Wings for a Pony 2: The Brotherhood of Shadows

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 6

Prologue

Deep in the Everfree Forest, a unicorn mare, holding a bundle firmly in place with a protective bubble of magic, was running for her life. Behind her were several cloaked ponies intent on fulfilling their mission.,

The mare would occasionally look back to see how far she was from her pursuers, gradually leaving them behind . Finally, when she felt she had lost them, she released the bundle from her spell and gently rested it on the grass. She removed the top portion from the bundle to reveal a small unicorn filly. Her coat was solid white, her mane was a beautiful silver that shone in the moonlight and her eyes were a striking blood red. The filly began to squirm and cry as she woke up.

“Hush little one. Mother is here,.” The mare said gently as she began nuzzling the filly's face; the foal began to giggle slightly and wrapped her forearms around her mother’s face. The mare gave a small smile as she looked to her daughter, - it soon faded however as she realized what she had to do. “I’m sorry sweetie… but this is the best I can do to keep you safe… and give you a chance at a normal life.” She gave her daughter a small kiss and pulled her face away.

Immediately the filly began to cry as her mother’s eyes filled with tears.

“I’m so sorry my daughter…may you one day forgive me.” She looked back as she heard the sound of the cloaked ponies approach. Her horn began to emit a blue glow that surrounded the filly, which started crying louder as the glow frightened her. “Be safe…” The mare whispered as the filly vanished in a flash of magic.

Within seconds the cloaked ponies had caught up to the unicorn, having been alerted by the flash of light. The mare tried to run, but she was struck by a red bolt of energy and fell to her knees.

“You have betrayed me,.” one of the cloaked ponies said coldly as he approached the wounded mare.

“You lied to me! You said she would be safe when the time came!”

“She would have been be safe, although now I am not so sure.” He drew back his hood, revealing a grey unicorn stallion with red eyes, and a black mane with a single red stripe. “Where is she? Where did you send her?” He hissed.

“I won’t tell you... because I don’t know.” The stallion grabbed her throat with a green magical aura.

“Don’t lie to me! Tell me where you sent the child!” The mare said nothing. The stallion then tossed the mare against a tree and grunted in frustration before regaining his composure. “It does not matter; I will find her no matter where you have sent her.” He then turned away from the mare. “You know what the penalty is for betrayal.” He turned to the other cloaked ponies and nodded. Immediately red lights formed at the tips of their horns and they aimed at the mare as she simply lay there.

“You just couldn’t let it go could you?” She whispered as she shut her eyes and awaited the inevitable.

Meanwhile:

It was night-time at Sweet Apple Acres and the barn was filled with the sounds of partying. Pinkie Pie had dropped by to throw an ‘almost- a –father’ party for her nephew Clay,; Pinkie was busy dancing to her “jam”, Applejack was making sure that there was enough food for the guests, Fluttershy was flirting with Big Mac as a consequence of having some hard cider in her, Rarity was in a corner cuddling with her lost love Germane, Twilight was dancing awkwardly to the music, and Rainbow Dash - Clay’s mother - was in a drinking contest with Clay’s godfather Comet. Clay liked a good party, but he didn’t feel like celebrating as he was exhausted from bucking apples all day at the farm, not to mention that this party was because he would be a father very soon. He was thrilled at the thought, but his wife Firefly was getting a raw deal from the pregnancy and he really wanted to be there for her. Still, he couldn’t help but smile as he looked around the barn and saw his whole family enjoying themselves. Looking outside and seeing the position of the moon Clay walked over to his mother.

“Hey mom, I think I’m going to call it a night.”

“Okay Sweetie, I’ll see you tomorrow. Be careful going home and tell Firefly that I wish her luck.”

“I will mom. Love you.” He gave her a kiss goodbye and turned his head to grin at his godfather. “See you later Uncle Comet.”

“Later Clay!” His uncle replied as he took another swig of apple cider.

Clay walked home under the light of Luna’s moon,; the wind rushed through his mane and the smell in the air reminded him of when his mother would fly him over Ponyville to help him sleep when he was a foal. He wanted to get back to Firefly, but he couldn’t help walking slowly to enjoy the calm and quiet of the night.The sound of crickets chirping in the distance made Clay feel strangely relaxed, however he snapped into a wary stance when he heard another noise.

“What was that?” Clay stopped as he listened, trying to filter out past the crickets and the wind. At first he heard nothing, but then he heard the strange noise again, strange but also familiar… “That sounds like…” He listened again and this time recognized the sound as an infant crying. “A baby!” Clay bolted in the direction of the crying and soon found himself just outside the Everfree Forest.

Clay hesitated. He knew the forest was dangerous, especially at night, and he had some painful memories from losing his parents and then almost losing his current mother to that accursed forest. Yet, as scared as he was, the foal needed help and he was the only pony around to provide it.

Putting his demons aside he raced into the forest, dodging the trees as he tried to pinpoint the baby’s location. The foal’s crying grew louder and he knew that he was getting close; he just hoped he was the only thing getting close. Clay didn’t stop running, jumping over fallen trees and the occasional stream, determined to find the infant as its crying grew louder still. Eventually he came to a small clearing and, the treeless area illuminated by moonlight, caught sight of a small, squirming bundle. Clay surveyed his surroundings, looking for any hints of either creatures waiting to pounce or the foal’s parents. Seeing neither, he cautiously trotted over to the bundle and beheld a small unicorn filly with silver hair; her face was wet with tears.

“It can’t be…” Clay muttered as he had seen this unicorn before, in a dream he had years ago when still a colt.

Clay drew closer to the filly, who looked up at him with blood red eyes.

“How did you end up out here?” The filly naturally did not respond beyond whimpering and crying “You poor thing!" He looked at her sadly, "Shhh, it’s okay…I won’t hurt you.” He lowered his face to the foal and nuzzled her affectionately to show he meant her no harm. The filly began to coo quietly.

Clay looked around once more to try and find the filly’s parents. Seeing no sign of anypony else nearby he looked again to the filly.

“Well, I guess you’re coming with me then.” The filly giggled, reaching her hooves towards Clay as if to hug him and he smiled in response. Clay picked up the filly with his mouth, carefully making his way out of the forest and heading for home…with his new daughter.

Chapter 1

Firefly sat on the couch in their living room, flipping through a copy of the latest Dr. Whooves book. Clay had introduced her to the series and she was, for lack of a better word, hooked. As she read she felt a small jab in her stomach, making her grunt slightly. “Whew, you are a kicker aren’t you?” she said, looking at her large belly. She gave it a small rub and smiled before returning to the book.

No sooner had re-commenced reading when the front door opened; she didn’t have to look to know Clay had come home. Firefly set the book down and, slowly and with some difficulty, got off the couch.

“Hey honey. I didn’t expect to see you home so…” She stopped when she saw the bundle in Clays mouth. “Clay…what is that?” Her husband walked over to the couch and placed the sleeping baby down gently.

“She’s a baby I found in the forest on my way home.” He looked to the baby unicorn as she gave a small yawn.

“Was she by herself?”

“I didn’t see any sign of her parents… she might be an orphan.” Firefly looked at the sleeping foal as she sucked her hoof.

“Poor thing,” she said sadly.

“She’s going to need a family.”

Firefly looked at Clay and gave him a sympathetic look. “Clay… I know what you’re thinking. We can’t keep her.”

Clay looked at Firefly, somewhat startled. “Why not? The filly needs loving parents, and I think we can be the family she needs.”

Firefly shook her head. “Clay, we have a baby of our own on the way right now. We can’t take care of two foals.”

“Sure we can! We make good money between your Wonderbolt salary and me working at Sweet Apple Acres.”

Firefly shook her head. “Clay… I understand how you must feel, what with you being adopted, but…between me going back to the Wonderbolts and you on the farm we won’t have enough time to look after both of them.”

“That’s why we have my aunts, isn’t it? And my mom and uncle can help too. To be honest I think my mom misses having a baby around the house.”

“But Clay, what if she feels…misplaced, like you did? She’s going to have a brother to live with; they could get jealous of each other or feel like they aren’t getting enough attention.”

“They won’t…because I’ll never stop letting them know how much I love them both.” Firefly placed a hoof on his shoulder.

“Clay, maybe we should consider… the orphanage, so she can find a loving family.”

“We are not putting her in an orphanage,” Clay retorted with a hint of anger. Firefly glanced away, considering, then looked back at her husband.

“Are you sure you want to do this?”

“Absolutely.”

Firefly sighed. “Okay.”

Clay smiled. “Sweetie, I promise she’ll be one of the family in no time.”

Firefly smiled back at her husband. “I’m sure she will, with you around.” She gave him a quick peck on the lips, then winced slightly.

“Bolt kicking again?” Clay asked.

“Y-yeah… the little guy is just full of energy.” She smiled weakly and then looked to the baby gurgling on the couch. “So…what should we name her?”

“Well I don’t know anything about unicorn names. Maybe we could ask my aunt Twilight tomorrow.” Clay and Firefly smiled at the baby as she shifted under the blankets.

“She’s so beautiful, like a bright star on a dark night.” Firefly cooed.

“Night star…I like that,” Clay muttered.

“Like what?” Firefly asked him.

“Night Star, as her name.”

“I like it too, but it sounds a little harsh. Why don’t we change it a little?”

Clay thought tapping his chin. “What about… Evening Star?”

“Perfect,” Firefly replied, nuzzling his neck.

“I agree… fits her perfectly.” Firefly yawned, looking tired. “Why don’t you go to bed and I’ll put Star to bed right now?” Firefly nodded, her eyes only half-open.

“Don’t take too long.” She yawned and started walking upstairs, while Clay picked Star up and placed her in the crib that was meant for his son Firebolt . Star whined slightly as she was placed in her new bed.

“Shhh, it’s okay. You’re safe now, and you have a new mom and dad that will love you forever.” Star looked at him with half-opened eyes and yawned, just like her new mother had; Clay brought his face closer and kissed her forehead, careful to avoid her horn. “Goodnight Star… welcome home.” Clay turned off the lights and walked upstairs, eager to get to bed. He trotted to the bedroom and found Firefly lying in their large bed, looking as if she could fall asleep any second. She gave him a dreamy smile as he went into the bathroom and brushed his teeth; he returned to find Firefly sleeping soundly, a rare sight since she had been impregnated. Clay pulled the sheets back with his mouth and got settled into the bed; next he turned off the light and kissed Firefly’s cheek.

“Goodnight Clay,” she muttered, barely awake.

“Goodnight honey.” Clay rested his head on his pillow and slowly shut his eyes, a smile forming on his face as he drifted off to sleep.

Clay awoke to the sound of a crying infant as he slowly opened his eyes and groaned. “Ughhh, I’m not ready for this.” He pulled the sheets from his body and slowly slid out of bed.

Clay looked back at Firefly and saw that she was, remarkably, still sleeping on her side. He made his way down to Star’s crib and, sure enough, she was crying loudly. Clay picked her up and cradled her in his forelegs, trying to calm her down.

“How can she still be sleeping?” Clay said aloud as he looked back up the stairs; he then looked to the kitchen and remembered that they had bought some baby formula so that they would be ready for when Bolt was born. Clay placed Star back in the crib and went into the kitchen to prepare the formula; when it was ready he walked back to the crib and gave Evening Star the bottle, which she sucked on vigorously. “I guess you were hungry after last night, huh?” Clay walked back to the kitchen, remembering that Firefly would be just as hungry when she woke up.

He began making a traditional breakfast and a few odd items like pickle and kumquat slices, just in case Firefly was in an odd mood from her cravings. Clay heard the sound of hoofsteps coming down the stairs and instantly knew that Firefly was awake; she sat at the table slowly, being careful not to let her belly hit the table. Clay walked over with several dishes and placed them before her.

“This sure looks delicious Clay.” She began eating and Clay walked back to check on Star; he found her squirming slightly and knew that she had to be burped. He picked her up and patted her back until she gave a small belch. “How did you know about that? You’ve never taken care of a baby before.” Clay set Star back in her crib and then walked back to the table.

“Mom told me about the things I would need to do. As soon as I told her you were pregnant she started telling me all the baby ‘rules’ I would have to follow.” Clay began cutting into his pancakes.

“Well at least she’s still looking out for you.” Clay suddenly stopped eating. “What’s wrong?” Firefly asked him.

“Mom. We have to tell her and Comet that they’re going to have two grandkids… she’s going to flip.”

“That will certainly surprise them,” Firefly giggled. They finished eating and then prepared to leave the house, which included Clay putting on a foal pack and placing Star into the side pouch. “Aww, don’t you two look cute,” Firefly teased playfully.

“Well as soon as Bolt’s born you’re going to be the one carrying them.” They left the house and began making their way to see his mother and uncle. As they did Firefly winced. “Are you okay?” Clay asked, slightly worried.

“I’m fine, I think Bolt just kicked a little too hard that’s all.” Clay wasn’t convinced, but they continued walking.

After ten minutes they had made their way to Twilight’s library, which meant that they were getting close, however Clay noticed that Firefly was looking tired and flushed. “Do you want to rest?” he asked, placing a hoof on her shoulder.

“I…I think…I could use a glass of water.” Firefly smiled, trying to hide how tired she was.
Clay helped her sit down under a tree and left to find her a beverage; he knew that his Aunt Applejack had a stand close by so he figured he would try to get some apple juice. He was about half-way to the stand when he heard a stern voice.

“Hold it right there citizen!” Clay froze as he recognized the usual challenge of a Royal Guard. “Just what are you doing with that foal?”

“Please sir, I was just going to get my wife a drink! There’s no need to…” He stopped when he turned around and saw a dark blue pegasus with striking yellow eyes and a white mane and tail intersected by a single blue stripe , and dressed in golden armor. “Sky Tearer?”

“That’s Sergeant Sky Tearer.” He approached and Clay and stared him down briefly before his frown turned into a smile. “But for you I’ll make an exception.” He chuckled and swept Clay into a tight embrace.

“Sweet Celestia, you scared the crap out of me Sky,” Clay sighed.

“Sorry, I was just having some fun… but seriously what’s with the filly? I thought Firefly wasn’t due yet?”

“She is; I found this little one in the Everfree Forest last night and I’m taking care of her until I sign the papers or somepony claims her.” Sky looked at the filly and smiled as she reached for his face.

“What’s the cuties name?” he asked.

“Evening Star.”

“Aww…aren’t you just the cutest thing?” Sky said in a silly voice, tickling Star’s tummy and making her giggle.

“What’s with you? I thought you were against unicorns and earth ponies.” Sky looked at Clay, slightly insulted.

“Come on Clay, I told you I’m not like that anymore. I joined the army so that I could help all ponies out there, whatever they are.”

“I know, it’s just strange seeing you like that.”

“Yeah, I guess I can understand that. Hey, why don’t you head back to Firefly and I’ll get her that drink, sound good?” Clay nodded and walked back to find Firefly passed out in the shade.

Clay sat down next to her and nuzzled her face as she slept. Something was off about her today and it worried him. Soon however, Sky arrived, landing next to him and passing him a bottle of cold Apple juice.

“Thanks, she looks really tired.” Clay nudged Firefly awake and gave her the beverage; she eagerly guzzled it down in seconds.

“Do you two need any more help?”

“No I think we’ll be fine thanks,” Clay replied; Sky said goodbye to them both and flew off to return to his patrol. When Firefly felt rested enough they continued making their way to his mother’s place, and soon Clay was greeted by a familiar house. It was the home he had been raised in for most of his life since his mother had found him. Clay had always thought that after he was old enough and moved out to live with Firefly that his mother would find another cloud palace, like the one she had lived in when she was younger. To this day however she had never even mentioned moving to Clay, and was still living in the house that he had grown up in; the thought made him smile.

Clay knocked on the door and soon was greeted by his uncle Comet; he was similar to Clay save for being a pegasus pony and his blue eyes, but other than that Comet had the same coat and the same brown mane and tail as Clay did. “Clay, Firefly, didn’t expect to see…” Comet spotted Star who had fallen asleep. “Do you care to explain?” he asked.

“That’s why we came over.” Clay and Firefly trotted past Comet and inside the house. “Mom! Your son’s home!” No sooner had the words left his mouth than Rainbow Dash came rushing down the stairs.

“Clay! Oh my gosh I can’t believe you actually came to visit me!” she said, bursting with joy.

“Mom, you saw me last night,” Clay replied, blushing slightly.

“I know, but that was a party. This time you came over to see me.” She gave Clay a hug and he returned it with his own; Star began to whine and Dash immediately took notice.

“Clay…what are you doing with a baby?”

“That’s what we came over to tell you - we’re going to adopt her.” Dash’s eyes widened.

“You two are adopting? When did you decide on this?”

“It was a little unexpected. I found her in the forest on my way home last night and well… I thought she could use a good home.” Dash smiled as she brought her face next to Star, who started giggling and reaching for Rainbow’s mane.

“Well she is cute, and I think you two will give her a good home.”

“Thanks Rainbow Dash, that means a lo- ugghh.” Firefly winced as she felt a wave of pain run through her stomach. “Um…do you mind if I use your bathroom?” Comet led Firefly to the downstairs bathroom and shut the door.

“Is she okay?” Rainbow asked with a worried frown.

“I don’t know, Mom. She keeps telling me that it’s the baby kicking, but… I don’t think that’s the problem. I think she…” Before Clay could finish they heard Firefly screaming from inside the bathroom.

“Clay! I need help!” Clay ran to the bathroom and rammed the door open to see Firefly huddled on the floor with clear fluid pooling around her hooves.

“What happened?” Clay asked, beginning to panic.

“I…I think my water just broke!” Clay’s eyes widened in horror.

“Mom!” Within seconds Dash was by his side “Mom, fly to the hospital and tell them to get ready.” Dash nodded and left the house. “Uncle Comet, help me get Firefly to the hospital.” Comet and Clay helped Firefly to her hooves and walked her out of the house.

Hours later, after a long and painful labor involving lots of cursing at Clay for putting her through the stress of birth, Firefly was finally at peace. She rested in a hospital bed in a side room, cradling a small colt in her front legs. Clay sat by her side as Dash and Comet waited outside watching over Star. Clay looked at his son Firebolt; he was a crimson red pegasus with a dark blue mane and tail. He slept quietly on his mother’s chest while Clay stroked Firefly’s mane.

“You did good honey; the doctor said it was a healthy birth.” Firefly scoffed weakly.

“Healthy and painful, never put me through that again.”

“Hey, it was your fault. You were the one in heat and you teased me with that Wonderbolt jumpsuit of yours.”

“You could have refused.”

“With those eyes and that flank…how could I?” Firefly chuckled as she looked down at the sleeping colt in her arms.

“I never thought I could love something as much as flying. I never want to let him go.” Clay looked at Bolt as he beat his wings as if trying to fly away.

“Takes after his mom,” Clay chuckled. As he looked at Firefly he saw how tired she was, as evidenced by her dishevelled mane and drooping eyelids. “Why don’t you get some sleep and I’ll hold Bolt?” Firefly nodded weakly and passed her son to Clay, who held his newborn son in his front legs, warmth filling his insides as he gazed at his tiny but perfect features.

“So this is how Mom felt,” he whispered as he slowly rocked Bolt. “I hope I’m not making a mistake taking on two foals at once.” After a few minutes of quiet contemplation the door opened and Dash walked in, with Star on her back.

“Sorry, but I think the little squirt was missing her dad,” she whispered as she offered Star to her son. Clay looked down at Star and Bolt as they rested in his front legs, and a warm smile grew on his face.

“No, this isn’t a mistake. This is how it should be…this is my family.” Clay held his two foals closely, never wanting to part with them for as long as he lived.

Chapter 2

A whole month had passed since Firebolt had been born, and even though the two foals weren’t biologically related, he and Evening Star were often found sleeping or playing together just like a real brother and sister would. Today Clay and Firefly were trying to get the two foals to speak, as Firebolt was a month old while Evening Star was two months old.

“Come on Bolt, say mommy!” Firefly looked to her son hoping to get through to him, but he simply stared at her with his brown eyes “Mom-my!” Still the foal said nothing.

“Say daddy, sweetheart!” Clay said, looking to Star with hope, but it was soon dashed as the unicorn sucked her hoof instead. He sighed and looked to his wife. “Hey, when does Bolt start flying?” he asked her.

“Well my mom taught me at four months, so it probably won’t be much longer.” She started talking in a cute tone as she looked to her son. “And you’re going to be the best flyer ever, aren’t you sweetie!?” She tickled his belly causing him to giggle. “Hey, has Twilight told you when Star will start using magic?”

“Twilight said that she won’t be ready for the basics until she turns one, but she also said that we should be on the lookout for strange magical surges.” Bolt tottered over to his sister and they began playing with some small blocks; Clay and Firefly chuckled as they watched their children play. “Do you miss it?” he asked her.

“Miss what?

“Flying whenever you want?”

“Only when I was pregnant because I had to stay grounded, but now I can wait until Bolt starts flying to get my thrills.” She looked at Clay, who smiled sheepishly. “What about you?” Clay looked at her for a moment and then smiled.

“A little, but only when I need to get somewhere fast… why?” Firefly looked to their son and then back at Clay, and he instantly understood the motion. “It doesn’t bother me. He’s got you, my mom, and my uncle. I’d say he’ll be a natural flyer in no time.” Firefly gave him an uncertain glance.

“I just don’t want you to feel like you’re missing out, that’s all.”

“Well I can’t help him fly, but I can be there for him in other ways.”

“Are you sure?” she said softly. “I know how much those wings meant to you when we first met.” Clay waved a dismissive hoof.

“I’m over it honey, I promise.” Firefly shrugged and then looked to Bolt again.

“Firebolt the Wonderbolt…hey, that’s catchy!” she chuckled.

“Well, while you two have your heads in the clouds, Star will be learning magic from the most powerful unicorn in Ponyville,” Clay smirked.

“I’m sure she’ll make a fine unicorn someday Clay, especially if you’re backing her up along with Twilight.” Clay looked slightly downcast.

“Well actually… Twilight says that she’ll be learning in private at Canterlot, so we won’t actually get to see her that much.” Firefly looked at him, startled.

“Canterlot? But that’s so far away from Ponyville!”

“I know, but Twilight says that if Star wants the best education for her magic than that’s where she needs to go.” Firefly looked at Firebolt and realized something.

“And Bolt will have to go to flight camp when he’s old enough, and I have to go on tour with your mom soon, you’ll be…”

“All alone… I know.” Clay looked disheartened.

“Oh, Clay… I’m so sorry.” Clay smiled back at her.

“I’ll be fine honey, really - I understand. Besides, I have work to do at Sweet Apple Acres, so I won’t be too lonely.” Firefly looked at him sadly, realizing that Clay would be by himself once the foals had grown up. She walked up to her husband and kissed him softly.

“I promise I’ll think about you every day while I’m gone.”

“Same here,” he replied with a smile.

Suddenly Firebolt trotted up to Firefly; he stopped when he was inches from her and looked up into her smiling face.

“Mommy.” Clay and Firefly looked at him, stunned.

“Oh my gosh, he called me mommy!” Firefly was bursting with joy.

“Bolt, can you say daddy too?” Clay asked him excitedly.

“Momma,” he repeated.

“No, not mommy, daddy.”

“Mommy,” the colt said again, as Firefly chuckled.

“It’s okay Clay, he’ll get it eventually.” She glanced over to the clock on the wall. “Looks like it’s time to feed the kids.” Firefly picked up Bolt and Star, carrying them to the kitchen for some ‘private feeding’ as she called it.

“Do you need any help?” Clay asked as he stood up.

“No, I think I can handle it.”

Clay could hear the awkwardness in her voice; she was still getting used to nursing and he couldn’t blame her for wanting to be alone. They had thought about trying formula again but all the other mothers, plus Twilight, had insisted on breast-feeding to build up the foal’s immune system. Soon Firefly came back and set Bolt and Star back on the floor next to Clay before sitting down herself.

“Say daddy, sweetie,” Clay cajoled his daughter; not surprisingly all she did was suck her hoof as she stared at him with her big red eyes. Star and Bolt continued playing for about another ten minutes before they began to yawn; seeing the foals full and slightly tired, Clay and Firefly brought them to their crib and waited with them until they fell asleep.

“They’re so beautiful when they sleep,” Firefly whispered as she gushed over the sleeping foals.

“Kind of makes me wish they slept more often,” Clay whispered back as he stroked their manes. As Clay looked at his two children, he frowned slightly. “Hey, do you mind watching the kids while I go out?”

“Sure…but uh, why?”

“I need to ask my mom something.” Firefly nodded and then flew to a chair where she could keep an eye on the kids and picked up a book, while Clay left the house.

The sun was shining brightly as Clay made his way through Ponyville. Occasionally he would spot ponies he knew - like Lyra and her wife Bon Bon, who waved as he passed. He was just turning onto his mother’s street when he heard a familiar voice.

“Clay! Hey Clay, wait up!” Clay looked back to see Dinky running up to him.

“Dinky! Good to see you!” They gave each other a brief hug. “How are you doing?”

“Great, my latest book has been selling like crazy, but it’s still not as popular as Wings For a Pony.”

“Really? Your first book is still the most popular?” Clay said surprised.

“I told you your story was worth telling,” Dinky replied with a smile.

“So… how are things going with Sky?”

“Oh, he’s been great, and very supportive.” Her face fell slightly “But… I wish he was home more often.”

“He gets a lot of assignments?” Dinky shook her head.

“No, he normally isn’t so busy with guard duty, but lately more and more unicorns are disappearing. He wants to make sure Twilight, Rarity, Star and I are safe, and Shining Armor has been doubling the guard around Ponyville; they say it’s to keep us all safe, but I think Shining is particularly worried about his sister.” Clay raised an eyebrow.

“Is it that bad? Twilight is the most powerful unicorn in town, and she’s the Element of Magic. I’m sure she can handle herself.”

“Well you know, he’s got to look after his sister and his ponies,” Dinky replied.

Clay had only met Shining Armor once before, when Twilight had been foalsitting him. Shining had been kind and hadn’t thought any less of Clay for being an earth pony. Clay had liked him and hoped to see him again someday, along with his wife Princess Cadance. As Clay thought back he suddenly heard another voice, a voice he knew all too well.

“Look out below!” Clay didn’t even bother to, as he leapt towards Dinky and pushed her out of the way. Moments later Rainbow Dash hit the ground with a thud and bounced slightly before coming to a halt. Clay and Dinky rushed over to her side and helped her up. “Sorry… new trick… didn’t… get it right.” Clay shook his head and sighed.

“Mom, honestly, why do you always do that? One of these days you’re going to crash and not get back up, and I don’t do bits and pieces.”

“Well I am the Captain of the Wonderbolts! Somepony’s got to come up with some new tricks to keep us interesting,” she replied, shaking the dust off,

“Isn’t that the rookies’ job?” Clay said, raising an eyebrow.

“And let those hotshots make me look old and soft? No thanks, I still have plenty of fire left in me! The day I let a rookie outdo me is the day I turn in my daredevil license!”

“Whatever you say Mom.” Clay shrugged as Dash continued to dust herself off.

“Well, I better get back to training; I almost had that maneuver down.” She extended her wings.

“Mom, wait!” Clay shouted.

“What?”

“I wanted to talk to you… privately.” Dinky took the message and walked away with a wave; Clay and Dash walked under a tree and sat down in the shade.

“Now, what do you need from your still totally awesome mom?” she asked him.

“Mom… it’s my kids. Bolt called Firefly mommy today.” Dash’s eyes widened.

“Congratulations!”

“Thanks… but… he won’t call me dad. And Star… Star won’t say anything, and she’s always looking at me like she’s trying to figure me out.” Dash looked at her son uncertainly
“Mom… I don’t think my kids like me.”

“Clay, why would you think that?” Dash asked in alarm.

“Well I can’t fly like Firebolt, and… I’m not Star’s real dad.”

“Clay, stop thinking like that. You and I aren’t related, but we love each other just the same. Sure, Bolt has a connection with Firefly because they are the same kind of pony, and as for Star… just give her time.” She rubbed Clay’s back, trying to set his mind at ease.

“Was… was I this difficult when you found me?” Clay asked her.

“Well it took you three years to call me mommy, and honestly I didn’t think you liked me when I adopted you.” She smiled. “And I was completely wrong. So don’t worry about it, they’ll let you know how much they love you when they’re ready.” Clay smiled.

“Alright… if you say so Mom. Thanks.” He gave her a small hug.

“That’s what I’m here for. Now if you don’t mind I have some flying to catch up on.” She stood up and flapped her wings, shooting straight up into the sky before disappearing behind a cloud.

Clay opened the door to his home to find it all quiet. He walked back to where he had left Firefly and the foals, but paused when he heard a slight sniffle. He looked around to see Firefly still sitting in the same chair, with tears running down her face.

“Honey… what’s wrong?” Clay asked, slowly approaching her.

“Sorry… I just um… finished reading the new Dr. Whooves book and…” She let out a small sob and Clay suddenly knew why she was so upset. He reached over and hugged her tightly, stroking her mane.

“It’s okay… it’s just a story. Besides, the Doctor will be back in the next book,” he reassured her gently.

“Why did he have to go?” she sobbed.

“I know… I felt the same way when I read the book.” Firefly sniffled slightly.

“Sorry… I just really liked the book… I really liked the Doctor. He reminds me of you.” Clay couldn’t help but smile at that remark.

“I’m flattered.” He let her go and waited as she dried her eyes. “Why don’t you head upstairs and calm down while I look after the kids, okay?” She nodded and made her way over to the staircase, when suddenly she stopped and looked back at Clay with sad violet eyes.

“Clay… promise me you won’t ever leave me.” Clay was startled by the remark.

“Why would I leave you? I love you and the kids.”

“No I mean - don’t leave me forever by dying… I couldn’t stand it if you… if you…” She broke down into tears again and Clay rushed over to comfort her.

“Firefly… why would you say something like that?”

“Because when I was reading the book I remembered when you told me about what happened with you and Sky’s father… if Comet hadn’t saved you when he did you’d be…” She let out a choked sob and buried her head into Clay’s shoulder.

“I’m fine honey, and that was a long time ago… he won’t be trying to kill anypony else., I promise.” Clay had never seen Firefly so upset; she didn’t try to hide her emotions like Dash did but she had never looked so emotionally distraught before. Clay nuzzled the side of her face, feeling her tears dampen his fur. “I’m not going to leave you… I promise that too.” He kissed her forehead and she gave him a tight hug.

“I’m sorry… I think my hormones are acting up again. I just started to feel really sad and I couldn’t stop,” she choked out.

“It’s OK,” he whispered to her. “Why don’t you head upstairs and calm down, okay? I’ll be up soon once I check on the kids.” Firefly wiped her eyes and nodded, then slowly flapped up the stairs towards their bedroom. As Clay stood there watching her, he heard a small whine and turned to see that Star was awake. “Come here sweetheart.” He reached into the crib and sat down, holding her in his forelegs; he then poked her nose and she giggled, making him smile. As he held Star she buried her face in his chest with a small smile.

“Daddy,” she said quietly.

Clay didn’t say a word as he looked down at Star’s cute smile. Finally, after what felt like ages, he kissed her on the forehead and hugged her tightly as she started to drift back off to sleep. As he sat there he felt a comforting warmth enter his heart; a single warm tear escaped his eye and fell to the ground as he realized the truth. He was her daddy.

Chapter 3

Clay and Firefly were still sleeping soundly in their bed as the sun barely started to shine through their window. Gradually however they both became aware of a pressure at the end of their bed, and then heard a small filly’s voice.

“Mommy… Daddy, wake up!” Star said excitedly. Clay and Firefly both groaned slightly, as it was still too early for them to even think about getting up. “Come on!” The filly whined, nudging her father slightly “You said you’d be up for our birthday!”

“We did… but we never said we’d be up this early,” Clay muttered as he turned over onto his side.

“Mommy, make Daddy get up!” Star demanded, walking over to her mother.

“We’re too tired right now sweetie, go play with your brother,” Firefly groaned. Star huffed for a moment before jumping down from the bed and walking to the room which she shared with her brother. Star also shared her birthday with her brother Bolt, due to her not having an official birthday; she didn’t mind because she loved her brother and they shared many things in their life already. Star walked into her bedroom and saw her brother awake and sitting in his bed.

“Did you get them up?” Bolt asked her.

“No, they’re still sleeping,” Star pouted. A smirk crept onto Bolts face.

“Well then, I guess we’ll have to try harder.”

“No Bolt, I don’t want to make them upset,” Star said quietly as her brother jumped from his bed.

“Do you want your presents or not?” Star thought for a moment and then nodded. Together, they snuck into their parent’s room and climbed onto a nearby chair, facing their still-sleeping parents.

“Ready?” Bolt asked.

“Ready,” Star replied as Bolt began counting.

“One… two… three… Geronimo!” Bolt and Star jumped from the chair and landed squarely on their parents. Clay and Firefly awoke startled and looked at the bed to see their two children sitting between them.

“Star, Bolt, what in Celestia’s name are you two doing!?” Firefly asked, still startled.

“Playing,” Bolt said innocently.

“You did tell me to play with Bolt,” Star added.

“You weren’t playing; you were trying to wake up your Mom and Dad,” Clay said crossly. “You know what happens when you wake us up early.” Clay frowned at his two foals.

“Are we… grounded?” Star asked nervously.

No…” Clay looked to his wife and they both smirked.

“You get attacked by… the bed monsters!” Before the two foals could react Firefly had grabbed Firebolt and begun tickling him.

“Mmm, you look delicious!” Firefly said as she started nibbling his stomach and made fake eating sounds. Bolt started to laugh and squirm as he was attacked by his mother.

“S-s-s-Star! R-r-r-run for it!” he laughed uncontrollably.

Clay made a grab for Star but she ducked and hopped off the bed.

“Get back here!” Clay shouted as he got out of his bed and began chasing his daughter down the hall.

Star screamed as she saw her father chase her, and ran down the stairs to take shelter under the coffee table.

“Hmmm… where could that filly have gone?” Clay heard a giggle as he finished talking. Star saw her father’s legs pace back and forth as she tried to stifle her laughter; she saw her father disappear from view and waited patiently. Suddenly she felt her tail being grabbed and she was then pulled out from under the table.

“Goth yah!” Clay said through a mouthful of hair. Star squealed and then suddenly she vanished before reappearing a few feet away from him. “Hey!” Clay shouted as he continued chasing her. Star tried to run, but she was soon caught and then she began to laugh loudly as her father began fake eating her stomach.

“Daddy! P-p-please stop! I’m- I’m- I’m going to wet myself!” She laughed, tears running down her face.

“Say you’re sorry for waking us up!” Clay teased, before tickling her with his hooves.

“Daddy, p-please I’m begging you! S-s-s-stop!” Star pleaded.

“Not until you say you’re sorry!” Clay replied, still tickling the little unicorn.

“Daddy stop!” she shouted until suddenly a bright red flash erupted from her horn, sending Clay flying back into a wall with a loud bang. Clay slumped to the ground his head spinning from the pain of the impact. “Daddy!” Star cried out as she got up and ran over to him.

“What’s going on down…?” Firefly stopped when she saw her husband up against a wall; she flew down the stairs and landed by his side “Clay are you all right?! What happened?!”

“I… I think I tickled Star a little too much.” Clay groaned, rubbing the back of his head. There was a small sniffle and they both looked to see Star with tears running down her face.

“I’m… *sniff* I’m sorry Mommy… I didn’t mean to.” She hung her head allowing large tears to fall to the ground. “I didn’t mean to hurt Daddy… I… I just wanted him to stop tickling me.” She sobbed. “Please… please don’t be mad Daddy.” As she cried Clay got up and walked slowly up to her and then sat down again before giving her a tight hug to show that he wasn’t angry.

“It’s OK,” he whispered. “I know you didn’t mean to do it.” He began to stroke the back of her mane as she sobbed into his chest.

“I’m…*sniff* I’m sorry, Daddy,” Star sniffled. Clay kissed the top of her head and squeezed her tighter. “Do… do you still love me Daddy?” she asked sadly.

“Of course I still love you, he reassured her. “I could never stop loving you sweetie.” She looked up at him, still crying slightly, but when she saw her father smiling at her she wiped her eyes and smiled back. “I love you Star,” he said softly.

“We both love you sweetie,” Firefly said as she walked over and hugged her.

“I love you too Mommy, and Daddy,” Star said happily, feeling the tight embrace of her parents.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door; Clay released Star and got up to answer the door while Firefly stayed with her. As Clay opened the door he was greeted by the sight of his mother and uncle.

“Mom, Uncle Comet, glad you guys made it!” He gave his mother a small kiss on the cheek and his uncle a hug as they walked in.

“Grandma, Grandpa!” Star said happily as she ran up to them and nuzzled their legs.

“Hey Squirt! Happy birthday.” Dash ruffled Star’s mane. “Where’s your brother?” Dash got her answer when a red blur came running down the stairs towards them.

“Grandma, Grandpa!” Bolt shouted excitedly.

“Hey champ, good to see you!” Comet lifted Bolt and allowed the small colt to hug his neck lovingly.

“I thought I told you to tell your kids not to call me Grandma,” Dash muttered to Clay.

“I did. But they refuse to listen,” Clay sighed.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love them Clay, but… it makes me feel old,” Dash sighed as Clay chuckled slightly.

“Are you going to do the sonic rainboom for us Grandma Dash?” Star asked, looking hopeful.

“For you kids I’d do a double sonic rainboom,” she replied with some pride.

“Oh wow! Can we see it, can we?” Bolt said, bouncing up and down.

“Maybe later when everypony gets here. That way everyone can see how awesome I am.” Comet rolled his eyes.

After about an hour passed there was another knock at the door; Firefly was the one to answer it this time and was met with a light brown stallion with a vest and pocket chain. His hair was jet black, and his eyes were light brown.

“Dad!” Firefly shouted in surprise.

“Hello sweetheart,” he replied, giving his daughter a tight hug.

“I didn’t expect to see you here. Canterlot is a long way from Ponyville.”

“You think I would miss something as important as my grandchildren’s birthday?” Jasper chuckled.

“No it’s just… I’m glad you made it Dad.” Jasper looked slightly saddened.

“Listen… I know that when you were growing up that I wasn’t always there for you, and I missed more than a few birthdays… but I want to make up for that.” Firefly looked her father in the eye.

“It’s okay Dad… you were busy, I understand.”

“No. That’s no excuse, you should be more important to me than any job out there. And so should the rest of my family.” Firefly smiled and kissed her father on the cheek.

“Thank you Daddy.” She allowed her father to step inside and join the others.

The house was beginning to fill with chatter and childish laughter. Soon however there was another knock. Dash was the one to answer this time, to greet Twilight and the others.

“Guys I’m glad you made it.”

“Of course we made it. We wouldn’t miss out seeing our favorite niece and nephew,” Twilight replied, walking in with Pinkie Pie behind her with her party cannon.

“Oh, no,” Jasper and Comet said in unison. As they predicted, Pinkie pulled the cord and various party decorations shot out, making the living room look more party-worthy.

“Now it’s a party!” Pinkie said joyfully; Star and Bolt laughed in unison as they were covered in confetti.

“Sorry if we were a little late darling, but I simply couldn’t find the right shade of eye liner to go with my eyes,” Rarity apologized as her coltfriend Germane followed behind her.

“You don’t need make-up Aunt Rarity, you’re always pretty,” Star said to the older unicorn.

“Oh Star, that’s very sweet of you to say. And you’re a very pretty filly yourself. Why soon stallions will be asking your hoof in marriage wherever you go,” she replied with some drama.

“Not if I have anything to say about it,” Clay muttered to his wife. Germane walked up to Firefly, smiling broadly.

“Germane… it’s good to see you again,” Firefly said, smiling.

“It’s good to see you too Firefly.” Germane and Firefly gave each other a small hug. “It’s hard to believe that you used to be no taller than my knee, now I see this beautiful mare in front of me with her husband and two foals… where did the time go?” Germane sighed.

“You couldn’t be my butler forever Germane, I had to grow up sometime.” Germane gave a small smile.

“I may not be your butler anymore, but I hope you still consider me your friend.” Firefly gave him another hug.

“Always Germane… always.” Firefly released him and stepped back.

“I can’t thank you enough for finding Rarity for me Firefly, I couldn’t be happier,” he said, glancing at Rarity.
“Well it’s the least I could do for helping me find my love,” Firefly replied.

“Where’s Cousin Spike?” Bolt asked, looking around.

“Sorry sweetie, but Spike had some business in Canterlot,” Twilight said sadly as Star and Bolt lowered their heads. “But he wanted me to tell you both he wishes you a happy birthday,” she continued. Star and Bolt smiled slightly.

“Whoo doggy! I can’t believe these little foals are already 5 years old, seems like just yesterday Ah was busy chasing them around the barn,” Applejack said, pulling her niece and nephew into a tight hug.

“Aunt Applejack,” Bolt said, looking up at her, “does Daddy have to work with you on the farm today?”

“Nah, Ah gave your pappy the day off so he can be here for your birthday.” The two foals looked at their dad happily.

“Yay! Daddy’s off today!” they shouted in unison.

The foals had little time to celebrate, as there was yet another knock at the door. Clay walked over and opened the door to see Dinky and Sky on the other side.

“Hi Clay. Did we miss the party?” Dinky asked.

“Nope, it’s just getting started.” He stepped aside allowing them to pass by.

“Uncle Sky! Aunt Dinky!” the two foals said happily.

“Hey you two!” Sky said, bumping his hoof with Bolt’s while Dinky nuzzled Star’s face.

“Happy birthday,” Dinky said warmly as the foals looked at them.

“How are things in the Royal Army, Uncle Sky?” Bolt asked.

“Well… to be honest it’s pretty boring. But the armor and the benefits are cool though. Are you planning on becoming a guard, Bolt?”

“Nope! I’m going to be a Wonderbolt just like my Mommy!”

“And I’m sure you’ll be one of the best there is,” Dinky said smiling.

“What about you Star? What do you want to be when you grow up?” Sky asked her.

“I don’t know. Aunt Twilight said that I could make a good librarian since I love books so much.” Sky smiled.

“Well I’m sure whatever you decide on you’ll be a natural.”

“Thanks Uncle Sky.” She nuzzled his leg.

“You’re welcome. Now if you’ll excuse me I have to talk to your dad about something.” Sky left Dinky with the foals and approached Clay. “Quite the turnout huh?” he said casually.

“Yeah, I can’t believe how much my family has grown over the years. Used to be just my mom and aunts, now my uncle shows up to be my guardian and help out with my mom, Firefly’s father is my father-in-law, my two kids and my family back in Manehatten, and now you and Dinky.” Sky look slightly startled.

‘You… consider us… me… as family?”

“Well… maybe not in traditional sense, but yeah.” Sky looked uncertainly at Clay.

“I’m surprised that you would even go that far, given our history.”

“Sky… you said that you wanted a fresh start and I believe you, and apparently so does Dinky.” They looked back to see Dinky playing with Star and Bolt, making Sky smile. “She misses you Sky,” Clay said quietly.

“I know… I want to be with her more often, but with all the unicorn disappearances, Prince Shining has been making sure that Canterlot and Ponyville are doubly protected.” Sky sighed. “I love her so much Clay… I can’t imagine my life without her now.” He looked at Clay. “In fact… I’ve been thinking about asking her to marry me soon.” Clay looked at him, slightly shocked.

“You’re that smitten?” Sky simply nodded. “Well then, I hope she says yes.” Sky smiled.

“What about your mom and uncle? Are they together too? I mean he may be your uncle, but he’s not her sister.”

“No, they just live together so they can be close to me, Firefly, and the kids. But I don’t think they actually have… those kind of feelings for each other.” Sky smirked.

“I don’t know Clay, your uncle alone with a pegasus mare… seems to me like they would start getting ‘close’ after a while.” Clay raised an eyebrow.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, nothing,” Sky said casually

Several hours had passed and during that time even more ponies arrived for the party. Spitfire and Soarin, along with their teenage son Flash and their daughter Swift, had stopped by along with the adult Cutie Mark Crusaders, who had decided to open a business where they could help colts and fillies find their special talents. Since the living room had become slightly cramped they decided to move the party outside and leave the presents for later. As the whole party moved outside they were glad for the slight isolation of the house; having four Wonderbolts plus an ex-Wonderbolt captain would have drawn a lot of attention. Spitfire and Soarin were catching up with Rainbow Dash and Firefly.

“I can’t believe you guys made it,” Firefly said, sounding surprised.

“Well Rainbow still has some pull as the Wonderbolt captain, and when we heard that one of our team members was having a birthday for their two kids how could we say no? Besides Rainbow said that her friend Applejack would be bringing some of her big apple pies!” Soarin said enthusiastically.

“You look good Firefly; it’s not easy having two kids,” Spitfire commented.

“You would know,” Rainbow replied.

“Yeah… and you’re still the sexiest mare I’ve ever seen… maybe we can find a cloud later and…” Soarin said slyly.

“Soarin… not in front of the kids,” Spitfire said, blushing.

“What? Our kids are old enough to know about…”

“I meant the little kids you apple brain,” she hissed. Soarin had only noticed that Star and Bolt were standing behind them.

“Oh… um…. yeah. Um, so Bolt your mother says that you’re planning to become a Wonderbolt huh?” Soarin asked the colt.

“Yeah, some day… I’m going to be just like you, and Mommy!”

“I know you will kid. Just keep following that dream and someday it’ll come true,” Spitfire said encouragingly.

“Was working at Sweet Apple Acres Daddy’s dream?” Star asked.

“No, your father had a different dream when we met,” Firefly replied.

“What was it?” she asked.

“To have wings,” Rainbow said. Suddenly Star and Bolt started laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Firefly asked.

“Daddy can’t have wings, he’s an earth pony!” Bolt said, chuckling.

“Yeah, Daddy can’t fly!” Star giggled.

“Well…” Firefly began but was soon cut off by Twilight.

“Attention everypony! It’s time to cut the cake!” The crowd gathered around the large cake that had been brought by Pinkie Pie, while Clay and Firefly placed their children by their birthday cake.

“Make a wish! Make a wish!” Pinkie shouted excitedly.

“Must you say that every time we get to this part?” Twilight asked.

“It’s my most favorite part of a birthday party!” Pinkie shouted.

The whole crowd watched as the two foals concentrated and then looked to each other, counting in unison.

“One…two…three!” They each inhaled a lungful of air and blew as hard as they could, and the candles were extinguished in an instant. Clay and the others applauded the foals and then began to cut the cake, making sure that everypony got a slice, and being careful that Star and Bolt got the biggest pieces. After they had finished eating, Rainbow Dash decided to end the party quite literally with a bang as she soared into the air and performed a double sonic rainboom. The two foals stared in complete bewilderment as they sat next to their parents.

Night had arrived and soon the excitement was beginning to die down; the party had moved back indoors where Star and Bolt began opening their presents. The gifts ranged from books from Twilight, a Stetson hat and lasso from Applejack, a make-it-yourself cookbook from Pinkie, a junior Wonderbolt jumpsuit for Firebolt from Soarin and a pair of autographed Wonderbolt goggles from Spitfire for Star, a beautiful dress for Star from Rarity, capes from the Cutie Mark Crusaders, two toy jousting armor sets from Dash and Comet, a butterfly habitat from Fluttershy, a book on flying from Sky for Bolt, another on magic for Star from Dinky, and finally from their parents they received passes that would allow them to visit Canterlot Castle next week. Both Bolt and Star were ecstatic at the thought of going to the castle and possibly seeing the princesses.

After the gifts were unwrapped, Star and Bolt thanked the others as everypony started heading for home. As Dash and Comet said good bye to Clay and Firefly said goodbye to her father and Germane, they noticed that Evening Star and Firebolt looked exhausted from the exciting day. Firefly picked them up and carried them to their beds, pulling the sheets back and tucking them in. “Did you two have fun today?” she asked them.

“It was the best birthday ever,” Bolt said sleepily.

Firefly smiled as Star turned her head towards the window. “Look Mommy!” Firefly looked to the window and saw several fireflies dancing outside. “Fireflies just like you,” Star giggled.

Firefly walked to the window and opened it; she reached a hoof out and allowed one to land on her, then walked back to her children. They watched the small bug glow as it perched on her hoof.

“Mommy, why doesn’t Grandpa call you your real name?” asked Bolt.

“What?” she asked, confused.

“Grandpa Jasper calls you Philomena instead of Firefly.”

“Oh… well that’s kind of a long story sweetheart, but when I was your age my mother would call me her ‘little firefly’ when they danced around my bedroom window. So that’s what I decided to call myself.”

“Like now?” Star asked.

“Yes, like now,” she chuckled.

“Tell us a story Mommy,” Star said softly.

“Which one do you want to hear?” she asked as she stroked her daughter’s mane.

“Something about a princess and a knight.”

“All right… let’s see…” Firefly tried to think of any stories that fit what they wanted, but couldn’t remember any. Then she had an idea.

“Once upon a time there was a beautiful pegasus princess who was locked away in a castle by her father. She loved her father and he loved her, but the king was afraid that if the princess left the castle she would be hurt like the queen was years ago. One day she snuck out to try flying and become just like her mother and see the world. But when she left, she hurt herself and fell into a lake where she almost drowned. But she didn’t… and when she woke up she saw the most handsome knight she had ever seen. But the knight was very shy and ran away before she could thank him properly, so she flew back to her castle and dreamed of the day she would meet her knight again.” Star and Bolt’s eyes began to droop.

“Then one day the knight found his courage thanks to a beautiful wizard unicorn, and flew to the castle to tell the princess how he felt about her. They met each other in secret over the next three days and the princess was very happy… but the knight was sad.” Star and Bolt looked at their mother curiously. “He was sad because he knew that his wings would not last forever and he was afraid that the princess would stop loving him when she found out he was not really a pegasus pony. So on his last day the knight tried to tell her the truth, but a dark knight exposed his secret before he could tell the princess… and she was heartbroken, and so was the knight. But the very next day the princess realized that she didn’t care if he could fly or not, so she left the castle and looked for the knight. But it was the knight’s last day with his wings and he was very sad… and do you know what the princess did?” The two foals shook their heads. “She kissed him to let him know that she still loved him very much.”

“What happened next?” Star said sleepily, but with interest.

“Well, they got married and moved to a small cottage in a small quiet town, and they had two beautiful foals, a brave and handsome prince,” she kissed the top of Bolt’s head, “and a smart and beautiful princess.” She kissed the top of Star’s head next. “And they all lived happily ever after.”

“That was good story Mommy,” Star mumbled as she started to fall asleep.

“I’m glad you liked it, now go to sleep.” Firefly got off the bed and walked to the window again.

“Mommy, was that a true story?” Star asked as Firefly looked back at her daughter.

“Every word,” she whispered as Star finally fell asleep with a peaceful smile on her face.

Firefly reached the window and allowed the firefly to join the others; as she watched it join with another slightly larger firefly, she couldn’t help but think about the day she met Clay and how he made her feel. She looked to the two fireflies as they flew off into the distance and then shut the window again, leaving the nightlight on. Firefly gave one last happy glance at her two sleeping foals, then left the room to find Clay waiting outside the door.

“How are the kids?” he asked.

“They’re both asleep; they wanted a bedtime story,” she whispered as she slowly closed the door.

“Which one did you tell them?”

“Oh… just a story about a strong, brave, and handsome earth pony knight rescuing a princess.” She nuzzled his neck.

“Sounds like a good story,” Clay replied, nuzzling her back as they both shut their eyes.

“I love you, my handsome knight,” she whispered as she rested her head on his shoulder.

“And I love you, my beautiful princess,” Clay whispered back as he rested his head on hers.

Chapter 4

“Bolt, hold still!” Firefly grumbled as she tried to hold her squirming ten year old son.

“It itches, mom!” Bolt complained as he reached his head back and nibbled at his right wing.

“Well if you would hold still then I could preen you.” Firebolt stopped biting his wing and tried his best to hold still. His mother lowered her head and scanned for any loose feathers; when she one she grabbed the feather with her teeth and gave a small tug. Firebolt gave a relived sigh as the feather popped free.

“Oh that feels good!” Bolt groaned as he flexed his wing.

“Well you’ll have to keep holding still Bolt. I still see at least two other feathers.” Firefly continued preening him as Clay walked in, shaking his head slightly at the display before him.

“Hey dad!” Bolt called out as he spotted his father.

“Hey son. Have either of you seen Star anywhere?” Clay asked them.

“I think she’s in her room,” his wife replied as she tugged on another crimson feather and placed it in a small pile beside her.

“Ow!” Bolt shouted.

“Oh don’t be such a baby! I preen myself all the time and it doesn’t hurt,” his mother scolded.

Clay left the room and headed upstairs to his children’s room. When he reached the door he knocked three times.

“It’s open!” a filly’s voice called out.

Clay opened the door to reveal a small bedroom with two distinctly different halves. On one side was a pink wall lined with posters showing magic demonstrations in Canterlot for new spells, some performed by her Aunt Twilight. The floor was littered with books, and one book was left open on the bed as if someone had been reading it.

The other half of the room was blue, with posters of Wonderbolts on the walls. The bed was disheveled and untidy, unlike the other bed across from it. Clay walked in and spotted Star, now ten years old, sitting down and looking into a mirror as she brushed her mane with a brush held in her red aura.

“Hi Daddy!” Star said cheerfully as she continued to perfect her mane.

“Hi sweetheart.” Clay walked up beside her and looked to her as she set the brush down.

“Dad… do you and Mommy really have to go to work today?” Star asked her father with a sad look in her red eyes.

“Sorry Star, but we have to start making some money around here, and your Aunt Applejack needs help with the harvest. After all, cider season is coming up and I always make sure your grandmother gets some.” Star looked at him with a puzzled frown.

“Grandma always gets so excited when cider season comes up.” She stood up and turned to her father. “She always gets this look in her eye, and it kind of creeps me and Bolt out.”

“It’s good cider,” Clay replied as they began leaving the room.

“Hey! Maybe I can help you with the apple bucking today. That way we can spend the whole day together!” Star said, sounding hopeful.

“Sorry Star, but you’re still too young to start apple bucking,” Clay replied to the slightly sad-looking Star.

“I could use my magic to pick the apples,” Star suggested.

“Uh… sorry sweetie, but Aunt Applejack likes to do things the earth pony way when it comes to working.” Clay and Star made their way down the stairs and met up with Bolt and Firefly.

“Honey, can you keep an eye on the kids while I get dressed for work?” Firefly asked.

“Sure thing.” Firefly flew upstairs while Clay took the opportunity to spend some time with his kids while he could.

“Hey Dad? Are you going to watch me when I try to fly with Mom?” Bolt asked.

“You bet. I wouldn’t miss your first flight for anything,” Clay replied with a grin.

“Only if he can get off the ground this time,” Star snickered.

“Yeah, well Grandma says that once I get my wings going I’ll be all over the place! And you’ll be stuck down here in the dirt!” He stuck his tongue out at his sister and she returned the gesture.

“Hey! Knock it off you two!” Clay scolded.

“Yes Dad,” they said in unison.

After several minutes Firefly flew downstairs wearing her navy blue Wonderbolt jumpsuit with a pair of slightly battered goggles on her head. As Clay reached past her to put on his Stanton hat Star walked up to her mother, peering at her goggles curiously.

“Hey Mom, why do you wear those goggles?” she asked.

“Well, when your father proposed to me he gave me these goggles that same night, to wear when I started training with the Wonderbolts.” She took them off her head and showed them to her kids.

“They look old,” Bolt said, noticing a few scratches on the lenses.

“They belonged to your father’s biological mother, and he wanted me to have them.” She placed the goggles back on her head. “And I’ve been wearing them ever since.” She smiled as she looked back at Clay, who now was wearing his cowpony hat.

“Ready to go?” he asked her.

“Yeah I’m ready,” she replied.

“Hey! Who’s foalsitting us while you two are gone?” Star asked, looking slightly worried.

“Your Uncle Sky and Aunt Dinky are watching you this time, since me and your grandmother are working today,” Firefly answered.

“Alright! Uncle Sky and Aunt Dinky are the best!” Bolt said excitedly.

Within seconds there was a soft knock at the door.

“That must be them now.” Clay opened the door and was greeted by Sky and Dinky.

“Yay! Aunt Dinky and Uncle Sky!” The two foals ran up to the stallion and mare, giving them tight hugs.

“Nice to see you guys too!” Dinky chuckled while Sky ruffled Bolt’s mane. After they released their aunt and uncle, Bolt and Star stood at attention while saluting Sky.

“Private Firebolt reporting for duty sir!” the colt shouted.

“Private Evening Star also reporting for duty sir!” Star added, while Sky saluted them back.

“At ease,” Sky replied.

“What are our orders Sergeant Sky Tearer?” Bolt said in a loud voice.

“Orders are to go upstairs and decide what you want to do today.”

“Sir yes sir!” they shouted in unison and then ran upstairs, giggling the whole way.

“Ah, kids,” Sky sighed as he watched them run to their rooms.

“Thanks for coming, you two,” Firefly said to Dinky.

“It’s no trouble. I love spending time with the kids,” Dinky replied, smiling.

“I’m just glad I can get a break from the military routine. Prince Shining has been making sure that all of us are keeping a close eye on Ponyville. And truth be told… my wings are killing me,” Sky groaned as he flexed his back.

“Well you won’t get much time to relax with those two. They can be balls of pure energy sometimes,” Clay replied.

“Anyway, we’d better be going; your mother gets testy when one of us is late.” Firefly and Clay started to leave when suddenly they heard Star and Bolt running down the stairs.

“What are you two doing back down here?” Sky asked curiously.

“We forgot to say goodbye to Mom and Dad,” Star answered.

“I knew we’d forgotten something,” Firefly muttered.

Clay and Firefly walked back to their children, giving them tight hugs which they returned in kind.

“We’ll miss you Mom and Dad,” Bolt said, hugging his mother tightly.

“We’ll miss you guys too,” Clay whispered as they gave Star and then Bolt quick kisses on their heads. Reluctantly they let their children go, thanked Dinky and Sky once again, and left the house. Star and Bolt looked out a nearby window to see their mother and father give each other a kiss goodbye, making the two foals groan in disgust as they saw her fly off into the sky and him walk down the road to Sweet Apple Acres.

As Bolt and Sky watched their parents disappear from view they let out sad sighs; seeing their unhappy dispositions Sky and Dinky tried to think of something to cheer them up.

“Ummm… what do you two want to play?” Dinky asked.

“We can play fortress!” Bolt shouted, his sadness vanishing instantly.

“Yeah, we love playing fortress!” Star said excitedly.

“Uncle Sky is on my team!” Bolt shouted.

“And Aunt Dinky is on mine!” Star shouted back.

Each foal ran to their team-mate’s side, quickly built makeshift fortresses from nearby furniture and then ran up to their rooms to put on their toy jousting armor to add authenticity. When the preparations were complete, the two siblings sat in their fortresses with their aunt and uncle as their soldiers.

“You call that a fortress?! It’s made out of couch cushions!” Star shouted at her brother.

“Like books are any better!” Bolt shouted back.

“I’ll take down you and your pathetic fort, airhead!” Star challenged.

“Bring it on, nerd!” Bolt shouted as he threw a pillow at his sister. The pillow however was soon caught by a red aura and sent flying back at Sky and Bolt. “Hey! No magic!” Bolt shouted angrily.

“You never said we couldn’t!” Star turned to Dinky. “Pass me a pillow, Private Dinky!”

“Yes ma’am!” Dinky gave her niece a nearby pillow, which she took in her hoof and tossed at her brother’s fortress, causing one of the ‘wall’ cushions to sag slightly.

The fight continued for ten minutes as they tossed pillows at each other; occasionally the two would make temporary peace to retrieve more ammo, only to start the fight all over again soon thereafter. At some point the tides of battle had changed, putting Bolt in the lead with his Aunt Dinky as his prisoner of war.

“It’s all over Sister! You have no soldiers and you’re out of cannon balls! I suggest you surrender before I destroy you!” Bolt shouted confidently.

“In your dreams, booger eater!” Star called back.

“I only did that once!” Bolt shouted angrily. “Sergeant Sky, would you like to help me destroy her fort?”

“Yes, General Firebolt! And if I may sir, I would like to request that the prisoner come with me when we win.” Bolt turned to his uncle with a confused expression.

“Why?”

“For a ‘private’ interrogation.” Bolt smirked.

“Yes, a soldier of the unicorn kingdom deserves no less.” Sky looked to his wife.

“Don’t worry milady, I won’t be… too rough.” Dinky elbowed him in the ribs as she blushed slightly.

“Any last words?!” Bolt asked as he and Sky held their ammo.

“Unicorns rule!” Star shouted defiantly.

“Not today they don’t! Fire!” Bolt and Sky hurled their pillows at Star’s dilapidated fortress, their victory assured. However, before the missiles could impact, Star’s horn glowed red and the two pillows stopped in midair before being launched back to hit Bolt and Sky squarely in their faces. The two pegasi fell backwards in a tangle and the whole fort came crashing down around them, ending the game.

“Yes!” Star shouted as she hopped up and down. Sky and Bolt emerged from the destroyed fortress shaking their heads as Dinky ran up to Star and slapped a hoof against hers. “I won! I won! I won! I won!” Star shouted happily.

“Only because you cheated!” Bolt said angrily, trotting up to his sister. “You used your magic to win!” Bolt was scowling at his sister intensely.

“You never said I couldn’t,” Star said sticking her tongue out at him.

“I won that battle and you know it!” Bolt shouted, his face contorted with anger.

“Come on Bolt, be a good sport,” Sky said trying to defuse the situation.

“No! She cheated and she knows it!” Bolt screamed, bringing his face closer to Star’s.

“You’re such a sore loser, Bolt!” Star said, starting to get angry.

“I don’t mind losing if its fair, and I would have won if she hadn’t uses her magic on our pillows!”

“Well it doesn’t matter, because I won, so there!” Star retorted.

“You didn’t win! You cheated!” Bolt was starting to turn a darker shade of red as he glared at his sister.

“Well I’m older so I win!”

“Only by one month! And that doesn’t make any sense!” Bolt shouted.

“You’re just mad because I can use magic and you can’t even fly yet!” Star teased. “You’re just a… a… big rooster!” Bolt looked taken aback by what his sister had said.

“Take that back right now!”

“No! You’re a big fat rooster!” Star continued.

“Star, that’s enough,” Dinky said, trying to get them to stop, while Bolt stood there fuming.

“Well…well…” he stuttered while Star smirked. “Well Mom and Dad love me more because I’m their real son!”

At that second the room went quiet as Star stared at Bolt, dumbstruck. At first Bolt smirked as he realized he had won; but his face soon fell when he saw his sister’s expression begin to tremble. He looked at her silently as large tears fell from her eyes and onto the hard floor.

“Wait, Star… I didn’t mean…” He tried to speak, but he never got the chance to finish as Star vanished in a bright red light.

“I’ll go find her,” Dinky said as she too vanished with a bright flash.

Dinky reappeared outside Clay and Firefly’s home. She followed the trail of magic residue with her own magical senses and soon spotted Star sitting under a tree, letting out heartbroken sobs. Dinky slowly approached the little unicorn and sat down beside her.

“Star, it’s okay, Bolt didn’t mean it.” Star looked up at Dinky with tear-filled eyes.

“But it’s true!” she cried. “Mom and Dad love him more because I’m adopted!” She hung her head and let out a heart-wrenching sob.

“That’s not true! Your mom and dad love you very much!”

“But I’m not…” she sobbed again, “I’m not their real daughter! How can they love me just as much as Bolt? Especially when I just end up hurting them!” Star cried uncontrollably.

“What do you mean?” Dinky asked, confused.

“When… when I get angry, or scared, or… when I really want something to stop, my magic becomes dangerous and I can’t control it.” Star rested her head on Dinky’s chest as Dinky started stroking her silvery mane. “One time, when I was five, Dad tickled me when we were playing. I begged him to stop but he wouldn’t listen, and before I knew it I threw him against the wall with my magic! I could have really hurt him!” Star let out another sob.

“Oh, sweetheart. I’m sure your dad knew it was an accident,” Dinky reassured her.

“He told me he knew… but… I didn’t want to hurt him. I don’t want to hurt anypony.”

“I know you don’t sweetie, but sometimes accidents happen.” Star started to calm down, but still let out an occasional sniffle.

“Firebolt is right. Mom and Dad will never love me as much as they love him.”

“Star, look at me.” Dinky lifted Star up and turned her head to look her in the eye. “Your mom and dad love you both very much. I don’t think I’ve seen your dad as happy as when he is with you. And I know that they would face Discord himself to make sure you and your brother were safe.” Star didn’t look convinced. “Star… I don’t think your dad would have kept you if he didn’t think he could love you as much as Bolt. So trust me when I tell you that what Bolt said couldn’t be further from the truth.” Star looked into her aunt’s eyes for a brief moment and then she flung her forelegs around Dinky in a tight hug.

“Thank you Aunt Dinky,” she whispered.

“You’re welcome sweetie.” As they sat there in the tight embrace, they heard hoofsteps behind them. They turned their heads to see Bolt trotting up to them. Dinky released Star and then stood up to walk back in the house. Bolt approached his sister, his steps faltering as she turned her back to him.

“Star… I…” He swallowed nervously as Star continued to give him the cold shoulder. “I’m sorry,” Bolt whispered as he hung his head in shame. Star turned her head slightly and was surprised to see tears in his eyes. She was startled by this because she had never seen her brother cry before, not even when he hurt himself, so she could only think that his apology was sincere. Star trotted over to her brother and stared at him silently while he watched in anticipation. Finally she threw her forelegs around him in a tight hug.

“I forgive you,” she whispered as Bolt returned the hug.

“I’m so sorry about what I said. You were right, I was jealous.” The two siblings let go of each other and traded smiles through teary eyes.

“I’m sorry too Bolt. I shouldn’t have called you a rooster. And I know that someday… you’ll be a great flyer.”

“Thanks sis… that means a lot,” Bolt replied, his smile growing.

The two foals gave each other another hug and then walked back into their home.

The night sky was calm and peaceful, though a cold breeze rushed through the trees as Clay trotted home, his back legs throbbing with pain. As he saw Ponyville in the distance his hat was suddenly pulled down over his eyes; he started to panic until he felt a pair of lips press against his.

“Guess who?” Clay smirked as he pushed his hat up from his eyes and found himself looking at his wife’s smiling face.

“I hate it when you do that,” Clay muttered as he gave her a kiss of his own. Soon the small hello kiss began to become more passionate as their tongues snaked into each other’s mouths. “Mmm… wait… we should save this for when we get home,” Clay protested as he pulled back.

“But it’s such a beautiful night out. Don’t you want to… take full advantage of it?” Firefly gave him a sly smile.

“Do I need to remind you of what happened the last time we had a moment like this? And how you ordered me never to put you through it again?”

“Fine,” Firefly huffed as she trotted beside him. “So… how was your day?” she asked.

“Long and tiring… and I can’t feel my back legs.” He winced. “What about you?”

“Same, only I can’t feel my wings,” Firefly replied.

“Did my mom make it back okay?”
“Yeah, Rainbow’s fine. She’s tough Clay, give her some credit.”

“Sorry. I just worry about her sometimes, you know?”

“I know.” Clay and Firefly finally reached their home and unlocked the front door. As they walked inside they found Dinky and Sky sleeping soundly in a chair, holding each other in a loving embrace. Clay cleared his throat.

“Mmm… wha…?” Dinky opened her eyes and saw Clay and Firefly looking at them. “Oh… hi… um, Sky, I think it’s time for us to leave.” She nudged Sky awake and got off the chair.

“Sorry… I guess the kids wore us out,” Sky admitted.

“Don’t worry about it - Clay and I have done the same thing from time to time when playing with them,” Firefly replied.

“Thanks. Anyway, we should get going.” Dinky and Sky bid Clay and Firefly goodbye and headed for home.

“Where do you think the kids are?” Clay asked as he placed his hat on the nearby rack. Firefly removed the hood and goggles of her uniform and walked into the living room, when suddenly she gasped.

“Clay… look at this,” she whispered.

Clay trotted to her side to look into the living room, and his heart melted at what he saw. Star and Bolt had built a large fortress in the center of the room; at the top was a flag that said ‘Fort Evening Star and Firebolt’. Underneath the flag were Bolt and Star, sleeping beside each other and holding one another in their forelegs.

“Would you look at that,” Clay whispered. “That’s the first time they’ve ever shared a fort.”

“What do you think made them do it?” Firefly asked, to which Clay simply shrugged.

Clay and Firefly carefully lifted their children onto their backs and carried them up to their bedroom. Firefly placed Star into her bed and Clay placed Bolt into his, then they both kissed each foal on their foreheads before leaving for their own bedroom, shutting the door quietly behind them.

Chapter 5

It was the dead of winter, and the wind was bitter as snowflakes floated to the ground on the breeze. Beneath the snowflakes two ponies - Sky Tearer and a new unicorn recruit - trotted through the snow, keeping watch for any suspicious activity around Ponyville. They had been walking for hours, and having not spotted anything strange in all that time along with the fact that it was getting dark, Sky decided it was time to call it a night.

“I think we’re done here, private.”

“Thank Celestia, my hooves are freezing!” the Star Light exclaimed.

“Well get warmed up, we have to do it again tomorrow.”

Sky didn’t mind the cold so much because as a pegasus he had a natural resistance to it, but he could see that the private was uncomfortable, and with the holidays nearly upon them he was feeling generous.

“So, private. Are you going to visit your family for Hearth’s Warming Eve?”

“Yes, very soon my family will be growing,” the unicorn replied.

“Congratulations!”

“Thank you. My family is big on adoption, and soon we will have more unicorns in our family,” he replied cheerfully. “What about you? What are you getting for your wife?”

“Honestly… I don’t know. She hasn’t been dropping any hints, so I don’t know what she wants,” Sky admitted.

“I’m sure you’ll think of something sir.”

“Thanks, but Hearth’s Warming Eve is just a few days away. I don’t think I can come up with something she wants that fast.” It was then that they decided to part ways and head for their respective homes.

“Goodnight sir.”

“Goodnight, private.” They saluted one another and walked away.

Sky Tearer finally arrived home, exhaustion threatening to overtake him as he pushed through the door. He gave a relieved sigh as he removed his helmet and placed it in a nearby chest in the living room; he then flew upstairs to find his wife Dinky sitting on their large bed. Beneath her front hooves was an open book littered with various photographs. Sky walked beside her and gave her a small peck on the cheek.

“Hi, honey,” Sky said, sounding cheerful but slightly groggy from his long night and in the winter’s cold.

“Hello handsome,” Dinky giggled as Sky began to remove his hoof guards.

“What’s with the book?”

“Oh, it’s just a scrapbook me and my mom made when I was little,” she replied as she flipped a page.

Sky looked down to see various pictures of Dinky when she was a filly, along with her mother Ditzy Doo. Some were of them baking and being covered in batter, others were of them doing things like camping or going to school for the first time. Dinky gave a small sigh as she looked at another picture.

“Is something bothering you?” Sky asked as he began removing his body armor.

“Nothing’s wrong Sky.” Dinky shifted her eyes slightly.

“Don’t lie to me sweetie, I know when something’s on your mind.”

“Nothing is wrong, I promise.” Sky wasn’t convinced.

“So you just pulled out a scrapbook of you and your mother for no reason?” Dinky lowered her head slightly, trying to avoid her husband’s gaze. “Come on honey, what is it? What’s bothering you?” Dinky looked up at Sky uncertainly.

“Well… it’s about Hearth’s Warming Eve.” She cocked an eyebrow at him. “You didn’t get me a present yet did you?” Sky shifted his gaze.

“Uhh…. Of course I did.”

“Now who’s lying?” Dinky said with a small smile.

“Fine, you caught me! But you haven’t said anything about what you want!” Dinky looked at him curiously.

“You really want me to tell you?” Sky nodded. “Sky…. I want you to listen to me very carefully.” She moved closer to him and made direct eye contact. “Do you remember when we foalsat for Clay and Firefly a few months back?”

“Yeah,” Sky replied, not sure where she was going with this.

“Ever since that day I’ve been thinking and… well, that’s what I want.” Sky looked at her confused.

“You want to be a foalsitter?”

“No you airhead!” She giggled.

“Well what do you want then?” Dinky gave an odd smile.

“Sky, what I want from you on Hearth’s Warming Eve is something only you can give me.” She leaned in closer, fixing him with dreamy half-closed eyes. “Sky… I want a baby.” the room was silent as the two ponies stared at each other, a tension filled the air until at last Sky spoke.

“Dinky I… I just don’t know about that.”

“Oh, but wouldn’t it be great Sky? Just you, me, and our little foal snuggled up next to us by a warm fire on a night like this. You can tuck him, or her, in at night and I can read a bed time story.” She gave him a happy look. “Don’t you want that, Sky?” Sky didn’t reply - he simply stared at her, his mind fumbling for what he was going to say next.

“Now the scrapbook makes sense.” He looked her in the eye and took a short breath. “Dinky… I don’t think that would be such a good idea right now.” Dinky looked at him, startled.

“But why?”

“Well, I’m always busy, so even if we did have a foal I wouldn’t be around to see it grow up and I don’t want that. Second, what if it’s a unicorn? We still haven’t caught the one responsible for the kidnappings, and I don’t want me or you to constantly worry about the safety of our child because of some crazy pony out there. And what if he went after you while you were pregnant? I could never live with myself if anything happened to you.” He gave her a firm, but still gentle look. “I’m sorry honey… but the answer is no.” Dinky looked at Sky silently, the joy completely gone from her face and replaced by disappointment.

“You’re… you’re right Sky… I guess it is too early to start thinking about raising a family.” Dinky lowered her head sadly. Sky, feeling slightly guilty, reached over and gave her a comforting hug, which Dinky returned.

“I promise that as soon as things calm down, and I know that you and the baby can be safe… I’ll think about what you said. Just be patient.” He rubbed her back affectionately.

“I’m sorry Sky… I just… I just wanted to experience the joy that Clay and Firefly have with their kids,” she said sadly.

“No, I’m the one who’s sorry,” Sky whispered as he gave her a gentle kiss on her cheek. “Listen, it’s late - maybe we should go to bed.” Dinky nodded glumly and released Sky so he could get up and get ready for bed.

Sky trotted to the bathroom while Dinky put away her scrap book. Soon Sky entered the room and pulled back the covers with his mouth before settling himself in next to Dinky; they both said goodnight and turned out the lights, plunging the room into darkness. Sky turned onto his side and began to try and fall asleep, but as he did he heard a small sound behind him. He perked one of his ears and listened; as he did he heard the sound again, one that he quickly identified. The sound had come from Dinky, who was quietly sniffling, though trying to make sure that Sky didn’t hear her; but he did hear her, and the thought that he had caused his wife such sadness made him feel like he had a lump of ice in his gut. Sky said nothing as he continued to hear his wife’s quiet sobs in the dark, and eventually both of them fell into an uneasy sleep.

Chapter 7

*Two Years Later*

High above the ground, perched on a soft white cloud, were Firefly and Firebolt. Today Firefly was trying once again to teach her son how to fly, for he was now thirteen years old and needed to know the basics of flight if he was going to be a proper pegasus stallion. Bolt on the other hand was not quite as enthusiastic about the idea as he looked to his mother nervously.

“Now remember Bolt, it’s all about control and rhythm, not how fast you can flap your wings,” Firefly said encouragingly as she flapped her wings slowly to show her son the proper technique.

“That’s not what Grandma says,” Bolt retorted.

“Well Grandma isn’t here right now, and I’m the one teaching you, so please pay attention,” she replied, sounding slightly annoyed.

Firefly flapped her wings again and floated away from the cloud, hovering in the air. She slowly turned around to face her son, giving him an encouraging smile.

“All right sweetie, just flap your wings and fly over to me, OK?” Bolt looked down past the cloud, and was greeted by the sight of the green grass below him that seemed to be hundreds of feet down. Bolt gulped and looked back at his mother. “It’s okay sweetheart, I’ll catch you if anything happens.”

“Mom I… I don’t think I can do this!” Bolt shouted, slowly backing away from the cloud’s edge.

“Of course you can. Flying is in your blood Bolt! Both of your grandmothers are fliers, your grandfather is a flier, I’m a flier, so you should be a natural!” Bolt still didn’t look convinced. “Come on Bolt! You don’t want to be like your Aunt Fluttershy and hardly fly at all do you?” Right now Bolt would have given anything to be even at Fluttershy’s level of flying. “Bolt you have to try, please, for Mommy?” she urged sweetly, but Bolt backed away and shook his head.

“I… I… I just can’t do it Mom,” Bolt said shamefully as he sat on the cloud. Firefly let out a sad sigh, but still gave her son a small smile as she floated over to him and picked him up off the cloud before slowly heading for the ground. “I’m sorry Mom,” Bolt whispered, wishing he could disappear at that moment.

“It’s all right. We can try again later,” Firefly said quietly as she set him down on the ground and gave him a small hug.

As they broke the hug they heard the sound of hoofsteps behind them. They looked over to see Clay and Star trotting up to them, obviously heading home themselves. Star had a look of annoyance on her face as she trotted past her mother and brother, which caused Firefly to look at her husband with concern.

“What happened? Did she hurt herself from her first time apple bucking?” she asked, slightly worried.

“No she didn’t hurt herself, but…” Clay looked slightly embarrassed as he saw Star join up with her brother and began to talk about their day. “Well… I was showing her the proper way to buck an apple orchard, and when she tried nothing fell off. So she tried again… and again… and again, until she lost her temper and…” He paused.

“Go on,” Firefly encouraged.

“Well I told her not to use her magic for the work, but she got so frustrated that she levitated the tree, ripped it right out of the ground and shook the apples off!” Clay chuckled slightly as he pictured the image again.

“Oh my!” Firefly said, giggling slightly.

“Well needless to say AJ saw and… well… how should I put this? She told Star to put it down and she did… right on top of AJ.” Clay snickered again.

“Oh my goodness,” Firefly chuckled. “She isn’t hurt is she?”

“Nah, she’s fine. A bit peeved at her niece, but fine.” When they had gotten control of their laughter Clay started again. “How did Bolt’s training go?” Firefly gave him a sad look and shook her head. “He’s still having trouble?” She nodded glumly. “Did he at least get off the cloud this time?” Again she shook her head.

“It’s my fault. I should have trained him sooner, but between my job, and the house work…” She stopped and kicked the ground as she hung her head.

“I thought that between you, Comet and my mom, he would have at least made some progress.” Clay pondered.

“Well maybe if your mother would give him proper advice he would be flying right now,” Firefly grumbled.

“What are you talking about?”

“Apparently Rainbow has been telling Bolt to flap as fast and hard as he can. He’s not ready for that yet; it’s like trying to teach a baby to run before it walks!” Firefly snapped. “And the other day, when I left him with her to go meet with some of my friends, I left her notes about what I had been teaching Bolt so she didn’t go too fast for him. And when I got back I found the note crumpled up on the ground! She must have done it as soon as I left!” Firefly said crossly.

“Well… I’m sure it was just a misunderstanding?” Clay suggested.

“Misunderstanding my hoof! Your mother is totally undermining my authority Clay! How can our son learn to fly when I’m telling him one thing and she’s telling him another!?”

“Look, you have to understand my mother is used to doing things her way. And to her credit she has been flying a lot longer than you.”

“But he’s my son!” Firefly shouted angrily as Clay rubbed his temples.

While their parents bickered, Firebolt and Star were having a conversation of their own.

“So you still can’t fly?” Star asked her brother as he shook his head. “But I thought you were having Grandma and Grandpa teach you? You should be flying circles around me by now!” Bolt looked at his sister with uncertainty.

“Can you keep a secret?” he asked her.

“Of course,” Star replied.

“And you promise you won’t laugh?” Star nodded as Bolt looked around, leaned into his sister’s ear and whispered, “I’m afraid of heights.” Star was silent for a moment before she burst out laughing. “You promised you wouldn’t laugh!” Bolt shouted, cheeks blushing with embarrassment.

“I-I’m sorry!” Star giggled. “B-but whoever h-heard of a pegasus b-being afraid of heights?” She had tears running down her face as she looked at her brother. “S-should I start calling you Flutterbolt?” She broke out into laughter once more.

“It’s not funny! If I can’t fly I’ll never become a real pegasus! I’ll never get to go to Cloudsdale, or join the Wonderbolts, or get a girlfriend! I’ll be the laughing stock of Ponyville, and I’ll have to move to the Everfree Forest just to get away from the laughing! My life will be ruined!” Bolt screamed. “And the worst part is…” he said, sounding as if he was on the verge of tears, “… Mom and Dad and Grandma and Grandpa won’t love me anymore.” Bolt hung his head, allowing large tears to fall from his eyes.

“Wow Bolt, you’re really upset about this!” Star gasped as she saw her little brother’s depression. She sat down next to him and gave him a comforting hug. “I promise you will fly. And I know Mom and Dad would still love you even if you never fly. That goes for Grandma and Grandpa too.” Bolt glanced over at his sister and dried his eyes while he tried to calm himself down.

“T-thanks sis… you always make me feel better.”

The moment finally past, Clay and the others headed for home, ready to forget their failures and just enjoy being together. While they walked home, though, Star began to formulate a plan that would help her brother fly.

Later that day Clay was at home reading the daily newspaper. The house was fairly quiet as Firefly and Firebolt had left to train once again. This time Clay had asked Rainbow to join in the hope that, between his wife’s patience and kindness and his mother’s experience, his son would finally get some flying done. He knew that things were tense between his wife and his mother, but he was running out of ideas, and besides it wasn’t like he could help Bolt fly. So in the meantime Clay decided to relax in the living room with Star, who was lying on the ground reading a comic book called The Ponypuff Fillies; something about three alicorn fillies that flew around saving Equestria before their bedtime or something like that, Clay wasn’t really interested. The only sound that could be heard was the sound of pages being flipped as the two ponies read quietly.

That is until the front door opened with a loud bang, startling both of them as Firefly came storming in with her son tucked under her wing. She kept shushing Bolt, who looked like he had just seen Nightmare Moon in the flesh. Then she turned her attention to Clay with a look of anger on her face.

“Your mother is crazy!” Firefly shouted, still holding her son tightly.

“What else is new?” Clay chuckled, but Firefly didn’t find his response humorous.

“Your mother almost got Bolt killed!”

“What?” Clay was utterly confused, and was only more so when Rainbow came barging in through the front door, causing Firefly to hold Bolt closer.

“Stay the hell away from him!” she hissed at her mother in law.

“I said I was sorry! I didn’t mean for it to go that far!” Rainbow said, looking worried, while Clay was utterly confused.

“Whoa, whoa hold up! Would somepony explain what happened?” Clay said, trying to make sense of what was happening.

“I was trying to show Bolt how to fly and look cool while doing it, but he wouldn’t budge from the cloud.” Clay eyed his mother suspiciously. “Well I figured if he got off the cloud his instincts would kick in and… well, I sort of…”

“She pushed him off the cloud!” Firefly shouted, cutting Rainbow off.

“You what!?” Clay exclaimed, “Mom how could you? He’s not ready for that yet!”

“I know I know it was stupid I’m sorry! I’m really very sorry Bolt, I just thought that…”

“You never think! That’s why you keep crashing and hurting yourself when you try a new stunt!” Firefly said, putting Bolt down and then getting herself between Bolt and Rainbow Dash.

“Well excuse me Miss Perfect, but if I took half as much time as you do with a stunt, we wouldn’t have the awesome payoffs that I deliver!” Rainbow retorted.

“It’s not always about you Rainbow. The Wonderbolts are a team, and that means you take my advice and techniques as well as your own!” Rainbow smirked.

“You’re just jealous because I’m Captain!”

“I’m not jealous… but I’m starting to wonder why Spitfire put you in charge in the first place!”

“Because I’m the one who has the guts to do what nopony else can. Can you do a sonic rainboom?”

“It’s not just about flashy moves and glory Rainbow!” Firefly retorted.

“What, and we should all be softies like you? I’ve never seen a Wonderbolt look as… girly as you are sometimes. Probably from spending all that time in Canterlot with those uptight ponies. When’s the last time you got in a fight with another pony anyway?”

“You want to see a fight? I’ll give you a fight, you tomcoltish , airheaded glory hog!” Firefly was now inches away from Rainbow’s face, looking like they were about to duke it out right then and there. Clay looked down to see Star hiding behind him, looking terrified at what she was seeing. Before things got violent Clay ran up and pushed his wife and mother away from each other.

“Come on, just give me five minutes with her!” Firefly shouted, trying to get at Rainbow.

“Careful princess, don’t want to chip a nail!” Rainbow retorted. “Clay, tell your wife that I’m right.”

“No, tell your mother that I’m right!” Firefly shouted.

“Clay!” shouted Rainbow.

“Clay!” shouted Firefly.

“Would both of you just calm the hell down?!” Clay shouted as loud as he could, making the room shake slightly.

The whole house went quiet as Clay glanced around to see both of his kids huddled next to each other for comfort. Firefly stared at him, looking afraid, and even his mother looked startled by his outburst. None of them had ever seen Clay shout like that before, and even though it had stopped the arguing Clay didn’t like that he had had to yell in order to do it. Finally he took a deep breath and looked to his children. “Kids, why don’t you run up to your room and play while I have a… talk with Mom and Grandma, okay?”

Bolt and Star slowly trotted away from their father and started climbing up the stairs, but while they did Clay heard Star whisper what sounded like, “Mom and Grandma are in trouble.”

Clay waited until he heard their bedroom door close before turning his attention to the two mares in front of him. He shut his eyes, took a deep breath and started to speak when suddenly Rainbow and Firefly both blurted out “It was her fault!”

Clay shot them both a glare that made them fall silent again. “What is wrong with you two? Fighting right in front of your kids and grandchildren! Do you want to set a bad example for them?” They both tried to speak again, but Clay held up a hoof and made direct eye contact with them before speaking in a low, stern tone. “Honey… my mother has been flying and doing stunts before both you and I were even born, so I think it would be fair to say that any advice she gives would be helpful. And as I recall she was the one who offered to train you before you were a Wonderbolt yourself, so I would appreciate it if you treated my mother with some more respect from now on and listen to her.” Firefly slowly nodded her head. Clay then turned his attention to Rainbow, who actually looked slightly fearful of her son.

“Mom… I appreciate you trying to help Bolt fly, but that was a dumb and reckless thing you did. I know you don’t agree with Firefly’s methods all the time, but she is his mother. You helped raise me, and now it’s my turn to help raise my kids. It’s my life, my family, my rules, so unless I ask you for help stop undermining my wife’s authority and if you pull a stunt like that again with my son you’ll be dealing with me… got it?” Rainbow also slowly nodded her head. “Now, both of you make up and say you’re sorry.”

Firefly and Rainbow looked at each other and begrudgingly muttered, “I’m sorry.” Clay gave a small smile.

“Good. Now then why don’t we just calm down, and have some dinner… all right?” Firefly and Rainbow nodded again and slowly began to trot to the kitchen when Clay spoke again, making them flinch. “Mom, why don’t you go get Comet? I think everyone should be here tonight.” Rainbow nodded and ran off without hesitation, taking to the air as soon as she was out of the door to get Comet. Meanwhile, Clay trotted to the stairs and called up, “Kids, it’s time for dinner!” Within seconds Star and Bolt ran down the stairs and joined their parents at the table; soon after the front door opened to reveal Rainbow and Comet as they came trotting in.

“I still don’t understand why I have to come?” Comet said as he walked in.

“Because Clay wants us all over here tonight, now shut up and sit down,” Rainbow hissed as she took her spot across from Firefly.

“Hello Uncle, good to see you!” Clay said, happily waving him in.

“Hi Clay… uh, Rainbow said that you wanted all of us over here tonight. Any reason?”

“No, I just wanted to remind everypony what a family should be like, that’s all.” As Comet took a seat next to Star Clay returned with their dinner: hay spaghetti and veggie balls.

As everypony started eating Comet couldn’t help but notice some tension in the air. Leaning closer he whispered to Star, “Did I miss something?”

Star simply muttered back, “You have no idea,” before returning to her spaghetti, fork twirling in the grip of her magic.

Hours had passed, Dash and Comet had returned home for the evening and Firefly and Clay were on their way upstairs to go to bed themselves.

“You go on ahead honey. I’m going to go check on the kids first,” Clay said, turning to his wife.

“All right, but don’t take too long. You know how I hate being in that big bed all by myself.” She smirked as she kissed him on the cheek before trotting down the hall.

Clay made his way to Star and Bolt’s bedroom and saw the light from inside peeking out from under the door. He raised a hoof and was about to knock when suddenly he heard a faint sob from the other side of the door. Clay paused as he listened and then quietly opened the door, expecting to see Star in tears. However, to his surprise it wasn’t Star who was crying, but Bolt instead, sitting on the edge of his bed with Star beside him, a foreleg around his back.

“Bolt… are you all right?” Star and Bolt looked back at him, the young colt’s eyes filled with tears. He merely sobbed as his father walked over to his side, concern etched on his face. Bolt gave a slight hiccup before throwing himself into his father’s chest and letting out heartbroken sobs. Clay wrapped a foreleg around Bolt and held him close. “Son, what’s wrong?” Clay asked, growing more worried by the second until Bolt finally calmed down long enough to look up at him and utter a few words.

“D-dad…” He sobbed uncontrollably. “D-do you… love me?”

“Bolt, why would you ask me that?!” Clay asked, startled by the question.

“B-because… I… I can’t fly!” Bolt buried his head in his father’s chest again as he continued to weep.

“Bolt, of course I love you. Flying has nothing to do with how much I love you.”

“But… it’s my fault that Mom and Grandma fought today! If I could fly they never would have fought with each other! And you never would have gotten mad and yelled at them!” Bolt sobbed. “I’ll try harder I promise, just don’t yell again Dad!” Clay looked at his son, startled by his outburst.

“Bolt, I wasn’t yelling at you.” Bolt shuddered as he recalled the event.

“Please don’t yell again Dad,” he whispered quietly. Clay looked over at Star to see that she too had the same fear on her face.

“You were scary, Daddy,” she whispered. Clay lowered his gaze, feeling disgusted with what he had done. Scaring his children was the last thing he had ever wanted to do.

“I’m sorry,” Clay whispered. “I never should have yelled in front of you two like that.” He motioned for Star to come closer and, when she was close enough, pulled her and Bolt into a tight hug. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered again, as he nuzzled the tops of their heads.

“Promise you’ll never yell like that again,” Star muttered.

“I promise,” Clay replied as his two children each gave him a tight squeeze. He then let Star go and resumed talking to his son. “Bolt, what happened today wasn’t your fault. Grandma just… made a bad decision. It had nothing to do with you.”

Bolt wasn’t convinced. “But it was all my fault, Dad! If I wasn’t so afraid of heights then Grandma wouldn’t have pushed me, and Mom wouldn’t have to spend her free time teaching me just how to get off a cloud! And you… you never would have yelled.” Bolt lowered his head and looked at the ground, his expression a mixture of sadness and anger. “I’m a pegasus, why am I so afraid of being off the ground!?” Clay gave his son a sympathetic look as he tried to explain it to him.

“Because you’re not like most pegasus ponies, Bolt. You were born and raised on the ground with an earth pony father and a pegasus mother. You’re afraid of heights because you aren’t used to living in the clouds like Rainbow and Comet. Believe me, this is perfectly normal for a pony in your position.” Bolt looked up at his father as he wiped the tears from his eyes.

“But I’m thirteen! Most pegasus ponies start flying when they’re a year old, and Mister Pound Cake started flying when he was a month old!” He lowered his head again, a look of shame on his face. “How can Mom, Grandma and Grandpa love me when I can’t fly like they do?”

Clay began to stroke the back of Bolt’s head. “Believe me Bolt, I asked the same question when I was your age. I used to think that your grandmother could never love me completely unless I could fly like her.”

“But you’re an earth pony, Dad. Grandma knew that you couldn’t fly… I have wings, what’s my excuse?” Bolt muttered sadly. “Maybe I’m not meant to fly, or join the Wonderbolts. Maybe I’m just meant to be the failure of the family tree.” Clay set his son down and held him at arm’s length, a stern look on his face.

“Bolt, look at me.” Bolt looked up and stared into his father’s brown eyes. “You are not a failure. I know that you will fly because you come from a long line of fliers that joined the Wonderbolts. And I know that you are going to be one of the greatest they ever had in their ranks. But even if you never fly for the rest of your life… I will never stop loving you, or being proud of you.” Bolt looked at his father uncertainly.

“And Mom, Grandma and Grandpa? Will they love me too?”

“Of course they will. We all love you and Star with all our hearts, and nothing will ever change that,” Clay said reassuringly.

“Thanks Dad… that… that means a lot coming from you.” Clay smiled as he released his son.

“You’re welcome Bolt. Now both of you get to bed; it’s late and you both have school tomorrow.” Bolt and Star nodded and climbed into their own beds before getting settled under the sheets. Clay turned off Star’s bedside light and kissed her on the head.

“Good night Daddy,” Star whispered as she rested her head.

“Good night sweetheart,” Clay replied before he walked over to Bolt’s bed, turned off his light and kissed him on the temple.

“Good night Dad,” Bolt whispered.

“Good night champ,” Clay replied. He was making his way out of the room when Bolt spoke again.

“Dad.” Clay stopped and looked back at his son in the darkened room. “I want you to know that even though you can’t fly or use magic… you’re the coolest pony I know.” Clay blinked in surprise.

“Really? What about your mom or grandmother? They seem pretty cool to me.”

“Yeah, Mom and Grandma are cool, no doubt about that. But you don’t need wings or magic to be a great dad. So that makes you twice as cool.” Clay was quiet for a few seconds, before a small smile formed on his face.

“Thanks son.”

Bolt smiled and then rested his head, almost instantly drifting off to sleep as his father stood silently in the doorway, before exiting and shutting the door behind him. He lazily trotted to his bedroom, entering to find his wife resting in their bed and reading a copy of Dr. Whooves.

“There you are. I was starting to think that you weren’t going to get here before I fell asleep,” she said happily as she spotted her husband. Clay walked to his side of the bed, got under the covers and simply stared forwards with a smile on his face. Firefly saw this and looked at him curiously. “What’s got you so happy?” she asked. Clay turned his head to look at his wife, his smile still there as he replied happily.

“I’m the luckiest pony in all of Ponyville.”

Chapter 8

Firefly slept peacefully in her bed as the sun’s rays crept into her bedroom. As the light hit her eyes she gave a small yawn and slowly opened her violet eyes, to be met by the smiling faces of her two children.

“Surprise!” they shouted with glee. “Happy Mother’s Day!” Firefly was slightly startled by their volume, but she soon smiled as Star levitated a tray with her favorite breakfast onto the bed.

“Wow kids, thank you! This looks delicious!” Firefly said happily as the aroma filled her nostrils.

“We even got you a card!” Star replied as Bolt pulled an envelope from his wing and handed it to his mother.

Firefly ripped it open, pulled out the card and began reading. In the card was written:

May this Mother’s Day be the best of many more to come!
We appreciate everything you do for us,
Love Firebolt and Evening Star.

Firefly smiled as she finished reading, her heart filling with joy as she looked to her two teenagers.

“Do you like it?” Bolt asked anxiously.

“I absolutely love it!” Firefly said happily as she gave her two kids a tight hug and kissed the top of their heads. When she let go she looked around, realizing something was off. “Where is your father?”

“He had to go to go to work this morning,” Star answered as her mother started eating her breakfast.

“Oh well…” Firefly sighed as she took a bite of her pancakes.

“Dad said that we had to make you happy today. So is there anything you want to do?” Bolt asked.

Firefly thought for a moment, but nothing came to mind. Then she looked to a nearby mirror and was startled by her appearance. Her mane was messy and disheveled, her eyes had dark circles under them, and her pink fur was matted.

“I think I should freshen up first before I think about going anywhere,” Firefly replied as she tried to fix her mane a little.

“Oh, I know! We can go to the spa!” Star suggested, with enthusiasm.

“I think that sounds perfect. And it has been a while since I pampered myself,” Firefly agreed.

“But I don’t want to do that girly stuff!” Bolt whined.

“Oh come on, Bolt! This is Mom’s special day, and Dad said that we had to make Mom happy!” Star retorted as her brother groaned.

“It’s okay Bolt, you don’t have to go if you don’t want to.” Bolt thought for a moment and then sighed.

“No… I’ll go, Mom. Star’s right – this is your day, and if you want to go to the spa then I’ll go too.”

“Well give me a moment so I can at least look decent.” Finished with her breakfast, Firefly removed the tray, got out of bed and sat down in front of her vanity mirror. She started to reach for the hair brush, but it was abruptly engulfed in a red aura and floated off the table.

“Let me, Mom!” Star said as she brought the brush to her mother’s mane and started brushing it.

“Thank you, sweetie.” Firefly began to relax as the comb ran through her hair, making her feel better with each stroke. When her mane was finished Star moved to her tail and resumed brushing. Within minutes Star had finished that too, and allowed her mother to stand up.

“How is that, Mom?”

Firefly inspected her reflection. “Just perfect, you did a wonderful job. Maybe you can be a spa pony?”

Star frowned slightly. “No thanks, Mom. I prefer to get the hooficure, not do one.”
~~~~~

Feeling presentable, Firefly left the house with her two children, and made their way to the spa. Before long they had reached the small building, and were greeted by scented candles and soaps as they entered the front door. Firefly approached the receptionist, who gave her the options for her spa treatment.

“Welcome to the Aloe and Lotus Spa,” the receptionist greeted them. “Today, we have a special Mother’s Day offer - thirty percent off for mares with their children. For treatments we have a special wing massage for pegasus ponies, horn filing for unicorns, and mane and tail braiding for the earth ponies. All complete with a hooficure for all hooves!” she said cheerfully.

“It all sounds wonderful. How much is it?” Star asked.

“100 bits for today, miss,” the receptionist replied.

“Oh my… that is expensive,” Firefly murmured.

“Yes… but well worth the price, madame.”

“I don’t know… I don’t want to spend too much money,” Firefly said as she thought about her options.

“Come on, live a little Mom! You deserve it!” Star encouraged.

“Well… that wing massage does sound good,” Firefly admitted.

“And would the young unicorn like a horn filing?” the receptionist asked.

“Um… no thanks, just a hooficure and mud bath; I don’t like ponies touching my horn.”

Satisfied, Firefly paid the receptionist, and the three ponies were brought into a large room filled with massage tables and mud baths. Bolt was taken to the side where there were a row of chairs, all lined with mares reading while they waited their turn. Firefly and Star were placed onto one of the massage chairs; two mares who Firefly recognized as Lotus and Aloe approached them and began rubbing their backs.

“Ah! Ooooohhhhh….” Firefly moaned as she felt the spa pony’s hooves rub into her back, reliving some of her tension and aches.

“This… feels… sooooo good!” Star moaned as she too felt her muscles relax.

“Oooohhhh, I agree….” Firefly murmured as she shut her eyes.

Bolt sighed in frustration. He hated this spa stuff; he would rather be out with his friends than be stuck with the scented candles and mud baths and mineral baths. As he sank into his chair with a groan he heard a filly’s voice. “Bolt?”

He looked up to see a light green pegasus filly with blue eyes and a dark green mane and tail, looking at him with slight surprise.

“Summer Wind! Uh… hi.” Bolt sat up with a jolt.

“Hi. I didn’t expect to see you here. I thought you didn’t like spa stuff.” She smiled as she sat next to Bolt.

“Oh… yeah I uh… came here with my mom and sister for Mother’s Day.”

“Aww, that’s nice of you. I actually came here with my mom for Mother’s Day too.”

“Oh, uh… that’s…. cool.”

“Yeah… cool.” They both fidgeted slightly.

“Well uh… I better go see if my mom and sister are finished yet. It was nice talking with you.” Bolt gave her a slight smile.

“Yeah… nice talking with you too…” She smiled back as Bolt trotted into the other room.

As he entered, Bolt saw that his mother and sister were nowhere to be found on the massage tables. He looked around and soon spotted them neck-deep in the mud baths, with green masks placed on their faces. As he approached Firefly opened her eyes.

“Bolt! Don’t tell me you want to join now too?” Star chuckled at her mother’s comment.

“No… Mom… I know that this is for you and Mother’s Day but… can we please go? I hate this.”

“I know, sweetie. But this is just so relaxing. And I did pay for the top package. We can’t just leave!”

“Mom, please… I just want to go before…”

“Firefly? Is that you?” They looked to see a pegasus mare with Summer Wind standing next to her.

“Oh! Hello Sunshine! Nice to see you again,” Firefly replied.

“Same to you as well. You wouldn’t be here because of the Mother’s Day special, would you?”

“I am, actually - my kids wanted to treat me to something special. I assume that’s why you’re here?”

“Yes. Summer Wind and I were just about to head for the mineral baths. I hope we see you and Star there so we can talk.” She turned to regard Bolt. “A pleasure to see you again, Bolt,” she said, smiling warmly.

“Thank you… Mrs. Sunshine.”

Sunshine and Summer Wind left for the mineral baths. As they exited, Firefly couldn’t help but notice that Summer was glancing back at Bolt, and he her.

“Always nice to meet a familiar face,” Firefly sighed as she leaned back into the mud.

“Especially if you have a crush on them,” Star snickered.

“Shut up!” Bolt snapped, his face becoming redder.

“A crush…. You mean…” Firefly looked at Bolt and saw the embarrassment on his face. “I didn’t know you had a crush on Summer.”

“I didn’t want you to know…” He looked like he was about to die of embarrassment. Firefly thought for a moment and then smiled.

“Bolt, you can leave. I think you’ve suffered long enough.” Bolt wasn’t sure how to respond to that. “It’s OK… go ahead.” Bolt nodded slightly and then left. Firefly and Star continued enjoying their treatment for the next thirty minutes - they even had their manes styled to be shiny and lush. After they finished, they left the spa feeling fresh and rejuvenated.

“That was so much fun, Mom!” Star squeaked happily.

“That it was. Now let’s go home and…” She stopped in midsentence when she saw Dinky trot up to them, a basket levitated with her magic. “Dinky!”

“Oh. Hi Firefly! Hi Star!” Dinky smiled brightly.

“Hi Aunt Dinky! What brings you here?” Star chirped, a big grin on her face.

“I was on my way to meet my mother. She looks forward to this every year!”

“Why is that?” Star asked.

“Because it’s the one day of the year that I make her my famous Mother’s Day muffins!” She levitated the basket to Firefly and Star to show that it was filled with warm, freshly-baked muffins.

“Mmmm. Those look good!” Firefly said, licking her lips.

“Here, have a few!” She levitated three muffins and passed them to Star and Firefly, continuing, “The third one is for Bolt if he wants it.” She looked around. “Where are the boys, anyway?”

“Bolt went home since he wasn’t interested in the spa, and Clay is off spending time with Rainbow.” Now it was Firefly’s turn to look around. “Where is Sky? On another patrol?”

“Nope. Believe it or not, he actually went to visit his own mother,” Dinky replied.

“Oh. It’s good that they are still talking.” Firefly smiled.

“He dreads it every year… but he still finds the courage to meet her,” Dinky said.

“Why is Uncle Sky afraid of his mother?” Star asked.

“It’s… complicated, sweetheart,” Dinky answered as she tried to find the right words.

“I wish he was here. He’s the best uncle ever!”

Dinky smiled at the comment. “Thank you, sweetie. I’ll be sure to tell him that when he gets back. Anyway, you two enjoy those muffins. I’m sure my mother will!”

“Thank you Dinky, and tell Ditzy that I said hi!” Dinky nodded and continued on her way.
~~~~~

Star and Firefly continued their journey home; the day was still young, but there wasn’t much else to do in town. However, during the whole walk Star was rather quiet, despite the fact that she looked like she had something on her mind. Finally Firefly decided to ask. “Something bothering you, Star?”

“Well… kinda,” Star admitted.

“You can tell me anything, sweetie.” Firefly gave her daughter a kind smile.

“Well… every year everypony celebrates Mother’s Day with their mother. But… you don’t.”

Firefly’s face fell slightly. “You know that my mother is… no longer with us,” Firefly replied somewhat sadly.

“But… you never talk about her. No pictures, no stories, no memories… it’s almost like she doesn’t exist. Even Dad doesn’t know anything about her other than she was a Wonderbolt.” Star looked to her mother with concern. “Why won’t you talk about her, Mom? Did you… hate her?”

“No… no I didn’t hate my mother at all. Both your grandfather and I loved her very much. It’s just… the memory is too much…” Firefly swallowed as she felt a lump form in her throat.

“I’m sorry, Mom. It’s just… I wish I’d known her…” Star murmured.

“I wish you did too… she… she would have loved both you and Bolt to death. And I know that she would have loved to have met your father as well.” She lowered her head slightly as something dark invaded her mind.

Worried that she was close to bringing her mother to depression, Star decided to stop prying for now. The two mares made their way to their home; except for Bolt, the house was empty when they arrived.

“Thanks for everything, Mom… it was fun,” Star said with a smile.

“You’re welcome Star! I had fun too.” She gave her daughter a hug and then let her be on her way.

Firefly started to head for the living room when suddenly she stopped. Something was compelling her to head upstairs; she couldn’t quite explain what prompted her to make her way up the stairs and down the hall to her bedroom. She stopped at the bed and sat down on the mattress. What Star had said before about withholding the details about her mother was eating away at her. She knew that keeping her emotions bottled up wasn’t going to help, but she didn’t want to burden Clay, or Rainbow, or anypony else close to her. She had to face it on her own.

“Honey…?” a voice called suddenly.

Firefly yelped in surprise as she realized that her husband was standing in the doorway, watching her as she stared off into space. She had no idea how long she had been sitting there, and it made her uneasy.

“Clay… I didn’t hear you come in.” Firefly tried to regain her composure, but wasn’t terribly successful.

“I can see that.” Clay trotted up to her and sat down next to her. “You look great, Firefly,” he said as he kissed her on the cheek.

“Thank you… I kinda dipped into the funds though, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. You deserve it, and it is Mother’s Day after all.” He noticed her saddened expression, but didn’t pry. He knew that this was a hard day for her to get through without feeling some remembrance of her mother.

“How was your time with Rainbow?”

“Oh, it was fun. We talked, raced, and she got her present. I let her know that she means a lot to me and we said goodbye… not much really. How was your day?”

“Star and I went to the spa. It was so relaxing and… apparently Bolt has a crush on a pegasus filly.” She giggled.

“Runs in the family, I guess,” Clay joked.

“Then we ran into Dinky and had some of her wonderful muffins… and then…” She stopped suddenly.

“Yes?”

“Then Star asked… why I don’t talk about my mother.” Her face fell.

“Oh… well… she was only curious.”

“I know. I’m not mad, it’s just… she’s right. I don’t talk about my mother at all. In fact I… I never told you what happened… did I?”

“That was your business… I was willing to wait until you were ready… if ever.”

“Thank you Clay, but… I don’t think I can keep it a secret any longer…” She took a few breaths, as if the thought of even talking about her mother was unpleasant. For all Clay knew, it was. Finally Firefly was mentally prepared and began recalling the events.

“It happened when I was six. Mom… Mom had been asked to help perform a special maneuver for the coming airshow.” Firefly took a deep breath. Obviously just thinking about what had happened was a big strain on her. “Mom was really excited and happy to do it… Dad and I encouraged her. She spent the next month practicing every chance she got. I… remember watching her perform up in the clouds when I was little; I was so jealous of the fact that she made it look so easy.” She chuckled at the memory, but her joy didn’t last very long. “Finally the big day had arrived; we were certain Mom could do it in her sleep. Dad and I went to the VIP section so we could get a better view. It started off well enough… everything was going fine and Mom looked dazzling… then…” Firefly’s breathing became slightly erratic as the memories came flooding back. Her body started to tremble, but Clay placed a hoof on her back in an attempt to calm her down. She looked at him appreciatively and continued, her voice shaking slightly as she spoke. “Then… something must have been off. She started swerving and jerking when she tried to pull up from a dive… she was dropping so fast… I remember thinking that Mom was just showing off. Then when I saw Dad… I knew… She just kept dropping no matter how hard she tried… then she just…” Firefly went silent, her eyes brimming with tears.

“I still remember the sound when she hit the ground. It was… horrible.” She sniffled slightly but kept going as Clay looked at her silently. “The paramedics showed up soon after… they wouldn’t let Dad or I see her. I kept asking Dad if she was OK… He never answered. He just kept trying to get to her through the crowd. They took her to the hospital before we could get to her… we waited for hours after that… just… waiting. And then… they told us… she was gone…” The tears were flowing freely now as Firefly looked at the floor; her tears pattered softly onto it as she sobbed, “I… I didn’t even… get to say goodbye…” She lowered her head and let out heartbroken sobs, while Clay pulled her into a comforting hug. “After that, Dad just… he wasn’t the same pony anymore. He would just sit in his office all the time, hardly paying any attention to me. When I became old enough to fly he started keeping me locked up, only letting me out for school and social gatherings when he knew he could keep an eye on me. He knew I wanted to be a Wonderbolt like Mom, and he was afraid that the same thing would happen to me!” She grew quiet again as Clay stroked her side.

“I’m sorry honey… I… I can’t imagine what that must have been like.” Firefly buried her face in his shoulder as he continued, “But you’re not living with him anymore. You’re your own mare, with two beautiful kids, a large family…” He lifted her head to look into her tear-stained eyes, “… and a husband that loves you very much.” He gently kissed her forehead. Firefly smiled slightly as she looked at the earth pony in front of her.

“I know… and I’m very grateful for that each and every day.” She kissed him back. “I know that it was a long time ago. And I’m not living the same life anymore… but the memory is always so fresh… and so is the pain.” Clay gave her a sympathetic smile.

“I know how you feel. It’s been years since I found that flight spell, but I can still remember the wind on my face, flying through the sky… it feels like it just happened yesterday.” Firefly sighed slightly as she dried her eyes.

“You know, sometimes I wonder if it was my fault Mom died.” Clay raised an eyebrow.

“Your fault?” She nodded.

“Dad and I kept encouraging her to master that maneuver… to be the best she could be. She would often come home tired and exhausted… but she still talked with me or played with me despite that. I keep thinking that maybe she couldn’t recover because we made her too tired or maybe I distracted her or…” Her heart began to race as she thought of the possibilities.

“Honey, honey listen to me…” He made her face him again and held her forelegs, “It wasn’t your fault… it wasn’t anyone’s fault… you have to stop thinking like that.” She lowered her gaze.

“Then why do I feel so guilty?”

“Because you’re looking for someone to blame for what happened; but I promise you, it wasn’t anypony’s fault… it was just an accident.” He pulled her into a tight hug, and she returned the gesture.

“I know… I’m sorry for burdening you with my problem…”

“It’s no burden… we’re husband and wife. We share each other’s joys and sorrows.” He looked down at her with a smile. “I love you… and I’ll always be there for you.” He brushed a lock of her mane from her eyes.

“And I love you… so much…” Firefly whispered with a sad smile.

“I know. There has never been a doubt in my mind.” He kissed her softly. “Are you going to be OK? The kids still want to spend Mother’s Day with you.”

“Yeah… I’ll be fine. Telling someone about that was long overdue.” She got off the bed. “What do you guys have planned?”

“Nothing too fancy, just a picnic for the four of us.” Firefly smiled widely.

“It sounds perfect, Clay. Um… why don’t you go meet the kids and get ready…? I’ll be down in a minute.”

“Sure. Take all the time you need.” Clay left the room, leaving Firefly alone.

After a few seconds she reached under the bed to pull out a small box. It was sky blue with yellow trimming, the traditional colors of the Wonderbolts. The box itself looked worn from years of use, but it was still in good condition. She set it on the bed and opened it slowly, as if she expected a trap to be sprung. When the lid was fully open she reached inside and pulled out a single picture ; it was slightly worn around the edges but in otherwise pristine. The picture contained three ponies: an earth pony stallion with grey fur and slicked-black hair; a pegasus mare with a light yellow colored coat, a light blue mane and tail with a white streak running through both, and deep blue eyes; finally, in the middle of those two ponies was a small pink filly with a blue mane and tail. The adults both smiled at Firefly as she looked at them silently. She flipped the picture over to see words written on the back that read: ‘You are my greatest Mother’s Day gift ever. Love, Mommy.’ The words echoed inside her as she read them over and over again. Finally she gave the photo a sad smile. “Happy Mother’s Day, Mom.” She then gave it a tight hug as if she were trying to press her love into the photo.

When she felt like she had spent enough time with it, she placed the photo back in the box and pulled out a rolled piece of paper. She unrolled it on the bed and inspected the parchment. It was a slightly wrinkled poster of a pegasus mare; the same one from the photo, only this time garbed in a Wonderbolt jumpsuit and goggles. Underneath her was the name ‘Misty Fly’.

“I think it’s time your grandkids learn about who you are, Mom.” She rolled up the poster, tucked it under her right wing, and placed the box back under the bed.

Firefly left the room, her mood vastly improved by getting her dark secret off her chest. She trotted down the stairs and exited the house, to be greeted by her two kids and her husband.

“There you are!” Bolt exclaimed happily. “We were starting to think you’d never come back down.”

“Well, I’m here now,” she chuckled.

“What’s that, Mom?” Star asked, noticing the poster tucked under her wing.

“You wanted to know about your grandmother… so I decided to show you.”

“Wow… really?” Bolt asked excitedly.

Firefly nodded and pulled out the poster to unroll it. When she was finished Star, Bolt, and Clay looked at it curiously. Then their eyes went wide.

“Grandma was… Misty Fly?” Star asked, hardly believing it.

“She sure was,” Firefly replied, smiling at her daughter’s amazement.

“I knew that your mother was a Wonderbolt… but Misty Fly? She was the one who devised the Thunder Clap! One of the trickiest maneuvers known to ponykind!” He looked at Firefly with some embarrassment. “I can’t believe I never saw the resemblance.”

“Now we have to get you better presents for next Mother’s Day, Mom,” Star chuckled.

“Let me tell you something kids.” She lowered herself slightly to meet their eyes squarely. “The presents and spa treatments are nice, but I already have two great gifts… you two.” She pulled them into a tight hug. “You two make me so proud to call myself a mother. And I love you both so much… don’t ever forget that. Especially you, Star.” She kissed the tops of their heads.

“I won’t Mom… I promise,” Star murmured as they hugged her back.

“Now. How about we start that picnic?” Firefly asked.

“Yeah! I’m starving!” Bolt exclaimed.

Clay, Bolt, and Star took the picnic supplies while Firefly picked up her poster. As they walked, Firefly answered the multitude of questions her children had about her mother. Some were hard to answer due to her pain, but she did her best. And despite how sad she was from remembering her mother, it still brought her peace all the same. They spent the rest of the day sitting on a hilltop eating food, telling stories, and remembering previous Mother’s Day misadventures until the sun began to set and it was time to head back. Firefly trotted behind Clay and the kids the whole way back, allowing her to think on the events that had transpired that day. Between the laughter, the food, the good memories of her mother, and being surrounded by ponies who loved her… it had been a wonderful Mother’s Day; and even though this would fade into history with all the other days, she wouldn't trade the memories for anything in the world.

Chapter 9

It was a quiet Friday afternoon as Star and Bolt made their way to school. Both were looking forward to the weekend despite the fact that a full day’s schooling was still in store for them. On their way they began talking.

“Alright, it’s almost the weekend! Sleeping in, hanging out with the guys, maybe even getting some time to learn how to fly!” Bolt was practically vibrating with joy.

“I know! Spend time with Mom and Dad, and getting my reading done!” Star chirped with a smile, while Bolt raised an eyebrow at her.

“Reading during the weekend? Sweet Celestia Star, you are such an egghead!” Bolt snickered.

“I am not an egghead! I’m well read like Aunt Twilight,” Star retorted.

“Egghead…” Bolt whispered.

“Oh shut the buck up!” Star snapped.

As the two siblings made their way to school and talking about their plans for the summer, they came across Summer Wind and a few of her friends. One of them, a unicorn, was slowly nudging Summer away from the others as they tried to stifle their giggling.

“What do you think is so funny?” Bolt asked Star as Summer approached.

“Got me,” Star admitted, watching with bemusement as Summer was again nudged towards them.

“Go on…” the unicorn encouraged Summer.

“No Daisy, I can’t…” Summer whimpered slightly.

Despite her protests Summer ended up a few feet in front of Star and Bolt as the other fillies giggled behind her. Summer kept her face almost completely hidden behind her long green mane as she looked to Bolt.

“H-hi Bolt…” she whispered.

“Hi… Summer…” Bolt replied nervously.

"Um... you and your family are going to the Gala right?" Summer asked.

"Well I know my grandmother and aunts are... why?"

“Um… I was wondering if… maybe… I could be your plus one for the Grand Galloping Gala next month…?” She blushed heavily.

"You.... want us... to go to the Gala together?" Bolt asked slightly startled.

"I mean... if you were going and its not too much trouble." Summer continued.

"Well... me and Star weren't really planning on going." Summers face fell at the news.

"Oh... I didn't think you were but I had to ask." She had a look of disappointment across her face.

"B-but I can go! I'm sure my mom or grandparents can get a spare or have one!" Bolt replied quickly.

"Oh... I-I couldn't ask you to do that for me Bolt." Summer continued looking guilty.

"Its no big deal really. My mom and grandparents get so many invites and stuff I'm sure one of them will have a spare."

"Oh! Well... if you're sure." She smiled at him sweetly, "Thank you Bolt. And please, don't kill yourself trying to get one. If you cant go or get a spare its OK." The two ponies smiled at each other for what felt like forever, “Well, um… I should go. I promised Daisy and the others that we would hang out when school was over.”

“Oh… uh… yeah, I understand.” Bolt chuckled nervously.

“So… I’ll uh… see you later then.” She turned and regrouped with her friends. As they walked both Star and Bolt heard Daisy talk to Summer.

“I told you he would say yes.” When the girls were out of view, Bolt turned to see his sister with a big smirk on her face.

“What?” Bolt asked, starting to feel uncomfortable.

“I think she likes yoooouuuu!” Star teased.

“You think so? Don’t be pulling my leg Star!”

“No, I’m serious! Did you see the way she looked at you? And she asked you to take her to the Gala? I think she has a big crush on you. Well that or she's just using you to get a ticket.”

"What?! She wouldn't do that!" Bolt's face contorted in anger.

"Calm down brother. Summer is a good friend of mine, she wouldn't do something so mean." Bolt gave a relived sigh and trotted along with his older sister.

“Wow… my first time at the Gala… and with a filly.” Bolt had a dreamy look on his face.

“You do know that the Gala is going to be boring as dirt , right?” Star remarked.

“Who cares!? I have a date!” Bolt grinned widely.

“Now you just have to wait for a few weeks.” Bolt’s enthusiasm vanished instantly.

“Crap… well… it’ll be worth the wait.” His smile returned, causing Star to chuckle at her brother’s renewed resolve.

“But seriously… I’m happy for you, brother. Summer’s a nice filly,” she encouraged as they continued walking to school.

“You think Mom and Dad will let me go? I mean, it is more of an adult event,” Bolt asked.

“Sure they will. Mom and Dad were going when they were our age. I’m sure they’ll let you go too.” Bolt suddenly chuckled.

“Can you imagine Mom and Dad as teenagers?” Star chuckled as well.

“No, I can’t!” The two siblings laughed at the idea as they drew near their school.

“You know, Mom or Grandma could probably get a ticket to the Gala for you, Star. They usually get extras since they’re in the Wonderbolts.”

“Oh, I don’t know… I’m not exactly Canterlot material. And besides, I wouldn’t want to hurt your chances with Summer. Can’t imagine it would be romantic having your older sister around.” Bolt pondered what Star said, his brow wrinkled in concentration.

“Well… what if we get you a date?” he suggested.

“Oh… I don’t know. Stallions aren’t really interested in me. I think it’s because they don’t like that I’m smart.” She lowered her gaze as if the statement hurt her.

“Come on. There must be a stallion that you like?” Star looked rather reluctant to answer her brother’s question, her face growing red with embarrassment.

“Well… I do have a crush on somepony…” Bolt raised a curious eyebrow.

“Oh? And who would that be?” he asked with genuine interest.

“That’s none of your business!” Star snapped suddenly.

“Whoa! Hey, take it easy! It was just a question.” Star’s anger faded and her face filled with regret.

“Sorry… I just feel like if I tell you, you’ll just laugh at me.”

“Come on, sis. You know me better than that.” Bolt sounded as if he was insulted. “Now come on. Tell me who you have the hots for.” Star bit her bottom lip.

“Steel Valor…” Star’s face became a bright crimson as she spoke his name aloud, while Bolt gave his sister a look that suggested he thought Star had gone mad.

“Steel Valor? The captain of the hoofball team and most popular pony in school? Uh… no offense Star, but I think he’s kinda out of your league. Besides, I thought you said you weren’t into jocks?” Star frowned at her brother’s remark as she tried to explain the reason for her rather odd choice of stallion. True, Steel focused more on sports than magic, but Star had seen that he was more than just that - or at least she hoped so.

“He’s not just a jock! He gets very good grades in class. How else would he be able to stay on the hoofball team?” Bolt smirked slightly.

“Personally, I think he just has good connections so he can’t be kicked off,” he muttered.

“You don’t know that! And how do you know I can’t ask him out? I’ve had colts tell me that I’m pretty.”

“Then prove me wrong - ask Steel Valor to go to the Gala with you.” Star hesitated for a moment. She had never asked another pony on a date, or had even been asked herself. Still, she put on a confident smile as the school came into view.

“Alright little brother… you’re on!” Star and Bolt shook on the bet as they made their way into Ponyville High... though secretly Star was a nervous wreck about what she intended to do.

Sixth period had arrived, marking that it was time for the students to head to the cafeteria. It was also one of the few chances Star got to see or speak with Steel Valor outside of class. She looked around the hallways as most of the students made their way to the cafeteria. At first she thought that she had missed him, but soon she spotted him talking with one of his friends near the lockers. Steel was a unicorn with a light purple coat, a dark purple mane and tail with a yellow streak, and green eyes. His cutie mark resembled a hoofball with a fleur de lis in the center. Star hesitated and looked to her still bare flank. She and Bolt were often mocked for still not having their cutie marks, and here she was about to do the unthinkable for a filly of her stature. Could she really do this? Just walk up to the captain of the hoofball team and ask him to go to the Gala with her and her family? “I must be crazy,” Star muttered to herself.

Once Steel was alone Star took a deep breath and made her way over to him. When she was certain that he was within earshot, she cleared her throat and tried to speak. “H-hello Steel…” she murmured, causing Steel’s ears to perk up and him to turn to face her.

“Oh hi! Um… I’m sorry, I can’t seem to remember your name,” he admitted with a little embarrassment.

“It’s Star.” Her face began to blush, "Not now!"

“Oh! Right, I remember you. You’re in my teleportation class. You’re really good.”

“Oh… I’m not that good really.” She blushed even more.

“No, I mean it. You make that advanced stuff look easy.” He gave her a warm smile. “You know, I don’t think we’ve talked before.”

“No, we haven’t actually.” Star was actually starting to relax around Steel.

“Don’t you have a brother? What was his name… Firebolt?”

“Yes, that’s him.”

“Man, he’s lucky. I wish I had a sister.” Star smiled at that remark. “Hey… did you want to ask me something?” Star’s eyes widened a little as the moment of truth came upon her.

“Oh, right! Um… well… you see I was wondering if… if maybe you… the thing is that the Grand Galloping Gala is coming up next month and…” She stopped, feeling that she couldn’t finish the thought, before making one last try. “I was wondering… if…” She didn’t want to do this, she wanted to leave and never look back. Still she closed her eyes and forced herself to speak, “Steel will you go to the Gala with me?!” As she finished the hallway went quiet. She opened her eyes to see a surprised look on Steel’s face.

“Wow… I uh… I wasn’t expecting that,” Steel replied, regaining his composure.

“I’m sorry! It was a stupid thing to ask! I’ll just…” She started to leave, but Steel put a hoof on her shoulder.

“Wait! Wait! It’s OK… don’t leave. No one’s ever asked me out before, let alone to something like the Gala.” Star turned to look at Steel, not exactly sure where he was going with the conversation. “You have tickets then?”

“Not yet, but my Mom is a Wonderbolt so she can get a few tickets since she performs there.”

“Wow. I never met a pony with a Wonderbolt as a parent.” He chuckled slightly, “In that case… sure. I’d love to go to the Gala with you.” Star blinked in bewilderment.

“Y-you will?”

“Sure. I don’t see why not. Could be fun.” He smiled warmly at her. “But hey, we can talk or hang out before then if you want.”

“We can?”

“What? You think just because I’m captain of the hoofball team means I only hang out with the cool ponies? Not that I don’t think you’re cool,” he hastily added.

“Oh. Y-yes we can hang out, definitely!” At that moment Star felt a huge weight lifted from her shoulders.

“Well. I think we better get to the cafeteria, I haven’t eaten all day,” Steel replied.

“Good idea. I could use some food.”

“See you later then. I have to go meet one of my buddies. But I'll try to get back to you soon Star.” Steel waved goodbye as they went their separate ways . Soon afterward, Star found Bolt at one of the tables and sat next to him after purchasing her lunch.

“Soooo, how did it go?” Bolt asked, half-smiling.

“Looks like we have a double date.”

“No kidding? He actually said yes?” Star nodded. “Holy pony feathers …”

“What? You didn’t think I could get him to say yes?”

“No. I just didn’t know he was into eggheads.” Star responded with a punch to his right foreleg. “Ow…! Or mean eggheads.”

School ended several hours later, the front door filling with colts and fillies dashing home. Bolt and Star talked about going to the Gala with their dates and what they would say to their mom to get extra tickets. Before long they reached their home, where it was clear that both of their parents were home from work. They set their saddle bags down and entered the living room, where they found Clay drinking some apple cider he obtained from Sweet Apple Acres and Firefly on the couch reading.

“Hi Mom! Hi Pop!” Bolt shouted as they approached their parents.

“Hello kids.” Firefly pulled them into a tight hug. “How was school?”

“It was great!” Bolt exclaimed.

“Oh? And why is that?” Firefly asked curiously.

“Because Summer asked me to go with her to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Both Firefly and Clay looked at Bolt with surprise and joy.

“Well how about that? Congratulations kiddo,” Clay replied, giving him an encouraging smile as Firefly began to tear up.

“Oh… my little colt is becoming a stallion!” She gave him a tighter hug.

“Mom!!!” Bolt’s face turned a bright shade of red as the life was crushed out of him by his mother.

"Sorry sweetheart.... did she have tickets?" Firefly asked releasing her son.

"Well um... she didnt have any. In fact she was hoping that I had tickets and I said I would get some..."

"Bolt..." Firefly shook her head.

"Please mom..." He looked at her sadly, and his mother gave a sigh.

"I know that your grandfather Comet couldn't go this year. So I'll ask Rainbow if she can give you her spare."

"Thank you mom." He gave her a firm hug.

“What about you, Star? How was your day?” Clay asked as he took another sip.

“Well… Bolt wasn’t the only pony who got lucky. I asked Steel Valor out to the Gala too and he said yes!” Within seconds Clay was choking on his cider. Firefly, Star, and Bolt looked at him in startlement as he coughed to clear his throat.

Eventually he managed to sputter out, “What!?” between coughs.

“Dad, are you OK?” Star asked.

“Since when…” Clay coughed again. “Since when were you interested in colts?”

“Since I turned thirteen, Dad.” Star frowned. “Why is it when Bolt finds a girl you’re proud of him, but when I find a boy you act like I’m a filly?”

“It does seem unfair, Clay,” Firefly agreed.

“I just don’t want some colt we don’t know taking advantage of our daughter. We know Summer Wind, but I don’t know this Steel Valor.”

“I’m not stupid, Dad! I can take care of myself if he tries anything. All I’m asking is for you and Mom to let me try to spend some time with him at the Gala.” She turned to her mother. “Mom, can you please get tickets for me, and Steel?” Star pleaded, giving her a dose of sad eyes.

“Of course sweetheart,” Firefly giggled as she kissed Star’s forehead.

"Hey!" Bolt frowned at the display.

"Sorry Bolt, but she can pull off the sad look a lot better than you." Firefly teased.

“How can you be OK with this? With everything that’s been going on, you really think letting our daughter go out with a stallion is a good idea?” Clay scowled.

“Are you suggesting that a teenaged colt is abducting fully-grown, capable unicorns?”

“We don’t know who is behind the kidnappings! It could be anyone!” Star rolled her eyes.

“Dad, you’re being overprotective. You guys will be there too, right? And so will Bolt, Grandma and Grandpa. And it’s not like we’ll be alone.” Clay thought on Star’s argument. He still wasn’t entirely secure about Star being with a colt, but her logic was sound.

“Fine… but only if your mother and I are there too.” Star smiled.

“Fine by me. I’ll just be happy to go to the Gala!”

“I’ll get the tickets, and your father will talk to Rarity about making our suits and dresses,” Firefly replied. “Right, Clay?”

“Sure. Rarity will love making you a dress. I’ll see if she has the time.”

“I’ll go with you. Kids, I want you to finish your homework while we’re away,” Firefly explained as she followed Clay out of the house and they began making their way to Rarity’s Carousel Boutique. When they were out of earshot of the children, Firefly decided to speak with Clay.

“Star is right, you know. You are being over protective of her.”

“And what, we should just ignore the fact that an unknown assailant is abducting unicorns?”

“I highly doubt a colt is capable of what has been reported. Besides, there hasn’t been an abduction in months.”

“He just wants us to let our guard down… I just know it.”

“I’m not saying that we shouldn’t keep an eye on her. I’m just saying that you can’t act like every stallion she likes is a psychopath. And as I recall you went behind your mother’s back when you met me, the way she told us about it.” Clay gave a slight sigh.

“I know… this whole thing has got me paranoid. And she’s just growing up so fast.” Firefly gave him a sympathetic look.

“I feel the same way. But we have to stay strong… it wasn’t easy for Rainbow to let you go either from what I remember,” Firefly remarked.

“Now I know how she felt,” Clay mused.

Before long Clay and Firefly arrived at Rarity’s boutique. Clay knocked on the door a few times before hearing a stallion’s voice from within.

“One second please!” Soon a stallion emerged from the front door, wearing a rather fancy suit.

“Hello Germane,” Firefly said with a smile.

“Firefly! How wonderful to see you again! And you too Clay.” He gave Firefly a firm hug.

“Likewise. Is Rarity here?” Clay asked, looking behind Germane.

“Yes, she is. I’ll go fetch her.” Germane stepped back, allowing Clay and Firefly to enter. “Rarity! We have guests!” Soon, the fabulous fashonista unicorn herself entered the room.

“Clay! Firefly! How good to see you two dears again.” She hugged them both with joy.

“It’s nice to see you too, Aunt Rarity,” Clay replied, returning the hug.

“Now, what brings you two to my shop?”

“We were wondering if you could make two dresses and two suits for me, Firefly, Star, and Bolt.” Rarity went wide-eyed, a happy grin plastered over her features.

“Oh my! All four of you need outfits?”

“Yes. Star and Bolt were lucky enough to get dates, and apparently they are to meet at the Gala,” Firefly replied.

“Oh! How romantic! The two of them with their true loves! And during their first time at the Gala!” Rarity had a dreamy smile on her face as she imagined the scene.

“Yeah… romantic,” Clay scoffed.

“I take it the father isn’t approving of his little princess growing up?” Rarity teased.

“Pretty much,” Firefly chuckled.

“As I recall you threw caution to the wind when you met Firefly. Going behind all our backs to flirt with her?” Rarity gave Clay a coy smile.

“Since when is it wrong to want your daughter to be safe about who she dates?” Clay retorted.

“It’s just very amusing how much you’ve changed over the years. Seems like only yesterday I was helping your mother raise you, and now you are a grown stallion raising a family of your own.” Rarity smiled.

“Yeah… anyway, about those clothes?” Clay asked, starting to feel uncomfortable.

“Oh! Yes of course! I should have something made for all four of you before the Gala. Oh! And I should make something for Dinky and Sky! And I can’t forget Twilight, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and of course myself!” She started to get giddy at the thought. "Its a shame Rainbow insists on wearing her jumpsuit instead of one of my fabulous dresses."

“I hope that we aren’t asking too much?” Firefly asked. “I mean, that’s seven different dresses and three suits within a few weeks.”

“Oh Firefly! You make it sound like it’s going to be hard!” Rarity chuckled and continued, “It’s no trouble at all. Business has been rather slow lately, so I should have plenty of time to make sure that all of us look our best.”

“Well… if you’re sure.” Firefly knew that Rarity was good, but seven dresses at such short notice?

“Don’t worry. If anypony can do it, my Aunt Rarity can!” Rarity gave Clay a warm smile.

“Thank you, Clay. I will certainly make sure that they do you all justice.”

“Thank you, Rarity. How much do we owe you?” Firefly asked.

“Owe? Why Firefly, darling. I do not charge for my friends and family.”

“Oh my… that’s very generous of you.”

“Think nothing of it. I am the Element of Generosity after all. Now if I am to have any hope of getting the outfits done in time I must begin at once. Shoo, shoo!” She quickly hurried them out of the building, closing the door behind them.

“She could have just asked us to leave.” Firefly muttered, shaking her head.

“Yeah… but when it comes to making outfits she’s a savant. Plus she’s giving us clothes for free, so I think we can let her pushing us out the door slide this once.” Firefly nodded slightly as they trotted back home side by side.

Chapter 10

The night had finally arrived. After weeks of waiting the Grand Galloping Gala had finally started. Clay was at home fiddling with his brown tie trying to get it straight. He grunted in frustration as it refused to do so.

“Need some help?” Firefly’s voice called behind him.

“Thanks that would be…” Clay stopped as he looked behind him to face Firefly.

Standing in front of him was Firefly ready for the gala. Her dress was a light blue that matched her mane and tail with pink lacing. On her hooves she wore violet slippers that matched her eyes. Her mane had been styled to be braided to the side as it clung to her neck. She gave a warm smile as she saw her husband’s expression.

“Like what you see?” She chuckled.

“Very…” Clay muttered not taking his eyes off her.

She trotted up to him and helped with his tie, her face still keeping the happy expression as she did so.

“It’s been a while since we’ve gone to the gala. I hope you still remember how to treat a Canterlot mare right.” Firefly teased nuzzling up to him.

“Oh don’t worry. Rarity made sure that I never forgot how to behave around the proper ponies.” Clay replied still fumbling with his tie, “Ugh… what I wouldn’t give for claws like Spike right now. Or a horn like Star’s….” Clay stuck his tongue out in concentration.

“Oh hush, you look very handsome even without the tie.” She reassured her husband .

“Almost... there!” Clay had finished with tie, however despite his best efforts it was still slightly disheveled, “Damn…”

“Relax, Clay. We’ll fix it on the way to the gala. Now come on the kids are getting anxious.” With a slight tilt of her head she led Clay out of the bedroom and down the steps and waited by the front door for the kids, “Star! Bolt! Are you two ready yet?” She called.

“I’m ready. Star’s having some trouble though!” Bolt called from their bedroom.

“Ok. But speed it up, it’s getting late!” Firefly turned to her husband with a sigh, “Do you know if Rainbow and the others will be there?”

“Oh yeah. They show up every year so they can have their quality time at doughnut Joes. They never missed a year so I doubt they will this time.”

The conversation was cut short as they heard hoofsteps coming down the stairs. As they looked up they saw Bolt descend wearing a blue jacket with red stripes along with a red tie around his neck.

“There’s my handsome stallion.” Firefly cooed as she gave her son a firm hug and kiss.

“Mooom….” Bolt groaned starting to blush.

“Where’s your sister?” Clay asked.

“She’s…. she’s shy about her dress.” Bolt answered.

“Oh nonsense! I’m sure Star looks like a princess in hers.” Firefly replied.

“That’s what she’s afraid of.” Bolt retorted.

“Star! Come on down! Valor is probably waiting for us right now.” Firefly called urgently.

“Alright….” Stars voice responded sounding full of dread.

After a few seconds they heard the sound of slippers on wood as Star slowly made her way down the steps. As she came closer and closer the three ponies downstairs looked at her appearance in silent awe. Star was garbed in a dress that was similar to Twilights first gala dress. It was ivory white with black trimming, the part that covered her flank and back legs were speckled in black stars that popped against the white background. On her front legs she wore silver slippers that matched her mane which had been tied neatly in the back with a red bow that matched her crimson eyes.

“Well…. Um…. how do I look?” She asked nervously as she looked to her family who were still very quiet, “It’s too much isn’t it…” Star whimpered looking down at her slippers.

“No sweetheart…. It’s just right for you.” Firefly replied holding her daughters face and kissing her forehead.

“I told you that you looked good sis.” Bolt replied with a smile.

“Dad…. What do you think…?” Star asked blushing slightly as she looked up at him.

“You look…. Breath-taking.” Star blushed even more.

“I hope Valor likes it….” She whispered.

“He’d be crazy not to.” Firefly replied, “Now we better get going. Uncle Sky and Aunt Dinky are waiting for us at the carriage.” She opened the door and let the others exit before she did.

As they trotted down the sunset lit road they soon spotted two familiar looking ponies standing by a rather fancy looking carriage being pulled by two royal guard stallions. As they drew near Dinky spotted them and waved to the family. She was garbed in a purple dress with white lacing and a golden muffin crest on her chest. Her hair was done in a bun in the back with a few bubble clips to hold up. Sky on the other hand was dressed in a dark blue lapel suit with gold stripes; around his neck he wore a white neck tie. His mane was slicked back and oiled, a sharp contrast to his usual windswept style.

“Ah! There they are!” Dinky called happily as the family drew close.

“Well… don’t you guys look fancy?” Sky replied with a smile as he inspected the two teens.

“Thanks! You look fancy too Uncle.” Star retorted.

“What a lovely broach you have Dinky. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear it before.” Firefly said admiring Dinky’s jewelry.

“Thank you. My mother gave it to me for just such an occasion a few years back.” Dinky replied with a sense of pride.

“Alright ponies. Hate to cut things short but we’ve got to get going!” Clay called opening the door to the carriage. Dinky was the first to enter, then Sky, then Fire Bolt. Star trotted up to him but didn’t enter.

“Dad your tie is messed up.” She used her magic to straighten out his tie with a red magical aura, “There we go.” She said with a slight smile.

“Thanks sweetheart.” He smiled back but Stars face was slightly disheartened, “What’s the matter Star?” She looked up at him with uncertain eyes.

“Do you… really think I’m pretty dad?” Clay smiled and place a hoof on her cheek.

“You’re one of the most stunning unicorns I have ever seen Star…. I mean that.” She smiled at her father.

“Thanks dad…” She gave him a big hug and then entered the carriage, and was soon followed by Firefly and finally Clay.
The driver gave the reins a quick tug and the carriage began moving down the road and towards Canterlot and the palace.

Within thirty minutes the carriage arrived at Canterlot castle, the road leading to the front entrance was packed with other carriages and fellow attendee’s. Once they were directly in front of the gate the door was opened by a regal looking unicorn. Sky was the first to exit and held a hoof out for Dinky as she stepped out, then Clay who did the same for Firefly, than finally Star and Bolt were the last exit. The two young ponies were filled with excitement and awe as they looked upon the massive castle, none of them had ever been to Canterlot before let alone seen the castle this close. They took off in a gallop forgetting that they were accompanied by their parents and guardians; Star went to look for Steel Valor, while Bolt went to look for Summer as well as explore the castle.

“Kids…” Clay sighed as he saw his two children run off.

“Let them have their fun.” Dinky commented as she was escorted by Sky.

“Yes. They might not enjoy themselves once they realize how boring it is here.” Sky remarked.

The four of them began making their way to the entrance, observing the many other attendees, staff, and royal guards keeping a look out.

“There seems to be more guards than usual.” Dinky remarked looking to a unicorn in gold armor.

“With all the abductions Celestia and Luna have doubled the guard to protect the guests.” Sky replied.

“Why aren’t you in uniform Sky?” Firefly asked curiously.

“I requested some leave time so I could be at the Gala without being involved with the guard work.” Sky replied nodding to a recruit that saluted to him while they walked past.

“You’ll keep an eye on the kids though right?” Clay asked with some uncertainty.

“Like a hawk.” Sky retorted.

“Alright, that’s enough talk of work, and keeping an eye on the kids. We all came here to have fun didn’t we?” Firefly said nudging Clay in the ribs.

“Come on Sky. Why don’t we go over to the other side of the castle so we can be alone?” Dinky gave Sky a slight tug with her magic.

“Have fun you two!” Firefly teased as the two trotted off in the opposite direction, then she turned her attention to her husband, “Come on Clay, please try to relax. You’ve been so tense lately.”

“It’s hard to relax when there is a kidnapper on the loose and your kids are in a large castle where you can’t keep an eye on them.” Clay groused, causing Firefly to frown slightly.

“When did you become a stick in the mud?”

“The day I had two kids to look after.” He retorted.

“Clay, if Star wasn’t a unicorn you wouldn’t even object to bringing her here.” Firefly was starting to get annoyed, “Besides. Isn’t it safer for them to be here surrounded by guards, the elements of harmony, Princess Celestia, and Luna, their parents, and their aunt and uncle to keep an eye on them?” Clay opened his mouth about to speak, but the more he thought about the more he saw Firefly’s point.

“Ok, I guess you’re right.” Clay sighed.

“Good. Now come on, I want to go meet Twilight and the others.” She cantered off while Clay did the same.

Bolt was busy trotting around the castle looking for any sign of Summer Breeze. The anticipation in his chest was building by the second. One could say his heart was about to explode with anxiety.

“Where is she, where is she?” Bolt whipped his head from left to right scanning the crowd of ponies, “Maybe she’s not here yet…” He was starting to feel downcast when suddenly he felt a tap on his shoulder. Bolt quickly spun around to come face to face with the mare of his dreams. Summer was wearing a light green dress with dark green leaf shapes etched into the dress. Her mane was done in a bun with a golden hair clip to hold it into place.

“Hi Bolt.” Summer said quietly with a warm smile.

“H…. hi…” Bolt said blushing slightly.

“You look very nice.” Summer commented looking at his dress jacket.

“Y-you too…” Bolt’s heart was thumping in his chest like a drum.

“Um… do you want to dance or… maybe just talk?” Summer suggested.

“I-I’m… not much of a dancer.” Bolt kicked shyly at the floor.

“That’s ok. It looks pretty crowded right now anyway. We can just talk over there.” She took Bolts hoof and led him to a corner with benches so they could talk in private. Bolt’s face was the deepest shade of crimson Equestria had ever seen as he was led away.

Star sat on a bench looking around occasionally watching other ponies pass by. She didn’t see any sign of Steel anywhere, and she was beginning to worry.

“It’s a big place. He must be around here somewhere.” She thought to herself, “He’s probably looking for me right now. No need to get all freaked out yet, it’s only been ten minutes after all.” Feeling bored she noticed a pony carrying a dish of fancy looking appetizer’s. Her horn glowed red as she plucked one as the pony passed and held it to her face. With a slight shrug she placed the food into her mouth and gave a few chews before her face contorted in disgust and spate the offending food onto the floor with a slight ‘petweew’ sticking her tongue out and whipping it off with a nearby napkin, “Ugh… that was just vile!” She silently cursed the chief who had the nerve to call that food. Her thoughts were soon interrupted however when she heard a stallions voice behind her.

“Excuse me.” Star looked around and was face to face with Steel Valor looking very strapping in his suit and tie, “Tried one of the appetizers huh? I never understand how anypony can eat those things.” Star gave a laugh that was louder than she intended it to be catching the attention of several ponies, “You uh… look very pretty Star.” Steel commented trying to make her more relaxed.

“Oh… thank you Steel. You look very handsome yourself.” She blushed slightly at the compliment.

“That’s a Rarity design right?” Steel asked pointing to the dress.

“Why yes it is… how did you know?” Star asked puzzled.

“My mom is a fan of her work. She made my suit too.” Star smiled.

“Well she does good work.” Star retorted.

“Mind if I join you?” Steel asked.

Star nodded and moved over slightly so Steel could sit beside her. She couldn’t believe that all of this was happening. She was at the grand galloping gala with her crush, and he thought she was pretty. Things couldn’t get more perfect.

Sky and Dinky observed the room, occasionally spotting noteworthy ponies including Fancy Pants, and Sapphire Shores. Dinky was enjoying herself despite how dull the gala really was. Sky on the other hand was less enthusiastic; he came here fairly often after all. Still he tried his best to put on a smile for Dinky. Occasionally he would spot Star and Bolt in the distance interacting with their partners, nothing suspicious… yet.

“I love coming here.” Dinky said dreamily, “The castle is impressive, so many things have happened here.” She looked up at the stairway at the center of the room where Princess Celestia and Luna could be seen greeting guests, “Not to mention it’s where the princesses live.” She continued.

“It is impressive I’ll say that.” Sky remarked looking again at his niece and nephew. Dinky noticed and gave a slight humph.

“I know we promised to keep an eye on the kids, but it wouldn’t hurt to have a little fun.”

“We’re at the gala… fun isn’t exactly a word here.” Sky commented.

“We don’t get to go out anymore. You’re always so… busy…” She sighed and looked at the ground sadly, “I just… want one night with you.”

Sky looked back and noticed his wife’s sadness and felt guilt form at the bottom of his stomach. He gave a sigh and then noticed music playing in the distance. The dance floor was starting to open up again, and suddenly Sky was struck by inspiration taking Dinky by the hoof and dragging her to the center of the room.

“S-sky what are you..?!” Dinky was startled by Sky’s sudden pulling and before she knew it she found herself on the dance floor face to face with her husband and everyone watching.

"Don't talk… just listen.” Sky moved in closer taking Dinky’s hooves in his own, his face rather close to hers. As the music began to play, Sky began to move the two of them in a kind of waltz, moving across the dance floor while the audience watched in amusement, “I know I haven’t been around much lately. And I’m sorry.” He held her hoof out as they moved to the side across the floor, “I’ve been trying so hard to make Equestria safe for you and everyone else that I forgot to let you know that you are the most important mare to me.” Dinky blushed from all of this happening at once.

“I know Sky… I know you’re heart’s in the right place. I just get so tired of living in that house by myself for weeks at a time. I know you work hard to make sure I’m safe.” Sky gave Dinky a little twirl making the audience awe in surprise.

“That’s no excuse.” Sky replied as he pulled her in closer, “I gave you enough trouble when we were kids… it’s time I made up for it.” He lifted the unicorn up above his head without even straining himself, the crowd gasped and chattered excitedly.

“Wow… you have been working out.” Dinky said surprised by her husband’s strength.

“Doing drills and running around the castle and Ponyville will do that.” Sky stated as he placed her back down only to spin her around him like at top, before making her stop and dipping her back looking into her eyes, “I love you Dinky…” He whispered as the two looked at each other.

“I love you too…” She said softly before planting a kiss on his lips causing the whole crowd to cheer excitedly.

Not far from the dance floor Clay and Firefly witnessed the whole display cheering with the rest of the crowd.

“What a show off!” Clay laughed looking to his wife.

“You have to admit. They weren’t half bad.” Once the noise died down the two of them made their way to back where spotted Twilight who was talking with a unicorn they didn’t recognize. As they approached the unicorn stallion left and blended with the crowd.

“Hello Aunt Twilight.” Clay replied happily.

“Clay! Oh my gosh it’s been so long!” Twilight gave her nephew a tight hug and he did the same, “Every time I see you you’re bigger! You aren’t taking growth hormones are you?” Clay laughed at that remark.

“No, just good old fashioned apple bucking.” Clay replied.

“Firefly.” Twilight turned her attention to the pink pegasus and gave her a hug, “Oh, you look so beautiful.”

“Thank you Twilight. You look very lovely too.” She returned the hug and pulled back, “How has Canterlot been treating you?”

“Oh it’s been great. Got to spend time with my family, and see all of Celestia’s new students.” Twilight replied ecstatically, “But to be honest as fun as it is to return to Canterlot, the best thing in the world is returning back to Ponyville and spend time with my other family.” She smiled at the stallion before her. Clay smiled back and gave Twilight another hug.

“I missed you Aunt Twilight…” The unicorn hugged back, a gentle smile on her features.

“I missed you too Clay…” They departed feeling slightly awkward.

“Twilight. Who was that unicorn you were talking too earlier?” Firefly asked.

“Oh that was professor Cosmos. He’s the new astronomy teacher for the school of gifted unicorns and very talented with star patterns. Since we’re both going to be working there I thought to welcome him to Canterlot.”

“Well it’s nice to hear that the school is still going. I thought with all the kidnappings lately there wouldn’t be many new students this year.” Clay replied.

“It… has put a damper on things yes, but we are still getting a fair amount of unicorns. It always makes me smile to see so many young ponies so eager to learn.” Twilight said delighted.

“Hey. Are mom and the others here?” Clay asked taking a quick glance.

“No. They already left. I’m just staying behind to help Professor Cosmos and talk with Princess Celestia. They should be at doughnut Joes if you want to meet them later.”

“You know we will.” Firefly retorted.

“Oh this is going to be fun. All of us hanging out like old times.” Twilight was giddy with excitement as she led Clay and Firefly to meet Celestia and Luna.

Bolt had been at the gala for thirty minutes, and so far everything had gone perfectly. He and Summer had been talking almost none stop, she thought he was funny, and a nice guy. This truly had been the perfect night…

“So last year my Aunt Twilight gave me a book for my birthday. A book!” Summer chuckled slightly.

“Oh a book can be a nice gift.” She said cheerfully.

“Yeah, but get this. The title was called ‘Why am I sweaty? Your body described in horrifyingly uncomfortable detail.’” Bolt snickered.

“Oh no…” Summer placed her face in her hoof and tried to suppress a chuckle.

“Sweet Celestia I love my Aunt Twilight. But she has the strangest ideas for gifts.” Summer was busy wiping away tears of laughter while Bolt caught his breath and looked to Summer with a smile, “I’ve… had a lot of fun with you tonight Summer.” She looked at him with the same expression.

“Me too… this is the most fun I’ve had in months.” She placed a hoof on Bolts, causing him to blush.

“Summer…” Bolt asked looking Summer in the eyes.

“Yes Bolt?” Bolt cleared his throat nervously.

“There is… Something I’ve been meaning to ask you for a while…” He used his free hoof to pull at his collar feeling hot.

“What is it?” She moved closer to him, her chest tightening in anticipation.

“I was… wondering if maybe we could… I mean… maybe you and me could be…” Bolt swallowed while Summer looked at him with growing anticipation her eyes shimmering, “Summer will you be my-.” Before Bolt could finish there was a large bang across the room causing the lights to dim, and the whole castle shook before it became filled with screams of terror.

“What was that?” Summer asked sounding frightened.

“I… I don’t know.” Bolt took her hoof and they began to move as a crowd of ponies began to run for the exit.

“You don’t think its… the kidnappers?” Bolt’s eyes went wide at the thought, his mind flashing back to that Nightmare Night they were attacked.

“Star…” Bolt took off as fast as his legs would carry him.

“Bolt! Come back it’s too dangerous!” But her words went unheeded as the pegasus vanished into the crowd.

A few minutes earlier:

Star was in heaven. How could things be any more perfect unless Steel asked her to be his girlfriend? Perhaps that was too much to hope for in one night. After all they were both very different ponies, he was a jock and she was… well an egghead as her brother would put it. But still she could dream couldn’t she? And why would she have to when she was living the dream right now? After seeing her Uncle Sky and Aunt Dinky dance earlier that set the mood, everyone was dancing now, and Steel was surprising very gentle for one so rough on the hoofball field. For a few glorious minutes it felt like it was just the two of them on that dance floor, it was a moment she would remember for the rest of her life. Unfortunately it couldn’t last forever and soon she found herself on the side with Steel as watched the others continue to dance or talk amongst themselves.

“Star… I… I want you to know I’ve had a great time with you tonight.” Steel said looking to her with a smile.

“Me too Steel. This… this whole night has been wonderful.” She moved closer to him blushing slightly.

“Usually I hate going to the gala. But being here with you has made it a lot better.”

“Oh… I don’t know about that.” She turned away.

“No I’m serious. You’re a lot of fun Star.” He continued with his smile trying to cheer her up.

“Thank you…” She turned to face him and stared into his eyes, a heat building up within her, “I don’t want this to end…” Star murmured.

“I know how you feel.” Steel confirmed looking deep into her eyes.

“It’s now or never…” Star thought to herself leaning in closing her eyes ready for the kiss she had been looking forward to all night.

“What the hell are you doing?” A mare’s voice said behind them.

Star’s eyes snapped open and she looked behind her to see a purple unicorn mare with a blonde mane and tail with blue eyes stared accusingly at them both.

“Pep Rally?” Steel asked sounding surprised.

“Are you really surprised Steel? My daddy always gets me tickets to the gala. If anypony should be surprised it’s me that your little nerd friend is here with her backwards ass interracial family.” Pep Rally shouted with venom.

“Steel… what’s going on?” Star asked trying to ignore the insult.

“You said you weren’t going to the Gala this year. Said it was boring.” Steel said moving up to Pep Rally.

“I wasn’t. But then I heard from the grape vine that you were going out with Evening Star. I didn’t believe it at first because that’s the most unlikely thing to ever happen. And then imagine my surprise when I come here and see you about to suck face with her.” Pep Rally was fuming, “What the hell is wrong with you Steel? I’m the cheerleading captain, you’re the hoofball captain. We’re made for each other!”

“And I told you countless times, that I don’t have to date you, and that I don’t want to.” Steel retorted.

“So you go with her instead? She’s a damn nerd! Her family is a bunch of freaks!”

“Hey! You can insult me all you want Pep Rally, but leave my family out it!” Star’s temper was beginning to rise.

“Be quiet nerd. Nopony was talking to you.” Pep Rally snapped.

“He came with me, not you. So I suggest you leave before it gets ugly.” Star said getting dangerously close to the cheerleader captain.

“That’s so cute. That you think he actually cares about you.” Pep Rally smirked, “The only reason he went out with you is because he felt sorry for you.”

“Shut up!” Star’s body was tensing up.

“I mean come on. You don’t really even have a family. You’re just a unicorn that your real parents didn’t want and you know it.” Pep Rally continued.

“S-shut up! You… you don’t know anything.” Star’s eyes began to glisten and her chest tightened.

“I know that your parents didn’t love you. And your step parents love your brother more.” Pep Rally smirked.

“T-they don’t… l-love him m-more…” Tears were starting to form in Star’s eyes, despite how hard she was trying to fight them. Finally she turned her head away letting her tears fall to the floor.

“Poor little abandoned Star. Maybe one day you’ll find somepony who won’t go out with you just because you’re so pathetic.” Pep Rally said mockingly.

“Shut up…” Star whispered still refusing to look at Pep Rally.

“That’s enough Pep Rally. Leave her alone!” Steel stepped between the two unicorns staring Pep Rally down.

“It’s not my fault she can’t accept the truth. Then we can get together as it should be.” Pep Rally grinned cruelly as she looked down at the weeping unicorn.

“Damn it Pep Rally! I am not your boyfriend! How many times do I have to tell you?” Steel shouted.

“Until you realize that we were destined for each other.” She suddenly leaned forward and kissed Steel on the lips to insult Star even further.

Steel pulled back quickly and looked at her in disgust. But before either one could do anything, Star’s horn began to glow with a red aura. The air around her began to crackle with energy. Both Steel and Pep Rally looked at Star with a mixture of confusion and fear as she looked up at Pep Rally, her eyes glowing with power and rage.

“You… little… WITCH!” Star shouted her horn emitting a bolt of lightning that caused the lights to dim. The entire castle began to rumble as random objects began to levitate off the ground. Star’s eyes were nothing but orbs of pure light as her dress began to lift slightly as her power escalated.

“Star, Calm down!” Steel pleaded as he went to her side desperately trying to get Star to stop.

But his words fell on deaf ears as Star gave a yell of rage and levitated into the air an orb of energy encasing her as random bolts struck the room around them, ponies fleeing in terror. Star was completely under her magic’s power… and there was no stopping her.

Earlier:

Clay and Firefly were standing around with Twilight and many other ponies. The conversations weren’t particularly riveting as they were mostly about one pony had gained their fortune, or other things that Clay had no interest in. Still he could see that Twilight was enjoying the interaction with ponies from Canterlot so put up with it for now. However in the back of his mind he couldn’t help but hope that something would happen so he could get away from these high society ponies.

“I hope the kids are having fun. I haven’t seen them in a while.” Firefly said fiddling with her braid slightly.

“I’m sure they’re fine. We raised good kids, and they know not to go off with strangers.” Firefly raised an eyebrow.

“Well, look who decided to go off of dad mode.” She commented giving him a slight nudge in the ribs.

“Yeah well… it has been a while since we just relaxed had fun. Even if it is just for one night.” Firefly gave him a small nuzzle.

“That’s the Clay I remember.” Clay chuckled slightly at the remark and wondered what to do next when suddenly the lights dimmed as a loud bang was heard and the whole castle shook.

“What the hell!?” Clay looked around franticly and huddled next to Firefly.

“What’s going on!?” Firefly asked becoming scared.

“It feels like an earthquake!” Twilight replied also startled.

“We’ve got to find the kids!” Clay shouted leading Firefly and Twilight away looking franticly for any sign of Bolt or Star.

It was easier said than done as the shook and swarms of panic stricken ponies ran for the exits.

“Clay! Firefly!” Clay look to find Sky and Dinky running up to them through the crowd.

“Have you two seen the kids?” Firefly asked panic in her voice.

“No. We were looking for them ourselves!” Dinky replied looking franticly.

“Mom! Dad!” Bolt could be barely heard over the bedlam that was going on.

“Bolt!” Firefly made a mad dash for her son pulled him into a tight hug, “Oh I was so worried!”

“Bolt, where is your sister?” Clay asked becoming scared as he realized that Star was nowhere to be seen.

“I don’t know! I was looking for her too!” Bolt’s eyes filled with fear as he realized that his sister was still in danger.

“Bolt!” Summer had finally caught up to Bolt after he ran off, “Bolt! Did you find Star?”

“No! I can’t find her anywhere!” Bolt’s heart raced with each second.

“Sky, Dink, Firefly get Bolt and Summer out of here! I’m going to go find Star and Steel!” Clay shouted over the noise. Sky and Dinky nodded.
“I’m not going anywhere!” Firefly said firmly.

“Alright fine! Just get the kids out while Firefly and I find Star!” Sky and Dinky began to hurry Bolt and Summer Breeze to while Twilight began to help evacuate civilians.

“Mom, dad! Be careful!” Clay nodded to his son and pushed through the crowd with Firefly.

The two ponies forced their way through the crowd occasionally calling Star or Steels name. They no such luck however, and with each passing second the fear grew within both their hearts.

“I can’t see them anywhere, Firefly!” Clay called to his wife as she decided to hover above the crowd, “Can you see her?” Firefly scanned the room with her rose colored eyes until she let out a surprised gasp, “What is it?” Clay struggled to see over the crowd.

“I found Star but… oh no…” Clay was becoming more and more panicked.

“What is it? Is she hurt?” Firefly dove down and picked Clay under his front legs lifting him up. As the stallion was elevated he began to look for the source of his wife’s distress. What he saw though only made his fears worsen as he saw Star floating in her bubble of energy. Without saying a word, Firefly carried Clay over to their daughter as fast as she could before setting him down on the ground, “Star! Can you hear me!” Clay shouted hoping to reach her. The response however was a crack of energy that just barely hit him.

“Clay! Firefly!” Steel called noticing the older ponies.

“What happened Steel?” Firefly asked almost unable to take her eyes off of the display.

“One our classmates showed up and upset her! I can’t get her to stop!” Steel flinched as a bolt of energy shot at the wall and caused it to crumble revealing the gardens.

“What did they say that caused her to do… this?!” Firefly asked.

“Does it really matter?! She’s destroying the castle!” Steel retorted.

“Steel! What did they say!?” Clay demanded gripping the colt’s collar in his hoof so that they were facing each other.

“She was made fun of for being adopted! I tried to get them to stop but they wouldn’t listen.” Steel replied.

“You better not be lying to me.” Clay let Steel go and began moving towards the ball of destruction.

“Oh sweet Celestia, be careful, Clay!” Firefly shouted.

“Star! It’s daddy!” He looked up at Star as she floated in her suspended state. He wasn’t even sure if she could hear him, “Honey listen to me! I know it’s hard when somepony makes fun of you for being adopted! Believe me I’ve been there too! But you can’t let what they say get to you!” Another crack of energy lashed out and struck inches away from where Clay was standing causing him to jump back, “Honey it doesn’t matter if I’m not your real dad! You’re my real daughter! And it doesn’t change the way how I feel about you! Both me and your mother love you with all our hearts! We’d do anything to make you and your brother happy! It’s why we stayed to find you and not run away with the other ponies! It’s why I’m risking my life talking to you right now! We stayed because we love you!” Clay looked to Star praying that his words reached her, but she still seemed to be lost to them as her magic went rampant, “Star… please…” He took a step forward but this decision cost him as a random bolt shot out and struck Clay in the chest sending him flying into a pillar with a loud crack.

“Clay!” Firefly gasped in horror.

That last scream somehow resonated with Star as she looked to her right and saw her father lying unconscious and wounded. This caused Star to snap out of her trance and her eyes began to return to normal and the bubble vanishing from existence.

“Daddy…” She whimpered before Star wobbled slightly and then collapsed unconscious just barely falling into her mother’s hooves.

Clay’s eyes opened slowly as the world returned around him. He gave a slight groan as he realized his body was beginning to ache, especially his right foreleg. The stallion shook his head and surveyed his surroundings. He was in a hospital bed and was connected to a heart monitor, to his left he saw a window that looked out to the town outside; by the look of the buildings he was still in Canterlot. As all of his senses returned he realized that he heard sobbing to his right, he turned his head to see Star by his bedside sobbing into the sheets. Clay tried to move a hoof to stroke her head, only to wince in pain. He looked down and saw that his right foreleg was in a cast, it was without a doubt broken. So he used his left foreleg to stroke the top of Star’s head affectionately, as soon as he did Star’s head popped up, her crimson eyes bloodshot and her face tearstained.

“Daddy!” She looked like she was about to hug him with a big smile, but decided against it and her smile quickly faded.

“Are… ugh… are you ok sweetheart?” Clay asked wincing from the pain in his leg.

“I’m fine dad… I’m more worried about you…” She stroked the back of his head apologetically, “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry dad.” Her tears flowed again as she let out heartbroken sobs, “Can you… *sniff* can you ever forgive me?” Star sobbed, while Clay wrapped his good foreleg around her in an attempt to hug.

“Shhh... It’s ok sweetie. I know you didn’t mean it.” Star wrapped her forelegs around her father.

“I heard what you said before dad… I wanted to stop, but I couldn’t control myself… I’m so sorry.” Star felt like she couldn’t apologize enough.

“I’ve already forgiven you, Star. Believe me, I know how you feel… probably better than anypony else.” He gave her a reassuring smile and Star gave him another hug, “I love you daddy…” He gave her a half hug back.

“I love you too sweetheart.” The two ponies released each other and felt their weary spirits rise, “Where are your mother and brother?” Clay asked noticing their absence.

“Mom took Bolt and Summer home. She’ll be back to visit you when she can. Aunt Dinky and Uncle Sky left to.” Star replied wiping her eyes slightly.

“And… Steel Valor?” Star’s smile faded slightly.

“I don’t know… I haven’t seen him since… it happened.” Clay gently stroked her foreleg.

“I’m sorry sweetie…” Star simply nodded not sure of what to do next. Suddenly there was a knock at the door, “Come in.” Within seconds the door opened again to reveal Rainbow Dash and the others. The cyan pegasus soon had her son in a tight hug while the others chuckled slightly still not used to seeing their friend so emotional even after all these years. Clay quickly returned the hug with his one good foreleg and explained things to them since none of them were there for the event. Despite being surprised and slightly worried they didn’t seem angry about what Star had done, in fact they seemed just happy that she was ok.

“Sorry we weren’t there Clay. By the time Twilight told us what had happened you and Star had already been moved to the hospital.” Applejack said apologetically as she removed her hat.

“Does it hurt too much? Do you need me to get you the nurse?” Rainbow asked stroking his head.

“It hurts, but I can deal with it mom.” He gave Rainbow a reassuring smile.

“Star it’s getting late. Why don’t we go home and let your dad get some sleep ok?” Twilight said kindly.

“I don’t want to leave dad… it’s my fault he’s here.” There was clear pain in her voice.

“It’s ok honey. I’ll be home before you know it.” Clay said trying to ease her guilt.

“Ok… I love you daddy.” She gave him a firm hug which he returned.

“I know sweetheart… I love you too.” They ended the hug and Star moved to the door next to her Aunt Twilight.

“Take care dear.” Rarity gave him a hug before leaving.

“Be sure to get plenty of rest and eat when you can, and stay off that leg.” Fluttershy said also giving him a hug and fluttering out of the room.

“Feel better, sugar cube.” Applejack tilted her hat and soon departed.

“When you get back, I’m going to have a big old get welcome back party all set for you!” Pinkie said happily as she bounced out.
“I’ll bring some books over tomorrow so you don’t get bored!” Twilight said as she trotted out of the hospital room. Rainbow however… was reluctant to leave.

“You sure you’ll be ok?” She asked stroking the back of his head.

“I’ll be fine mom. It’ll take more than a broken leg to keep me down.” He smiled at her reassuringly.

“Ok… come back to us soon.” She gave him a firm hug and then a kiss on his forehead before leaving the room closing the door behind her.

Clay sighed and rested his head on the pillow getting settled in. He turned off the desk lamp beside his bed and looked up at the ceiling for a few seconds before he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep, thinking about what had transpired that day. Despite what had happened and his current state, he couldn’t help but smile at how much his entire family cared for him.

Meanwhile:

The streets were dark, vacant of any sign of light. A lone unicorn stallion in formal attire trotted through the streets, his eyes darting from side to side for any sign of movement. The stallion heard a noise behind him and his head jerked in its location.

“Is someone there?” The stallion asked looking into the darkness. The response he got was the sound of hoofsteps on cobblestone, “Who’s there… reveal yourself!” The stallion’s horn began to glow ready to attack if he had to. The sound of the hoofsteps got closer and louder with each second, before long the light emitted from the unicorns horn revealed a grey unicorn with a black mane and single red stripe. His body was garbed in a thick black cloak, “Oh… my lord I apologize for not realizing it was you.” The unicorn bowed before the cloaked one.

“Rise.” The cloaked unicorn uttered, “What news do you bring?”

“My lord… I think we may have found her.” The cloaked unicorns eyebrow raised slightly.

“You’re certain that it is her this time?”

“Without a doubt my lord. She caused quite a scene at the palace tonight. Nearly broke it in two.” The stallion replied.

“And you are quite certain that it is her? You know the penalty for wasting my time.” The cloaked unicorns horn flared with green energy in a flame like fashion.

“She fits the description, and her magic was quite impressive for her age.” The stallion continued.

“Very well… I will investigate this personally. I want you to return to the base, and await further instructions.” The stallion nodded and vanished in a flash teleporting away, “Don’t worry my dear, soon you will be back where you belong… soon….” A sinister grin crossed the unicorns face as he trotted off before vanishing from sight himself… leaving a cold chill in the air.

*End of Act I*

Chapter 11

Summer had arrived in Ponyville. The sun was warm, all manner of creatures were stirring. Summer vacation had finally arrived for the colts and fillies of Ponyville High. The building buzzing with excitement as the bell signaled that school was finally over. Amongst the crowd were Star and Bolt as they galloped into the streets cheering.

“Finally! No more homework or teachers!” Bolt exclaimed lifting into the air slightly as he flapped his wings before landing on the ground.

“I’m going to miss my teachers.” Star sighed as she trotted gracefully next to her younger brother.

“Only because you’re the star pupil. They all love you.” Bolt scoffed.

“It’s not my fault you keep doodling in textbooks.” Star snickered.

“And the best part is. When we come back we’ll both officially be seniors!” Bolt did a small hoof pump as he hovered off the ground.

“And here I thought you wouldn’t even make it past your freshmen year.” Star teased, while Bolt stuck out his tongue in response.
The duo made their way down the streets of Ponyville as the various students went their separate ways. Some went home, some went off to meet friends, and some just decided to stop under a tree or at a bench. The two siblings talked the entire way until they came across the familiar building they had come to call home. As soon as it was in view the two quickened their pace, practically running to the front door. They were soon greeted by their mother as they set down their saddle bags.

“School’s over mom! Whoo!” Bolt shouted excitedly as he ran to the living room.

“Yes I’m well aware.” Firefly chuckled as she gave each of her children a hug and peck on the forehead.

“How’s dad doing?” Star asked as she set her bags down neatly with her magic.

“Oh being stubborn as usual.” Firefly sighed, giving her head a small shake.

“Is that my two kids I hear?” A male voice called from the kitchen.

“Yeah dad it’s us.” Bold replied.

“Hold up, I’ll be right there.” Clay could be heard moving and shuffling in the other room. Occasionally there would be a slight groan of pain as he entered. His leg was still in a cast and it was making it difficult for him to get around. Still it didn’t stop the earth pony as he hobbled into the living room.

“I really wish you would just stay in bed and let that leg heal, Clay.” Firefly scolded.

“I’ll be doing plenty of that when I’m an old pony.” Clay remarked as he made his way over to his kids before squeezing them in a tight hug.

“Mom’s right dad. Your leg would heal faster if you would just stay in bed.” Star agreed returning the hug.

“What? And watch my life go by while I sit there like a bump on a log? No thanks.” Clay scoffed as he hobbled over to the couch and sat down.

“Dad’s tough as nails! He can handle a broken leg!” Bolt grinned as he gave his dad a small punch in the arm causing his father to wince in pain and rub it, “Oops… um… sorry dad.” Bolt apologized rubbing the back of his neck, “But man, I can’t wait to stay home and sleep in. Read comics. Play video games. And-.” As Bolt began to ramble about his plans for summer there was suddenly a knock at the door. Clay started to make his way over, but Firefly interjected.

“I’ll get it dear.” She gave a small smile at her husband’s determination before trotting over to the door and opened it to be greeted by Derpy carrying her signature mail bag, “Oh hello Ditzy.” Firefly replied cheerfully.

“Hey Firefly. Got a letter for you guys. Looks important.” Derpy reached into her bag rummaging around before pulling out a white envelope with white envelope with golden boarders on the edges.

“Who sent this?” Firefly inquired taking it from the mailmare.

“Don’t know. Never got an envelope like that around here before. Anyway sorry but I’ve still got deliveries to make. Have a good day!” Derpy gave a friendly wave to the family before taking off to the next house.

“Who’s it from mom?” Bolt asked excitedly trying to see if it had a name on it.

“I will tell you in a minute you silly colt.” Firefly ripped it open with her teeth and pulled out the letter within and began to read, “Hmm… it’s addressed to you Star.” She handed the letter to her daughter.

“Really? I’ve never gotten a letter before…” She took it from her mother and began to read out loud while the others listened with anticipation and curiosity.

“Dear Miss Evening Star. I apologize for taking so long to send this letter to you, but I felt with what occurred at the gala your family needed time to rest. I saw what happened while you and your family were attending and I do apologize for any grief that may have befallen you. Twilight has informed me of who you are and what exactly led to that rather impressive display of power. You have much potential Star, but I fear you have very little control. I wish to help you learn how to put your magic to better use by offering you a chance to be my newest student in my school for gifted young unicorns. I hope to see you soon. Sincerely, Princess Celestia.”

There was an audible gasp as Star looked at the letter in absolute shock. Rereading the last few words over and over in her head.

“T-the princess wants you to… be a student of hers?” Bolt shook his head in disbelief, but a smile still formed on his face.

“It… would appear so…” Star also smiled as her heart began to swell with happiness and excitement. She had always dreamed of learning in Canterlot with the best Equestria had to offer, but she never thought that it would come true.

“Oh this is wonderful news! Our daughter studying at Celestia’s school for gifted unicorns!? I can barely believe what I am hearing!” Firefly was practically vibrating with excitement.

“Um… honey could I talk to you for a second?” Clay ushered over to his wife leading her away from their children speaking in a hushed tone, “Look. I hate to be that pony… but… can we really trust that letter? I mean don’t get me wrong I hope she goes there one day as well… but there is still a kidnapper out there somewhere, and we have no way of knowing if that letter is really from Celestia? It could be a trap.”

“I… I never thought about that…” The smile faded from Firefly’s face as the realization occurred to her, “Oh honey what do we do? I don’t want to crush her dreams… what if it is real?” She replied back in just a low a voice.

“I… I don’t know… I don’t want to hurt her either, but…” Clay looked back at Star who was still wearing that bright smile of hers.

“How about this? I’ll take Star over to Canterlot to see if this is real or not and we’ll take Sky and a few soldiers for protection?” Clay thought for a moment as he contemplated his wife’s proposal.

“Well… I guess that’s acceptable… But I feel like we’d be taking advantage of Sky and putting our daughter at risk.”

“Do you really want to be the one to tell your daughter she can’t go?” Firefly looked to her husband as he went quiet.

“Sigh… Alright.” Clay gave in and the two of them returned to Bolt and Star, “Star. I and your mother are going to take you to Canterlot. But we want to be safe and we are going to ask your Uncle Sky if he can come as well. Is that alright with you?”

“Yes daddy! That’s completely fine! Oh thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you so much!” Star hugged both of her parents with surprising force and then skipped merrily up to her room as her brother followed her.

“Well. Better go tell Sky he has some bodyguard work to do.” Clay began to make his way to the door.

“Whoa hold on there Clay.” Firefly stepped in front of Clay making him stop, “You’re not going to Canterlot with a broken leg. You’re staying here while Me, Sky, and Star go to see if this letter is real or not.”

“What?! Are you serious?!” Clay shouted looking flabbergasted.

“Deadly.” Firefly said sternly, “I am not going to have you re-break your leg because of a walk to the castle. You’re going to stay in bed and let your leg heal.”

“I’m not going to let my family go off and probably walk into a trap. Even if Sky is with you.” Clay snorted and frowned at his wife.

“And what exactly will you do if it is a trap? You can barely walk around the house let alone run or charge at a kidnapper.” Firefly retorted keeping her cool.

“You aren’t going to stop me sweetie. I’ll come even if I have to drag myself there.”

“No you are not! Stop being so stubborn! You’re staying home and that’s that!” Firefly was starting to become annoyed now as well.

“You can’t force me to be here. Even with a busted leg I know I can shove you aside.” Clay gave a cocky smirk.

“Well then I guess I’ll just have to get somepony who can watch you.” Firefly said calmly.
“Like who? Twilight, Spike, Rarity, and Pinkie are out of town. Fluttershy is too timid to stop me. Mom is on tour. And Comet is still making his way back from Manehatten, so that just leaves… oh you wouldn’t.” Clay growled.

*Hours later*

“Thanks for agreeing to look after Clay Applejack. He’s been so fussy since he got his cast.” Firefly said kindly to the farm pony.

“Ah ain't nothin sugar cube. Ah know how he can get sometimes. Stubborn just like his momma and Aunt AJ.” Applejack responded ruffling Clay’s mane.

“I’m not a colt you know.” Clay replied rolling his eyes.

“Well if you insist on acting like a colt then I’m going to have to treat you like one. I will not run the risk of having my husband stranded on the floor because his leg gave out while trying to make a sandwich. You need someone to look after you and I don’t trust Bolt to be the assertiveness you need.” She turned her attention back to AJ, “At the very most I expect we will be back by tomorrow. I’m sorry if this causes you any inconvenience Applejack… but I’d rather not risk my husband hurting himself again.”

“Ah don’t worry about a thing Fly. I’ll look over him like he was my prized orchard.” AJ gave that friendly smile she always wore.

“Well I appreciate it. We’ll get back as soon as we can… and I expect you to not give your aunt any trouble sweetie.” She gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Sigh… I’ll try my best.” He kissed her back.

“Take care guys! We’ll be back soon!” Firefly waved goodbye and took off into the air making her way back to her house to prepare for the trip to Canterlot.

“Alright Clay you heard the lady. I want you in the guest room resting up.” AJ gave her nephew a firm pat on the back.

“Gah… couldn’t I just help out a little bit? Maybe help Apple Bloom in the kitchen or-.” Applejack cut him off.

“No. You are going to be in that bed until your wife comes back to pick you up. Ah know it bites Clay, but she’s right. You’re in no condition to be doing chores or anything for that matter. I’ll be by later to get you some soup.” She gave Clay a kiss on the forehead before trotting off to help Big Mac with the apple orchards.

“Bah… It doesn’t hurt that bad.” He tried to put a bit more weight on his hoof only to be met with a shooting pain up his leg causing him to buckle.

“Hi Cousin Clay!” Apple Bloom shouted from the house rushing up to him and giving him a hug.

“Nnnng… hi Apple Bloom…” Clay muttered trying to fight the tears in his eyes.

“Let me help ya get to the guest room. It’s been forever since ya’ll came to visit.” The young farm mare smiled brightly her crimson hair shining in the sun as she led her cousin to the barn house, “Applejack babying ya?” She said with a knowing smile.

“A little… I know she means well but I didn’t come here as an adult to be treated like a drooling foal.” Clay muttered angrily as he made his way inside and down the hall.

“It’s only for a day at most. At least you get room service and the best apples in Ponyville.” Apple Bloom replied trying to lighten the mood.

“Yeah I guess… it’s going to be a long day though I can tell.”

The two of them made it to the guest room of the house. The interior was small by comparison to the other rooms, but it was homely consisting of a single bed with a nightstand and lamp. A window above said bed. And the walls were covered in a green wall paper with tiny apples dotting the surface. It Even had its own private restroom.

“It’s a bit…. Smaller than I remember…” Clay thought out loud as Apple Bloom checked the bed to make sure it was in perfect condition. The quilt had a red and white checkered pattern looking a bit like a picnic blanket.

“Sorry cuz. It’s been awhile since we had visitors.” Apple Bloom apologized as she inspected the room for dust.

“Yeah… hey. Remember when I came over for sleepovers and you would always bake me an extra apple fritter after dinner?”

“Hehe. Yeah. Applejack said I would make ya all rolly polly. But ah knew Rainbow Dash wouldn’t let ya get even close.” They both laughed. It was short lived however as there was a bark from outside the room. Before long a collie entered the room bouncing and barking wagging its tail happily.

“Hey Rex. Come to see your old buddy?” Clay gave a small chuckle as he reached over and gave the dog a pet across its head. The dog barked excitedly giving the stallion a sloppy kiss over his face “Eewwwyuck….. still a slobber ball I see…” Clay cleaned his face with a nearby tissue, only for his ears to perk up as he heard hoofsteps enter the room.

"Got yourself settled in?” There was no mistaking the cheery voice of his cousin Apple Bloom as she gave him a warm hug, being careful not to touch his bad leg. She was still fairly young at least compared to Applejack. Her long crimson hair still sporting the bow she wore from foal hood. The hair running down her neck done in lovely braid. And around her neck was spotted orange bandana that matched her eyes. Clay had always assumed it was more of a family thing since Applejack started wearing a red bandana when she was young, and Big Mac a green one in addition to his trademark yoke.

“Uh… yeah pretty much. Just getting reacquainted with Rex here.” The dog barked up at him as he recognized his name.

“Ah can tell.” Apple Bloom snickered “Well come on. You need to get off that leg so it can heal. Ah ain't gonna be the one to tell Applejack that your leg is taking its time healing because you wanted to play with the dog.”

“I wasn’t… gah… fine…” Clay gave a defeated sigh and figured it was best to just get into his bed. It was late in the day, but sun set was still a few hours away. But he knew if he fought Applejack and Apple Bloom the whole time he was here, this would be one long trip to the farm.

“Good. Now ah gotta go help out with Big Mac and Applejack. But if ya need anything, just ring the bell.” Apple Bloom reached into her saddlebags and pulled out a small silver bell engraved with apples across the bottom “Welcome back to the farm cuz. I know it sucks what with your broken leg and all but… please try to enjoy your stay here… we don’t get to see ya that often anymore.” She smiled at Clay though he could tell there was a hint of sadness in her voice as she spoke.

“I know Apple Bloom… I will… I promise.” He smiled back and the two of them gave each other a small hug before she left Clay to his room.
“Well… only 7 hours till midnight… what to do?” Clay pondered to himself as he looked around the small guest room. He flopped his head on the pillow and tried to focus on falling asleep. But it seems sleep refused to come to him. Finally he gave up with a huff and looked around. Their wasn't much but eventually he found a small rubber ball hidden inside his nightstand. Feeling the boredom threatening to overtake him he began to throw the ball against the wall, catching it as it bounced back to him, only to do the same thing again. He began to count how many times he managed to catch the ball. “One… two… three… four… five… six… seven… eight… nine…” The ball hit the wall at the wrong angle and it bounced under the bed out of his reach “Shit…” Clay grumbled before somewhat angrily flopping his head onto the pillow. True he could still get up and walk, but if Applejack or Apple Bloom caught him walking. He would get the tongue lashing of a life time. Thank goodness he would only be here two days tops. “Why do I have to stay in this bed all day? I’m not even tired…. Yaaawn…. I’m not tired…. I’m not…. Zzzzzzzzzzzz….” Before Clay could even comprehend what had happened, he had dozed off.

Clay tossed and turned in his sleep as the hours passed. The full moon shining into his room as he slept. His dreams felt very realistic, almost as if he was really experiencing them. He somehow ended up on a hill top looking over Ponyville. The wind a pleasant breeze making the grass shimmer with each gust. He had never had a dream quite as relaxing as this before. He could feel the wind on his face, the sound of the busy town below. He took a deep sniff, inhaling the fresh air… and began to cough. His lungs felt wrong. He couldn’t breathe properly. The air felt like poison in his lungs. Clay gasped for breath as his vision blurred from the tears in his eyes. What was going on? Why couldn’t he breathe? What was wrong with him? He coughed more violently and collapsed to the ground, his vision blurring as thick dark fog began to devour the peaceful vision around him. He felt as if he was about to die… was he?

Clay woke up with a start. His heart racing, his ears ringing as blood pumped into them. He was drenched in sweat and his eyes burned. It was only then that he realized that Rex barking wildly at the side of his bed before running to the door and scratching at it frantically.

“Whoa… easy boy. What’s gotten into you?” Clay rubbed his eyes as he got up out of his bed, trying not to apply pressure onto his broken leg. It was only then that he realized that the room looked wrong. The air was thick and pungent. He was having trouble seeing anything, almost like a fog had rolled into his room. And it smelled… it smelled like… “Smoke?” Clay felt his brain awake with a jolt as he quickly moved over to his window. It was a challenge, but he managed to peer outside his room. What he saw made his heart drop into his stomach. The barn outside meant to house equipment like Big Macs plow was engulfed in flames. They licked the sky as if threatening to burn the stars themselves. He had never seen a fire so brilliant and large in his life. He became mesmerized for a few seconds before the barking of Rex snapped him to attention. Clay hopped back down ignoring the pain in his leg to let the dog out, and followed after him as fast as he could.
“Hey! Anypony hear me? Fire! There’s a fire outside!” Clay called to the house, but there was no reply. He could hear Rex barking frantically outside the house, as well as the voice of Applejack giving orders.

“Big Mac! Go down to the river and hook up the pump system! We need to put out the fire now! I’ll see about making a ditch so it doesn’t spread to town!”

“Eeyup!” There was no mistaking his Uncles affirmative answer as he exited the building.

“Clay?! What in tarnation are you doing here?! Get back inside!” The barn behind her started to crackle and groan. The supports beginning to weaken.

“What’s going on? What happened?”

“Don’t know! We just got here ourselves! Look just stay back while we try to put out the fire!” Applejack began to look around franticly, “Have ya seen Apple Bloom?” Clay shook his head “Horse apples! Alright… just… just go back inside while me and Big Mac get the water. Ah need to get dirt so it doesn’t spread.”

“Let me help. I can…”

“Absolutely not! You’re in my care! And I am not going to let you get hurt. Now PLEASE stay inside Clay… please…” AJ’s hardened expression softened as she placed her hooves on Clays shoulder.

“But…… sigh… alright…” Clay gave a small smile.

“Thank ya Clay.” She gave his forehead a small kiss and then ran off to get a decent amount of dirt and to work on the trenches.

The stallion meanwhile sat back down on the porch of the house, being able to do nothing but watch the supply barn go up in flames. Every fiber of his being begged for him to do something, but he knew he couldn’t be of much help with his leg. He simply waited instead and tried his best to stay still. As he began to look for something else to stare at he noticed a figure behind one of the tree’s. At first he thought it might be Apple Bloom, but as he squinted his eyes he saw that the figure was wearing a black cloak. A horn visibly seen under the hood.

“Who the hell… Hey!” Clay stood up and limped his way over. The figure turned to face him. The features hidden despite the bright light created by the fire “Hey! What are you doing?! Go get help or…” Clay stopped suddenly when the figure seemed to stare right at him. He was suddenly overcome with a sense of fear and anger. Something was not right with this unicorn. Before Clay could do anything further he suddenly heard a cry for help from within the barn. Clay’s ears perked and he turned his attention to the burning barn. Within that second to look away there was a flash, and the unicorn was gone. Clay shook his head annoyed with what had happened, before he heard another cry for help. This time he knew who the voice belonged to, and his heart sank “Apple Bloom…” Clay franticly looked around to see if Applejack or Big Mac had returned. But the more he searched the more fearful he became. Apple Blooms cries were becoming mixed with choking and gasping. Finally Clay couldn’t just stand by any longer.

“Hang on Apple Bloom! I’m coming!” Clay ran as fast as he could to the front door, but it wouldn’t budge. It Seemed that something was blocking it.

As Clay fumbled with the front, he heard a loud creak and groan as the roof began to sink in. Trying his best not to panic Clay left the front and ran to the side. Smoke pouring out of the windows and merging with the larger cloud up top. Clay noticed that the wall had been weakened from the fire, and began to kick a sizable hole with his back leg. Once it was big enough he slipped in only to immediately be met with a blast of smoke and heat. He coughed violently before getting low to the ground as best he could. The pain in his leg making this even more difficult.

“Apple Bloom! Can you hear me?!” Clay coughed as he dragged himself along the floor. Pain shooting through his foreleg. Still he pressed on, not willing to give up. In the shroud of the smoke and blaze of the fire he spotted Apple Bloom barely conscious.

“Help… anyone… please…”

“I’m right here! Hold on!” Clay crawled towards the suffocating mare and lifted her onto his back. The extra weight doing no favors for his injured leg. He gritted his teeth hard and tried to make his way back to the hole he just made.

“Clay? No… what are you doing? Get out while you… still can…” Apple Bloom fell silent as she lost the fight to stay awake. Clay simply continued. Determined to make it out of the barn with Apple Bloom. Before he could accomplish this however, a portion of the roof collapsed and fell right in front of the hole with the wood still burning. They were trapped indefinitely now.

“AJ! Big Mac! Anyone… cough… help!” Clay called out hoping that they had returned by now. But his pleas never left the barn “Anyone… cough… cough… cough… please… Clay felt light headed. The smoke began overtaking him. Apple Bloom slid off his back and his legs gave out. Clay collapsed on the ground. His strength failing him as he began to lose consciousness “No… not like this… please…” His voice grew faint and his eyes heavy. Before Clay knew it his eyes had shut completely as his brain shut down.

“Clay? Clay that you? Apple Bloom?”

“Who is that?” Clay thought to himself in the black abyss.

“Clay! Can you hear me?”

“I can’t remember… that’s strange… why can’t I remember… oh right… I’m dying…”

“Clay snap out of it!” As the voice rang in Clay’s head he felt a sudden splash of water on his face. This instantly snapped him out of his trance. He coughed and sputtered as he stood up before laying on his side from the pain in his leg, “Clay! Apple Bloom are you two alright? Answer me!” Clay flicked his ears as his brain began working again. He looked up and felt a swell of joy when he was met by the sight of his Uncle Comet sitting on a cloud. Suddenly it all came flooding back.

“Uncle! We can’t get out we’re stuck! Help!”

“Don’t worry I’ve got you two. Hold on this is going to get wet!” Comet stood up and began jumping up and down frantically on his cloud, making it release its watery contents. The cool rain felt like a god send on his fur as the fire began to billow and die out. For the first time in a while Clay was able to smile and breathed a sigh of relief. Then suddenly a thought crossed his mind.

“Hey. When did you get here? I thought you were traveling to Manehatten.”

“Oh yeah. The client canceled, so they sent me back. I had to do a lot of flying to get back…” Comet grumbled irritated as he shook out the last of the rain.

“Thanks Uncle. I owe you big time.”

“Damn right you do! Now get out of there!” No sooner had he spoken those words then did the front door get smashed down with surprising force. Clay blinked from the dust to see Applejack standing there. She rushed in with a stern expression and helped Clay up while Big Mac picked up Apple Bloom.

“Are you two ok?” AJ asked as she set Clay down gently.

“A little cooked… but ok…” Clay coughed in reply.

“Good… because I am going to kill you both! What the hay were you two doin!?” Clay gave a defeated sigh. He knew he was in it now…
The sun eventually rose. The farm was still mostly intact even though the supply barn was a complete loss. The smoldering blackened skeleton of the building still remained as small puffs of smoke wisped into the air. Clay and Apple Bloom were sitting on the front porch recovering from the ordeal while Applejack and Comet argued.

“Really Applejack. I insist. I have more than enough money to replace all that was lost. Please it’s the least I can do.” Applejack gave a slightly disgruntled expression

“Ah appreciate it Comet, but ah don’t think we need your family fortune to fix our problems. If we just accepted every hand out that was given to us, we’d be no better than those fancy city ponies… no offense, but we got the apple family pride to think about.”

“It’s not about charity! It’s about thanking you for taking care of my only nephew and to make sure you don’t go bankrupt. The barn alone will set you back a couple hundred bits!”

“They’ll be at this all day…” Clay sighed as he watched the two ponies argue over expenses.

“Yeah… but at least we’re all ok…” She gave Clay a big loving hug “Thanks cuz… you really saved my hay bacon back there.”

“Thanks… but its Comet and AJ who are the real heroes. Comet was the one who put out the fire and AJ was the one who carried us out… I nearly got us both killed.”

“Ah don’t be so hard on yourself Clay. You still tried. And if you hadn’t tried to save me, they probably would have let the place fall on top of me.” Apple Bloom gave Clay a small kiss on his cheek as thanks “Course… now Applejacks going to be giving us both a talkin to…” She grumbled.

“Yeah… what were you doing in the barn anyway?” Clay adjusted his position on the porch.

“Ah was just doing a small inventory check to make sure we were ready for tomorrow. Then I thought I heard a voice so I went to check it out and then… ah don’t know… someone hit me on the back of the head.” Clay’s eyes widened.

“Someone… attacked you?”

“Maybe… it was too dark to see. It could have been a loose shovel or something.” Clay went silent as his gaze turned to the spot where he had spotted the unicorn from the night before. The way he or she had stared at him and had done nothing to stop the fire… he knew what this meant.

“No… it wasn’t an accident… we’re under attack Apple Bloom… and I’m afraid it’s only going to get worse…”

Chapter 6

The sun was just beginning to set as ponies left their houses dressed in elaborate costumes, ready to spend the evening having fun on Nightmare Night. Star and Bolt, both now 11 years old, were waiting downstairs dressed in their costumes; Bolt was wearing a Wonderbolt jumpsuit and Star was dressed as a vampire, complete with false fangs. They were currently waiting for their parents to come down in their own costumes, but Bolt was getting impatient as he tapped his hoof on the floor.

“Come on guys! If we don’t leave all the candy is going to be gone!” he shouted.

“Hold your horses Bolt, we’re coming,” Clay said as he made his way down the stairs.

Clay was dressed as his favorite fictional character Doctor Whooves - he wore a green neck tie and a large flowing brown coat, and just to make it complete he had a replica sonic screwdriver in his coat pocket. Firefly on the other hoof was dressed as Daring Do; save for her coat and mane she looked exactly like the heroine from the books.

“You guys look great!” Star said excitedly.

“Thanks, you guys look good too,” Clay replied.

“Yeah, yeah we all look good, now come on! Nightmare Night is starting!” Bolt said excitedly as he ran out the door.

“Bolt. I want you to stay with your sister tonight, do you hear me?” Firefly warned.

“But she’ll just slow me down!” Bolt whined.

“Bolt…” Clay said in a low tone.

“Fine… I promise to stay with Star this year,” the colt replied, slightly irritated.

“I won’t be a problem Bolt, I promise,” Star said as she walked over to her brother.

“And remember: no talking with strange ponies! Come meet us at the party when you’re both done getting candy,” Clay added.

“Sure, now let’s go before the other ponies get all the candy.”

“Bye Mom, bye Dad!” Star shouted as she ran off with her brother. Clay looked on silently as the two ponies vanished round the street corner.

“Honey, are you all right?” Firefly asked.

“They’re growing up so fast.” Clay sighed. “I remember when Star and Bolt were just foals and I had to walk them from house to house until they got too tired to walk any further. And now…” He paused. “Now they don’t even need me with them on Nightmare Night.” Clay lowered his head slightly.

“I know it’s hard sweetie, but you knew they couldn’t stay foals forever.” Firefly said as she nuzzled him slightly.

“I know… I just… I just wish I had more time; because pretty soon they won’t need us for anything anymore,” he said glumly.

“Well, we still have them for a little while longer. Now stop moping and let’s go have some fun, all right?” Clay nodded and followed her to the center of town, where the adult ponies would gather while the kids went door to door. As Clay and Firefly joined the festivities they met up with Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash.

“Hey, look who decided to join the fun!” Rainbow said to the others.

“Howdy Clay, hey Firefly!” Applejack said, waving them in.

“Hey girls,” Firefly replied.

“What are you supposed to be, Mom?” Clay asked.

“I’m a worker at the rainbow factory, see the color stains?” She wore a white coat that was speckled with colors of red, yellow, green, and orange.

“That’s not scary,” Clay stated.

“Well it’s about this old myth that if a pegasus doesn’t pass a flight test, they get sent to the rainbow factory.”

“Why there?”

“Ever wonder how the rainbows are made?” Dash said with a slightly wicked grin.

“Mom that’s… dark,” Clay said, slightly disturbed.

“It’s just a story Clay, relax! Nopony gets made into a rainbow because of a flight test!” she scoffed as the conversation shifted.

“Did the kids go get candy already?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, they left a few minutes ago. We told them to stay together and to meet us here when they’re done,” Firefly answered.

“Where are the others?” Clay asked, looking around the group.

“Pinkie’s with the foals taking them around so they can get candy, Rarity wasn’t interested, and… well, you know how timid Fluttershy is on Nightmare Night,” Rainbow replied.

“So who in the hay are you supposed to be Clay? Some kind of noir detective?” Applejack asked.

“No, I’m Doctor Whooves.”

“Still the same after all these years,” Rainbow chuckled.

“Says the mare that still reads Daring Do,” Clay retorted.

“Well you can be my doctor any time,” Firefly said, giggling slightly.

All of a sudden a clap of thunder rang across the otherwise-clear sky, signalling that the guest of honor had arrived.

“Looks like Princess Luna has finally joined us!” Twilight said excitedly.

Sure enough, a large dark blue alicorn with a starry mane approached the crowd of ponies. Ever since her first arrival on Nightmare Night, Princess Luna had made a point of attending the town’s celebration each year.

“Citizens of Ponyville!” she said in a loud regal tone. “The Princess of the Night has arrived! Let us celebrate another year of fun and frights!” The crowd cheered as the nearby band began to play its traditional Nightmare Night theme.

Some time had passed as Bolt and Star trotted through the streets, carrying their bags full of candy. Star looked around to see that all the houses that had been giving out candy now had their lights off.

“Maybe we should find Mom and Dad Bolt. It’s getting late and all the ponies are stopping.”

“No way! We’re on a roll this year and I still have some room in my bag.” Bolt looked around for any sign that someone was still giving out candy. “There has to be one house that’s still giving candy,” Bolt grumbled as he began to think that his sister was right.

“Come on Bolt, let’s just go home,” Star pleaded.

“I’m not ready to go back yet! Nightmare Night only comes once a year!” Bolt shouted.

“Bolt please, it’s been fun but I just want to go home now.” Bolt turned to his sister.

“What’s the matter? Scared?”

“No!” Star shouted, making her voice crack.

“Yes, you are! You’re scared!” Bolt said, smirking.

“I’m not scared!” Star whined.

As the two ponies bickered they heard a sound that made them fall silent. The street they were on was empty due to all the foals and their parents going to the center of Ponyville to enjoy the festivities with Princess Luna. Despite that, they heard the unmistakable sound of hoofsteps approaching them. Bolt and Star looked behind them to see who was walking their way, but saw no one there.

“Bolt… maybe we should get back to Mom and Dad,” Star said fearfully.

“Yeah… maybe we should,” Bolt agreed as they began heading to the center of town.

They started at a slow trot, trying to stay calm, yet their hearts filled with dread as the hoofsteps behind them grew louder. The two foals walked slightly faster, trying to reach their parents, but with each step they took the sound of the approaching pony grew louder and louder.

“Bolt…” Star whispered.

“Y-yeah…?” He replied.

“Remember when I said I wasn’t scared?” Bolt nodded. “I lied, I am scared… I want to go home.” She sounded like she was on the verge of tears.

“Me too,” Bolt admitted as they began to walk faster. Still, no matter how fast they walked, the approaching steps sounded closer than ever, until it sounded as though they were mere inches from the two. Finally, not able to stand it any longer, both Bolt and Star stopped. They slowly looked back and immediately regretted their decision. Standing behind them was a tall, hooded pony with red eyes that stared down at them.

The two foals were frozen with fear as the hooded pony continued to calmly regard them, until finally Bolt shouted “Run!” Without a second thought the two foals ran as fast as their little legs would go. However, before Star could get too far, she felt something yanking her back. She looked over her shoulder and saw that her cape was being held by a blue aura, keeping her firmly in place.

“Bolt! Help me!” Star screamed as she realized that she was stuck. Bolt turned around when he heard his sisters cry.

“Get away from my sister!” he shouted, galloping as fast as he could and ramming himself into the hooded stallion. All he accomplished however was to make the pony give a cold chuckle before trapping Bolt in a blue aura and flinging him away as if he were a rag doll. Star watched as her brother fell to the ground with a thud and lay there unconscious; the sight caused something to stir within her and her horn began to glow red even as the hooded unicorn continued to chuckle.

“Don’t… hurt… my… brother!” she shouted as loud as she could before turning to the unicorn and striking him with a blast of raw energy. The unicorn was thrown back, screaming in pain as he landed on the ground, his cloak singed and burning. He slowly got up as Star approached him, her horn still glowing with power and an expression of anger on her face. The stallion’s horn also began to glow with power as he readied himself to take on the small filly. Suddenly voices could be heard in the distance as a crowd made its way over to them.

The stallion glared at Star with his red eyes, and vanished in a flash of blue a few second before Princess Luna and other ponies rounded the corner. “We heard sounds of conflict as far away as the town square! What has happened?” she enquired loudly.

Star smiled slightly, realizing she had saved her brother, but it was short lived as she suddenly felt weak and collapsed on the ground, falling into unconsciousness.

Star slowly roused from her sleep, looking blearily around her to find that she was back in her room safe and sound. She raised her head and saw that her brother was asleep in his bed across from her; he had a bandage across his right temple. Her parents were nowhere to be seen, though, and that slightly worried her. She got up from her bed and trotted over to Bolt, smiling as she watched him sleep.

“Thank you little brother,” she whispered as she kissed his forehead.

The tender moment with her sibling was short-lived as noise erupted outside the house. She rushed to her bedroom window and pulled the blinds up to see what was going on, but when she did… she wished she hadn’t. For outside was destruction and chaos; houses were ablaze, and ponies ran and screamed in terror from a threat that was beyond her vision. Star watched in horror as Ponyville was completely destroyed before her very eyes. The only thing worse was when she saw her mother and father come into view, both of them injured and bloody.

“Mom! Dad!” she screamed, pounding on the glass, but they didn’t even notice her. Firefly flew to Clay’s side as he struggled to get to his four legs, only to see his wife struck with a ball of green energy that struck her to the ground… lifeless. “Mommy!” Star cried in horror as her eyes began to fill with tears. The nightmare didn’t stop as her father slowly dragged himself to his wife’s body, only to be struck with the same ball of energy that left him writhing in pain. “Daddy! No!” she screamed, pounding on the glass.

Clay simply lay where he was, too weak to move; he slowly lifted his head and came face to face with his attacker. A grey unicorn with a black mane split by a red stripe and red eyes, wearing a black cloak, stared him down with no pity or remorse for the stallion. The unicorn smirked as he charged his horn and ended the earth pony’s life.

Star now had tears flowing down her face as she saw her parents killed before her, shaking her head in denial of what was happening before her.

“This can’t be real… this just can’t be…” she cried as she continued to stare out the window. The grey unicorn looked up and smirked as he saw her and her visibly heartbroken state. “This can’t be real… this can’t be real…. This…” Star repeated as she shut her eyes, wishing for it all to be over. But no matter how hard she tried the nightmare continued; she opened her eyes to find herself facing the unicorn that had killed her parents. His red eyes bore into hers as she stared at him in fear, before the unicorn spoke in a low menacing tone.

“Staaaaarrrrrr,” he hissed as he approached her.

“Get away from me!” Star screamed, running for the door only to find it locked.

“Staaaaarrrrr,” he hissed again as he drew closer to the terrified filly.

“Stay away from me! Stay away please!” Star begged.

“Staaaaaarrrrrr,” the unicorn continued as headvanced until he was inches from her.

“Stop!” She screamed, releasing a violent burst of magic that shattered the room around her.

Star awoke, screaming in terror and covered in sweat. Her father started at her abrupt outburst, and soon the bedroom door opened to reveal Firefly, looking like she was about to have a heart attack.

“Clay, what happened?!”

“I don’t know! She just started screaming!” Clay shouted as he ran to Star’s side. “Star calm down! It’s okay!” her father said, still shocked, as Star looked around franticly and only slowly started to calm down as she took deep breaths. She saw that she was in her room once again, and just as in her dream her brother was in his bed with a bandage over his right temple. Star looked to her window and hopped out of bed to pull the blinds, only to see that Ponyville was intact, just the way she remembered it. Clay trotted over to her, looking concerned.

“Star, what’s gotten into you?” Star stared at her mother and father as she continued to breathe heavily. As she continued to look up at them her eyes began to glisten. “Star…?” Clay whispered as she broke into tears and hugged her dad as tightly as if her life depended on it. Firefly trotted over to Clay’s side, looking sadly at the crying unicorn.

“Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” Firefly asked gently.

Star trembled, fighting to speak through her hiccupping and tears. “I… I… had a nightmare ! Ponyville was on fire, and there was a unicorn hurting everyone… and then…” She took a moment to catch her breath as she continued to sob. “Then… then… then you both… died.” Large tears streamed down her face as she hugged her father.

“Oh, sweetie!” Firefly gave her daughter a tight hug. “That must have been a horrible nightmare.”

“It was awful, Mom!” Star sobbed, hugging her mother back. “I tried to get to you but… I… I couldn’t do it.” Firefly gently kissed the top of her daughter’s head.

“It’s okay sweetheart. It was only a bad dream,” she said, trying to comfort the distraught filly while Clay turned Star’s head to face him.

“Honey… did you see the pony who attacked you?” Star shook her head, then looked back at her brother.

“Is… is Firebolt going to be okay?”

“The doctor said that both you and Bolt are fine. He just has a small cut on his head,” Clay said reassuringly.

“Bolt’s just sleeping… he stayed by your bedside when he found out what happened, but eventually he just fell asleep so we put him into bed,” Firefly said looking back to her son.

“What about… the other pony?” Star asked.

“Uncle Sky and Luna’s guards are searching the whole town and even the Everfree Forest. If they spot him he won’t get away,” Firefly replied. Star was quiet for a moment, then looked to her parents.

“Mom, Dad… can we sleep with you tonight? I’m… I’m still scared.”

“Of course you can sweetie,” Firefly said softly.

Star stood up and followed her mother out of the room while her father slowly lifted Bolt onto his back and carried him to their bedroom. Clay placed Bolt in the center of the bed while Star climbed up and got in between Clay and Firebolt as the two adults clambered up on their usual sides of the bed.

“Are you cozy?” Clay asked while Star nodded her head. “Now remember, me and Mommy are right here if you need us, all right?” Again she nodded.

“Good. Now let’s all try to get some rest.” Firefly yawned as she turned off her light.

As the room became dark Star took comfort in knowing that her parents were there beside her to make her feel safe, but the real comfort came from knowing that her brother was willing to protect her, even though he was clearly outmatched. She truly felt that she could count on her brother no matter what; she turned to face him and gently held him in her front hooves; softly kissing his head, she whispered very quietly, “I love you little brother.” She snuggled up to him and slowly shut her eyes, drifting off into a peaceful and happy sleep. The horror she had seen in her nightmare was completely gone from her mind… for now at least.