Shape Shifter

Chapters

Out of the snow
The Lady of Books
Breakfast with a Dragon
Mischief and Music are Magic
The Surprise
The Birds And The Bees
On With The Snow
Memories In Fire

Out of the snow

Snow was falling in Equestria, a winter wonderland of epic proportions to those who watched the blur of white from the depths of their abodes. A blizzard not seen in a decade, the pegasus had truly outdone themselves this year.

Pain. The word raged through the mind of a young white colt as he awakened. Eyes cracked open only to be assaulted by a cold blur of black and white. Focused on his surroundings he whispered.

“Where am I?” His words lost in the icy wind. Shivering, he quickly decided shelter took priority over his ever growing stack of questions. Slow to rise from the ground, his muscles screamed in agony from the cold and unknown injury as he stood. He teetered at first but was quick to gain equilibrium. Carefully scanning the area he now occupied, he spotted to his left what seemed to be a source of light through the heavily falling snow.

Light means other ponies. He hoped as he started to trudge across the deep snow. Several painful minutes he labored, the snow a constant obstacle holding him back. Nearing his goal, the magnitude of the building came into view.

Castle. Popped into his mind as he gazed upon the massive wooden door. Trying to raise a hoof, he found the task all but possible. His joints were locked up and numb from his journey through the snow, he sighed.

"Well time to use my head." Arching his neck back, he slammed his forehead against the door with all the might his small half frozen frame could muster. His head reeling, his mind dazed he repeated the action two more times before it was rewarded in the form of a voice.

"Who's out there?" A gray pegasus asked in a way that emphasized on the fact he was annoyed with the white visitor. Unbolting the door he stepped out, the colt merely gazed upon the stallion's face as he succumb to the darkness of sleep once again.

**********************************

Wow that's bright! The white colt thought as he once again regained consciousness. Shielding his eyes with his hoof from the chandelier, he slowly sat up as not antagonize his already injured body. Leaning his back against what appeared to be a headboard he quickly noticed he was in quite a nice bed. With haste he scanned the room he was in, he seemed to be in what appeared to be a relatively generic bedroom. To his left there was an oaken dresser with the mirror on top, to the left of that was what appeared to be the doorway out of the room. To his right, were a nightstand and a window with blinds. On the nightstand, there was some type of letter and apple on a china plate. Scooping up the letter from off the nightstand he began to read.

"Hello,

If you are hungry when you wake up the apple is for you. If you're able to walk when you awaken, please come see me. I will be in the main dining hall which is through door of your room, take a left and go down the large staircase. Then keep going forward to until you reach a set of double doors and you are there.

Sincerely,

Celestia"

After finishing the note he laid it back on the nightstand and in the same motion picked up the apple. A soft, crisp crunch rang out as he took his first bite of the large red apple.

"Wow, this is good" He said with a look of bliss on his face as he took another bite. After a few more bites he finished the delicious apple. Not to hungry or cold, his young mind quickly began to wander with questions piling up one after another.

Where am I?

Who is Celestia?

Where did I come from?

How did I get here?

Why can't I remember anything beyond waking up in the snow?

How do I know all this but have no other memory?

Pushing the covers down, he dangled his legs off the side of the bed. Sliding off the side and onto the floor, old pains were quick to protest. Stumbling, he banged into the dresser with the mirror on it. Looking into the mirror he was shocked by the face that stared back. Looking back at him was a snow white colt with a gray muzzle. He had icy blue eyes with matching mane and tail. One clear thought rang out above all the others.

Who am I?

Confused and lost he made his way to the one who left him the note. Carefully he began to make his way down the large staircase. One step after another he worked his way down using the rail to support his shaky balance. Finally making it to the bottom without incident he could see the double doors the note mentioned at the end of the hall. Walking with a brisk pace he traversed the long hallway. His balance finally adjusted he entered the dining room.

This room consisted of tables and chairs, he was sure he was in the right spot. To the left, he spotted a lone figure at the table looking over what appeared to be paper work and eating soup. He approached the lone figure, quickly noticing she was female and was an alicorn. Once again he was bothered by the fact words popped into his mind but he had no idea why. Nearing the figure he called out.

“Um hi, are you Ms. Celestia?” She turned to face him and smiled.

“Yes I am, I’m glad to see you up and about you sure gave us all a scare when Captain Dust found you. Please take a seat.” She told the young colt, still smiling.

“I’m sorry for scaring anypony; my only though at the time was I needed shelter.” He replied, with a hint of remorse in his voice.

“Don’t be you could of died out there that snow storm is terrible. May I ask who you are?” She asked with concern.

“I don’t know. I can’t seem to remember anything beyond waking up in the snow.” He replied as he became a bit distressed.

“Well two known causes of memory loss are physical trauma and emotional trauma. To be honest in the shape you showed up it could be a mix of both” She explained a look of worry over taking her smile.

"Ms. Celestia, do you have any suggestions as to what I should do?” He asked.

"Well since we are pretty much snowed in, I suggest you stay here a few days to recover. After that, we could begin to gather information about you. I'm sure my student Twilight Sparkle would love to meet you." She said as she tried to stifle a chuckle.

"Thank you very much for the help Ms. Celestia." He said feeling better about his situation.

"Now all we need is a name for you until we find out who you are." She said laughing.

"Well Snowstorm seems to ring well in my mind but let's use Snow for short." He replied with a confused look on his face. "Ummm....... may I ask what is so funny?"

"It's the fact your speaking to me like you would any other pony Snow, most others kind of fear me for some reason" She grinned "To be honest it is refreshing to speak to someone even if it's because you lost your memory."

"I'm still lost." The confusion only growing for him.

"Princess, could I get you anything else?" Asked a server who from behind Snow.

"Thank you, but I need nothing else." She said.

"Oh." The realization hitting Snow like a ton of bricks.

"Would you like anything to eat Snow?" Princess Celestia asked ignoring the look on Snow's face.

"Yes please." Thankful she wasn't upset with him.

"I'll be back in a bit, alright" He shook his head his mouth already full of the garlic bread brought by the server. Eating until he could eat no more sleep quick over took him as he rested his head on the table. Princess Celestia returned a few minutes later only to find the sleeping colt.

"Such a funny little guy." She smiled carrying him back up to room that had been set up for him. After tucking him she began to wonder about children as she made her way back to the dining room to finish that paper work she had.

The Lady of Books

Tossing, turning Snow woke up with a look of horror plastered upon his face. Rocketing into a sitting position, he leaned on the headboard for support. Breathing heavily and sweating profusely he looked down at the muscles in his body spasming uncontrollably. Recalling what he could from the nightmare that had awoken him he nearly lost the contents of his stomach.

It had started out with the black silhouette of a mares face surrounded by a ring of bright green fire. The face began to laugh maniacally revealing her to have green eyes that matched the ring of fire and fangs. The laughing face then faded out only to be replaced by the picture of a unicorn mare and earth pony stallion standing side-by-side smiling. The coloration of the mare surprised him; she was nearly a match to Snow himself minus the gray muzzle. The stallion was black with dark blue mane and tail. Their cutie marks were not visible due to the angle of the image. The image burst into green flames their smiling faces replaced by looks of horror and pain. Screams echo coming from the burning image, it was at that moment he had awakened.

“That was horrible!" He gasped, clutching his fore hooves to his chest in an attempt to quell the shaking.

Sliding out of bed on the right side, he looked out the window. The clouds having cleared a few hours earlier, he saw the gorgeous night sky. Enjoying the beautiful view another wave of nausea hit him like an anvil to the head. Dizzy, he reached out to use the wall to steady himself. Unfortunately for him there was no wall and he toppled like a jenga tower through the previously unseen doorway.

“Ahhhhh, I guess I can add the pleasant feeling of my face plus the floor to this already wonderful evening.” He groaned his voice heavy with sarcasm.

Throwing himself back up onto his hooves he inspected himself for damage. He didn't notice anything out of the ordinary so he looked around the room. He ascertained he was in a bathroom, opening a cabinet he was overjoyed to find it was fully stocked. Taking a toothbrush, toothpaste, a towel, and a bar of soap he set the tooth care supplies on the sink before he entered the shower stall. Throwing the towel up over the door, he placed the soap in the holder and turned the valve. He was immediately met by a freezing spray of water, he shivered as the water began to warm up. Careful not to lose the slippery soap as he began to clean up.

The warm water was heavenly on his sore muscles and it was nice to no longer feel sticky due the sweat from earlier. He took a few moments to let the water beat against him, enjoying the feeling he closed his eyes. Turning the water off, he grabbed his towel and dried off. Not sure why, he took extra care to fluff his mane. It felt right for some reason.

Hopefully, I won’t have to deal with this confusion long. He thought as he draped the towel around his shoulders he grabbed the toothbrush and toothpaste. Applying a liberal amount of toothpaste he commenced to brushing his teeth. Spitting into the sink and rinsing off his brush he left the tooth brush on the edge of the sink. He threw the towel in the bin next to the doorway he passed through.

"Two points." He chuckled to himself.

Leaving his room he began to wander the castle.

*************************************

"This place is huge." He whispered, amazed by the size of the castle. Walking through the throne room he looked up at the stained glass windows.

Wow, that guy is ugly. He thought looking at the picture of Discord.

Glad I'm not him, at least I hope I'm not. Realizing he still had no clue as to who he was. Moving on to the next hallway he heard a cry.

"Oh ponyfeathers!" A fillie's voice cried out, followed by a thump which was followed by a series of smaller thumps. Racing down the hallway, Snow took a left following the source of the sound. Upon entering the room he found himself in a sea of books; hundreds, thousands adorned the walls. Scanning the library for the source of the noise he quickly spotted a pile of books on the floor next to a ladder that had a purple and pink tail poking out from under them. Rushing over to the pile he began to unearth the unlucky pony. Clearing all the books off of her, he picked up the lavender filly and set her in a chair. Leaning her face and fore hooves on the adjacent table, he made quick work of the avalanche of non-fiction texts. Everything back in order, he turned his attention back to the lavender filly that was now sleeping in a puddle of her own drool.

"Wake up sleepyhead." Poking her in the ribs with a hoof.

"Not now spike, I'm busy." She mumbled in her sleep. Turning around, Snow grabbed a rather large book about magical theory and slammed it on to the desk the filly was using as a pillow. Throwing her head up, she exclaimed.

"I'm awake.” Her purple eyes wide open she rapidly came to her senses.

"That was mean, you jerk." She grumbled giving Snow a particularly sour look.

"That is no way to treat the one who just dug you out of your tomb of tomes." He replied, chucking at his play on words.

"Umm... Thank you." Her brilliant mind remembering the result of her trying to reach a book to far to the left without moving the ladder.

“No problem, but you're right that wasn't very nice of me. I do apologize for that. My name is Snow nice to meet you Ms. ......." He said putting a hoof out.

"Twilight Sparkle, My name is Twilight Sparkle." Taking his hoof in hers, giving him a strong shake.

"Wait, I recognize you. You're the one who cause all the commotion last night." She recalled, wiping the drool from her face with her hoof.

"What in Celestia's name were you doing out in the middle of a blizzard?" She asked, the curiosity blazing in her eyes.

"Honestly I don't know." He told her before he began explain his situation to her.

***********************************

"Losing your memory has got to be tough." She said trying to comfort him. "As for the dream, I'm pretty that would creep anypony out."

"Anyway, since we are here and I'm clueless about so many important subjects could you possible point me out a history book?" He asked, her ears perking up due to the mention of reading.

"Sure, just give me a second." Her horn began to glow with a purple aura; a text off a top shelf also began to glow with the same aura as it floated down to rest on the desk in front of Snow.

"Thank you." He said as he opened the book.

"You’re welcome." She replied, opening the magical theory book Snow had used to wake her and taking a seat across from him.

***********************************

"Good morning, young ones!" A sweet gentle voice rang out through the library. Snow and Twilight looked up from their reading material to the figure that had arrived.

"Good morning Princess." Twilight replied.

"Good morning Miss Cel...... I mean Princess Celestia." Snow replied quickly recovering from his mistake.

"I was going to introduce you to each other, but I see you two have already met." Celestia chuckled as she levitated a chair over to her and sat down.

"Well Twilight loves books so much; she decided to take a bath in them. Unfortunately for her, it didn't end well at all." He told the Princess as he explained what had happened a few hours earlier.

"Are you alright Twilight?" Celestia asked Twilight, trying to still a giggle as she imagined the misfortune of her student.

"Yes Princess, I am." Twilight replied her purple coat turning magenta as she blushed.

"How do you feel this morning?" Celestia asked, turning her attention to Snow.

"I feel....." His response cut off by an audible gurgle coming from his stomach. "hungry." He finished. That was about all Celestia could handle as she burst out laughing which startled Twilight.

"Let’s all go for breakfast." She said smiling as she grabbed Snow and Twilight's Hooves. Hauling them up on to their hooves she led them to the dining room.

Breakfast with a Dragon

The trio silently strolled through one the many halls of the castle. Celestia took lead, guiding the two foals towards the dining hall from the previous evening.

“Hey Snow.” Breaking the silence, Twilight tapped Snow on the top of the shoulder to get his attention.

“Yes Twilight?” Turning his head Snow looked at Twilight.

“I brought the book you were reading,” She motioned with her head toward the saddle bags he noticed she was wearing. “I hope you don’t mind.”

A smile crept over his face along with an odd feeling of vigor from the act of kindness. “I don’t mind at all Twilight, thank you for your kindness.”

“You’re welcome, I was kinda surprised though.”

“Why is that?”

“You were reading a chemistry book.”

“Yeah, I randomly grabbed another after I finished the history book you gave me.”

“Please don’t take offence, but did you understand any of it?”

“No offence taken and yes I did, chemical equilibrium threw me for a loop but after a little while I figured it out.”

“Finally somepony who likes studying! Spike never does. If you stay here longer than just a temporary guest would you like to be my study buddy?”

“Sure, I’d love to Twilight.”

Her face lite up at his response and she began to bounce. Her saddle bags flopping, she made circles around the confused colt.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” She repeated still circling Snow.

And I thought I was weird. “Um Twilight, I hate to burst your bubble but we’re falling behind.” He paused, pointing with his hoof to Celestia, who was a good forty feet ahead of them.

“Woops.” She said as she stopped circling him and they increased the speed of their pace. Nearing the white alicorn, Snow turned to look at Twilight again.

“ Hey Twilight, who is this Spike you men-” His sentence cut off as he collided with a purple and green blob rocketing from the door way to his left, his face making an acquaintance with the floor for a second time today. Disengaging his teeth from the floor, he looked up to see Twilight giggling at him.

“What’s so funny?" He asked, not amused by her grin.

“Speak of the pony or in this case dragon. Hi Spike!”

“Good morning Twilight.” The purple dragon groaned. “Could you get off me? You’re heavy.”

“Sorry.” Snow said as he quickly got to his hooves, the little dragon doing the same. Dusting himself off, Spike inspected for any damage. Not finding anything wrong he turned his attention to the white colt he had collided with.

“That’s ok, it was my fault too.” He said with a smile. “Anyway, I’m Spike and may I ask who you are?”

“My temporary name is Snow, nice to meet you.”

“Temporary name?” Spike looked confused.

“Do you guys want breakfast or not?” Celestia called out interrupting the conversation.

“I’ll explain on the way Spike, cause I do want breakfast.” He said as he turned and bolted in Celestia’s direction.

".... and the name I chose to use for the moment is Snow cause I like the word." Snow explained as the group entered the dining hall.

"Wow, that's harsh." Spike said as the group took seats at a table near the wide double doors to the kitchen. “Losing your memory is kinda hard to imagine."

"Thanks for the concern but I'm not in to bad a shape. I mean I do have help."

The dining hall, unlike the night before, wasn't completely empty when they arrived. At the other tables were royal guards and other employees getting there breakfast before their shifts started. However, since it was so early, it wasn't packed either. The kitchen staff, phenomenal at their jobs, was quick to react at the presence of royalty and her guests.

Soon a unicorn waitress came bearing a tray of ice water and menus.

"Good morning your highness and guests." She said politely, passing out water and menus.

"Good morning to you Star Dancer but I do not need a menu, I will have my usual." Celestia said, handing the menu back to the unicorn.

"Of course you majesty, and have you decided what you would like or do you need more time?" Turning her attention to the other three.

"I'll have hay bacon and eggs with wheat toast." Twilight paused, first to answer. "Oh and orange juice."

"I want a sapphire muffin with tea." Spike replied after twilight.

Ponyfeathers, what do I choose. "Ummm.... I'll have the pancakes with hay bacon and peagasi cola." Snow shot off, relieved he picked something. The waitress wrote down their orders and returned to the kitchen.

"Princess, since we have a moment I have something to tell you. As I told Twilight this morning, the reason I was up so early is because I had this horrible nightmare that awakened me." Snow said his voice heavy with anxiety; he took a sip of the ice water in front of him.

"What happened in the dream Snow?" Celestia asked the clearly distressed colt. Snow began to recollect the dream from earlier, explaining all the details he could remember to the princess.

"That sounded bad but it could be a clue to you past." She paused. "I hope not, that dream sure sounded bad indeed. Anyway it looks like our food is here."

Star Dancer returned with their choice of food, skillfully levitating the plates to the specific owner. Snow looked at what he had ordered; he smiled as he dug in.

This is delicious! He dug into the neatly stacked pancakes like a plow through earth. He savored the sweet, fluffy baked goods as he devoured them. His next victim was the bacon; it did not last long either. Grabbing the soda, he began to notice the six eyes now trained on him.

"This was really good." He said, smiling weakly. The others went back to their meals; Celestia merely shook her head and chuckled before doing the same.

"Snow, if the dreams continue please tell me alright?" Celestia asked, sipping her coffee.

"I will Cele... Princess" Snow corrected himself.

"Hey Snow!" Spike getting Snow's attention next. "Wanna hang out today, I could give you a tour?"

"Sure, if no pony has any issue with it."

"Finally, another guy to hang out with." Spike exclaimed pumping one of his little fists in the air.

"Aww." Twilight added looking a bit dejected.

"Twi, I'll read with you this evening" Snow added, picking up on the mood. She perked back up.

"Thanks for the meal Princess."

"You’re welcome Snow."

"Come on Snow, we'll start my tour." Spike said getting up from the table and heading to the door. Snow got up and followed suit.

The tour began with the throne room, the little dragon giving a brief history on the stain glass windows. They moved on stopping at the library where Snow told Spike about Twilight’s book bath earlier that morning. Spike burst out laughing so hard the librarian chased them out for being too loud. The next stop was the indoor training area that consisted of a weight room, pool, and track. Moving on they made it to the armory.

“Hey Spike, how do I look?” Snow asked having donned a set of guard armor.

“Awesome!” Spike laughed at his new friend trying to move awkwardly in the armor several sizes too big for him. Ditching the gear the mischievous duo looked for more entertainment.

“This is the orchestra’s practice room.” The dragon explained guiding his friend in to the large area filled with instruments. “Personally, it is one of my favorite places to be.” The little dragon sitting down at a piano.

“Why?”

“I love to play piano.” The little dragon replied as he folded the key cover up and set a piece of sheet music on the stand. He handed a copy to snow as he began to play. The beautiful sound of the piano rang out as the Spike expertly caressed the keys. Reading over the paper, Snow spotted the vocals coming and he smiled.

An angelic voice rang out nearly causing Spike to stop playing.

“I'm holdin' on your rope, Got me ten feet off the ground. And I'm hearin' what you say, But I just can't make a sound. You tell me that you need me, Then you go and cut me down...”

Spike looked over to his friend who really seemed to enjoy the music, smiling he continued.

“That it's too late to apologize. It's too late... I said it's too late to apologize. It's too late. Yeah!” The colt kept signing, his voice in perfect tune and harmony with the piano.

As the song progress Snow began to feel off. The more he sang the more his head seemed to hurt and by the end he was nearly ready to collapse.

“Dude, where did you learn to sing like that? Oh wait, stupid question, never mind.” Spike Said as he closed the piano up and approached his friend.

“Are you ok?” He noticed the sick look on Snows face.

What the heck is wrong with me?

“No, my head is pounding something fierce and I think I may lose breakfast.”

“Just sit and calm down I’ll be right back.”

A few minutes later the dragon returned with a cold bottle of water.

“Here try this.”

“Thanks."

The cool water really helped as his headache subsided.

"I feel alright now, thanks again Spike."

"I'm glad you better. It kinds sucks about the snow outside though but I do have some more to show you on the inside come on." Spike said changing the subject.

The duo once again moved on to greener pastures.

Mischief and Music are Magic

Sporting a new rainbow scarf and a set of saddlebags given to him by Celestia, Snow grinned as he strolled through the snowy streets of Canterlot. Waltzing down Main Street, escort in tow, he recalled the interesting morning he experienced, courtesy of a mischievous young dragon. The morning had started with an extremely detailed tour, including Spike’s favourite places and ended with crash course in one of Spike's favourite pastimes, pranks.

Four Hours Earlier

“Alright Snow, here's the plan.” Spike explained a glint of mischief in his eyes. “You're going to go in first and get her attention. Get her to look away from the main doors, get her away from the desk, and keep her distracted. I'll come in after you and replace her ink with this disappearing version. After I do that, we can hide behind a bookshelf near her and watch the results. Got it?”

“Yeah, but Spike, won’t she get mad?” Snow replied, his nervous body language giving away his uncertainty.

“She may but trust me; this is just a harmless prank. The ink comes with instructions on how to make it visible again, so no harm done!”

“If you say so.”

“Let’s do this, brohoof!” Spike putting his small clinched claw in the air towards Snow.

"Bro-what?” The colt asked, cocking his head at what his friend said.

“Forgot about your memory. It’s where two friends bump hooves, or in my case, claws together in an act of awesomeness.”

“Oh, ok then.” Snow paused putting his hoof in the air. “Brohoof!”

“Brohoof!” Spike brought his clenched claw to meet his friend’s hoof.

Here goes nothing, Snow thought as he entered the library and began to look for Twilight. Spotting her in the same area they had shared earlier this morning he trotted over to her.

“Hi, Twilight.”

“Hello, Snow. How did your tour with Spike go?” She asked putting the quill she was using to write notes with back in the ink pot.

“Good, he was very knowledgeable about this place.”

“That doesn't surprise me, on subjects he likes his memory is photographic.”

“Twilight, I was wondering if you could show me where I could find a few more chemistry books? Chemistry really seems to hold my interests.”

“Sure, just follow me.” She said as she trotted south along the west wall. Snow following her, she stopped eight shelves down and looked up at the top. Taking up a spot next to her, he snuck a glance back to see Spike already leaving the desk, Twilight’s ink in claw.

“Anything specific you are looking for?” She inquired.

“Yes, that book is part of a series and I would like the second one.” HE replied, pointing with his hoof to a thick gray book on the top shelf.

“Got it.” She replied, horn glowing as she retrieved the tome.

“Thanks.” Taking the book from her he balanced it on his back. “See you later!”

“Bye, Snow.” She said returning to her desk. Snow watched her as she left before meeting up with Spike. Walking slowly due to the book, he soon spotted the purple dragon behind a bookshelf to Twilight’s left.

“Nice work.” Spike whispered to Snow as he sat down next to his friend.

“Thanks.”

“Now we play the waiting game.” Spike said, kicking back as he leaned against the bookshelf parallel to the one they were using to hide behind. Snow cracked open the chemistry book and began to immerse his mind in the chemicals and equations.

Fifteen Minutes Later

"No, no, no." A frantic unicorn repeated to herself as she rummaged through a pile of papers an inch thick. Where are my notes? They were just here, now all I have is blank pages. Stopping for a moment to breath, she heard laughing to her left.

"This is too rich!" Spike managed to say between the gut wrenching laughter.

"You were right, it is kinda funny!" Snow chuckled. Their laughter, however, was cut off by a magenta aura picking them up and over the shelf. Brought face to face with an enraged Twilight they gulped simultaneously.

"Umm, hi Twi, nice morning isn't it?" Spike said weakly.

"EXPLANATION NOW!" She exclaimed.

"Disappearing ink, but don't worry ‘cause it will reappear as normal if you just apply the spell in the instructions."

"My regular ink, if you please." She said, liberating her ink from the dragon, putting it back on her desk.

I don't like being levitated, Snow though as he began to feel sick from being upside down.

*THUNK*

"Ow!" Snow groaned as he greeted the floor for the third time today.

"Wait, how did you get out of my field of levitation?" Twilight asked, confused at what had transpired.

"I don't know, but that hurt"

"Must have been a fluke on my part." Picking him up again, she dumped the duo in a heap outside the library.

"DON'T MESS WITH MY RESEARCH AGAIN!" She yelled slamming the door.

The second prank went over a bit better. They had added red food colouring tablets to the water tanks in all the male restrooms in the castle. Laughing over their handiwork, the dynamic duo went for lunch. Entering the dining hall, the boys both ordered a sandwich with hay fries and a soda. Sitting down with their food they began to chat about the time they had used to hang out.

"Twilight scared me, she was so mad." Snow said, thinking about the unicorn.

"You have to admit, the look on her face before she found us was priceless."

"Yeah it was funny but she was scary."

"Dude, you haven't seen her really angry. When she is, she bursts into flames."

"No, thank you." He shuddered at the thought of a fiery Twilight. "The bathroom thing was funny."

"Yeah, definitely one of my finer pranks." They went silent for a while as they devoured the food they had ordered.

"Hey Snow, I had an idea." Spike said, slurping on his drink.

"What is it?" Snow replied, finishing the last of his fries.

"You have to come up with an original prank in twenty-four hours and it’s gotta be something extravagant."

"Yeah, not gonna happen."

"Come on! What are you, a chicken?" The dragon asked, putting his arms in a position that made them look like wings.

“I am not!” Snow called out indignantly.

“Bwak, bwak!" Spike taunted, flapping his arms.

"Fine! I’ll do it and I can’t wait to see the look on you face!" The colt answered, his friend getting the better of him. Collecting his trash, he got up and deposited it a can. “In fact, let us make this a bet. I do a really good prank and you have to dye you spikes pink for a week.”

“But if it’s not that good you have to dye your coat pink!” Spike retorted.

“Deal!” The colt shot back, confident.

"In fact, I'll start now. So I'll see ya later, Spike." He said to his friend, making his way to the door.

"Bye, Snow.”

It’s official, I am stupid, Snow thought. “What am I gonna do?”

“What do you mean?” A familiar voice called out from behind him. Turning around, he found himself face to face with Celestia.

“Hi Celestia. Oops, I’m sorry I meant-“

“It’s fine, really. I told you before I don’t mind.” She said, cutting him off.

“If you say so, Princess.” She glared at him. “I mean, Celestia.”

“So, what is wrong, little one?”

“Oh, Spike and I made a stupid bet, boy stuff.”

“Alright, I understand.” She said as she levitated a box in front of him. “I got you a gift.”

“Thanks!” He replied, both curious and happy, looking at the package.

“Well, go ahead and open it.”

Tearing into package he pulled out a rainbow coloured scarf, a blue set of saddlebags, and a bag of bits. Wrapping the scarf around his neck, he put the bits in the bags and tried them on. Happy to find they fit well, he turned back to Celestia.

“Thank you so much!” He squee’d as he jumped up and gave her a hug. She smiled warmly and returned his hug before putting him back down with her magic.

“You’re welcome Snow. I put out the word about you today, hopefully we can find out where you belong.”

“What if I want to stay here?” His question caused a shot of pain to pass through Celestia’s heart.

I wish he could stay here, I've always loved kids but surely he has somepony who is missing him right now.

She thought before replying. “Snow, I wouldn't mind if you stayed but what if your family is missing you right now? What if you regain your memory and want to go home? I think it would be best right now to try and find out who you are.”

“You’re probably right.” He said with a maturity not usually seen in one of his age. “Celestia, could I go out into Canterlot and look around?”

“Yes you may, but I will assign you an escort so you don’t get lost. Oh, and be back by five o’clock its one o’clock now.”

As she walked away to find him an escort, he had an evil grin on his face.

I have my inspiration and a target. Spike will never see this coming.

Present

Ducking through the crowd, he easily lost his escort. Following the signs, he headed towards the shopping district. Walking around for several minutes he found a store called 'Alchemy and Stuff'. Going inside, he sought out a few items. He first took a set of alchemy tools. Grabbing a bottle of potassium chlorate from one aisle, he moved on to the next which had metals. Picking up a bag of powdered aluminium, a spool of copper wire, and zinc strips, he moved to the next isle to acquire a bottle of sulphuric acid before going to front counter to pay.

"Hello there, young fella." The old cashier greeted Snow as he placed the items and the 15 bits to pay for them on the counter.

"Good afternoon, sir."

"Nice manners, not a lot of kids your age have them. Seem a little young to be handling these sorts of materials. What's this for anyway?"

"Flash powder party poppers. I'm going to use a small amount to launch confetti."

"Clever, aren't you?"

"Thanks." He replied. Putting the materials in his saddlebags, he left the store. The next store he stopped in was a party supply store called 'Party Time'. From this store Snow bought party horns, markers, confetti, cardboard, scissors, tape, and super glue. All his materials gathered for later, he decided to wander the district and look around a bit before he would look for his unlucky escort who was probably extremely mad at him.

Strolling around a particular store caught his eyes; he stood there mesmerized as he stared at the neon sign that spelled out 'Iron Beats'. As if in a trance, he walked into the store. All matter of musical material and equipment surrounded him and he felt like he was home. Stopping, he fixated on a black electric guitar sitting on a stand hooked to an amp and an overdrive. For a moment it felt like the world slowed around him and he stared at the sleek instrument. Slowly he picked it up, oblivious to the grey pegasus mare watching him from the counter. Slipping the strap over his neck, he reared on to his back hooves hold the guitar in his fore hooves. Breathing very slowly, he took the pick from between the strings and turned on the amp. A felling of nostalgia came over him as he stood there. The words and chords came to him, he didn't know why but it felt so right. He closed his eyes and opened his soul.

"Oh my goddess. Please help me, knee deep in the river tryin' to get clean. She says wash your hands, get out the stains but you best believe, boy, there's heck to pay. Yeah you best believe, boy, there's heck to pay, sayin." He sang before ripping of several chords from the guitar.

"Come on, oh my goddess. Please help me, waist deep in the river, can you hear my plea? She says, son, you come like a beggar in the streets. You might make it, boy, but by the skin of your teeth. You might make it, boy, but by the skin of your teeth, sayin’." Unaware of the crowd that gathered around him, he continued playing and singing.

"I rambled with the worst of them. Fell in love with a harlequin. Saw the darkest hearts of stallions. And I saw myself starin' back again, And I saw myself starin' back again." He sang now just a voice in the crowd as they joined in. Playing the guitar like a seasoned professional, he played the short intermission between lyrics.

"Oh my goddess. Please help me, neck deep in the river screamin' for relief. She says, it's mine to give, but it's yours to choose. You're gonna sink or swim, you're gonna learn the truth. No matter what you do you're gonna learn the truth sayin'. Ate the bread that once was stone. Fell from a cliff, never broke a bone. Bowed down to get the tyrants overthrown. And I'm all alone and the fire grows. And I'm all alone and the fire grows." He played the next intermission the crowd began to sway with the music.

"La la la la la la la la la la la. La la la la la la la la la la la. La la la la la la la la la la la. La la la la la la la la la la la. La la la la la la la la la la la. La la la la la la la la la la la." The large crowd sang. He was shocked at the ponies surrounding him as he broke from the trance he was in. They began clapping for him as he put the guitar back on the stand.

The crowd muttering disappointingly, dispersed when he told them he was done and he moved on to another part of the store. Looking at several sets of headphones, he picked out a blue pair that matched his eyes. Turning around, he walked right in to a mare.

"I'm sorry!" She said as he got up.

"No biggie, I'm more at fault than you." He looked up at the tall, grey pegasus mare with dark blue eyes, and dark blond mane. "My name is Snow, nice to meet you."

"My name is Iron Night and this is my store."

"You have a nice place."

"Thanks. I was wondering if you were interested in the guitar?"

"It's nice but there is no way I have the bits for it. To be honest, I don't even know why I picked it up."

"What do you mean?" She asked, raising her eyebrows quizzically.

"Well it's like this…"

Fifteen minutes later

"…and for some reason the guitar seemed to spark some sort of connection for me."

"Wow, I'm sorry to hear that. Whoever you were before you must have been one wicked guitarist though, the way you play isn't something you acquire overnight and apparently it’s not something that leaves you easily either. Tell you what, I'll sell you the guitar and accessories including the headphones for 50 bits if you will come and play in front of my store a few times since you really seem to draw people in."

"I can agree to that."

"Done yet?" An angry voice called out. Snow turned to look at the guard Celestia had charged with watching him.

"You found me; guess that means it’s your turn to hide." He said with his now-signature devilish grin, sliding his headphones on.

The Surprise

Taking fifty bits from his bags he paid Iron Night for the guitar and accessories.

"I'll be right back with your receipt." She explained, taking the money and headed to the store's backroom. While she was gone, Snow decided to work on packing his stuff for travel. First, he strapped the guitar to his back. Next, he stuffed the overdrive unit into the already over-packed saddle bags. Going for the amp, he was surprised when it took off in front of him and landed on his back. He looked over to his escort whose horn was glowing.

He secured the amp to his rump. “Thank you! Know what, I never got your name.”

“It’s Shining Armor.” The stallion grumbled.

“Can I call you Shin for short?”

“I guess.” The stallion replied, rolling his eyes.

Snow studied the peeved unicorn for a moment, coming to the conclusion is was time to try and smooth over this situation before it bit him in the flank. Thinking for another moment since Iron Night was taking her sweet time getting a receipt for him, he began his awkward apology.

“Well, Shin, I can see you’re still angry and I’m sorry for the trouble I probably caused you. I got distracted by all the stuff I was seeing and I kinda forgot about you. It was rude, careless, and irresponsible of me to do that and if you’re ever my escort again I promise to be more careful.“ Snow struggled to keep his balance as he put out a hoof in Shining Armor's direction. Shining Armor stared at the colt for a few seconds shocked at what he had just heard.

Well that was unexpected; I guess he’s not a punk after all, he thought before he replied. “Apology accepted.” He then took Snow’s hoof in his and gave him a firm hoofshake before letting go.

“Here’s you receipt, Snow.” Iron Night indicated as she returned, holding a slip of paper.

“I’m a bit loaded, could you put it in the bag for me?” He inquired turning to look at the bag on his left side.

“Can do.” She answered, sliding the slip of paper in to the bag on the left.

“Thanks.” Snow paused, turning to Shining Armor. ”Well, I’m done shopping and exploring for today Shin, could we head back to the castle now?”

“Alright.” Shining Armor replied, heading out the door. Snow tried to head for the door as well but was stopped by Iron Night.

"Glad you two ended the awkwardness even if it was entertaining." She spoke after Shining Armor was out of earshot.

"So, you took so long to get the receipt because you were watching us for entertainment?" He replied, his voice oozing sarcasm.

"That about hits the nail on the head, I suppose." She laughed, wiping a tear from her eye. "Wow, it has been so long since I felt this good. Thank you for coming into my shop. It really brightened my day."

“Glad I could help. Anyway, see ya later, Night.” He sighed as he felt the urge to fuse his face with his hoof.

“Bye, have fun with the guitar!” Stilling her laughter, she held the door open for the loaded colt. Following Shining Armor out the door, he was glad to see the stallion had waited for him.

“You’re Twilight’s brother, right?” Snow asked, remembering what Spike had told him this morning.

“Yes I am. May I ask how you know my sister?”

“I met her early this morning in the library when she caused a lot of books to fall off the shelf and bury her, but Spike was the one to tell me about you during the tour he gave me this morning.”

“Why does that not surprise me?” He sighed before laughing at the mental image of his sister covered in books. The two kept chatting as they trotted their way back to the castle, the sunset reflecting in the snow.

Walking up the shimmering path, they came to a halt outside the large wooden doors of the entrance.

Reaching up very carefully, he tapped Shining Armor on the back. "Shin, like I said before, I'm sorry for the way I acted."

Smiling, he put his hoof on Snow's shoulder, "Don't worry about it, and remember I grew up with Twilight. If there is anypony in the world who gets distracted, it's her." He laughed hoping he had taken the burden of guilt off the colt.

"Thanks Shin. One last thing, want to be friends?"

Shining armor put up a hoof, "Sure, my friend." Snow's attempt to take his new friend's hoof nearly lead to ruin. The load on his back throwing his balance off, he tipped over. Lucky for him, Shining Armor caught him before he tumbled for the fourth time today.

"Thanks."

"No problem, let me get that door." He added opening and holding the door for his burdened friend. With great care, Snow traversed the few steps up it took to get inside.

"Good evening, Celestia." Snow called out to the white alicorn sitting on a bench, clipboard and pen in hoof. Looking up from her work, she smiled, the atmosphere around her livening due to her joyful energy. The items she held disappeared with a pop; her horn radiated a golden glow. Getting up, she trotted over to Snow.

His face was pushed down near the floor from a forceful hoof at his neck. He became aware of Shining Armors presence next to him, his hoof holding him down in a bowing position.

"Dude, be respectful of the princess." He whispered under his breath. Snow braced for impact, knowing what was to come as he tipped to he left from the weight of the amp. An inch from the floor he stopped, enveloped by a familiar golden glow.

"You know I told the floor last time that we need to stop running into each other like this." He joked, glad Celestia had quick reflexes. She put him back on his feet before she levitated the amp, guitar and bags off his back. They disappeared with a flash of light.

"Don't be alarmed, I put them in your room. I figured you would have a bit of a problem with the grand staircase."

"I wasn't but thank you, that was getting very heavy. Another thing, thank you for getting Shining Armor to escort me he did an excellent job even if I am a bit of a pain."

"Thank you for watching him Shining Armor, you have my appreciation. Also, would you like to join us for dinner? I have already cleared it with your commanding officer and your sister will be there."

"Yes, I'd love to." His ears perked up at the mention of Twilight.

"Would you mind going ahead of us?" She requested. "Everypony is already waiting in the dining hall but I would like to speak with Snow for a bit privately."

"Yes your highness." He acknowledged, trotting off in the direction of the dining hall. Once Shining was gone Celestia turned to talk to Snow.

"So, how was your day, little one?"

"Not too bad. I had a tremendous amount of fun today despite how I woke up and the headaches."

"Headaches?" She inquired worriedly. They started on their way to the dining hall as he explained.

"Yeah. I had one when I was singing for Spike when he was playing piano and I had a slight one on the way back from Canterlot but they are gone now."

"So, how was Canterlot?"

"It was nice, not as quiet like the castle but it still has charm." He started describing his visit to the stores; he omitted his forays into the alchemy and party stores lest he give away his intent.

"So that explains the instrument, actually I do believe I know Ms. Night. If I'm not mistaken she used to be a Wonderbolt until she had some disagreements with the other members and quit. It’s a shame, really. She had potential. On another note, I would love to hear you play one time."

"Absolutely."

"It's nice to know you managed to adapt so quickly to your situation. I hope we can resolve you memory problem but if we can’t do that or find out where you are from, at least you have this place." Nearing the dining hall she stopped. "One more thing, you have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow with Dr. Light."

"Celestia," He paused. "Thank you for helping me." He offered a hug and she returned the gesture. After she put him back down, he rushed the door. Pausing in the doorway, he turned to look at her.

"I’ll race you, Mom!" He shot her a devilish grin before rocketing to the table everypony was sitting at. She stood there for a moment, to the left of the doorway wiping a tear from one of her purple eyes, her true self exposed just for a moment. She knew she shouldn't get attached, that he would be leaving when he found his home. It was probably the loneliness she had endured for so long after she was forced to banish the only family she had. Her sister. She loved the change in pace he brought, she liked how he wasn't afraid of her like so many of her subjects. What did she do that instilled such fear in them? Even her protégé Twilight Sparkle held a fear of her. Why was she such a revered, untouchable figure? Her heart hurting, she put the mask of happiness she used to distance herself from the pain of this world on once again as she entered the dining hall.

One Hour Later

Dinner was lovely, Snow thought, entering his room. On the bed were his guitar, amp and saddle bags. Taking the amp and putting it in a corner, he hung the guitar on the wall. Making a mental note to get a book of sheet music from Spike tomorrow since he could only remember one song, he spread the alchemy items out on the dresser. Like a mad pony he laughed as he got to work on his devious creation. Mixing powders, cutting paper he labored on his device with mischief gleaming in his eyes. Gluing this, taping that, he smiled as he worked. Several hours he put into the contraption before he packed all of the components he created into his saddle bags. Like a thief in the night, he crept through the halls avoiding others who were also up during the late hours. Arriving at the throne room undetected he began phase two of his plan.

Next Morning

Finally finished, he looked out a window at the clock tower.

Half past eight, which means I have half an hour to find Spike and get him here. He took off looking for his friend. Knowing just where to find the little dragon, he burst into the library to find him taking notes for Twilight.

"Twilight, could I borrow Spike for half an hour?" He gasped, breathing hard from the run.

"Sure you can."

"Thanks." He turned to Spike. “Hop on my back Spike, we need to be quick!" The dragon on his back held on for his dear life as Snow bolted back to the throne room. Reaching the throne room with 5 minutes to spare, he was pleased to find it filled with guards, nobles, and ponies here to see the princess. This is going to be good, he thought, pushing his way in. He and Spike moved to a corner left of the throne. Getting off Snow's back the little dragon looked a tad annoyed.

"What is so imp-" Snow's hoof cut him off.

"Wait and see."

The trumpets rang out and a progression of Celestia's private guards made a path from the door to the throne.

"NOW PRESENTING PRINCESS CELESTIA!" A guard announced. Celestia walked in to the room, the guests bowing in respect as she walked to her throne. Reaching her destination she turned around and sat down. The moment she touched the cushion all hell broke loss.

The sound rang out and confetti poured from everywhere, from behind armor, paintings, and even the princess's throne. Everypony was covered head to tail in confetti, the song 'Party Rock Anthem' beginning to bellow from beneath the throne. Party horns rang out and a previously unseen banner unrolled from the ceiling. As it unrolled it spelled out the word 'Surprise' in a vertical fashion. The room was dead silent besides the music. The look on the faces of everypony in the room was priceless; some had their jaws hanging open. Several fainted; no pony knew what to say. What had transpired was unbelievable. Snow looked to his friend whose eyes were wide open.

Elbowing him, he whispered. "You’re going to be pink for a week."

The Birds And The Bees

The ponies of the royal court still shocked by the events that had transpired were flabbergasted by what came next.

"Ha ha ha" They turned to see the sun goddess herself leaning back on the throne laughing her heart out.

"It seems ladies and gentlecolts of the court that we have been pranked. Anyway," She paused to gather her composure. "let us get back to the reason we are gathered here, we can have this cleaned up later." She reached down under the throne with her magic tearing the retrofitted alarm clock from underneath. She pulled the home made battery out stopping the music. "Whoever created this was clever." She commented. Reaching to tear the banner down next, she spotted Snow and Spike trying to sneak out, their eyes met and she smiled.

Ponyfeathers, I'm in hot water. He mentally cursed, pushing Spike out of the throne room. Walking back towards the library the little dragon finally spoke.

"THAT WAS AWESOME!" He exclaimed as he threw his small arms in the air. "Totally worth being pink for a week to see that! I figured you would come up with something good but never in my wildest dreams did I ever think it would be that good."

"What can I say, I had a good teacher." He bumped his friend jokingly. "That and a few chemistry books."

"I guess that bookworm stuff isn't so bad, but please don’t tell Twilight I said that cause she would have a field day with it."

"Don't tell Twilight what?" He chuckled. "Hey before you go, could you gather me some sheet music. I don't really care what the songs are but playing the guitar is soothing.

"Sure, anyway I need to get back to the library but don't worry tonight I'll dye my spikes. A bet is a bet after all." He ran in the direct of the library as he waved back at Snow. Snow returned the favor before making an abrupt left and heading to his room.

He yawned as he left the shower feeling the effects from being up all night. After drying off he combed his mane and tail. Stopping at the sink he brushed his teeth before entering the main part of his bedroom. He smiled as he saw a stack of papers on the dresser. Picking them up, he looked them over. Wow, he was fast with that request. He thought as he laid the sheet music down on the bed. Moving the amp, he plugged it in. He then connected the overdrive before taking the guitar off the wall. Making a final connection he sat on the edge of the bed holding the guitar.

“Well here we go.” Pick in hoof he looked at the first sheet in the pile. “Dust in the Wind by Kansas” He began to play losing himself in the beautiful music as he waited for Celestia.

Celestia mounted the stairs heading to Snow’s room, finally done with today’s royal duties. Rising up the stairs she began to hear a hint of music. The sweet serenade was gone when she made it to the top. Walking in the direction of Snow’s room she noticed her student and her assistant sitting outside his room. They sat there oblivious of her presence as she approached.

“Good morning Twilight.” She greeted the filly who quickly jumped.

“GoodmorningPrincess!” She blurted out so quickly it sounded like one word.

“What are you guys doing outside Snow’s room?”

“Listening to the music he was playing. We originally came to ask if he liked the sheet music we picked out but he was already playing. The music was beautiful, we just stopped and listened.” As she finished her sentence another melody began. A slow, sweet tune poured off the strings as they were expertly caressed by the young colt. Shocked by the quality of the music, she was amazed more by his tender voice.

“It still feels like our first night together. Feels like the first kiss. It's getting better baby. No one can better this. Still holding on. You're still the one. First time our eyes met. Same feeling I get. Only feels much stronger. I want to love you longer. Do you still turn the fire on?”

They heard the audible click as he shifted the over drive. The guitar responded changing from a sweet sound to a rough rock. He dove in to the next set of lyric his voice brimming with passion.

“So if you're feeling lonely, don't. You're the only one I'll ever want. I only want to make it good. So if I love you, a little more than I should.”

He shifted the overdrive back to the sweet sound once again as he worked his way through the chorus.

“Please forgive me, I know not what I do. Please forgive me, I can't stop loving you. Don't deny me, this pain I'm going through. Please forgive me, if I need you like I do. Please believe me, every word I say is true. Please forgive me, I can't stop loving you.”

For several minutes Celestia sat there with Twilight and Spike ensnared by the magic that was his music. Shining Armor had assured her he really could play at dinner last night but never could she have imagined this. This wasn't somepony who liked it, this was somepony who had lived, breathed, and bleed music. As he complete the song the stood there for a moment before flipping the page to his book of music. She regretted to have to interrupt him but the reason she had come in the first place was it was time for him to go to see the doctor for a secondary examination. Rising from the floor she stopped just outside the door way and knocked. The sound of another broke him from the music induced trance.

“Hello?” He called out in question.

“Hello Snow, I’m sorry to interrupt but it’s time for your appointment.” She poked her head inside the room. “If I may ask, where is your alarm clock?” She teased his response a cringe.

“No problem.” He replied shutting off the amp and placing the guitar on the bed. “However I do need to apologize for this morning.”

“We can talk about it on the way, tarry any longer and we will be late.”

Celestia's path through Canterlot brought a large amount of bow, stares, whispers, and running. Trotting through the still snowy streets, Snow was in total disbelief.

“So, I fill your throne room with confetti and you’re not mad?” He asked again not sure if his ears had lied to him. “I mean surely I deserve some sort of punishment.”

“Well if you’re so adamant about it you can apologize and play them a song. The quality of your music is not something I would of expected from one your age. Anyway, we are here” She pointed to a door with a sign over top. The door connected to a large hospital to which they walked inside.

“Good morning your highness, you right on time. Dr. Light is two doors down on the left.” The receptionist point down the hall.

“Thanks.” Celestia said walked down the left hall, Snow following up behind her.

“You’re welcome.” She called out. Passing into the exam room they came face to face with Dr. Light. The silver manned, black unicorn was quick to greet her arrivals.

She bowed. "Good morning Princess." Rising, she turned to Snow. "Good morning to you as well Snow. It's nice to meet you awake this time. If you could just take a seat on the exam table here, we can begin." Snow walked over to the table and hauled himself up. Twisting, he dangled his legs off the side coming to a sitting position. Patient in place, Celestia watched as the doctor began a routine general physical examination. Starting with his ears, she looked inside using an otoscope. Taking notes as she moved on to his throat. Pressing down his tongue, she used the otoscope again but this time it had a different tip. Taking the tip off, Dr. Light used magic to hold his eye lids open as she shine the light on his eyes watching the icy blue irises expand in response. Taking notes again, she moved on to a new tool. Using a stethoscope she listened to his heart and lungs for a couple of minutes. More notes, she switched tools again. This time a small rubber hammer. Tapping his knees with the hammer she studied the jerk of the reflex.

"Snow would you please lie down? I would like to take a few scans of you." She explained her horn glowing, manipulated an odd looking machine the hung from the ceiling in the corner of the room. Snow laid back on the comfy table as the doctor positioned the device over him.

"Please stay still."

"Will do." Snow felt an unusual tingle on his skin as the machine passed over him from head to tail. Guiding the machine back into the corner, Dr. Light removed a crystal from a compartment on the side before taking more notes.

""Alright Snow I'm done poking and prodding at you. I would however like to take a few minutes to talk to the princess. Could you please wait here?"

"Sure, I kinda need a nap anyway." He yawned.

Leaving the examination room Dr. Light moved down the hall to her office. Celestia followed her taking the seat offered to her. Dr. Light closed her office door and locked it. Taking a seat at her desk she spread out her notes, a manila folder, and the crystal from the scanner on the desk.

"You surely found an interesting child. Genetically he shouldn't even exist." Dr. Light spoke up breaking the silence.

"What do you mean?" A look of confusion crossed her face, she urged the doctor to go on.

"Lets us start out with this." She opened the manila folder, inside was a picture of a unicorn mare that looked like Snow. "This pony is no doubt his mother, DNA match confirms it. Her name was Winter. These medical records are dated 13 years ago."

“She’s familiar to me, I wonder why."

"I should hope so; she was one of the royal musicians. She was a specialist in vocals and acoustic guitar."

"That would explain his ability to sing and play such wonderful music. Where is she now?"

"No pony knows. Twelve years, seven months ago she vanished. There was a search for her but it turned up no trace of her. Not even tracking spells worked."

"Who was his father?" Celestia asked noticing there was only one folder.

Dr. Light Smiled "That's where this gets very interesting and steps back to what I said earlier. As we all know ponies have thirty-two pairs of chromosomes. Winter suffered from an extremely rare genetic abnormality called Turner Syndrome. She only had sixty-three. Usually that would have caused her a lot of body problems. Most of the time the foal is born with deadly defects but it was managed with medicines which allowed her to grow up relativity normal. At an adult age the medicine was no longer required, however one effect of missing a chromosome was the fact she would be infertile to other ponies."

"Then how did she have a foal?" Celestia interrupted, the suspense killing her.

"Be patient I'm just getting to the good part." Her horn glowed and the crystal on the lit up displaying a holographic image of the scans she took of Snow.

"What is that?" Celestia asked pointing to the black layer of tissue present under his skin that blocked any deeper scans.

"Snow shows signs of six chambered heart, massive regenerative abilities, a reflective night vision layer of tissue in his eyes, and a layer chitin under his skin. I have no doubt in my mind that his father was none other than a changeling. Changelings have sixty-five chromosomes; the uneven amount causes the holes in their hooves and usually makes them genetically incompatible with ponies. However, in the case of Winter her missing one made her genetically capable of bearing a half changeling foal. He is so interesting because of the mathematical chance of his existence is about the same as getting struck by lightning one thousand, one hundred, and thirty-four times in one day."

Celestia was stunned to say the least. How did the half-changeling foal of a missing pony end up outside the castle in the middle of a blizzard? She had hoped the doctor had answers but all she did was bring more questions.

"Is he healthy enough for us to look into his mind?" She asked finally coming with something to say.

"More than, I suspect he is unconsciously absorbing the love directed towards him by anyone around him which sparked his speedy recovery from the cold, lacerations, and severe bruising. I believe the memory loss is physiological caused by whatever put him in that injured state and dropped him in Canterlot." She smiled leaning back in her chair. "So, any other questions or shall we go get some answers from Snow himself?"

"Let’s go ask-" Her sentence cut off by a wail that rang clear through the entire building.

"That was Snow!" Celestia panicked, rushing the door. Unlocking it, she swung it wide open and bolted to the exam room that Snow occupied. Nearly kicking the door off the hinges, the alicorn spotted Snow. Still asleep, he was strewn out upon the exam table, his body spasming, apparently in the clutches of another nightmare. Gathering her magic she touched her horn to Snow's head. Memory magic transferring her mind to Snows her body collapsed on the floor. Dr. Light entered the room a moment later. Locking the door with a spell as her curiosity got the better of her she followed the monarch into the mind of Snow.

On With The Snow

7:10 A.M.

Crash!

Pop!

Awoken by a loud sound Snow opened his eyes. He shifted his head to look out the window. Greeted by a spectacular sunrise he crawled out of bed and into the bathroom. He stopped at the sink and stared for a moment at himself in the mirror.

I look freaking awful! He brought his hooves to his face to knock away the crust from his eyes. His face a mix of red puffy eyes, tear stained fur, and a wild bed head with a small horn sticking out from between the locks of mane.

Wait, what the buck is this? He poked the small appendage that now adorned his forehead to make sure it was real. Well that’s new! Several more tears fell from his icy blue eyes as another small fragment of a memory surfaced. The bathroom was replaced by a small field near a stream and a thicket of trees. There, under the shade of a large oak, a black stallion was lecturing a younger version of Snow.

“Cress, changing takes a lot of planning and concentration. Let’s compare it to playing guitar. Before you learn a song you learn a cord, before you learn to change your form you learn to change a part of yourself. For example, your coat or eye color.” Korvy looked at Snow’s expression of boredom and chuckled. “Yeah I know you think this is boring but remember son the only reason we are having this conversation is because of the fact that you have set you bed on fire for the third time this month changing in your sleep.”

“Yes Dad.” Snow replied rolling his eyes.

Korvy sighed before smiling at his cheeky son. “Come on you little brat, let’s get you under control before your mother has both our tails for it.”

He laughed sadly as he shook his head. Wiping the tears from his eyes he forced a smile once more. “At least the bed survived this time.” He whispered into the mirror. Showing, he dried off and styled his mane to cover his horn. Moving back into the bedroom he threw on his headphones. The volume maxed, the song ‘You’re Gonna Go Far Kid’ roared in his ears deafening him from the sounds of reality. Retrieving his scarf and saddles bags, he took the guitar off the wall and strapped in to his back, careful to make sure the neck of the guitar ran up his spine. Unbolting the window, he crawled out and stood on the ledge overlooking a bone shattering drop. Closing the window, he concentrated for a moment. A familiar warm enveloped him and he tipped head first off the ledge. Diving he gained speed, a set of white wing unfurled from his back converting his downward momentum to horizontal.

“Thank you Dad.” He whispered his words lost in the rushing wind. He headed into the shopping district the weight of his emotion weighing heavily on his injured heart.

He landed in an alley near Iron Night’s store to avoid anyone seeing him change. His wings disappeared, engulfed by blue flames. He removed his headphones from his ears and rubbed his nearly frozen eyes.

“Note to self, wear goggles and a sweater when flying in the winter or suffer an icy doom.” He shivered as he directed himself towards the music store. He gazed upon the locked door with the sign hanging upon the handle. Beneath the word ‘Closed’ was a schedule of the store’s open hours.

“She opens at ten o’clock.” He turned to the large clock tower that graced the center of the square most of the stores surrounded. He sighed. “But it’s only eight, so how do I burn a couple of hours so I can talk to her?” His stomach decided to answer his question for him with a rather loud growl.

“Breakfast would be a nice start I suppose.” He crossed the square as he headed into the pastry shop that looked like it was open. A small bell on the door rang as Snow waltzed into the shop and took a seat at the counter overlooking the kitchen. A tan unicorn entered from a room in the back and was quick to greet the new arrival.

“Good morning kiddo, my name is Joe. What can I get cha?” Joe pointed to the hanging menu adorning the area over the window into the kitchen with a hoof.

“Ummmmmm….. Ursa claw and a hot chocolate with whipped cream please.” Snow replied as he dropped several bits on to the counter. Joe smiled as he took the bits and deposited them in the register before he disappeared into the kitchen.

“Coming right up kiddo!” Sounds reverberated from the kitchen as Joe worked to the order. Snow looked around the shop as he waited. It looked like a typical diner; the shop was mostly paint white. Booths adorned the walls; over each one hung a light. The sound of china on the counter brought his attention back to Joe and the food his stomach so desperately craved. Snow nearly drooled as he stared at the steaming pastry that now took up residence on the counter. A beep from the kitchen caused to run back inside. So focused on the food Snow never heard the small bell ring behind him as someone else entered the shop. Feeling a tap on his left shoulder he looked to the left. Surprised to see no one was there he turned back to his breakfast which was now in the mouth of a white unicorn filly with a blue rocker hairdo and a set of large magenta shades several sizes too big for her. Shock quickly turned to anger and compiled with the hurt he already was bearing turned to rage. He opened his mouth to give her a piece of his mind but was completely dumbstruck when she did something that bothered him even more. She reached out and touched his guitar.

“Do you play or is that a show piece?” She inquired nonchalantly through a mouthful of his breakfast. For a moment he just stared at the bold filly. Completely disgusted with the newcomer, he gave her a glare cold enough to chill a heart. The ire dripping from his voice like venom he finally replied.

“Buck this!” He hissed the frustration and sadness bubbling up again from yesterday. He tried to make a hasty retreat via the main door however it was blocked by a magical aura. He spun back around to face the filly that was now blocking his path.

“What do you want now? You already ate my breakfast and touched my guitar, what else could you possibly want from me!” He snapped his emotions running wild.

“Chill man, the breakfast thing was a joke. I get the same thing every morning; Joe should have it done any second now.”

He slumped against the wall rubbing his eyes while he tried to cap his swirling emotion.

“I am really sorry miss; it’s not what you did that’s got me so upset. You could say you were just the straw that broke the camel’s back. I have other circumstance going on that have me upset and I am terribly sorry for that outburst.”

“Would you like to talk about it?” Joe asked having heard the scene take place. Snow sighed still leaning on the wall for support.

“Yeah, I guess I could. Never know it might make me feel better. My name is Snow.”

“I’m Vinyl Scratch.”

“Nice to meet you Vinyl.”

“Same here bro.” They all at down at the counter, snow in the middle, Joe to the right, and Vinyl on the left.

“So kiddo, what’s got you so upset?”

“Well it goes like this………”

5:50 A.M.

Celestia woke from her hour nap she always took after she raised the sun. Raising from her bed she quickly tidied herself using magic. She left her room and was greeted by her honor guard in front of the door. Returning the greeting she quickly hurried to Snow’s room to check on him. Cracking the door to his room she was relieved to see he was still sleeping. She quietly slide inside the room and stood next to him just watching for a moment a smile on her face. She brushed back his mane with her hoof, his pillow was a mix of tear stains and dark marks.

What are these? She thought focusing on the black streaks covering the bedding. As if on cue, he rolled over and blue flames rippled along his fur in waves. They traveled up his neck, along his face and settled on his forehead forming a horn.

“Oh my!” She gasped. Quickly she gathered her magic and enchanted the bed, protecting it from the flames of his transformation. He is certainly going to be a hoofful! It's still nice to have him around though. She took a seat on the floor, leaning on the bed she began to softly sing she once sung for her sister back when they were young.

"Oh, my child, you cry so many tears, seems like you've been crying for the world. Oh, my child, your world so full of fears, seems like you've been crying for the world.

I to bare you, I to raise you, Faust, give me strength to do it right. I to adore you, be a refuge for you, Faust give me strength to do it right.

Hush, my child and lay you down to sleep, seems like you've been crying for the world. Hush, my child your tears that burn so deep, seems like you've been crying for the world.

I will protect you, guard you and guide you, Faust give me strength to do it right. I will love you, more than I have to, Faust give me strength to do it right.

Oh, my child, I only wish I could, suffer all the trials in your place. Oh, my child, you know I truly would, take on all the evils you will face.

I will protect you, guard you and guide you, Faust give me strength to do it right. I will love you, more than I have to, Faust give me strength."

Finishing the lullaby she just sat there enjoying the peaceful morning, something she hadn't done in a very long time. Casually she glanced over to the clock on the nightstand which read nine minutes after seven, her eyes opened wide in surprise.

Oh no I'm late for that appointment! How have I been here over an hour? She frantically rushed the door.

Crash!

Rounding the corner of the bed she crashed to the floor tripping over the amp sitting on the floor at the base of the bed. To her horror she looked up to see Snow beginning to stir.

Pop

Teleporting she landed on her bed and rushed out the door to her appointment. Reaching Mr. Star's office she stopped and took a deep breath before entering the room.

"Good morning princess." Three voices said in unison.

Snow was speechless. He had finished his story leaving out any sensitive elements like his heritage and was now in the vice-like grip of Vinyl Scratch who was giving him a bone crushing hug.

"Can't Breath!" He grasped.

"Sorry!" She apologized releasing him so he could breath.

"It's fine. Please don't worry about it." The awkwardness situation growing he looked to the clock. "Anyway, I need to go. It's nearly eleven-thirty and I wanted to talk to Iron Night.

"Can I come with?"

"Yeah, I guess. It's not like I can stop you right."

"True." She said as she headed out the door. Snow followed in suit but was stopped by Joe at the door.

"Hey kid, just hang in there alright. Things are bound to get better."

"Thanks Joe I'll try to remember that."

"No problem Snow and have a nice day!"

"You to Joe!"

Finally out of Joe's shop Snow trotted at a moderate pace to catch up to Vinyl who was already half way there. Reaching her they walked the last little bit together chatting about music. The musical duo enter Iron's store to find the gray mare chatting to another customer.

"How's it hanging Night?!" Vinyl called out catching the mare's attention.

"Pretty good, how are you Scratch?" Noticing Snow she smiled. "I see you made a new friend. How's the guitar Snow?"

"Great, it's why I'm here. I wanted to know if I could play today."

"WHAT!" Vinyl yelled. "Why didn't you tell me that?! Can I play to?" Iron chuckled at the filly's enthusiasm.

"I don't see why not. In fact I have a little idea. Let’s mix you, Snow, my friend Cloudy Skies, and me. I play drums and Cloudy plays both bass and guitar."

"I have no problem with that." Snow interjected.

"Good, you'll play guitar and sing. Hey Vinyl how good is your vocals?

"I'd say about average."

"Well that's better than me or Cloudy. I'm pretty sure we could deafen them." She laughed.

"I bet Jigsaw and his crew could make us temporary stage like he does for my mother when she does her fashion shows."

"Sounds great to me." Iron turn and shouted to a unicorn sitting in the corner by the door. "Hey Jeff I need to make some runs so watch the shop for me OK."

"Got it boss." He replied.

"Alright Vinyl go see if you can your stuff over here and talk to your mom about that stage. I'll get permission from the guard and find Cloudy." She turned to Snow. "Sorry buddy that kinda leaves you alone. Wanna pick out some music or something while we are gone?"

"Sure, I can do that and don't feel bad I'll probably do some exploring while you’re gone."

"Alright kiddo we'll meet back at four, come on Vinyl lets go." The two quickly rushed out the door leaving Snow by himself. Turning to the task appointed to him, Snow perused through the titles in the shop. Quickly picking out twenty songs that he liked, he quickly found himself to be bored. Leaving the songs he picked out on the counter and placed his guitar in the backroom he left the store to wander the plaza.

"Hey Snow!" Snow's head turned to the left in response the familiar voice calling out his name. He choked for a moment attempting to sniffle the laughter at the sight he had behold. There beside Twilight who had her nose in a book was a pink dragon in all his glory.

"Hi Spike." Snow managed to say through his laughter as he rolled on the ground clutching his sides.

"Yeah laugh all you want that prank was still epic." He rolled his eyes.

"Yeah but still I can't believe you actually did it." Snow got up from the ground and brushed the dirt off.

"I'm a dragon of my word."

"I can see that."

"Good afternoon Snow." Twilight looked up from her book.

"You as well Twilight." He cleared his throat. "Umm Twilight can I ask a favor?"

"Depends on what the favor is." She closed the book putting it in her saddle bag.

"Would you teach me some basics in magic?" He brought up a horn to brush his hair back and reveal the horn. She smiled like a foal in a candy shop.

"Absolutely, Spike and I were out running some errands. We were in fact on our way to get some lunch would you like to join us?"

"Yeah I guess."

"Wonderful the place we eat at is called 'Long Johns' and it's right around the corner. They make subs; Spike and I usually split one."

"Lead the way." Snow followed them into the restaurant. They took a seat at a table near a window on the left side of the building. A few moments after they were seated a waiter came to take their orders. After they ordered Twilight began to instruct Snow on the basics of levitation.

"When levitating an object it's all about picturing it in your mind. Imagine your magical energy envelope the item in an aura and move it. Don't expect a lot of control on your first time it takes practice. Oh another thing if the item smokes at all please drop your magic immediately otherwise you may set it on fire. It's a side effect of focusing too much energy on an object. I don't know how experienced you were with magic before you lost your memory and you may have more control than you realize like with the music you play. A lot of unicorns say it’s something you never forget."

"OK." The waiter returned with their lunch placing the sandwiches and drinks on the table before leaving again. Snow reached to get his sandwich but was stopped by Twilight.

"Try using levitation instead."

"I'll try but if my sandwich bursts into flames I’m eating yours." He flashed an evil grin.

"Just try it." She scowled.

"Fine." He rolled his eyes before concentrating on the sandwich. His staring match with the culinary delight lasted for two and a half minutes. Move you darn thing. Smokeless flames engulfed the sandwich thrusting it into the air.

"Drop it now Snow." Twilight screamed. Spike jumped to the table and launched himself mouth open at the flaming food.

"Wait I think it's....." Snow sat there dumbfounded as he watched a pink flash sail right past him eating his lunch in one bite. "OK.”

"Snow, Spike are you guys alright?!" Inquired a really worried Twilight.

"I'm fine Twi." Spike replied sitting back at his seat

"I'm fine but I don't think you had to worry."

“Why wouldn't I worry, you set it on fire!"

"I don't think I did, I think that was my aura. I'm gonna try again and this time Twilight please spare the dramatics everypony is now looking at us." She blushed trying to hide herself from the staring ponies. Snow turned to address their audience. "Nothing to see here she's just teaching me a little magic and it got a little out of hand." He twisted back around to face Twilight. "Now watch without freaking out." He focused on her sandwich. Once again the item was wrapped in a coat of fire and lifted in to the air. Twilight reached out with a hoof to touch the suspended item.

"There's no heat or smoke. Fascinating, I do believe your right. Your aura takes the form of flames that are a similar color to your eyes." He broke her sandwich in half before depositing a half on his plate the other on hers.

"I've never heard of magic taking a form like that before looks like I'll have to do some research to see if it has happened before or if you are a special case. She pondered before devouring her lunch, Snow doing the same. Spike leaned back in his chair sated after eating a whole sandwich.

"Hey Twilight this afternoon me and a few other ponies are gonna be putting on a show would you like to come?" Her eyes lit up at the request.

"I would love to; your music is really nice."

"It will be sometime after four outside the music store called Iron Beats."

"K I won't forget. Anyway Spike and I need to get back to the castle so I'll see you later Snow." She got up placing several bits on the counter for the food before she picked up the now sleeping dragon with her magic. He waved as she left before paying for his food and leaving as well. Walking back to the store he smiled as several idea came to mind. I'll make the last song one heck of a finale, I just need to make a few stops.

11:30 A.M.

Celestia left Mr. Star's office with a smile of her face. She was lucky her tardiness hadn't left a sour note and the meeting itself turn out to be very positive. Now all she needed to do was to find Snow and give him the news right after she took care of her other duties for today. Time quickly flew by as she flew through her mundane paper work. Next was her weekly meeting with the Dust Storm, captain of the guard which was nothing more than a glorified tea party tradition made her uphold. Dust caught her at the door with a smile and seemed to read her mind.

"You have somewhere else to be don't you?"

"Thank you very much Captain."

"No problem princess I hate these meetings to."

"Captain, do you know where Snow is."

"All I can say is he is not in the castle. I told the guard to keep an eye on him after that little surprise he rigged up."

"I wonder where he is."

"Lieutenant Armor may know, when they came in the other day those two seemed like friends. He should be in the mess hall but he may be somewhere else since he went off duty."

"Thank you Captain." She spun one-eighty and headed to the dining area.

4:20 P.M.

Snow waded through a growing crowd of ponies to the temporary stage outside of Iron's store. Stopping at the edge of the stage he place several boxes securing them with tape before entering the shop to look for Iron and Vinyl. He quickly approached the two who were chatting with a light blue pegasus with a brown and green mane.

"Good, your back Snow. I would like to to meet my friend Cloudy Skies."

"Hello nice to meet you."

"You as well i hear you play a mean tune."

"I try my best." He grinned.

"Anyway we looked over the stuff you chose and we agree it was good. Vinyl already set up her equipment. She will be player keyboard and she will also control our instrument feeds. Cloudy will be switching between guitar and bass depending on the song. I have drums and you have guitar and vocals. So I guess we are ready when you are."

"Sounds great to me. Oh before I forget, final song about two-thirds of the way through the stage is gonna light up just keep playing k."

"Just please don't go overboard Vinyl told me about your pyrotechnics." Iron sighed.

"It will be perfect. One more thing, how did you get so many ponies here on such short notice?" He asked as he levitated his guitar from the backroom to his back.

"Umm first can I ask about the fire?" Cloudy nervously asked.

"My magical aura is unique and my friend Twilight gave me a lesson today." He chuckled.

"Yeah I can see that, anyway believe it or not after you played the other day in my shop word about you apparently spread big time. So when we mentioned you ponies gathered.

"Wow. That's flattering; I love to stroke my ego. Let’s get this party started."

"Snow don't forget my stage name OK." Vinyl tapped his shoulder.

"Got it" The walked out of the store and on to the stage each taking up residence at their respective instrument. Snow grabbed up the mic and began a quick intro.

"Good evening ladies and gentalcolts. My name is Snow and here's a quick intro since I don't wanna bore you. I will be your main vocalist for tonight. Then we have Cloudy Skies on bass, Iron on drums, and Vinyl Scratch aka DJ Pon-3 on keyboard. I'd say that pretty much covers it. Oh one more thing." He cleared his voice. "TWILIGHT SPIKE WAKE UP!"

The shout into the mic had the desired effect as Twilight and Spike both shot up from their slumber nearly falling off the bench they sat upon as they yelled in unison.

"I'm awake!"

"And without further ado." Vinyl opened first, followed by Cloudy and Iron. Finally Snow began to sing, the crowd never knew what hit them as they heard Snow beautiful voice.

"Do you remember, back when? We fell in love in your best friend’s basement? Spun the bottle and hoped it will land on you. Thought we were cool, listening to Zeppelin. Making out on the Stairway to Heaven. Nowhere to go, so slept out on the roof. But now, we hardly even speak, at all. Looking back, how did we get away?" Switching their over drives Snow joined in with guitar as well. "I never thought that we’d surrender, when I was yours and you were mine. Never regret, no, we learned how to love; when we were young, when we were young  ."

Celestia stood on her balcony as she quickly raised the moon and lowered the sun.

"Well that's a new record on speed." She smiled. She turned to face the two unicorns behind her. "I'm sorry we can go meet him now, no more delays I swear. Walking to them she touched them with her wings before teleporting to the shopping district.

Cloudy was finishing her solo, Snow smiled. Time for the finale! Snow horn glowed slightly through his mane as he focused his magic on the fuses for the fireworks. Hearing the familiar sound of the fuse he started in to the final verse of the song. "My soul is painted like the wings of butterflies, fairy tales of yesterday, will grow but never die," He gathered his flames around himself thrusting himself into the air mic in hoof while the firework began to go off he simultaneously sang the next line at the top of his voice never noticing the change to his flank.

"I can fly, my friends! The Show must go on! Yeah! The Show must go on! I'll face it with a grin! I'm never giving in! On with the show! I'll top the bill! I'll overkill! I have to find the will to carry on! On with the show! On with the show! The Show must go on."

Snow took a moment to gather his breath and to give the crowd a moment to register what they just witnessed. Grabbing the mic once again he addressed the crowd.

"Thank y-" Drowned out by the applause and screaming of the large audience he had to wait a minute so he could talk. "You. I'm glad you came out today and I really hope you like the finale. Today kinda started out as a bum day but I can see Pony Joe was right. Things can only get better. Anyway folks I hope you have a nice evening, this is Snowstorm signing off."

Cloudy elbowed him lightly as they walked off stage. "Thanks for the warning about that ending." Cloudy chuckled.

He spun around walking backwards as he talked to Cloudy "Yeah, I figured I should say something but it was epic am right? Umm why are you bowing? The princess is behind me isn't she." He turned to face Celestia and was wrapped up in a hug. "Umm good evening princess did you enjoy the show?"

"Yes but you didn't notice did you?" She smiled putting him back down.

"Notice what?"

"Your flank." He arched his neck to look at his rump his eyes wide open in shock. There upon his rump was his mark. It consisted of an eight note surrounded by blue flames.

"Wow what a day." He laughed.

"Indeed but I have a surprise for you today." She stepped to the side to reveal the older couple behind her. Both unicorns, the stallion was gray with a brown mane and the mare looked like snow but was a bit darker in mane.

"Meet your grandparents Handsome Masquerade and Cesura."

"Say what?"

Memories In Fire

Celesta stood in a vast expanse of empty darkness. Lighting her horn she found herself in a white room void of even doors or windows.

“This not what I w-” She never finished her sentence. Dr. Light fell from the heavens crashing into the white alicorn. The black unicorn groaned as Celestia pushed her off and regained her footing.

“Doctor Light, why did you follow me in here?” She demanded from the doctor who was busy scrambling to her hooves.

“Curiosity got the better of me again.” She explained nervously looking around the room. Studying it for a moment the doctor was sent retreating back to Celestia when a stallion’ voice called out in greeting.

“Good afternoon ladies.” The sound echoed off the floor and walls.

Celestia stood her ground, the doctor hid behind her. “Who are you, show yourself!” She bravely exclaimed. A pillar of green fire erupted from the floor bathing the small room in a shower of green light. A dark figure stepped from the column of fire and presented himself in front of Celestia. The changeling bowed before he hastily introduced himself.

“My name was Korvy. However, you probably would have known me better as Silent Night.” Green flames spread over his body to reveal a black earth pony with a dark blue mane.

Dr. Lights’ eyes widened in recognition. “You’re the piano player who disappeared at the same time Winter did. You were considered a main suspect in her disappearance. I guess they weren’t too far off were they. You’re the colt’s father aren’t you?”

“Yes, at least I was. Now I know you have a lot of questions and I will answer them as best I can but we don’t have a lot of time. Your intrusion in to Crescendo’s mind has nearly ruined the fragment that holds me together and blocks his memory, even now his memories are slipping through.”

“Crescendo?” Celestia and Dr. Light asked together.

“His mother chose the name and there is just no arguing with a mare.”

Thinking of her subjects Celestia asked the next question. “What were you doing in Canterlot?”

“I was exiled from the hive by the previous queen because I believed ponies could be more than a food source. I always liked pony music, so I decided why not learn to play since I had nothing else to do. I found I had real talent for the piano and it kinda went on from there. I managed to snag a job playing, working my way up the ranks. I met Winter at an audition, we really hit it off.” He smiled as he mentioned her name. “Such a beautiful creature, voice of an angel and a heart of gold. I really do miss her.” Several tears rolled down his face disappearing as they touched the floor.

Shocked by the fact a changeling could even cry, Dr. Light asked the third question. “Why did you and Winter disappear from Canterlot?”

“We left because we found out Winter was pregnant. She came from a rich family and they never would have approved of us or the child. There was also the problem of my obsessive sister." He cleared his throat. "You see I wasn't just another drone from the hive. I was Korvaticus the fourth, first royal prince of the hive and my sister Chrysalis is a bit of a nutcase. She had some kind of unhealthy attraction to me, it was creepy to be honest. She knew I was in Canterlot and we hoped leaving would throw her off my trail.” He shuddered.

“Why do you refer to yourself in past tense?”

He turned back to Celestia who had asked the question. “I do it because I am dead. I no longer exist in this world. All you see before you is a fragment of my mind.”

“How is that possible?” Dr. Light stomped her hoof.

“It is possible for royal caste changelings because of the hive mind. We connect to each other through it and we can pass information and memories whether it’s to drones or other members of royalty. I passed on a small portion of myself to him before I died.”

“Why would you do such a thing?” Dr. Light shivered.

“To save him from losing his mind from grief, he had no one else. To be alone would have been a blow he would not have recovered from mentally if added to the loss of his mother and I. I've always struggled with concepts of love and family but he has the same large heart his mother did.”

“What happened to you?”

“That is a story best left for another time, if I told you now he would know and that would make the fact I was blocking it a moot point don’t cha think. All he needs to know right now is that we loved him but he needs to move on.” He shifted focus to Celestia. “Princess could I ask a selfish favor, I know you have taken a shine to my son and I’d ask only that you watch over him. He meant everything to me and my wife; I just want him to be healthy and happy. “Taking a step back his horn began to glow. “Sorry but time is up, goodbye princess and goodbye doctor.”

“Wait I still have- “The room disappeared as they were thrown back to their own minds.

“Well I do say that was quite a ride!” Dr. Light exclaimed as she sat up. Celestia never heard the doctor, her attention focused on the white colt staring at them from the exam table. She looked as his eyes which clearly showed the massive amount of emotional pain he was suffering from. He spoke his voice cracking, his body heaving.

"They're gone aren't they?" His eyes glistened with tears that were not yet ready to fall.

"Yes Snow they are." She answered trying to get up." Are you alright? Did you remember anything?"

A broken smile tried to hide his pain. "Bits and pieces, enough to know they wouldn't of left me alone voluntarily." A mix of a chuckle and a sob escaped his lips, his emotion running rampant he yelled. "Enough to know I'm a freak of nature! Enough to know my home is gone! Enough to know I'm alone!" Bring his hoof to his face he covered his eyes in an attempt to stem the tide of tears. Feeling a set of hooves wrap around him and pull him in close. He looked up to Celestia who had taken a seat next to him and pulled him in for a hug.

"If you need to cry I'll gladly lend a shoulder. Don't hold in you negative emotions, just let it all out. It helps trust me." The flood gates of his emotion let loose as he showered her in tears, sobs, and wails. "Snow you have a home here if you so choose. Please remember you’re not alone. I care about you, I'm sure Twilight, Spike, and Shining care as well. You’re not a freak either, just unique." She smiled trying to comfort the broken soul she held so firmly in her hooves.

I understand what Korvy meant when he said about protecting him from himself. Thinking about the outburst from a moment ago. He would have torn himself to bits if he didn't have someone here for him.

"I think I'll leave you alone now but take all the time you need." Dr. Light slipped out the door, closing it behind her. He cried what seemed like an eternity to him before finally drifting into a peaceful sleep, free of any nightmares, in her hooves. Celestia teleported her and Snow back to his room in the castle. Tucking in the exhausted young colt, she stayed by his a while sing a light lulu-by. Brushing his mane lightly with her hoof she smiled before she left the room. Teleporting again, she stopped in the welfare office much to the surprise of all the employees. Singling out a particular pony she spoke.

"Mr. Star may I speak with you a while in private."

"Yes you majesty my office is right this way." He nervously replied as he held the door to his office for Celestia.