowning out what she dubbed 'egghead lingo'.

"I think it's rather adorable." Rarity chuckled as she observed Spike rampaging through the rest of his gifts while hugging a rather shiny gemstone under his arm. "I doubt Twilight would've had a chance to be herself if it wasn't for him. Who else would listen to her ramblings for so long? You?" The fashionista gave her a cheeky smirk before patting her wing as Pinkie widened her smile at the pegasus tenfold, resulting in Rainbow huffing with ten times the effort.

"Okay, okay, I get it." Rainbow Dash waved them off, clearly still annoyed of it all. "Hey Spike, do something will you?" She called out and the lizard heeded it, bringing a few smaller presents to the pair.

"Alright now, as interesting as Starswirl the Bearded is, we've got gifts to open!" And so, he passed one of the present in Darklos hooves. The colt eyed the label and was amused to see it was from Spike himself. "You open yours and I'll open mine. Deal?"

"Okay, why not? Hope you'll like my gift bud." The wrapping was off as quick as the colt held it and he immediately grinned at the item inside. It was a glistening gemstone, to be expected from the gem eating connoisseur but he didn't care.

"Uhm, sorry if it's a bit cheap but I thought you'd want something to put in your room."

To be fair, his room wasn't all that decorative. The only thing the colt bothered to add to his bedroom being the portal sign, and even that was hidden under the center carpet. And besides, to a prior human, a gem was more than a nice gift. "Oh don't be so apologetic Spike, I like it. Yellow too which is a plus." Smiling warmly, Darklo set it on the table so he could store it in his room another time. "Now, why don't you take a look at mine."

Not requiring further incentive, Spike brought out his prize and out came a pair of jade fingerless gloves that had the sign of Ignis engraved on them. Instantly recognising the symbol of from the colts hoofpads, Spike jumped for joy with a giddy 'yes!' and he took no time to equip his new handwear.

"These are the ones that shoot fire right!? This will beat blowing fire anyday!" The young lizard bounced eagerly, a fist reeled back and ready to test his Hearths Warming present. Unfortunately, his arm was held in place by the three unicorns.

Rarity chuckled at his enthusiasm, already familiar with childish recklessness while Twilight gave Darklo a concerned side eye.

"Darklo, are you sure he will be able to handle it? If it's anything like magic, then I'm not sure it's wise letting Spike run wild."

The colt nodded but grinned reassuringly at her. "You're right but don't fear. Messing up won't result in some catastrophic explosion, failing at a runic spell just results in a dud. Besides, Spike's been asking over and over since I got here. I thought I'd oblige."

"If it was a dud, then why'd you also stop him?"

"Eh, can never be too careful. Could've been a prodigy. I mean, I was only 6 when I started and it worked after a few attempts."

The mere thought of his first ever shot at alchemy brought a morsel of nostalgia on Darklos face. He could easily remember the feeling of that tiny flame in his hands. Nowadays, his skills with ignis could spew infernos at full strength, but to the little boy of the past, that minature spark was his first and nothing could've ruined that moment. Though if he ever went back in time, Darklo would've spared his instructors the headache of his endless cheers and energy.

"Uhm, excuse me?" Spike asked, staring at them with an annoyed glare as his arm was still locked in place by the colt, Twilight and Raritys hold already released.

Darklo muttered under his breath. "Oh. Woops." And at last, the glow vanished on his arm, allowing Spike to stretch it in relief. "Sorry 'bout that bud."

His little brother didn't seem to mind though, only giving a quick huff of displeasure before waving his claw. "You never stop staring into space do you?"

Darklo shrugged nonchalantly, though his lip twitched with a hint of embarrassment. "Yeah sorry. Glad you like them so much." The colt softened his stance and pet the lizards sleek scales. "I promise Il teach you how to use those sometime, okay?"

"Yeah!" Spike ducked out of his grasp and proceeded to fistbump, claw to hoof. "Il count you on that."

"Just don't burn the house down, you two." Twilight chided at them, effortlessly levitating the empty cups back to the kitchen.

"Oh please Twilight, I can be very careful." Darklo demonstrated by bringing a spark of electricity to life in-between his forehooves, the merged symbols etched into the hoopads glowing a soft gold in the process, which caught the eyes of Pinkie and Spike like moths to a flame. His sister though, shook her head without hesitation.

"Careful? May I give you a run down?"

"Oh come on, I'm not THAT disaster prone."

"You attacked Nightmare Moon on our first meeting."

"It was that or let those guards get blasted. Plus, I had no idea she was a deity!"

"Ran towards a cow stampede, which need I remind you, were out of control."

"Okay fair enough- but that was in the heat of the moment!"

"Fought an ursa minor alone with the scar to prove it."

"Again, heat of the moment. A-And I didn't fight it, I was evading for half of that."

In light of Darklos mental gymnastics, Rainbow Dash snickered whilst she elbowed his side and whispered. "I think you should tuck and roll with this one. She kind of has you dead on."

"Huh? You too?"

Pinkie swayed to the his other side and joined in on the laughter. "Aww don't go frowny face on us, you should be proud of it all! I haven't seen somepony that ready to tussle than a group of stallions in a bar!"

...Just take the compliment Darklo.

And so, with a silent sigh, Darklo retracted from the losing battle for once. This granted Twilight some solace as she grinned down at him. "Thank you for listening."

"Yeah yeah, no problem sis." Darklo rolled his eyes half-heartedly before lighting his horn and pushing one last present into her hooves. "Now finish your present would you? Caffeine will only keep me powered for so long."

With this gift in her hooves, Twilight pondered for a moment what could be in the present. Perhaps it was some alchemic symbol like he gave to Spike? Or maybe it was a weird artifact he bought from a store? With bated breath, she opened the box, and what took up her gaze was... a letter.

"Huh? Darklo I'm happy for anything but why a letter?" She questioned, her left ear dropped downwards as she inspected the parchment.

The colt merely gave a lazy smile in light of her confusion. "Just give it a read dammit."

Everypony then surrounded her as she eagerly unlatched the red ribbon...

-

Dear T̶w̶i̶l̶i̶g̶h̶ Sister,
For the past few months, I've been figuring out where I stand in Equestria. And believe me, it's not been easy. There's just so much to do and see, but yet I've only gazed at a spec of this wondrous land! I'm aware that all my tricks and schemes haven't particularly put me in good graces with you, but I wouldn't change this for the world. You've taught me so much about the simpler things in life and I think it's helped me get my gist together. All in all, you may not be blood, but you're my sister and I can't be happier. So thank you and your friends for this bright experience.

From, Darklo Sparkle

P.S: You're tearing up aren't you? (-___-)

-

As she read the last part out loud, her shaky voice made it quite obvious that the letter foresaw the future. Two-fold as Pinkie Pie was sniffling some waterworks too.

Everypony else, on the other hand, strung more 'awwws' the little colts way who retained a steady expression... which was half in view as his ears were covering his eyes.

"Uhhh, yeah so. How's that?"

Twilight took a moment to blink the moisture out of her eyes before responding. "It's a sweet Hearths Warming gift.... thank you little brother." The air was warm and loving despite the chill outside and it felt almost magnetising as the two brought eachother in for a hug for their friends to see.

"Don't count me out!" Spike cheered, wrapping his small arms around their necks.

"Sheesh, are hugs all you're gonna do?" Rainbow Dash jokingly sneered, her face peering at the pair from above. "May I remind you it's STILL Hearths Warming? We should go out and do something!"

"For once, I must agree with her darlings." Rarity spoke out, fiddling with her coat. "Most ponies will be up by now so it wouldn't hurt to take a graceful stroll around Ponyville."

"Oh, oh!" Pinkie zipped into the conversation. "We could also pick up Fluttershy and Applejack, make it a whole jam!"

The plan made sense to everypony involved so they shook on it and pushed the door open to brave the snow, which was now a soft trickle outside.

"Waaait..." Darklo called out, still in the same spot as before and a looking more frazzled than before. "I'll send a friendship letter over and finish your weekly quota kay? Just... yaaaawn gimme a sec..."

"Allow me." Twilight proceeded to hoist the tired colt on her back and brought the quilt and paper in her magic. "Now that the drowsy one is all set, is everypony ready?"

A collective 'yeah!' boomed through the group, minus the exhausted Darklo who clung to his sisters back as they trotted through the festified Ponyville, writing the letter with with his teeth, which he never thought he'd be lazy enough to do.

Dear Princess Celestia and Princess Luna,

First things first, Happy Hearths Warming! Second of all, I've gotten quite used to doing what my heart thinks is right. You know, diving head first into battles, taking initiative over the unnecessary, the whole shebang. But overall, I learnt that one's friends and family will always appreciate what you do for them, no matter how small or how late said appreciative gift is. So barring all the amounts of home invasion committed, I say it was a lesson we'll spent. I sure will be damning the consequences of my actions this Hearths Warming.

From your thankful colt,
Darklo

Author's Note

Wow. Time really flies when you forget and put things off. To think I could've finished this months ago. But oh well, the times the season and this fits December quite well.