A New Home

by APoeticHeart

Rating: everyone
Tags: Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Main 6, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Human, Sad, Princess Luna, Original Character
Length: 133323

A young human child abused by his father wishes to live in a new home, and wishes for someone to love him.

I want to thank http://www.fimfiction.net/user/ShutterGuy] for the awesome picture he has done for this story. He captured Toby perfectly, so I give all credit to him and also he is a good writer, check out his story "Human and Pony alike", it is good.

Toby Mason is a six year old human child who wishes for someone to love him. One year earlier, Toby lost his mother Ashley Mason who died in a terrible car crash coming to pick him up from school one day. After Ashley's death, Toby was hard to console, but his father James Mason took the loss the hardest.

Feeling as his life ending along with Ashley's, James began drinking heavily, and in turn started becoming abusive toward Toby. Mostly verbally abusive, he would call Toby weak, pathetic, and blamed Ashley's death on him. Heartbroken by his father's actions, Toby would make a wish upon a star to find a new home, and find a new family who would love him and not be mean to him like his father.

How would the ponies of Equestria, especially The Mane Six react toward finding a lost human child in their land? Will the take him in and treat him as one of their own, or will they fear him and abandon him?

Published 2013-03-06 12:40:01 UTC
Last updated 2017-11-24 02:47:49 UTC

Chapter One: Finding Toby (Re-Written)

The song of the mellow larks could be heard traveling along the calm, cool morning breeze as the sun started to ascend into the sky. Although the sound was pleasant for most of the ponies of Ponyville, it was however nerve wrecking for Fluttershy’s pet bunny, Angel. The rabbit trudged out of his hut, his paws thumping against the ground and he had his ears covered.

He grunted as he looked up to see the birds happily chirping away, perched on the branches of a tree in front of Fluttershy’s home. He soon grabbed a small stone and threw it with all his might, but it barely reached up to the branch. The birds chirped with laughter at the rabbits pitiful attempt and Angel just grunted with frustration.

Angel waved a little fist in the air at the birds, chittering angrily before storming off toward the cottage for something to eat. He tried to shake away his frustration as he felt his tummy grumble, so he started to hop. Once he approached the house, he froze in his tracks as he saw the basket on the porch step. He could hear faint groaning emanating from it and cautiously took a step toward it.

As he peeked into see what was the source of the noise, he noticed a warm, wool blanket wrapped around a small object. He reached a paw into to touch the blanket, but he jumped back a bit as it moved at his touch, and the rabbit made a small squeak. His brows furrowed with curiosity as he took another step toward the basket and this time he leaned his head into it to sniff at the object.

A yawn escaped from the lips of the child, causing Angel to twitch his nose and ears. He peered in a little more into the basket until he could see the boy’s face and gasped at seeing that he had no fur at all, except for the hair on top of his head. The bunny quietly stepped around the basket to enter the house, but knew that he had to wake his caretaker and let her know that there was a strange creature outside.

Inside Fluttershy was tending to all of her animal friends by giving them their morning meals and daily vitamins “Now, now Mr. Cheeky, you know you’ve got to take your medicine so you don’t have anymore tummy aches.” She was trying to encourage one of her few chipmunks to take a small pink and white pill “Remember last time you ate too many acorns that you ended up being sick for two whole days.” She gave a pleading smile to the little critter.

The chipmunk groaned a little, but obliged and took the pill along with his drink of water. Fluttershy beamed with joy and gently patted him on the head “Thats a good boy Mr. Cheeky. Now you finish your breakfast, and then you can go outside to enjoy the day.” She smiled warmly as she turned to see all the other animals enjoying their breakfast.

Angel slipped through the bottom half of the front door when he saw his caretaker feeding the other animals. He grunted, crossed his arms, and tapped his paw against the floor in frustration that she already started giving out food. Fluttershy turned around with a warm smile when she spotted the bunny “Oh hi Angel sweetheart!” She smiled and trotted over to her pet bunny.

She reached a hoof to pat at his head, but he smacked it away, causing her to gasp “Now Angel, what was that for?” She looked down at the rabbit and gasped “Oh, you think I forgot about your breakfast, don’t you?” Angel nodded his head and Fluttershy giggled “Now you should know better than that baby, I could never forget about my precious Angel Bunny!” She scooped him up from under his arms and nuzzled her cheek against his.

Suddenly he remembered the creature in the basket outside and wiggled free from Fluttershy’s embrace. He landed on the floor and started chittering frantically “Angel sweetie, what’s the matter?” She looked a bit confused at his behavior until he pointed towards the door with a finger “Oh, is there something out there?” Frustrated, Angle smacked his forehead with a paw and nodded.

Fluttershy gazed at the door and back at Angel “Well you go into the kitchen to get your salad Angel. I made your special salad this morning, but don’t get used to it, because I’ll only make it once in a while.” She gave him a kiss between his ears as he beamed and hopped into the kitchen. Fluttershy gave a small giggle as she trotted toward the door and opened it “Now I wonder what is…. Oh my!” She squeaked as she saw the basket on the porch step and could see a glimpse of the boy wrapped up in the blanket.

She trotted closer to it and looked down to see the child’s hairless face Oh, poor dear, it looks like a small colt, but he has no fur.
She bit her lower lip and looked around in search of a note or anything Well there isn’t a note, but who could have left such a small one here on my doorstep. She reached down with a hoof to gently touch at the boy and immediately pulled back when he moved a little Oh my, I better get him inside. Quietly and carefully, she grasped the handle of the basket, and picked up to carry it inside.

She trotted through the living room with the animals looking curiously at the basket while they ate. She trotted up stairs to her room and placed the basket down beside her bed. She looked down at the sleeping child with a warm smile I don’t know what you are little one, but I promise I will take good care of you until I can find out where you came from and find a way to get you back home. She leaned her head down to give the boy a small kiss on the forehead before turning around to trot back downstairs.

I wonder what kind of creature he is, but most importantly I wonder who would leave such a young one alone like that.

Chapter Two: Toby Meets Fluttershy (Re-Written)

While Fluttershy was downstairs fixing herself something for breakfast, upstairs the young child started to stir in his sleep. A small smile crept across his face as he could feel a sense of warmth comfort him while he let out a slight yawn and blinked his eyes open. Once his vision became clear, he looked around to find himself in someone’s bedroom, but he suddenly became extremely nervous.

Wait, where am I? I thought I was sleeping in a cave in the woods at home. He slowly uncurled himself, to discover that he was wrapped up in a soft, warm, wool blanket, and he let out a sigh of comfort This is sure is a nice and warm blanket, but who put me in this basket. He carefully crawled from underneath the blanket and climbed out of the basket.

As he stood up he stretched out his arms and continued to look around the room with a soft smile It’s very pretty and comfy in here, but I wonder whose room this is. He carefully started to walk around until he heard the sound of someone talking “Angel honey, you stay down here and watch after your friends while I go upstairs to see if our little guest is awake.” The tone in her voice sounded sweet, but he froze in fear from being seen.

Quickly he walked back over to the basket, climbed inside, and curled up underneath the blanket. The sound of hoofsteps approaching the top of the stairs could be heard and the boy started to shake like a leaf. He swallowed nervously as the steps got closer I hope she doesn’t find me and hurt me. He curled up tighter into a ball and covered his head with his arms as the hoofsteps stopped.

Fluttershy stood over the basket and looked down at the movement under the blanket. The sight of the trembling form caused a deep frown to creep across her muzzle Oh dear, the poor creature is scared to death. She carefully used her hoof to slowly remove the blanket to reveal the shaking child and felt her heart break at the sight.

She cleared her throat “Hello little one, please don’t be afraid..” She tenderly touched his shaking form with a hoof and carefully stroked him along the side.

Slowly, the boy stopped his shaking a bit and uncovered his head to look up at the pegasus talking to him. He opened his eyes to see the soft expression of Fluttershy and a deep swallow rolled down his throat “Please don’t hurt me.” A slight whimper escaped the child’s lips.

To make herself appear less threatening, Fluttershy carefully sat down on her haunches and gave the child a maternal smile “Oh sweetie, I could never hurt such a precious little one like you.” She gave him a warm, reassuring smile “Please don’t be scared dear, I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

He could sense the sincerity in her voice as he climbed out of the basket. When he planted his feet on the wooden floor, he only came up to the top of Fluttershy’s forelegs as he looked up at her. He gave her a small, thankful smile, but remained quiet.

“Oh my, you sure are a little one, aren’t you?” She spoke in the softest of tones so not scare the boy any further. She carefully laid down on her stomach placing a foreleg on each side of him so they could look at each other in the eyes “There… now that’s better, isn’t it?” She looked at him with that same maternal expression “It’s nice to meet you little one, my name is Fluttershy. What is your name sweetheart?”

After noticing how nice she was acting toward him, the child calmed himself completely, took in a deep breath, and exhaled. “My name is Toby Mason Miss Fluttershy, it’s nice to meet you.” His tone was small, but respectful in the manner in which he spoke.

Miss Fluttershy? I’ve never been called Miss before, but that sure is respectful of him. Fluttershy shook away her thoughts as she nodded “Well, that is certainly is a nice name Toby, but you don’t have to call me Miss. That sure is very courteous and respectful of you, but Fluttershy is just fine, okay?” She lifted her hoof and gently rubbed at his shoulder “Um…if I may ask Toby… um… do you remember how you got here?”

While he thought on her question, a slow frown crept across his face and he looked in her eyes, and gave her a shake of his head “No I don’t Fluttershy. I remember going to sleep in a cave in the forest, and when I woke up, I was here in this room.” He sighed softly and lowered his head to look at the floor.

Fluttershy frowned at the sight of the boy and could tell he was truly sad about something. A mixed look of curiosity and sadness washed over her face A cave? Why would such a little colt like Toby sleep in a cave? Does he not have a home? She once again and shook away her thoughts as she used her hoof to lift his chin to look at him “Oh you poor dear, don’t be sad, you’re safe here. This is my home Toby, and you are more than welcomed to stay here as long as you want until we can get you back to your home.” She leaned her head forward and nuzzled his cheek.

As soon as he heard the possibility of returning home, Toby looked at Fluttershy with fear in his eyes “No Fluttershy, please, I don’t want to go back home!” He cried out some and immediately wrapped his arms around her neck tightly. He started to shake “I don’t want to go back home! I don’t want to go back to my daddy!” He buried his face into the warm, soft fur of shoulder and started to cry.

Fluttershy was stunned at the sudden reaction of Toby and felt her heart break again.She wrapped her foreleg around his back in a comforting embrace and rubbed at it tenderly as she calmly shushed into his ears to calm him down. She continued to hold him gently against her shoulder until he silenced his crying. She gently pulled away giving him a soft smile “Do you feel better now sweetheart?”

He sniffled and wiped away the remainder of his tears “ A little bit Fluttershy, thank you.” His tone was so small and soft.

She gave him a nod and held his hand in her hoof as she rubbed the top of it with the other “You’re welcome Toby.” She could tell that the boy has been through a lot, but decided not to question him until he was ready. She looked into his eyes “Are you hungry dear? You can come downstairs with me and I’ll fix you something for breakfast, and then we can go introduce you to my friends.”

Toby felt his stomach let out a small growl, earning a small giggle from Fluttershy. He blushed a slight shade of pink “Yes, I’m a little hungry Fluttershy.”

She slowly stood up and as she looked down at the boy “Um… if you would like Toby, I can either carry you on my back or you can hold onto my tail while we go downstairs.” She crouches forward on her forelegs just in case he chose to climb up onto her back.

He carefully walked to her side and very gently reached down to grab at her tail “I think I’ll be okay walking Fluttershy, but thank you.” He gave a soft smile as he held her tail ever so lightly in his hand.

She smiled warmly at him and gave him a nod “Of course sweetheart. Just walk carefully behind me and be careful coming down the stairs.” She lifted her hoof up to gently stroke at his hair before turning and started to trot towards the stairs.

Once they reached the den of Fluttershy’s cottage, the animals took notice of Toby and all of them looked at him curiously. The pegasus took notice of this and lightly scolded her animal friends “Now, now dears, don’t stare. This is Toby, and he’s going to be our guest for the time being, so I would appreciate it if you would treat him with care and respect.” They responded with chirps, chitters, and squeaks of understanding.

She led Toby into the kitchen and pulled out a chair from underneath the table “Here you go Toby, you can sit here while I fix you something.” She placed a hoof against her chin “Um… if I may ask sweetheart, what do you like to eat? I never fed an animal or critter like you before.”

Toby looked at her curiously Animal? She thinks I’m an animal? He quieted his thoughts as he climbed up into the chair “If you have some Fluttershy, I do like oatmeal with some milk and honey in it. It’s what my… Mommy used to make me for breakfast.” A slight frown crept across his lips.

Fluttershy could hear a tinge of pain in the last comment, but opted not to push the matter, not yet that is. She nodded “Of course Toby, I can make you some oatmeal.” She trotted over to the pantry “I know sweetheart, I’ll make you my mother’s oatmeal she fixed me at times when I was a filly.”

She gathered a container that she kept some fresh oats in, a jar of honey, and a mortar & pestle. She trotted over to the counter and placed the items near the sink as she then trotted toward her fridge. Inside the fridge, she got a bottle of milk, a couple of blueberries, raspberries, and some pecan, and then trotted back over to the counter.

While she was preparing his breakfast, Toby looked around her kitchen and could feel the warmth and coziness of her home. He looked at her “Fluttershy, you have a nice home.”

She added the final touches to the bowl of oatmeal and trotted over to the kitchen table, placing the bowl in front of him. She gave a thankful nod “Well thank you Toby, I try to keep it tidy and always comfortable for all of my friends.” She gave a blushing smile “I hope you like the oatmeal sweetie. Not only did I add milk and honey to it, but I also mixed some freshly picked berries in it to make it extra tasty.” She let out a slight squeal “Oh I almost forgot, hold on Toby.” She trotted over to the counter and retrieved a spoon from the silverware drawer. She returned and gave it to him “Here you go dear.”

He gently took it from her and nodded “Thank you Fluttershy.” He dipped his spoon into the bowl, scooped some oatmeal out, and brought it to his lips to take a bite.As he chewed, he could tase the sweetness of the honey, softness of milk absorbed oats, and the tartness, yet juiciness of the berries. He swallowed his first bite and smiled a little more brightly at Fluttershy “Mm… this oatmeal is real good Fluttershy.”

“I’m proud that you like it Toby, it’s a recipe that my mother passed down to me. It’s not only sweet, filling, but also very healthy.” She gave him a wink as she sighed softly “After you do get done eating Toby, will you be okay with going to visit my other friends?”

He took another swallow before replying “Yes Fluttershy, I would like that. Are your friends nice and caring like you though?”

“Oh of course they are sweetheart. I’m sure they will think are just a precious little colt just like I do.” She reached across the table to rub at his arm reassuringly “Don’t you worry Toby, you’ll like them.” She winked at him.

He nodded and continued to eat the remainder of his oatmeal. A few minutes passed before he completed his breakfast and he rubbed at his now full tummy. Fluttershy giggled softly at the sight and trotted beside him “How about I let you ride on my back while we go visit my friends Toby, is that okay?”

He nodded “Okay Fluttershy, only if you don’t mind and if I’m not too heavy.”

“Alright dear, just climb on.” She scooted closer for him to get on. He carefully reached out to wrap his arms around her neck and then crawled his body onto her back “There you go Toby and you are light as a feather.” She giggled and trotted into the living room.

The animals were making noise amongst themselves, but Angel Bunny hopped over to his caretaker once he saw her enter with the child on her back. She smiled warmly down at him “Angel honey, Toby and I are going to go visit the girls, and you are in charge while we’re gone, do you understand?”

He nodded and gave a salute of his paw “That’s my Angel Bunny, I love you.” Fluttershy leaned her head down and kissed the top of his head between his ears. She then looked at the other animals “You all behave while I’m gone.” They responded with chitters, chirps, and squeaks “Are you ready Toby?" She turned her head to look at the boy and he gave her a slight nod in response.

She trotted toward the door and exited her cottage “Okay sweetheart, I think the first place we need to go is to Carousel Boutique. My friend Rarity is real kind and she makes the best suits and dresses in all of Ponyville. I’m sure she won’t mind making you a pair of new clothes.” She gave him a warm smile as she started their trek toward the small town of Ponyville.

I hope my friends will be accepting of him. There is something wrong with him and I can tell that his heart is broken. But I’m not going to ask any questions, not until he’s ready to talk about it. I just hope Twilight will know what kind of creature he is, and how he ended up here in Equestria.

Chapter Three: Introducing Toby ( Re-Written )

As she approached the bridge to cross into Ponyville, Fluttershy stopped and turned to look at Toby “Now sweetheart, before we get into town, I’m going to hide you underneath my mane, okay? I don’t want the other ponies to scare you or make you feel nervous by staring at you.” She gave him a warm smile and nuzzled his cheek.

He let out a giggle and blushed “Okay Fluttershy, I understand.” He carefully curled up onto the mare’s back so she could lay her mane over him. As the smooth, wavy hair brushed against his face, Toby let out a small giggle.

Fluttershy smiled softly at the sound of his laugh He’s such a precious child and very polite when he speaks. I just hope I can find out what happened to him. She frowned a little as she saw that he was nice and covered by her mane before trotting across the bridge.

As she entered into town, some of the towns ponies greeted her with either a wave of their hooves or nod of their heads in which she returned. She made her way toward the Carousel Boutique when a familiar voice caught her attention “Heya Flutters, what’s happening?” She looked up to see a cyan pegasus with a rainbow-colored mane and tail slowly hover down beside her.

“Um…. hi Rainbow Dash, how are you?” She gave a warm smile to her fellow pegasus and friend. She swallowed a bit awkwardly as she felt light shaking on her back “Um… I was on my way to see Rarity if you would like to follow me.”

Rainbow simply shrugged her shoulders “Sounds cool too me, I’m off weather duty today anyways.” She chuckled, but as she stood beside Fluttershy she noticed something sticking out from underneath her mane. Being curious she asked “Hey Fluttershy, what’s this sticking out of your mane?” She reached to touch at Toby’s leg.

“No wait Rainbow Dash don’t…” It was too late to respond as Toby let out a little scream after being touched and he fell off her back and onto the ground with a thud. Fluttershy gasped as she turned to look down at the fallen child “Oh my goodness, Toby are you okay?” She leaned her head down to gently grasp at the collar of his shirt with her teeth and lifted him up onto his feet.

Rainbow chuckled nervously “Heh.. sorry Flutters.” She rubbed the back of her neck and looked curiously at the little boy “Who's the little guy and what is he?” She carefully trotted close to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder “Are you alright kiddo? I didn’t mean to scare you.” She then ruffled his hair.

Fluttershy finished brushing the last remaining dirt off Toby’s clothes and looked at Rainbow, sighing heavily. She carefully lifted Toby by his shirt collar again with her teeth and turned to set him on her back. She turned toward Rainbow Dash “Rainbow Dash, this is Toby. Toby this is Rainbow Dash, one of my best friends and…”

“And the fastest flyer in all of Equestria!” Rainbow shot up in the air and shot a couple of poses “The one, the only, the awesome one, Rainbow Dash!” She chuckled and hovered back down onto the ground and placed a hoof on his shoulder “It’s great to meet ya little dude!” She gave him a wink and reached up to ruffle is hair.

Toby giggled at the ruffle of his hair and smiled “It nice to meet you too Miss Rainbow Dash.” He hugged at Fluttershy’s neck as he sat on her back.

A curious expression washed over Rainbow’s face “Miss Rainbow Dash?” She lightly scoffed and shook her head “There’s no need to call me Miss kiddo, Rainbow Dash, or Rainbow is just fine.” She gave another playful wink at him and looked at Fluttershy “Well, if you two are going to the boutique, I’m ready.” She hovered in the air and looked at the child curiously “Hey Toby, have you ever been flying before? I could take you for a…”

“No!” A squeal escaped Fluttershy’s lips as she placed a hoof against her mouth. She looked back at Toby who jumped a little at her sudden outburst “Um… I’m sorry sweetheart.” She then looked up at Rainbow Dash “Um… Rainbow Dash… um… I just don’t think you should take him for a ride… um… just not yet you know. We all know how fast you can fly, and I’m afraid it will scare him.” She turned her head and smiled warmly at Toby.

Rainbow shrugged her shoulders “Eh, alright Flutters. I’ll wait til’ the little guy gets used to being around here, but I will take him for a flight.” She smirked and then hovered close to Toby “And I promise you will love it kiddo!” She ruffled his hair and hovered back in the air.

Fluttershy nodded “Okay Toby, let’s go see if Rarity will make you some new clothes.” She nuzzled his cheek, and then turned to head toward the Carousel Boutique with Rainbow Dash following in tow.

As they approached the boutique Fluttershy reached a hoof up to knock on the door. Soon the sound of a happy humming could be heard “Coming!” The sound of a regal, elegant voice rang from inside as Toby hid under Fluttershy’s mane.

The door opened with a light blue aura surrounding it, revealing the fashionista with a warm smile on her face “Oh good morning darlings.” She greeted the two mares and stepped to the side “Please, please come in, I was just finishing up my latest outfit for a client of mine.” She motioned them to enter with a hoof.

Rarity led the two through the living room “Would you two like some freshly brewed mint tea? I was just about to put on a pot when you dears arrived.” She smiled warmly back at the two “You two can take a seat in here while I go fix it. It will be done in just a jiffy.” She giggled as she trots into the kitchen.

Rainbow and Fluttershy trotted toward the sofa when the shy pegasus stopped “Rainbow… um… how do you think Rarity will react to Toby?” She looked back underneath her mane “Are you okay dear? There isn’t need to be afraid, I promise. Rarity is a very kind and polite pony, and I’m sure she won’t mind making some new, clean clothes for you.” She nuzzles at his cheek.

“I’m sure Rarity is going to love the little guy Fluttershy. I mean look at Spike for Celestia’s sake, he’s a baby dragon, and she always calls him her ‘little Spiky-Wiky.” She speaks in a cutesy, mocking tone.

She smirks and chuckles “So don’t worry Flutters about her liking the little dude.” She climbed up on the sofa and laid down.

“What little dude Rainbow darling?” Fluttershy let out a slight squeal at the returning unicorn. Rarity levitated three cups of mint tea in her magic “Who might I ask are you talking about dear?” She gave Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash each their cup.

Fluttershy bit her lower lip “Um… well Rarity… um… I would like for you to meet somepony. Um… however… he isn’t quite a pony.” A deep, nervous swallow traveled down her throat.

A beaming smile spread across the unicorn’s muzzle “Oh? Of course darling, I would be delighted to meet this new acquaintance of yours. If he’s not a pony, then what may I ask what is he exactly?” She looked at Fluttershy curiously.

Fluttershy placed her cup of tea down on the side table next to the sofa and carefully lowered herself to the floor, tucking her legs underneath her. She turned her head back toward her mane “Okay Toby, you can show yourself.” Rarity watched as Fluttershy nuzzled into her mane.

Arching her brows in wonder, Rarity soon saw the little boy climb out from underneath her mane, off her back, and onto the floor. She beamed as she noticed he only came up to the top of her forelegs as she could see. She beamed at the sight of the child “Oh my! Fluttershy dear, he is absolutely precious!”

Fluttershy nodded and smiled warmly at Toby “Toby sweetheart, I would like for you to meet Rarity. She is another good friend of mine and also the top clothes designer here in Ponyville.” She looked at Rarity “Rarity, this sweet little colt is Toby and I discovered him on my doorstep this morning.” She noticed Toby standing still as a statue and could sense that he was nervous.

Rarity could tell that he was nervous so she carefully lowered herself to the floor so she could be somewhat eye level with him. With a warm smile, she spoke with her elegant yet soft tone “Well Toby darling, it’s a great pleasure to meet you.” To ease his nervousness, she carefully reached out her hoof and took one of his small hands in it “Please don’t be afraid dear, I’m not going to hurt you. You’re a darling little thing, you know that?” She gave him a wink and reached up with the other hoof to rub the back of his hand.

He blushed as he felt the warm, soft fur of her hoof rub at his hand. He looked up into her sky, blue eyes and softly spoke “Hello Miss Rarity, it’s nice to meet you too.” He blushed at the comment “Thank you Miss Rarity.” He gave a soft smile.

“Oh my, such manners you have for a young one Toby. I truly appreciate you calling me Miss, but that is unnecessary dear. You may just call me Rarity, all my friends do.” She gave him a warm smile, but as she looked at him more carefully, she noticed his clothes were worn and dirty.

Fluttershy smiled at the two interacted with each other, but she noticed Rarity’s look of careful concentration and sighed heavily. Carefully, she placed a foreleg around the boy’s shoulders and looked at the unicorn “Rarity… um… I was wondering if you could… um… if it’s not too much trouble… if you could make Toby a new pair of clothes?” She bit her lower lip.

“Ask no more my dear, I would be more than honored to make this darling little one a new set of clothes.” She gave Fluttershy a warm smile and looked at Toby as she carefully stood back up “Toby darling, would you be a dear and follow me for a bit?”

“Yes Ma’am.” He spoke respectfully as he looked up at Fluttershy who gave him a nod that it was okay. He walked behind Rarity as she led him to a set of three mirrors with a short pedestal in front of them.

Rarity carefully placed a foreleg around the boy’s shoulders “If you don’t mind dear, just step up here and I’ll take your measurements so I can get started on your new outfit.” She smiled warmly down at him and stroked his head with a hoof. He nodded as he carefully stepped up onto the pedestal “If it’s not too much trouble Toby, could you stretch out your…” She touches an arm and he nodded as he stretched out both arms.

She levitated some measuring tape, a pencil, and a notepad over so she could begin writing down his measurements. After writing all the information down, she gently rubbed his shoulder “All done sweetheart, you did a marvelous job.” She looked over at Fluttershy “Fluttershy darling, how about you take Toby upstairs and prepare a warm bath for him?” She gave a warm smile to her pegasus friend.

“That is a good idea Rarity, thank you. Rainbow would you…” As she turned to look at Rainbow, the cyan mare was already fast asleep on the red satin sofa. She giggled a bit and looked at Toby “Um.. does that sound okay with you Toby? I’m sure you’ll feel a whole lot better and refreshed.” She reached up and stroked his head.

He blushed at being stroked along his head by her hoof as the feeling brought back memories of the care his mother used to show him. He looked up at her and nodded “I would like that Fluttershy.” With that said, Fluttershy leaned forward to let him climb onto her back. This time, he placed each leg on each side of her and hugged her neck instead of hiding underneath her mane.

As she turned to head toward the stairs, Rarity spoke up “Oh Toby dear, if a lady may ask, what is your favorite color?”

Toby turned to look at the fashionista “My favorite color is red Rarity.” He gave a soft smile.

She returned the smile with a firm, yet acknowledging nod “Thank you darling. Now go and get your bath, and after you are done, you will have a fresh new pair of clothes waiting for you.” She trotted up to the pair and gently patted the boy on the back.

A thankful expression washed over Fluttershy’s face as she spoke softly “Thank you Rarity.” The white mare simply nodded as Fluttershy turned and trotted upstairs. Once upstairs Fluttershy trotted into the bathroom and started the bath water. She made the sure the temperature was just right, not too hot, not too cold as she dipped her hoof into the tub.

After allowing Toby to climb off her back, she looked down at him with a warm smile “Sweetheart, I’ll just be right across the hall in Rarity’s bedroom when you are finished, okay?” She stroked his hair “Just knock on the door once you’re done and we’ll give you your new pair of clothes.”

“Okay Fluttershy, thank you.” He looked up, returning the smile as he watched Fluttershy turn to trot out of the bathroom and carefully shut the door. As he was starting to prepare to get in the bathtub, a thought ran through his mind Fluttershy is so caring toward me that she reminds me of Mommy. A soft smile crept across his face, but it soon turned into a frown and he sniffled I miss you Mommy.

Fluttershy trotted across the hall to Rarity’s bedroom where the unicorn mare was working diligently on the child’s clothes. The unicorn caught her entering in the corner of her eye as she concentrated on the clothes “Oh Fluttershy darling, I think Toby is going to love these clothes! I can’t wait for him to put them on! “She giggled excitedly.

Fluttershy gave a warm smile as she trotted over in front of Rarity’s bed and laid down “I’m sure he will Rarity.” She let out a heavy sigh which caused Rarity’s ears to twitch with curiosity. After adding the finishing touches to the outfit, she hung the clothes on the rack near her bedroom window and trotted over to lay beside Fluttershy.

With a concerned look etched over her face, Rarity placed a hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder “What is the matter dear?” She rubbed at the pegasus’ shoulder soothingly “Is it about Toby?”

Another heavy sigh escaped Fluttershy’s lips and she nodded “Well, to be honest Rarity, it is.” She turned her head and looked outside at the clear blue sky “He is indeed a precious little colt, but that’s it, I don’t really know what kind of creature he is. He’s not a pony and I don’t know where he came from. He just showed up on my doorstep and I just couldn’t abandon him without any shelter.” She felt tears sting her eyes.

“Shh… shh.. try to relax dear, you done the right thing. We might not know what kind of animal the little one might be, but I can assure you that bringing him into your home showed that you truly are the Element of Kindness.” She patted Fluttershy’s back.

The yellow mare sniffled and turned her attention back to Rarity “Thank you Rarity, that means a lot.” She gives a small smile, but that soon turns into a frown “Also, I believe there is something deeply bothering Toby.” She felt the prickling of tears return to her eyes.

Rarity looked on concerned for her friend “Oh? Well, he seems like just the sweetest little thing I’ve ever met darling. What do you think is bothering him?” She continued to rub at Fluttershy’s back.

“I really don’t know to be honest Rarity, but when I mentioned about finding a way to get him back home, he immediately hugged me around my neck and started to cry.” A heavy sigh escaped her lips “Then when he spoke about his mother, he took a short pause and I could see the sadness in his eyes.” She reached up with a hoof to wipe at a lone tear rolling down her cheek “I want to say something to him, but I just feel I should wait until he is ready to talk.” She sniffled.

“I believe that would be for the best dear.” Rarity gave a warm smile as she took her hoof off her friend’s back “If there is something bothering the little darling, it would be best if he speaks about it without us trying to push him.” She carefully stood up and levitated the finished outfit “I’m going to go see if our new little friend is done with his bath.” She trotted out of her bedroom.

As she trotted across the hall, she gently knocked on the bathroom door “Toby dear, are you done with your bath?” She smiled warmly as she waited for his reply.

“Yes Ma’am, I am.” He spoke from inside and Rarity carefully hung his clothes on the hook on her bathroom door.

“That is marvelous sweetheart. I’m just going to hang your clothes outside the door and when you are done, just walk across the hallway to my room.” She carefully turned and trotted back into her room and smiled warmly at Fluttershy “He’ll be out in a little bit, and we’ll see him in his new ensemble.” She beamed with glee “I can’t wait to see him in it Fluttershy! I’m so proud of myself! I just hope he’ll like them.”

“I’m sure he’ll love them Rarity. You make great and comfortable clothes.” Fluttershy returned the smile “After we get done here, I was thinking about taking him to meet the others. Would you like to join us Rarity?”

“Oh, that sounds like a grand idea Fluttershy. I bet the girls will just love him!” Rarity beamed with glee as the two heard a loud yawn come from the door and they saw Rainbow trotting “Well it’s good to see you’re finally awake dear. Did you have a good rest?”

She smacked her lips after yawning and nodded “You bet Rares. I got to admit, that sofa of yours is very comfy. Feels like sleeping on a cloud, but just a little.” She chuckles and looked around “Hey, where’s the little guy at?” She scratched the back of her head.

As soon as she asked that, Toby walked out of the bathroom and across the hallway, stopping in the doorway to Rarity’s room. The three mares turned to see the newly dressed boy and Rarity gasped “Oh my! Toby darling, you look absolutely dashing!” She beams as she trots up to him and runs her hoof over any creases that may be remaining to smooth them out “Do they feel soft and warm enough dear?” She reached up and stroked at his hair.

“Yes Ma’am, they are very soft and warm. Thank you.” He stepped closer to her and wrapped his arms around her foreleg, giving it a light hug.

“Aww.. well you are very welcome darling.” She leaned her head down to give him a kiss on top of his head and wrapped her other foreleg around his back to return the hug. She felt tears form in her eyes at the gesture, but restrained herself from crying Such a precious little colt he is. I wonder though what could be bothering the little darling. Maybe in time, he’ll feel like telling us.

The outfit consisted of royal blue jogging pants, black sneakers with red laces, royal blue t-shirt, and to complete it, a red hoodie. Toby just smiled and was in awe at how his favorite color was incorporated into the pair of clothes.

Rainbow Dash trotted over to the boy and ruffled his hair “You look awesome little guy!” A soft smirk crept across her muzzle as she reached her hoof down to pat at his back. She looked at the other two “So where are we heading next?”

“Um… if it’s okay for me to say Toby… um… you look adorable in your new clothes.” Fluttershy trotted up to him and stroked his hair, and then turned to Rainbow “I was thinking about introducing him to the others.” She gave a warm smile and looked down at Toby “How would you like to meet our other friends sweetheart?”

He looked up at her with a soft smile and a simple nod “That sounds nice Fluttershy, I would like that.”

“Sounds like a cool plan to me!” Rainbow smirked and hovered in the air “I’ll go on ahead to gather Applejack and Pinkie Pie, and we’ll meet you at the library.” She saluted with a hoof and zoomed out of Rarity’s opened bedroom window.

Rarity let out a low growl “Grr… why can’t she ever depart from some pony’s residence without being all dramatic.” She shook her head and then smiled warmly at Fluttershy and Toby “Well, darlings, if you are ready to go to Twilight’s, I certainly am.” She turned and led the way out of her bedroom, Fluttershy and Toby in tow.

When they reached downstairs, Fluttershy turned to look down at Toby “Sweetheart, would you like to ride on my back or maybe walk beside me on the way to Twilight’s?” She gave him a maternal smile.

He thought for a bit “I think I’ll try and walk Fluttershy.” He returned the smile. Fluttershy simply nodded as they followed Rarity out of the boutique.

As the two mares and child were trekking through the streets of Ponyville, there were some murmurs and stares from some ponies who saw the boy following behind Fluttershy, keeping hold of her tail. He noticed the looks he was receiving from the towns ponies and he started to nervously shake. A frown crept across his face Why are they looking at me like that? He tried to shake away his thoughts as the three approached a towering tree that appeared to be a giant treehouse.

Fluttershy turned to look back at Toby with a warm smile “Well sweetheart, we’re here. This is the Golden Oaks Library, the home of mine and Rarity’s best friend, Princess Twilight Sparkle.” A rosy blush appeared on her cheeks.

“Indeed darling, I’m positive that Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie will all think you are absolutely adorable just like us!” Rarity beamed as she reached a hoof up and knocked on the door.

Suddenly the door opened to reveal Princess Twilight Sparkle “Oh hello Fluttershy and Rarity, please come in. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash are here, and Spike is in the kitchen preparing us some cookies.” She gave a beaming smile before turning to trot back inside as the three entered with Toby still trailing behind Fluttershy with her tail over him.

“Howdy yall!” Applejack tipped her Stetson hat toward the two while she sat in the center with the library with Pinkie Pie beside her who had a wide grin plastered on her muzzle “Ah heard that ya found quite the interesting critter Fluttershy.” She gave the shy pegasus a curious glare.

“Yep, yep! Dashie came by Sugarcube Corner while was making a super special spectacular scrumptious delicious triple chocolate cake!” Pinkie Pie giggled happily “She told me that we got to meet the little wittle thing!” She clapped her hooves together excitedly, earning a chuckle from the others.

Twilight rolled her eyes at Pinkie’s giddiness and turned her attention to Fluttershy “Yes, we all would like to meet this new creature you’ve discovered Fluttershy.” She gave a warm, soft smile “And it would be great to learn about a brand new species here in Equestria.”

Fluttershy bit her lower lip as she turned her head to look at her tail which shielded the child. She turned back to look at the three mares “Um.. okay, but he is very shy around others.” She softly spoke “Toby sweetheart, it’s okay, there is nothing to be afraid of. The rest of my friends would like to meet you.” She leaned her head toward her tail, peeking through the strands of light pink hair, and gave him a warm smile “They are very nice, I promise.” She nuzzled his cheek and lifted her tail over him for him to come out from behind her.

He slowly walked to her side and looked at the three new mares while Rainbow Dash and Rarity sat on the opposite side of the rug. A nervous swallow traveled down his throat as he lifted a hand and waved “Hi there.” He spoke ever so softly as if it were Fluttershy speaking.

In a flash Pinkie Pie zoomed toward the child and lifted him up in her forelegs “Aww… He is such a sweet, little, wittle cutie wutie!” She brought him toward her and nuzzled his cheeks, a beaming smile spreading across her muzzle “Hey there little sweetie! My name is Pinkie Pie and I love to throw parties. Parties with lots of cakes, cookies, ice cream, games…” Suddenly Toby was lifted out of Pinkie’s grasp by Applejack.

The country mare placed Toby back down on the floor and turned toward Pinkie “Pinkie, simmer down! Ah know that ya love to meet new ponies, but ya need to tone it down some around a little feller like this.” She placed a foreleg around the young boy’s shoulders and looked down at him “Sorry about that sugarcube. Pinkie can be quite, let’s say rowdy when it comes to meeting new ponies here.” She chuckled a bit.

“You’re just being a party pooper Applejack!” Pinkie stuck her tongue out and looked at Toby “Hehe.. it’s nice to meet you though you little cutie! Maybe you can come by Sugarcube Corner and help me bake some cookies, cakes, and other tasty, delicious, and fun treats!” Pinkie began hopping around the circle of friends, causing Toby to giggle some at her antics.

Applejack rolled her eyes and returned her attention back to the boy “Anyways sugarcube, mah name is Applejack and it’s a darn tootin’ pleasure to meet ya little feller.” She rubbed the top of his head lightly with a hoof and tipped her hat to him “Ah live on a farm called Sweet Apple Acres with the rest of mah family. Maybe someday, if you decide to stay here for a while, you could come pay a visit and Ah could show you around.” She patted his back and returned back her place on the rug.

Slowly, Twilight stood up with her wings outstretched “Hello dear, my name is Princess Twilight Sparkle and indeed, it is a pleasure to meet you.” She trotted over to the child and placed a hoof on his shoulder “There is no need to be afraid sweetie, we are all pleased to meet you, and welcome you to Ponyville.” She rubbed from his shoulder down his arm in a comforting manner.

As he looked up at Twilight and the other two mares, he gave them each a soft smile “It’s nice to meet you all, my name is Toby Mason.” He then saw a short and stout dragon enter into the den area of the library “A dragon!?” He immediately hid behind Fluttershy’s foreleg and shook like a leaf.

“Yep that’s me. Spike, the coolest dragon…” He paused as soon as he saw the frightened child “Oh, uh... Hi there little guy.” A look of confusion mixed with concern etched across his face as he scratched the back of his head with a claw.

Fluttershy looked down at the cowering child behind her foreleg with a frown “Oh sweetheart, please don’t be scared. Spike may be a dragon, but he is the nicest and cutest dragons in Equestria.” She turned to Spike “Spike, this little one is Toby.” She pointed at the frightened boy with the free foreleg.

A blush formed on Spike’s cheeks as Fluttershy called him cute, but he shook away the blush and walked toward the boy “Hey there Toby, I’m Spike. There isn’t any reason to be afraid of me, I’m a cool and friendly dragon.” He reached out a claw to Toby for him to shake.

Toby looked up at Fluttershy who gave him a warm nod to let know that it was okay. He turned back to look at Spike and reached out a hand to place in the smooth, scaly claw “It’s nice to meet you Spike. I never met a dragon before.” He walked out from behind Fluttershy’s forelegs.

Spike chuckled “Well I’m glad to the first little dude.” He ruffled his hair gently with a claw “Would you like some tea or anything to drink Toby? I will fix something right up for you if you’d like.”

Toby shook his head “Oh no, that is okay Spike. I… I’m a little tired.” He let out a soft yawn and blinked his eyes tiredly.

Rarity let out a small giggle at the boy “Well darling, you certainly did have quite the long day today.” She smiled warmly at him “Here dear, why don’t you lay on a pillow?” Using her magic, Rarity levitated a pillow near him and Fluttershy “There you go darling, that should be nice and comfortable.

He gave her a soft smile “Thank you Rarity.” She responded with a simple and kind nod as Toby crawled onto the pillow. He was small enough for his whole body to lay on the pillow and he curled up in a fetal position.

“Oh before I forget.” Rarity quietly spoke as she levitated a small, wool blanket over and laid over the sleeping child “There, that should keep him warm and comfortable.’ She smiled warmly at him Such a precious little darling.

The others d’awwed at the sight as Fluttershy quietly trotted closer to him, laid down beside him,and lifted a wing over his small form. She leaned her head down to kiss the top of his head, and then looked at Twilight “Um… Twilight, I wanted to introduce Toby to all my friends, but… um… also I was wondering if you could see what kind of creature he is? It just that I never seen a creature like him before.” She turned her head to give a warm smile at the sleeping boy.

Twilight gave a blushing grin “Oh, I was hoping you would ask me that Fluttershy!” She clapped her hooves excitedly, but quietly as she trotted over to the bookshelves and started to levitate books from left to right. After a minute of searching “Aha.. I think I found it.” She levitated an old, worn, brown binded book with her as she trotted back to the center of the library.

The book was entitled The Big Book of Mythical Creatures & Other Worldly Beings. Twilight used her magic to skim through the pages until she came upon a section with a picture of a creature that had the same appearance as Toby. She carefully read the species’ name and looked at the girls “Well by what this book tells me, Toby belongs to a group of species called Homo-sapiens or also known as humans.”

“Oh my, that does sound quite interesting.” Rarity looked at Twilight with curiosity and interest “What else does it say about his kind dear?” The others looked on with the same interest.

Twilight cleared her throat “Well first, it says that humans are bi-pedals, meaning unlike us, they walk on two legs instead of four.” The girl looked at each with curious expressions “It also says that their source of food is fruits, vegetables, and….” Twilight immediately gasped.

“Sugarcube, what is it? Ya look like ya seen a ghost.” Applejack looked at her friend worriedly.

A swallow of nervousness traveled down Twilight’s throat that the others could hear “It says that they also eat meat, chicken, and fish.” The others gasped and shocked expressions etched on each of their faces. Twilight continued to read and her face became horrified “Oh gosh, it tells about the relationship between these humans and animals.”

“Um… what does it say Twilight?” Fluttershy looked at her with worry and then turned to look at the sleeping child under her wing “Possibly, Toby couldn’t be like those other humans...um.. could he?” A frown slowly formed on her muzzle.

After reading the details of the human/animal relationship, Twilight immediately closed the book and levitated it back over to the bookshelf. She looked at Fluttershy, and then down at Toby “I don’t know Fluttershy, he is still very young to tell. However, it’s best if we write to Princess Celestia informing her about him.” She sighed heavily and levitated a scroll and quill, and placed them in front of her.

Dear Princess Celestia,

This morning, my friend and the Element of Kindness, Fluttershy discovered an unusual creature on her doorstep, sleeping in a basket. His name is Toby, and I’ve come to read that he is part of a species called Homo-Sapiens or humans. He is only a young human, probably the age of a colt, if not younger, and he is very sweet and polite.

However, what I’ve read about his species has me deeply concerned for myself, my friends, and the entire land of Equestria. I read that these humans rely on the source of fruits and vegetables for food, but the worst part is that they also eat meat, fish, chicken, and pork. I don’t believe Toby is like other humans, but he is still just so young.

If it’s alright with you princess, I thought myself the the other Elements of Harmony could bring this young one to meet you and Princess Luna. The others are going to be staying the night here at the library and we will wait for your reply.

Sincerely your fellow princess,

Princess Twilight Sparkle

She rolled up the scroll and tied it with a red ribbon “Spike, could you come here for a moment?” She called out to her friend and assistant.

The baby dragon waddled into the den carrying a small tray with six cups of tea on it. He placed the tray down in the center of the circle of friends “Yes Twilight?” He smiled brightly at his long-time friend.

She returned the smile and levitated the rolled up scroll to him “Could you please send this Spike?” With a simple nod and a breath of green fire, the scroll disappeared into ashes. Twilight smiled at him “Thank you Spike.”

“Of course Twilight, I am your number one assistant after all.” He smirked proudly and started to pass the tea to the girls. After he got done he turned to Twilight “If that is all for now Twilight, I’m going to go ahead and turn in for tonight.”

“Of course Spike.” Twilight motioned for him to come to her. He complied and she wrapped a foreleg around his shoulders, and pulled him into a warm embrace. She kissed his forehead “Goodnight Spike.” The baby dragon blushed and hugged her back around the neck before going upstairs to lay in his basket.

Twilight smiled warmly as she watched her friend go upstairs before turning to the others “Well girls, I think we all should get a good night’s rest. We’ll wait for Princess Celestia’s reply and then we’ll go to Canterlot. The others nodded in agreement as each slowly drifted off to a peaceful slumber.

As she carefully got up to trot up to sleep in her bed, she felt a hoof on her shoulder and looked to see it was Fluttershy “Um… Twilight…um…you don’t think Princess Celestia will be mean toward Toby or banish him, do you? He’s just a little colt and such a sweet little one.” The pegasus turned to look down at the sleeping child nestled under her wing and her heart just melted at the sight. She turned to look back at Twilight when she felt her hoof on her shoulder.

Twilight gave her a reassuring smile “Don’t worry Fluttershy, I’m sure Celestia will be understanding of Toby and welcome him to Equestria. However, I feel it is necessary for us to let her and Princess Luna meet him, do you understand?”

“Yes, I understand Twilight. Goodnight and I’ll see you in the morning.” Fluttershy smiled softly at her friend and watched Twilight trot upstairs. Before she decided to lay her head down to rest, she leaned down and gave one last kiss on top of the sleeping boy’s head “Goodnight sweetie.” She softly whispered and laid her head down close to his, and closed her eyes.

I sure do hope Princess Celestia and Princess Luna won’t be cruel to this little one. Also, I hope they can help us with finding out what is bothering him.

Author's Note

I can guess what you are all probably thinking and

I finally got Chapter Three Re-written! ^^

Chapter Five: Rarity's Special Gift (Re-Written)

The Crystal Empire

As morning rose in the Crystal Kingdom, Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor were in the dining hall enjoying a nice, warm breakfast when a guard trotted in. He bowed his head “Your majesties, a letter has arrived for the both of you.” He held the letter in his magic as he levitated it over the two royals “It is from Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

“Thank you my good Sir.” Shining gave a nod toward the guard, which he returned before turning to trot back out of the dining hall. Shining looked curiously at the letter “What do you think Twily would have sent us sweetums?” He glanced at Cadence with a raised eyebrow.

Cadence levitated a letter opener over to open the envelope “I don’t know Shiny, but let’s just hope that her and her friends aren’t in trouble.” A look of worry etched across the princess’ face as she unfolded the letter and began reading it.

Dear Shining & Cadence,

How are my big brother best friend forever and sister-in-law doing? One day, we should plan a day out together, just the three of us so we can enjoy each other’s company. However, that isn’t the reasoning for me writing you both this letter.

Two nights ago, my dear friend Fluttershy discovered something very unusual in a small basket at her front doorstep. It was a young child, a young human child! His name is Toby Mason and he is such a young gentleman, but when myself and the other elements took him to meet Princess Luna and Princess Celestia, we discovered that there is something deeply bother the poor dear.

We decided not to bother pushing the matter though, because we believe it would be best for him to tell us when he is ready. For now, I would like to invite you two to a party that we are having at Canterlot Castle to welcome Toby to Equestria. If you decide to attend, you may bring any food or party supplies if you would like to, but if not, that is okay. We hope to see you there!

Your little sister best friend forever & sister-in-law,

Princess Twilight Sparkle

“Oh Shiny dear, this sounds like it would be fun! I never heard of a human before, but Toby sounds like such a cute little thing!” Cadence giggled as she looked at Shining Armor “Oh honey boo, can we go to the party, please, pretty please?” She held her hooves together in a pleading manner.

Shining couldn’t help but chuckle at her wife’s persistence “Yes sweetheart, we can go, but who will be here to watch the castle while we’re gone? Who will keep watch over the Crystal Empire?” He looked at her a bit concerned.

“Oh don’t worry dear, you know that our people will be okay without us for at least one night. Besides, when was the last time we spent away from here.” She traced her shoe cladden hoof across the table with a pouty look on her muzzle.

“Awh… you know I can’t stand when you do that Cadence.” Shining rolled his eyes “Alright, we’ll go to the party.” He chuckled suddenly as he saw elation on Cadence’s face.

She rushed over to him and hugged him tightly around the neck “Oh thank you, thank you dear! I promise you aren’t going to regret it! We are going to have so much fun in welcoming this new addition to our land.” She giggled as she let go of the hug “I’ll get our bags packed!” She galloped off out of the dining hall.

“But honey, we are just going to be gone for... one... day.” He sighed heavily “Well, there she goes. I guess I should get ready as well.” He shook his head softly, chuckling to himself as he trotted out of the dining hall next.

Carousel Boutique

“Rarity, I’m here!” Sweetie Belle arrived at the boutique noticing that it was quiet “Hmm.. that’s weird, Rarity should already be up.” The filly placed her saddlebags near the door as she could hear the distant sound of snoring, causing her to giggle “Oh, she must have been working late last night. She only snores if she had a long night.” She trotted toward the stairs and sneaked up step by step.

Sweetie Belle opened the door to peek in and saw her older sister sleeping, sprawled out on the bed. She giggled at the sight, but quietly trotted in until she was up near the bed “RARITY!”

“AH! Rarity leaped up from the bed “Wh-who’s there?” She looked around to see Sweetie Belle grinning from ear to ear “Sweetie Belle, how many times have I told you not to sneak up on me like that?” She let out an exaggerated yawn “What time is it anyway?” She rubbed at her eyes with her fore hooves.

“It’s eight o’clock, but it’s the weekend so..” Sweetie was immediately cut off with a shriek

“EIGHT O'CLOCK?!” Rarity quickly jumped out of bed with a panic as she quickly trotted over to her workstation “Oh dear, oh dear, I’m going to be late!” She breathed at a heavy, worried pace.

Sweetie Belle trotted up to her sister, looking worried “Rarity, calm down!” She nudged at her sister’s shoulder with a fore hoof “What has gotten you all worked up?”

Rarity placed a hoof to her chest as she calmed her breathing. She looked toward her little sister “Sweetie darling, it is a new special piece of clothing for a new arrival that I met at Twilight’s.” A smile of warmth crept across the fashionista’s muzzle.

“Oh, who is it Rarity? Will I get to meet him or her?” Sweetie clapped her hooves excitedly with a wide grin.

“Easy little sister, of course you will meet him.” Rarity chuckled softly at her sister’s eagerness “In fact you can come with me to Fluttershy’s, because Fluttershy has taken the little dear into her home.” Rarity patted Sweetie Belle on the head. She levitated a covered, tailored suit over to her “This is a special gift I made for the little darling, but Sweetie Belle, I need to tell you something, alright?” She gave the filly a firm look.

“What is it Rarity?” Sweetie looked at her older sister curiously, but a little bit worried at the tone which Rarity spoke with.

“This new arrival to Equestria is not quite a pony like us, but he is what is called a human. He is a species from another world, but Sweetie dear, he has a heart of gold, and his name is Toby.” Rarity felt her heart flutter by just talking about the little boy “However, there is something myself and the others believe is deeply bothering the child, but we have decided to not force the issue. We are going to wait until he is ready to talk.” She rubbed at Sweetie’s shoulder.

A frown formed on Sweetie’s muzzle “Oh gosh Rarity! That sounds so sad, but I promise I won’t say a word to Applebloom or Scootaloo about Toby.I can’t wait to meet the little guy though, he sounds like such a cutie.” Sweetie giggled with a blush.

Rarity shook her head softly “Oh, I know you will like him Sweetie, and also I appreciate you not saying anything to your friends. Maybe after a while, maybe you three could let Toby spend time with you.” She then looked at the clock “For now, we gotta get going so we can get to Fluttershy’s. Come Sweetie Belle.” She trotted out of her bedroom followed her younger sister.

Fluttershy’s Cottage

As the sun peeked in through Fluttershy’s window blinds, the pegasus slowly started to stir in her sleep as she let out a soft yawn. Her eyes fluttered open Mm.. what a peaceful sleep I had last night. She turned to look at the sleeping child underneath her wing and a warm, maternal smile crept across her muzzle I sure do hate to wake him up, but the little one does need to eat. She leaned her head close to Toby and nuzzled at his sleeping form “Toby sweetheart, it’s time to wake up.” She rubbed at him tenderly with her wing.

Slowly the young boy started to awaken as he yawned gently, blinking his eyes open to look up into the warm, beautiful eyes of the pegasus “Good morning Fluttershy.” He greeted her with a soft smile.

“Did you sleep alright last night Toby? Are you hungry, I will make you whatever you would like?” She nuzzled his forehead, continuing to rub at his form with her wing, but the sound of rumbling of his little tummy caused her to giggle “I would say that is a yes.” She booped her nose against his as she carefully lifted her wing off the child and climbed off the bed.

Toby sat up on his knees on the bed, stretching out his little arms as he looked out the window in awe “Oh it looks very pretty outside Fluttershy.” He let out another soft yawn as he climbed out of the bed to stand next to Fluttershy “Fluttershy, could you make me some oatmeal like you did the first morning we met?” A hopeful smile formed across his face.

“Of course dear. Would you like for me to add the milk and honey into it as well like I did last time?” She stroked his hair with a hoof, as she received a simple nod from the child. “Would you like to ride on my back Toby, or would you like to walk down the stairs by yourself?” She looked down at the child with a warm smile.

“I think I’ll walk down by myself Fluttershy, but thank you.” He returned the warm smile up at her as he saw her start to trot toward the staircase. He followed behind as he saw her easily trot down the steps, but he carefully stepped down one step at a time. As they reached the bottom, they were greeted by all of the critters under Fluttershy’s care “Good morning everyone, how are you all?” Toby greeted them with as they chittered and chirped in return.

Fluttershy smiled at the interacting between her animal friends and the child, until a thought came to her. She looked down at Toby curiously “Um… Toby sweetheart, while I fix your breakfast, how would you like to feed them?” She stroked at his shoulder with a hoof.

“Oh, I would like that Fluttershy!” He looked up elated at the request as he watched Fluttershy trot over to a few bags set up against her fireplace.

Fluttershy smiled warmly at the boy at his excitement, waving him over with a hoof “Come over here dear so I can show how I divide the food up among them all.” Toby nodded as he walked over to her as she motioned at the bags “Um… now as you can see Toby, I have written the animal on which food bag they eat. Just use each of the cups that I specifically measured for each one and I’ll call you when I am done with your oatmeal.” She kissed his forehead before trotting into the kitchen.

Toby smiled as Fluttershy went into the kitchen and turned toward the animals “Alright, who’s hungry?” He asked as excited chatter among them erupted, earning a chuckle from the child. He looked at the food bags, took a deep breath I hope I’ll be able to do good job. He started to measure each of the cups first before starting to feed the animals.

Meanwhile, as Fluttershy was fixing the boy’s oatmeal, there was a knock at the door Oh, I wonder who that could be this time of morning. She placed the bowl on the counter so she could trot into the living room “I’ll get it.” She trotted in to see Toby feeding the animals with joy not only on his face, but also the animals. She walked toward the door “Um.. yes, who is it?”

“Good morning Fluttershy darling, it’s Rarity and Sweetie Belle.” Rarity smiled warmly as she looked at her sister “Now Sweetie Belle, when you meet Toby, don’t become all hyper or excited, you don’t want to scare the precious dear.” She gave Sweetie Belle a firm nod “Understood?”

“I won’t scare him Rarity, I promise.” She rolled her eyes with a heavy sigh.

The door opened to reveal Fluttershy with a warm smile on her muzzle “Um… good morning Rarity and Sweetie Belle, please come in.” She stepped aside to let the two unicorns in “I was just fixing us a little breakfast, would you both like some?”

“Oh no dear, but thank you.” Rarity nodded softly as she looked over to see Toby feeding the animals “Well good morning Toby darling, how are you feeling today?” She trotted over to the child, placing a foreleg over his shoulder and nuzzling the top of his head.

The child let out a giggle as he looked up at her “Good morning Rarity, I am feeling great today, how are you?” He smiled warmly as he was feeding the last few animals “I am just helping Fluttershy feed the animals while she fixes me some oatmeal.”

“Well, you are doing a mighty fine job feeding them dear.” She then suddenly heard her sister clear her throat ‘Oh right. Toby, I would like for you meet someone special to me.” She waved Sweetie Belle which the filly obliged “This is my little sister, Sweetie Belle.” She then looked at Sweetie “Sweetie Belle, this darling child is Toby Mason.”

“Aww.. aren’t you a cutie!” Sweetie Belle gushed as she carefully trotted closer to him, and wrapped a foreleg around him in a warm hug “It is nice to meet you Toby!” She nuzzled his cheek.

Toby was taken aback by the sudden embrace by the filly, but returned the hug as he blushed at the cutie comment “Thank you Sweetie Belle. It is nice to meet you too.” He giggled as they released the hug.

Rarity smiled at the two “Toby dear, I have brought you something new to wear.” She levitated the new design over to the child “Now I have it covered, because I didn’t want it to get dirty while we were on our way over here.” She stroked the top of his head “Oh, I know darling, how about we start you a bath while Fluttershy fixes your breakfast, and after you’re done, then you can try on your new outfit?” She gave the child a gentle wink.

“I would like that Rarity.” He looked up into her beautiful, sapphire eyes with a warm smile, and then looked over at Fluttershy “Would that be okay Fluttershy?”

“Um.. of course it will be okay sweetheart. I’ll be making your oatmeal while you are taking a bath, and it will be nice and warm when you get out.” Fluttershy stroked the top of his head.

Rarity gently laid a forearm around the boy’s shoulders “Come darling, I’ll help you get your bath ready.” She allowed the child to lead the way as Toby climbed the steps, with the unicorn right behind him to make sure he is careful.

As they arrived at the washroom, Rarity used her magic to turn the water on, and trotted over to the tub to put your hoof in it to check the temperature. With a satisfied smile, she allowed the water to run a little bit as she hung the new clothes on the hanger on the wall “Now darling, I’ll be downstairs with Fluttershy and Sweetie Belle when you are done.” She turned to rub at his shoulder “I can’t wait to see you in your new outfit!” She beamed as she turned to trot out of the washroom to allow the child to take his bath.

Rarity trotted back downstairs to see Fluttershy giggling “Well, well, well, what did I miss that is quite funny dears?” She bashed her eyebrows.

“Oh, I was telling Fluttershy about the time me, Applebloom, and Scootaloo tried our hooves at candy making when we visited Pinkie Pie at Sugarcube Corner.” Sweetie Belle blushed “I told her how all three of us ended up in the taffy machine.” The filly started to giggle as well.

“Oh gosh, not that story again.” Rarity face hoofed “Fluttershy darling, you don’t understand how hard it was to get that sticky gunk out of Sweetie’s mane.” She couldn’t help but let out a chuckle herself “It took over two hours to finally get it all out.” She sighed heavily.

“Um… I’m sorry Rarity, but um… haha… I couldn’t help but laugh at the story.” Fluttershy placed a hoof to her lips to try to stifle her laughing.

“It’s okay dear, Sweetie Belle learned to never try her hoof at candy making again. Isn’t that right Sweetie Belle?” Rarity raised an eyebrow at her younger sister.

“Yes Rarity, I promise I will never mess with making candy unless Pinkie Pie or The Cakes are watching over me.” She rolled her eyes with a sigh of her own.

Moments later, Toby came downstairs wearing his new outfit, but there were tears in his eyes “Rarity?” He spoke in a soft, gentle tone.

Rarity looked toward the stairs “Yes Toby darling?” She then gasped as she saw him in tears “Toby dear, what’s the...oof!” She suddenly felt the little child run into her, burying his face into her warm, soft chest fur. She felt his little form shaking, but gently wrapped her foreleg around him in a tender hug, and lightly rubbed his back.

Fluttershy looked on concerned for the child, along with Sweetie Belle. A frown crept across Fluttershy’s muzzle Oh no, I hope he is okay.

Rarity continued to rub along his back tenderly for a few more minutes until she felt his crying start to calm. She nuzzled the top of his head, lightly cooing to him “Shh… it’s okay darling.” She unwrapped her foreleg from around him as he slowly pulled away. She looked down at him concerned “Now Toby dear, what’s the matter? Is there something with your new outfit?” She reached up to rub at his shoulder gently.

“N-no Rarity, I love my new clothes.” He sniffled as his breathing came to a steady, calmed pace “Thank you so much Rarity for this!” He placed his hand over his heart where his locket was sewn into the outfit.

It consisted of a royal blue hoodie, the locket sewn on the left side of the chest, and a pair of matching royal blue jogging pants. Toby looked down at the locket “My Mommy made this for me to give to me on my fourth birthday.” He carefully opened the front of the locket to show the three ponies “She took this picture of me when I was a baby.” He sniffled as a shallow swallowed traveled down his throat “She told me that she will always be in my heart and will always be there for me if I just hold this near me.”

Oh my, I wonder if… Fluttershy felt tears in her eyes after listening to Toby telling about his locket, but tried to calm herself to quiet her thoughts “Well, that was a very beautiful gift that your Mommy gave you Toby.” The pegasus sniffled, wiping away her own tears.

He nodded in agreement to Fluttershy “I always make sure I keep it close to me, but thanks you to Rarity, I always will.” He hugged at her chest again “Thank you Rarity so much!” A smile of warmth crept upon the child’s face.

“Aww… don’t mention it darling, it was my pleasure to make it for you.” She tenderly kissed the top of his head “Your Mommy done a marvelous job with such a wonderful gem as that, but I think she has done an even more wonderful job on such a precious dear like you.” She smiled and hugged him close to her.

Fluttershy cleared her throat “Um… Toby sweetheart, how about you go eat your oatmeal while I talk with Rarity for a little bit?” She gave him a warm smile.

“Okay Fluttershy.” Toby walked to the kitchen, and climbed up into the chair at the table.

“Sweetie Belle, how about you go join him?” Rarity looked at her sister who trotted into the kitchen to sit by the boy. Rarity then looked over at Fluttershy “Fluttershy darling, what would you like to discuss?” A curious looked etched across the unicorn’s face.

Fluttershy trotted over to her sofa, motioning Rarity to follow “Um… well Rarity, I was thinking of how we can maybe find out what is truly bothering Toby.” She bit her lower lip nervously.

“Hmm… what could that be darling?” Rarity placed a hoof on the pegasus’ shoulder to keep her calm as she spoke.

“Um… well I was thinking when we get to Canterlot Castle and finish with the welcoming party for Toby, I would ask Princess Luna if maybe we could..um…. Well.” Fluttershy turned her head to the side shyly.

Rarity rubbed at her shoulder carefully “What is is darling? Wait… are you thinking about asking Luna to allow us to venture into Toby’s dreams?” Her eyes grew wide at the thought, but was met with a slow nod from her friend “Now Fluttershy dear, I am deeply bothered by what is bothering the poor little boy as much as you, but going into his dreams is well, kind of intrusive.” She gave a small frown.

“Um… I know Rarity, but I think maybe if we go inside his dreams, maybe we can slowly get him to talk to us about what is bothering him.” Fluttershy sighed heavily as she looked over into the kitchen at the child “Um...will you support me on this Rarity when I tell the others?” She looked at the unicorn with a hopeful smile.

“Of course dear, I’ll support you.” Rarity rubbed at her shoulder some more “And you should know that the others will fully support you as well. “ She gave Fluttershy a wink.

“Alright cutie, just hold on okay?” Sweetie Belle giggled as she came trotting back into the living room with Toby riding on her back “Wow Toby! You are light as a feather!” The filly giggled as she lifted her gaze up at the child on her back.

“This is fun Sweetie Belle, but are you sure you don’t mind carrying me on your back?” He giggled, but also had a concerned tone in his voice.

“Of course not cutie, it is fun for me too. If I start to go too fast, let me know and I’ll slow down, okay?” She turned her head to nuzzle at him.

“Oh my, well aren’t you two having a fun time.” Rarity chuckled “Are you both ready to go to Ponyville Station?” She trotted up to her sister to nuzzle at the child “We are going to be taking you somewhere special darling? We believe you will enjoy it.’ She winked at Toby.

“That is right sweetheart, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, her friends, and our friends will all be coming with you.” Fluttershy then turned to Angel Bunny was standing right by her side “Now Angel sweetie, you are in charge of the house while we are gone, okay?” Angel gave a firm nod and salute. Fluttershy leaned her head down to kiss between Angel’s ears “That’s Momma’s boy!” She lifted her head to look at the three “Um.. I’m ready to go if you all are.”

“Next stop Ponyville Station! Hold on cutie, I’m going to show you a real fun time!” She giggled as she felt the boy hold onto her mane, and with a starting step, she started to gallop at a light pace.

“Sweetie Belle! Don’t scare the poor dear!” Rarity sighed heavily as she rolled her eyes, following after them.

Fluttershy exited the cottage last, shutting the door behind her. She took in a deep breath and exhaled Toby tonight is for you, but I hope you won’t be too upset with us when we go into your dreams. We just want to find out what is bothering you. Fluttershy sighed heavily as she followed the three on the trek to Ponyville Station.

I know he isn’t a pony, but after the time I have come to get to know him and take care of him, I grown to love him each day more and more.

Author's Note

Well, it took me a while, but here is the re-written version of Chapter Five! I hope you all enjoy. :pinkiesmile:

Chapter Six: Fluttershy's Confession (Edited)

The train station of Ponyville was usually bustling with business with ponies either boarding or unboarding Equestria's only train, The Friendship Express. Today was different as only three mares, two fillies, and a baby dragon were the train's only remaining passengers. The entire community of Ponyville left early to travel to Canterlot for a celebration. They all were invited to by Princess Twilight Sparkle. Outside on the waiting dock, Twilight and her three friends stood waiting for the arrival of Rarity, Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle, and Toby.

"Alright girls, while we wait for them to get here, has everyone completed their tasks they volunteered for?" Twilight asked looking at each them. "I sent out all of the invitations last night. So far everypony in Ponyville, my father, mother, Shining Armor, and Princess Cadence will also be attending. Oh, I can't wait for them to meet Toby!" She beamed excitedly.

Applejack tipped her cowboy hat and crossed her forelegs."Yup, Ah've already told Granny Smith, and Big Macintosh to go on ahead on the first train so they could set up the apple cart. Granny made plenty of apple dishes, so there are enough to sell, and also for the little feller to try."

Hovering over the small group was Rainbow Dash. "Yea, and Pinkie Pie also went ahead to Canterlot with the cake she made for the kid. As for me, I plan to give Toby a show he's always gonna remember forever." She rubbed both of her front hooves together with a sly smile on her face.

Twilight nodded at both Rainbow Dash and Applejack, and turned to the two fillies who was standing next to Applejack. "Applebloom and Scootaloo, now you two be nice to Toby. He is new here, and is very shy, and timid around others."

"Ya. Ah got it Twilight. Applejack told me about the little colt, and how he lost his mom." Applebloom replied with a frown.

"Yea, poor kid. Rainbow Dash told me too. Don't worry though.Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle, and I, will all be like big sisters to him." Scootaloo said posing with her forehooves on her hips. Scootaloo was a pegasus filly with a light orange fur, light purple eyes, and a deep shade of purple in her mane and tail.

Together Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle made up the trio known as The Cutie Mark Crusaders. Unlike the other colts and fillies of Ponyville, the three didn't have their cutie marks. They decided to join together as friends with the common goal of searching for their special talent in life, and earn their cutie marks.

After a couple minutes Fluttershy, Toby, Rarity, and Sweetie came trotting out of the station's lobby onto the dock. "Hello darlings, we are here." Rarity spoke up as they trotted up next to the group.

Fluttershy bent her forelegs down instead of lowering down on all four to see if that would be safe and easier for Toby to climb of. He climbed off onto the ground with much ease as Fluttershy stood behind him as back up. She smiled down at him "Toby sweetie, how about you go with Sweetie Belle and meet the other fillies? I am sure they will be happy to meet you."

He nodded "O-okay Fluttershy."

Sweetie Belle placed a forehoof on his shoulder, and smiled softly. "Yea Toby, you'll really like the girls, I promise." She let Toby walk beside her, making sure to keep close.

"Hey Scootaloo and Applebloom!" The other two smiled, and trotted up to their friend. They all hugged, as soon as they broke the hug Sweetie Belle sat down on her haunches, and placed a foreleg over Toby's shoulders. "Girls, I would like for you to meet Toby. Toby this is Scootaloo *motioned a forehoof at the light orange pegasus* and this is Applebloom *motioned to the lemon yellow earth pony*. Together all three of us make... THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" They said in unison in a loud booming voice that made the little colt shield his ears with his hands.

He shook a little out of his usual shyness, but giggled softly. "H-hi Scootaloo, and Applebloom." He spoke softly.

Applebloom was the first one to reach out a forehoof ,and gently took his hand in it to shake it lightly. "Howdy there Toby, it is great to meet ya."

Scootaloo was up next as she reached out a foreleg and patted him on the shoulder. "Hey Toby, it's awesome to meet you too."

Spike who stood by the mares quietly walked up to the four. He smiled at Toby. "Hey there buddy. My name is Spike, the coolest, and only dragon in Ponyville. Don't be scared though, I am only a baby dragon, and would never bring harm to my friends. I'm such a cool kid like you." He reached out a claw and patted at Toby's shoulder just like Scootaloo.

Toby smiled softly and nodded "H-hi Spike. It is good to meet you too."

Fluttershy and the other mares looked with warm smiles upon their faces at the interaction between the three fillies, baby dragon, and little colt. Suddenly a train whistle blew as the Friendship Express was starting to pull into the station. Twilight levitated ten tickets out of her saddlebag that she brought with her giving one to each of her friends with Fluttershy taking Toby's for him.

Coming to a safe stop, the conductor stepped out of the train. He was a gray furred stallion that sported a black burly moustache, with a charcoal black mane, and tail,. He wore a pair of glasses, a dark gray hat that had a red stripe circling it, a black rim, and he wore a dark grey suit with white shirt and red tie. He looked at the group before him. "Tickets please."

Twilight led the group one by one onto one of the passenger carts. When it was Toby's turn to board, the conductor gently placed a hoof on his shoulder and looked down at him. "Oh, I am sorry young one, but without a ticket I am afraid I cannot allow you to board the train."

Fluttershy raised a wing as she kindly gave the two tickets to the conductor. "Oh, my apologies. He is with me..um..I hope that is okay." She looked down at Toby with a soft smile, then back at the conductor.

The conductor took the tickets and nodded "Oh of course Miss, it is okay." He looked down at the little colt. "Well, I apologize young one. Welcome aboard The Friendship Express, may your traveling be safe, and comfortable." He tipped his hat, and stepped aside to let the two enter the passenger cart.

"Alright Toby sweetie, you can go sit with Spike, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, while I go sit with the others, okay little one?" Toby nodded softly, and walked over to join the three fillies, and baby dragon. Fluttershy smiled at him as she went to join the other adult mares.

They were all already seated down, and striking up conversation as Fluttershy trotted up to them. With a bit of nervousness, she spoke up "Um..girls..can I maybe tell you all something..um..if it is okay?"

"Of course darling. You know you can tell us anything." Rarity spoke with a soft smile.

"Yea Flutters, what's up?" Rainbow asked as she just hovered above the group.

"Ya sugarcube, what is on your mind?" Applejack watched her with concern.

"Yes Fluttershy, we are your friends, and we are always here to listen." Twilight smiled softly as well.

She took a seat beside Rarity, and sighed heavily. "Well..um..I really do care for Toby and all, but I just wonder how he got here in Equestria? I mean, I just found him curled up at the base of a tree at the entrance of the Everfree Forest. He was just so small that I couldn't abandon him." She lowered her head, and a single tear dropped from her eyes.

Rarity reached over and rubbed her back, and wings delicately "Fluttershy darling, you was doing what you thought was right, and you are the element of kindness. Also, we all would have done the same thing if either one of us discovered Toby in that condition." The others nodded in unison.

"Th-thank you all. I don't know what I would do without such good friends like you." She lifted her head and turned around a bit to smile softly at the young colt that melted her heart. She turned to look at her friends. "Girls..um.also the night before I found Toby, I made a wish upon Luna's moon. I wished I could have a colt or filly of my own to love and care for."

"WHAT?" They all gasped, but tried to be low enough so the young ones couldn't hear them.

Fluttershy nodded "I know I have Angel Bunny, and my other animal friends, who I love with all my heart, but I would like to feel what it is like to be the mother.

Rarity held one of Fluttershy's forehooves in both of hers and rubbed it gently. "Fluttershy darling, that is wonderful, but you are already a mother to your animal friends, especially Angel." Rarity turned to look at the young ones, especially Toby. "Yet, the little one no longer has his own mom." Her eyes started to tear up at the fact as she turned back to the yellow Pegasus. "Maybe you two were meant to find each other darling." Giving her a soft smile.

Twilight and the others nodded in agreement. "Rarity is right Fluttershy. Now I don't know how Toby showed up here in Equestria either, but maybe we could talk with Princess Luna to see if she might have an answer. It was during her moon you made your wish, so she might know something." They all nodded in agreement.

Fluttershy smiled hopefully. "That sounds great Twilight. Um...could we do it after the celebration...um..maybe when Toby is asleep? I won't want him to be troubled by any of this yet. He has been through enough."

"Of course, we can wait. It would be best to do it while he slept." Twilight looked at Fluttershy seriously. "Fluttershy, would it be okay with you if I maybe asked Princess Luna if she could allow us to enter into Toby's dreams? Maybe we could find out more of why he is so timid around others."

Fluttershy sighed deeply "Um..I guess that would be okay Twilight. Um..it won't hurt him though for us to go into his dreams, would it?" She asked with a concerned look on her face.

"No, of course not. Princess Luna is Goddess of the Night after all, so she would know how to keep him calm while he's asleep."

Fluttershy nodded as she looked at all of her friends who returned soft smiles at her. She turned to look behind her at the small child. "Okay Twilight, we can do it. I just hope whatever we find isn't too scary." They all nodded in unison as the train entered through the gates of Canterlot.

Author's Note

I know this was probably shorter than the other chapters and I apologize. Thank you all for your kind words always and comments on this story. I truly appreciate them. :)

Chapter Seven: A Canterlot Celebration (Edted)

The Friendship Express came to a slow, and steady stop at Canterlot Station. Outside on the waiting dock to welcome the ponies, and young human stood a white unicorn stallion. His mane and tail were three shades of dark, moderate, and light blue, he had sky blue eyes, grey hooves, and on his flank he had a symbol of a royal blue shield with a lavender star on it, with three little light blue stars over it.

As the passenger cart's doors opened Twilight immediatly galloped to the stallion, who was her brother.

"Shining!" She smiled with a beaming glow.

"Twily!" Shining Armor responded with the same excitement. They lifted their forelegs in a playful manner to greet each other. "How has my little sister been doing since becoming Equestria's newest princess?" He asked teasingly

She giggled and playfully punched him in the chest with a forehoof. "Oh, Shining you know I am still getting used to becoming an alicorn princess. Yet, I have just been overlooking the daily activities of Ponyville, and making sure harmony is maintained."

Shining Armor nodded. "Well, at least you aren't trying to battle an evil sorcerer who is trying to overthrow your home." Speaking sarcastically as he sighed softly "Cadence is so excited to see you and the girls again! Her mom, and dad are at the castle."

He noticed the rest of the group standing behind Twilight. "Hello girls and Spike." He looked at the group carefully and turned back toward Twilight. "So Twily, where is this guest of honor that Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna have been telling us about?"

Twilight looked behind her at the group of ponies and baby dragon, but didn't see the little colt. "Hmm.. I don't know." She turned around looking at the three fillies and Spike. "Spike, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, where is Toby?"

Sweetie Belle motioned with her forehoof toward Fluttershy's tail "He is hiding. When we stepped off the train he saw Prince Shining Armor, and got nervous, and hid under Fluttershy's tail." She along with everypony watched the little shaking movement of Fluttershy's tail with concerned look on their faces.

Fluttershy smiled nervously at Shining Armor "Um..I am truly sorry Prince Shining Armor. He is very shy, and timid around new ponies. He is still shy, and timid around all of us." She turned her head toward her tail, and cooed softly to calm the little colt. "Toby sweetie, you can come out. The prince is real nice like all of us, and he would like to meet you. Please don't be scared."

Toby peeked his head out from underneath her tail, and nodded softly. He carefully stepped out from behind her, and walked slowly toward Shining Armor. The others smiled at him warmly as he stepped in front of the prince. He lowered his head in a bow "H-hello P-Prince Shining Armor. I-it is good to meet you." He lifted his head, and smiled softly up at the stallion.

Shining Armor stepped his left foreleg in front of his right foreleg, and lowered his head in a bow of his own. "Well, it is an honor to meet you as well Toby. You have nothing to fear from me." He smiled at the little colt, and patted gently at his shoulder. He leaned into whisper. "Anyways, if somepony tries to bother you, you just come to good ol' Shining and I will take care of them for you." He winked as he raised his head with a smile.

Toby giggled lightly as he felt a wing on his back, and turned to look up at Twilight. "See there sweetheart, there is nothing to be scared of. Shining Armor here is my older brother, and you will meet my other family when we go to the castle." She smiled softly down at him as he returned the same smile.

He carefully walked back over to Fluttershy who was lowered on her forelegs ready for Toby to climb on. He climbed up on her carefully. She smiled softly back at him, and asked "Toby sweetie, how would you maybe like to fly? I will be very careful, and I promise I won't let you fall." She nuzzled at his cheek.

With a smile on his face he nodded "O-okay Fluttershy. Th-that sounds like fun." He carefully hugged her neck a little tightly, but not too tight to hurt her.

After the group departed from the train station Fluttershy looked back at the little colt. "Okay sweetie, hold on." She lightly flapped her wings, and hovered in the air. She could feel shaking on her back, and turned back to Toby noticing his eyes were closed shut. She nuzzled at his cheek. "It's okay little one, open your eyes."

Toby opened them slowly, and shot his head back, and forth looking down at the group trotting below him. He looked around as he was in the air as Rainbow Dash came up beside them with Scootaloo on her back. Toby smiled as he felt the gentle breeze blow against his face, and skin. "Th-this is fun Fluttershy. Th-thank you."

Fluttershy smiled as the little colt was actually having fun for the very first time since he had arrived in Ponyville. "You are very welcome sweetie." Although she was smiling on the outside, she was frowning on the inside. "I just wish he wouldn't be so timid around us. He is so sweet, but his voice is so small and sounds broken. I hope when Princess Luna takes us into his dreams we find out what caused him to be so timid." She thought to herself as she flew carefully in the air.

As the group arrived at the palace Fluttershy carefully lowered to the ground landing softly. The guards stepped aside opening the palace doors to let the group through.

While they were trotting through the main hall a thought came to Toby, "Mommy always loved pretty places." This brought a tear to his eye which he quickly wiped away with a hand, so no pony would notice.

Shining Armor came to a stop at two tall golden doors that looked like they lead to another room. He turned back to the child on Fluttershy's back. "Hey buddy, if a prince may ask, could you maybe close your eyes for a little bit?"

Toby nodded. "Y-yes Prince Shining Armor." He closed his eyes shut as he hugged Fluttershy's neck. He could hear the big doors slowly being opened, and felt Fluttershy start trotting. After a few trots he felt Fluttershy come to a stop. He started to shake as he could hear nothing but silence.

Fluttershy turned her head to the nervous little child, and nuzzled at his cheek. "It's okay Toby, you can open your eyes now sweetie."

He carefully opened his eyes, and swallowed nervously as he looked through the lens of his eyeglasses. He sat up a little on Fluttershy's back as he could see he was in what appeared to be a ballroom. There were many ponies in attendance, most of the ponies he saw were dressed in elegant gowns, and nice suits. He recognized them as the ponies that lived in Canterlot. The other ponies he saw didn't have any clothes, just the fur on their body, manes, and tails. He guessed they were ponies from Ponyville.

He looked around at everypony nervously as he heard them mumble to one another. The group he was with slowly trotted down the red carpet leading to the center where Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna stood. Beside the two princesses he saw another pony who had wings and a horn, and knew she was another alicorn. Shining Armor trotted up beside her, and Twilight trotted up to the other side of the royal sisters.

She had light pink fur, purple eyes, a mane and tail that were both flowing like Fluttershy's with light yellow, dark pink, and purple, she had golden-like hooves. On her flank, a symbol of a heart that looked like crystal. She wore a golden necklace around her neck just like Celestia and Luna, and a golden crown.

Fluttershy and the rest of the group trotted up, and stood at the side of Twilight as Toby looked up at all four princesses.

Princess Celestia began to speak with a royal yet elegant voice. "All mares and gentlecoats. Today myself, and my sister Princess Luna would like to welcome you as we celebrate the arrival of a new guest here in Equestria. Now he is a part of the species known as humans. He comes from a distant land called Earth, but I vow he brings no threat to us ponykind or to all of Equestria." The crowd stopped their mumbling, and smiled knowing that the human was not a threat to them.

She turned toward Fluttershy. "Our very own, The Element of Kindness ,and caretaker of all small and big animals. Fluttershy was the one who discovered this little one." Fluttershy nervously lifted a wing, and waved at everypony in attendance. Celestia looked toward the child on her back. "Little one, would you like to come up, and let everypony see you? I promise no pony is here to harm you sweetheart."

Toby swallowed nervously as he looked at Fluttershy, and beside him at the others as they all nodded at him reassuringly with warm smiles. He then turned toward Celestia, and nodded. Fluttershy gently knelt on her forelegs as he carefully climbed down off her back. She stood back up, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head to keep him calm. He carefully walked toward Celestia as he looked up at Twilight who gave him a warm smile. He stepped in front of Celestia, and lifted his head slowly to look at all those before him.

He started shaking when he felt a warm wing over his back and shoulders. He tilted his head back to look up at Celestia, smiling softly down at him. She looked at all her guests saying, "this young human child is Toby..." She lowered her head softly down to him. "Toby sweetheart, if a princess may ask, what is your last name?" She asked gently.
He softly whispered in her ear "M-Mason, Princess Celestia." He gave her a light smile.

She lifted her head back up, and cleared her throat. "This young human child's name is Toby Mason, and although he is small, he has a big heart, and has treated us with great respect and kindness." She looked down at the little colt, and thought back to the day before she met him. She started to tear up a little bit which everypony looked on concerned even Toby, who tilted his head back to look up at her. "My sister and mysef would greatly appreciate it if you all would treat this little one with the same respect, and kindness, for he has suffered a great loss in his life, and has endured a broken heart."

Everypony in the crowd gasped, and looked at the little child with worried looks as they all nodded in unison at Celestia, and Luna.

Celestia blinked her eyes to subdue her tears as she looked up at everypony. "Our faithful Element of Honesty, Applejack, and the Apple Family from Sweet Apple Acres brought all of their great apple delecacies for everpony to enjoy. Our very own Element of Laughter, Pinkie pie, brought music, games to play, and an array of sweet treats baked by herself with some help from the Cakes of Sugarcube Corner. Later we will all may go outside to the palace courtyards to see the Element of Loyalty, Rainbow Dash, will be performing her Sonic Rainboom and for Fluttershy, our Element of Kindness, is going to soothe us with her bird choir. Now may this joyous celebration begin." With that a blast was heard throughout the ballroom, and everypony turned to see it was Pinkie Pie setting off her party cannon. Streamers, confetti, and balloons showered over the ballroom. Laughter erupted from everypony.

Everypony bowed their heads respectfully to the princesses as they all started moving around. Some were conversing with one another, some headed over to the apple cart where Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith stood at, some went over to enjoy some of Sugarcube Coners top sweet where Mr. and Mrs. Cake. A few went over to participate in some games operated by Pinkie Pie, who had a bright smile on her face.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders each gave Toby a warm hug before going off to hang out with the colts, and fillies who were invited, Rainbow Dash gave him a gentle rub on the head before flying outside to prepare for her Sonic Rainboom.

Applejack trotted up to the little colt, and smiled softly down at him. "Ah' reckon I will get over to the apple cart Toby, and make sure everything is running smoothy. There are plenty of apple dishes there for ya to try when ya get ready, ah'right little feller?" He nodded as she reached a forehoof up, and rubbed gently at his shoulder before trotting off toward the apple cart.

Rarity trotted up to him next, and gently wrapped a foreleg around his small form pulling him in a warm hug. She gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head, and softly spoke. "Toby darling, I will be mingling with the other ponies if you need me, okay precious?" He nodded, and gave her a soft smile, she returned it before trotting off to mingle with the others.

Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna smiled down at the little child. "Young Toby, Tia and I officially welcome you to Equestria." Luna spoke with a soft tone as both royal sisters lowered their heads, and lightly touched each of his shoulders with their horns.

Fluttershy trotted up to Toby, and the princesses. She looked up at both of them, and shyly asked "Um..Princess Luna, and Princess Celestia...if it is okay with you both..um..could i maybe speak with you?" They looked at each other, then looked back at Fluttershy, and nodded. She smiled at them, and then looked down at the little colt. "Toby sweetie, I will be right back, okay? I am just going to talk with the princesses." He nodded as she lowered her head, and gave him a tender kiss on the top of his head.

Toby smiled softly as Fluttershy trotted off with the princesses off to the side some. He felt something soft over his shoulders, and back. He tilted his head back to see Twilight smiling down at him softly. "H-hi Twilight."

"Hey Toby sweetheart. I would like to introduce you to a few special ponies. They will be very happy to meet you." She smiled, and gently guided him over to her family who were all together in a small group talking with one another.

"Hi Cadence!" She beamed as Princess Cadence done the same.

"Twilight!" They both performed a special greeting they created when Twilight was only a filly, and Cadence was her foalsitter.

"Sunshine, sunshine
Ladybugs awake
Clap your hooves
and do a little shake."

They giggled happily as Twilight carefully placed a wing over Toby, and gently brought him forth. "Cadence I would like to officially introduce you to Toby. Toby this is Princess Cadence, Shining's wife, and my sister in law."

Toby smiled up softly at Cadence and bowed his head respectfully. "H-hi there P-Princess Cadence. I-it is good to meet you." Speaking softly in his usual small tone.

Cadence smiled softly down at the little colt, and lowered her head to him to look him in his eyes. "Well, it is a pleasure to meet you young one. There is no need to be nervous Toby, we would never dream of hurting you." She gave him a reassuring smile, and reached up with a foreleg, and rubbed lightly at his arm. He smiled up softly at her.

Twilight smiled at the interaction between Toby, and Cadence as she very gently turned him toward two new ponies who were both unicorns. One was a female unicorn with pearl white fur, eyes of light cerulean blue, both her mane tail had lavender and white stripes, on on her flank she had a symbol of three lavender stars. The other was a male unicorn with light blue eyes, yellow eyes, his mane and tail were both were a deep royal blue, and on his flank he had a big yellow crescent moon with a smaller yellow crescent moon inside the curve.

"Toby, I would like for you to meet my mother, and father, Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle." She had her wing gently laid across his back, and shoulders.

He smiled up softly at them "H-hi there M-Mr. and M-Mrs. Sparkle. I-it is good to meet you both." They smiled softly down at him and lowered their heads to gently touch their horns on each of his shoulders.

While Toby was meeting Twilight's family Fluttershy, Princess Luna, and Princess Celestia trotted off outside, to get away from the crowd to talk.

Celestia spoke softly to the caring Pegasus. "My loyal and kind Fluttershy, what is on your mind?"

Fluttershy had a nervous look on her face as she took in a deep breath. "Um..well, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna..um..something has been troubling me ever since I discovered Toby." She lowered her head hiding behind her mane.

Celestia looked down worriedly at the timid Pegasus. "Oh, my little pony. What is the matter? Maybe myself, and Luna can help."

Fluttershy took another deep breath and looked up at the two princesses. "Well, um...I really care for the precious little one...but I am concerned of how he actually ended up in Equestria. I mean...um...I discovered him at the base of a tree at the entrance of the Everfree Forest...um..but that is all I know." She lowered her head again with a tear falling from her eyes.

Luna gently spoke up "Fluttershy, I believe I have the answer you are looking for." She turned to her sister. "Tia, being a goddess of night I am able to hear the wishes, prayers, and inner thoughts of those in Equestria." Fluttershy looked up shocked but Luna calmed her by putting a forehoof up. "Well, our caring and kind Fluttershy made a wish three nights ago that she could have a colt or filly that she could call her own."

Celestia looked at Luna with a shocked look. She turned to Fluttershy who had her head lowered back down under her mane and smiled warmly at the Pegasus. "Is this true my little pony?" Fluttershy nodded nervously.

"Tia sister, I also heard another wish the same night." Fluttershy, and Celesita both looked at her surprised, and she nodded, "yet this wish was not from anypony in Equestria, but from another land. You see, not only am I able hear the mind of everypony of our land, but I am able to hear the minds of others from different lands."

Celstia looked at her sister with a soft smile, but frown. "Let me ask sister, do you have this ability somehow due to the reason of me banishing you to the moon one thousand years ago?" Luna nodded solemnly, but nuzzled at her sister's neck.

"Tia, that is the reason, but not to worry for that was the past. For the moon being a part of the vast universe beyond our land, I am able to connect with life of other distant lands." Fluttershy, and Celestia nodded. "The night Fluttershy made her wish, I heard a wish similar from the heart, and mind of a young colt. His wish was that he would live in a new home with someone who would love him. That young colt was Toby."

Fluttershy looked up with tears forming in her eyes as Luna nodded, and continued. "So with him sleeping peacefully in his bed I concentrated all of my magic, and I used it to envelope his small form in a warm aura, so it wouldn't wake him. I transported him here to Equestria, I feel awful though, because I transported him at the entrance of the Everfree Forest, but I knew he would be discovered by you Fluttershy. As you lived near the forest."

Fluttershy smiled tearfully up at Luna. "Oh my. It is true maybe that him, and I were meant to discover each other..um..right Princess Luna?" She nodded softly as Fluttershy smiled as she closed her eyes to subdue her tears. "Um..Princess Luna..um..there is a question I would like to ask..um...if it is okay with you?"

Luna smiled at the Pegasus, and nodded. "Of course kind Fluttershy, what would you like to ask?"

Fluttershy bit her lower lip. "Um...well, Toby is such a polite little gentlecolt..um..,but it is sad to see him so nervous around everpony he meets. He still talks nervously around me and my friends. He always asks us to not get mad at him for asking a simple question, and he still shakes timidly. His tone is so small, and broken that it hurts me. Um..I was wondering..um..if we could..um if we could enter into his dreams while he is asleep..um..if it is okay with you Princess Luna?"

Luna looked at her with a warm smile. "Yes, I think we could. Yet, I believe it would be best if we look into young Toby's memories to discover why he is so timid in behavior. It is the same as going into somepony's dreams, but we can recall his most beloved, and worse memories."

Fluttershy nodded, and looked up at the night princess "Um..it won't hurt the little one though, will it Princess Luna?"

Luna softly shook her head. "Oh, no. I will make sure to make Toby calm, and peaceful as he is sleeping." Fluttershy softly smiled, and turned toward Twilight as she was introducing the little colt to her family.

She bowed her head to the two princesses. "Thank you very much Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna for your understanding. I am going to go join Toby now so he doesn't get worried about me." She smiled up at them, and gently trotted off.

Celestia smiled at her sister. "Luna, I trust you, and I hope that you, and the others can discover what is wrong with the poor dear." Luna nodded in agreement as the sisters looked at the celebration.

Fluttershy trotted up to Twilight and her family as they were welcoming Toby. "Hi Twilight, um..could I maybe speak with you for a second..um..if it is okay with you?" Twilight nodded, and Fluttershy looked down at the small child. "Toby sweetie, I will be back in just a minute, and I will take you around, okay?" He nodded softly as he carefully walked over to Twilight's family, so he wouldn't be alone.

"Fluttershy, they absolutely adore Toby! I knew they would, but he is just so timid." Twilight frowned a little as she looked over at the little colt, then back at Fluttershy. "What is on your mind Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy sighed heavily. "Well..um..I talked with Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna about my wish three nights ago, and also how I was concerned about how Toby showed up here in Equestria. Luna told me that she was the one who brought Toby here."

Twilight gasped. "L-Luna brought him here?! H-how?"

Fluttershy bit her lower lip. "Well..um.. she said that she heard my wish that night, but also heard a wish Toby made." Fluttershy looked at Twilight, with tears forming in her eyes once again. "Twilight, he wished to have a new home, and a family who would love him. So, Luna used her magic to bring Toby here to Equestria." She reached up with a forehoof to wipe away her tears.

Twilight smiled warmly at her friend then looked over at the little colt standing with her family. "Aww..the poor little sweetheart. I never knew Luna could hear the wishes of others from different lands. Very interesting."

Fluttershy took in a deep breath, "um...also Luna agreed to allow us all to go into Toby's dreams...um...well memories. She believes his memories will reveal why he is so timid and nervous like he is."

Twilight nodded "I totally agree. Tonight when Toby is sleeping peacefully, I will get the girls, Celestia, and Luna, and we will meet you in your guest room. I am sure the princesses won't mind us staying the night." She smiled softly.

"That sounds like a good idea Twilight." Fluttershy returned the smile, and looked over at Toby. "Well, let me go, and take Toby around to meet other ponies. I am sure everypony would like to meet him." Twilight nodded in agreement as they trotted back over to the small child, and Twilight's family.

Fluttershy trotted up to Toby and looked down at him "Toby sweetie, are you ready to walk around and maybe meet some new ponies?" He looked up softly, and nodded. "Okay..um..if you would like you can hold onto my tail so you can stay close to me..um..if that is okay with you."

He smiled up softly and nodded* "O-okay Fluttershy."

Cadence walked up to Toby before they left to join the festivities. She sat on her haunches, and gently gave Toby a warm hug. "Well, it was nice meeting you little one. You are certainly precious, and very polite. Maybe one day you can visit the Crystal Empire where me and Shining live. It is very beautiful, and all of the crystal ponies who live there are very nice." She smiled down at him as Shining Armor stood beside her.

He smiled down at the little colt, and gently rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof. "Yea buddy, you would like our home. We would be honored to give you a tour if you would like to come and visit."

Toby smiled up softly "Th-thank you P-Prince Shining Armor and P-Princess Cadence." He gently grabbed hold of Fluttershy's tail, and waved at Twilight, and her family as him and Fluttershy walked off.

While Fluttershy was leading Toby through the crowd, the other ponies would smile warmly down at him, and 'd'awwed' at how cute he looked in his outfit. Fluttershy stopped behind a line leading to the apple cart.

She looked back at the sweet, and timid little colt "Toby sweetie, you can choose whatever you want and I will pay for it, okay little one?" He looked up softly, and nodded.

After the pony ahead of them got an apple pie, Fluttershy trotted up to the cart where Granny Smith was handing out the apple dishes, Applejack was collecting bits, and Big Macintosh was making sure everything was going smoothly, and not out of control.

Applejack smiled at the duo and tipped her hat. "Howdy there Fluttershy and Toby." She smiled down at the little colt and bent her head down to gently ask "What would you like little feller?"

Toby smiled up softly at the country pony, then looked at the cart. He scanned the array of tasty looking apple dishes, and finally laid his eyes on an apple fritter. He looked up at Fluttershy and gently asked "F-Fluttershy, could I-I maybe have an apple fritter?"

Fluttershy smiled softly down at him and nodded. "Of course sweetie." She turned to Applejack. "Two apple fritters, please Applejack."

"Ya got it, that will be four bits." She smiled happily as Granny Smith picked up two apple fritters. Fluttershy reached back to her saddlebags. and lifted a flap to one of the pockets and pulled out four bits. She handed them to Applejack.

"Nyah...here you young whipper snappers go. Two homemade apple fritters, enjoy." Granny Smith said as Toby gently reached up, and got his while Fluttershy did the same.

He looked up at Granny Smith, and softly spoke "Th-thank you Miss Granny Smith."

Granny Smith looked down with a warm smile "Aww..aren't you a polite little gentlecolt. You are very welcome little fella, and you can just call me Granny Smith." She winked at the little colt.

Toby took a bite of his fritter, and the taste made him smile happily. He could taste the perfect crunch of the fritter's crust, mixed with the warmth of freshly baked apples, and cinnamon all in one. He looked up at Applejack and Granny Smith. "Mmm..this is very good A-Applejack and G-Granny Smith!" He continued to eat at the apple fritter gently.

Granny Smith just smiled warmly at the little colt, and Applejack tipped her hat. "Well, thank ya very kindly sugarcube. Ah' would love to show you around our apple farm of Sweet Apple Acres one day. Maybe you can even help Granny Smith, and Applebloom bake some apple fritters yerself." He smiled up at her and nodded, and she gently rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof.

Fluttershy smiled softly Applejack. "Thank you Applejack and Granny Smith. Delicious as always." She was just finishing up her apple fritter. She reached for a couple of napkins one for her and one for Toby with a forehoof. She wiped at her maw, while she handed Toby his napkin.

Toby smiled as he took the laste bite of his apple fritter and wiped as his mouth with the napkin. Fluttershy smiled down at him "I am glad you enjoyed your apple fritter Toby." She leant her head down and nuzzled at his cheek.

She looked up at Applejack. "We will see you in a little while, I am going to take Toby over to Pinkie Pie next to see what games she has for him to play." She smiled softly.

Applejack nodded. "Sounds like darn good plan Fluttershy." She turned towards Toby. "You have fun sugarcube and Ah' will see you in a little while." He nodded, and waved as he gently grabbed hold of of Fluttershy's tail, and followed behind her as she started to trot.

As they were heading toward where Pinkie Pie was, Toby looked around, and saw what appeared to be a big pair of speakers with a table that had a record player on it. Behind the table stood a pearl white unicorn with a frizzled mane, and tail that had both light and dark shades of blue in a stripe pattern, and she wore big black thick rimmed oval glasses with purple lenses. On her flank she had a music note. She was turning the discs and playing retro music which all the ponies, even the fancy dressed ones danced to.

Toby smiled at all the fun going on and gently asked up at Fluttershy. "F-Fluttershy, who is that pony over there?" Pointing over at the music table.

Fluttershy smiled softly down at him. "Oh, her name is Vinyl Scratch. She owns a music store in Ponyville, and she is always available for a party."

He nodded, and smiled up softly as they walked up to Pinkie Pie who had a party hat on, cheering on a pony who was playing a round of Pin The Tail on The Pony. She spotted the two and cartwheeled over to them.

"Heey there! Are you both enjoying the party so far?" They both nodded and Pinkie looked down at Toby "I have a special surprise for you little wittle Toby, but you have to close your eyes." He nodded and closed his eyes as he held onto Fluttershy's tail. Pinkie waved a forehoof in front of the little colt to make sure he couldn't see. "Okie dokie lokie, follow me!"

Fluttershy giggled lightly at Pinkie's excitement Toby laughed as well. Fluttershy carefully led Toby as she followed Pinkie Pie to a large red velvet covered object.

Pinkie Pie grabbed the cover with her teeth and removed it. "Okie dokie lokie little wittle Toby, you can open your eyes now!" She sat on her haunches with a big bright smile awaiting his reaction.

Toby opened his eyes, and he was in awe at what he saw. Before him was a big three layer cake that appeared to have chocolate icing smoothly spread on all three layers, pink icing as the outline of each round layer, a cherry placed on the very top, and each layer had words written on them in pink icing. The top layer read 'WELCOME", the middle layer read "TO EQUESTRIA", and the bottom layer read "TOBY!".

Pinkie beamed with excitement and asked "Do you like it?"

Toby lit up with a bright smile which was the first time Fluttershy ever saw him smile so big. "Y-you made that f-for me P-Pinkie?!"

She nodded still beaming. "Of course silly willy! I hope you like chocolate!" Toby gently let go of Fluttershy's tail and ran up to Pinkie Pie wrapping his arms lightly around her neck.

"Th-thank you Pinkie! I-I love it!" He said happily as Fluttershy watched on.

She thought to herself. "Hmm..he acted the same way when Rarity gave him his new outfit with that little golden heart sewn into it. I have a feeling that he never had anyone to think of him enough to give him anything special except for his mom."

Pinkie reached up with a forehoof, and rubbed at Toby's back. "Aww..well, you are welcome little wittle Toby! Would you like for me to cut you a piece?" He nodded up happily at her.

She randomely pulled out a knife and stood up on her hind legs reaching up to the top layer to cut a slice. She placed the slice on a napkin and handed it to the little colt. "Here you are Toby! There is plenty if you want to some more!"

Toby took a bite of the cake, and smiled warmly up at Pinkie. "Mmmm..th-this is very good Pinkie Pie! I-I love chocolate!" He giggled lightly as he ate at the cake. Fluttershy just smiled at him as he ate at his piece of cake.

After Toby finished his piece of cake in a couple of minutes Pinkie gently placed both forehooves on his shoulders. "How would you like to play a game of Pin-the-Tail-on-The-Pony little wittle Toby?" He smiled and nodded. Pinkie Pie gently led him over to the game while Fluttershy followed behind.

While everypony and Toby was having fun inside, Rainbow Dash was finished warming up. "Alright, I am ready to give the kid an awesome show!" She looked to see that Celestia's sun was slowly begin to set. "I better go get the gang to bring him out before it get's dark." She hovered back into the ballroom.

She scanned around the ballroom in search of the little colt. She saw Twilight standing with her family, and decided to hover over to her.

Twilight spotted Rainbow. "Oh, hey Rainbow. Have you warmed up long enough?"

Rainbow nodded, and wiped at her shoulder. "Oh, yea. I am ready to show the kid an awesome Sonic Rainboom! Get the others while I go get Fluttershy and Toby." Twilight nodded as Rainbow looked to see Toby over with Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy and hovered toward the three.

She smiled down at the little colt blindfolded, and trying his best to pin the tail on the pony while Pinkie gently guided him by the shoulders. She lowered down by Fluttershy. "How is he enjoying the party so far Flutters?"

Fluttershy eeped. "Oh..Rainbow Dash..you startled me. He is enjoying it very much I believe." She looked at Rainbow and softly asked. "Are you ready for your Sonic Rainboom? Then I can get my birds to sing him a song."

Rainbow clapped her forehooves together, "you bet I'm ready." She looked over to see that Toby pinned the tail perfectly, and trotted over to him. "Hey kid, are you ready to see something awesome?" She kindly smirked down at him as he nodded. She hovered in the air, and flew towards the balcony.

Fluttershy knelt on her forelegs. "Toby sweetie, you can ride on my back outside to the balcony..um..if that is okay with you." Toby smiled softly, and carefully climbed up onto her back, and she started trotting towards the balcony with everypony following behind.

Toby saw the others along with the princesses standing outside who gave him a warm smile. He looked up to see Rainbow Dash hovering above.

"Alright kid, and everypony, be prepared to witness the AWESOME, TOTALLY COOL, and AMAZING SONIC RAINBOOM of RAINBOW DASH!" She flew up high above the palace performing the required steps before the final step. "All or nothing, here I go!" Then she plummeted to the ground at a increasing amount of speed. Reaching the ground she put all her effort into it, and soon a blast could be heard all over the kingdom of Canterlot as a rainbow explosion expanded over the land.

Everypony on the balcony, and those who could see it from inside looked up in awe. Toby's mouth was agaped as he looked in amazement. He smiled brightly, and clapped his hands as he saw Rainbow come flying down in front of the balcony, and landing.

"W-Wow! Th-that was very pretty, and cool R-Rainbow Dash!" He said with a little excitement in his voice, and the others nodded in agreement smiling softly.

"Thanks kid. I did that just for you!" She reached up, and rubbed at the top of his head.

Fluttershy smiled at the little colt on her back. "Now Toby sweetie, I have a special gift of my own."

She started humming in a soft tone as a group of birds came flying, and perched themselves on the ledge of the balcony. There were a few mellow larks, mockingbirds, and bluebirds lined up in a row.

Fluttershy smiled at her birds. "Okay my little ones, this is for Toby." She spoke softly and started to count. "One..two..three", and the birds started to sing in a sweet tender melody.

Toby smiled softly as he listened to the birds play their tune, and thought to himself. "They sound just like mommy when she used to hum to get me to go to sleep." He reached up to wipe at his eye which was about to shed a tear. Without anypony noticing he yawned lightly, and curled up on Fluttershy's back. He softly closed his eyes, and quietly fell asleep.

After the birds were done with their singing, Fluttershy and the others noticed that Toby was asleep. They all along with the princesses, and everypony in attendance d'awwed at the little colt.

"I guess I will take the little on to bed." Fluttershy spoke softly as she turned toward her friends and the princesses. "Thank you all for doing this for him, he absolutely loved it. I could tell." They all nodded and smiled warmly as Fluttershy trotted carefully from the balcony back, and into the palace. She trotted out of the ballroom, and searched for a guest room to stay in.

She found one, and gently trotted inside toward the bed. She walked up to the side of the bed, and gently used her wings to carefully lift the sleeping child on her back, and placed him on the bed. She grabbed the sheets with her forehooves, and softly laid them over his small form, and then very tenderly lifted his head to lay it on a soft pillow.

She leant into give him a gentle kiss on the forehead "Goodnight sweetie. I promise we will all take good care of you. You will be loved Toby." With that she quietly trotted out of the bedroom, and left the door open slightly opened.

While Princess Celestia was bidding the guests a goodnight with Princess Cadence, Prince Shining Armor, and Twilight's parents being the last ones, Princess Luna was with the others.

"Twilight Sparkle and friends, that was a good celebration for the little colt. Now, let me tell you all something. I know you are all wondering how Toby ended up in Equestria, am I correct?"

They all nodded in unison.

"Well, I brought him here. As you all may guess, I can hear the wishes, prayers, and thoughts of ponies during the night. Not only can I hear the wishes of those in Equestria, but I can also hear the wishes of those from other distant lands."

The group all gasped with the exception of Twilight.

"Well, I heard Fluttershy's wish of how she would like to have a colt or filly of her own she could love and care for. Well, the same night, I heard the wish of the young colt we have come to care for as Toby. His wish was that he would have a new home and new family who would love him. So, upon hearing his wish I concentrated all of my magic and eveloped him in a warm glow to bring him here to Equestria."

The others smiled warmly at Princess Luna's gesture, and had tears forming in each of their eyes.

"Now Fluttershy asked me if I could take you all into Toby's dreams, so we may find out why he is so timid and nervous around us. I agreed, but I recommended we go into his memories. Maybe if we do that, we will discover more to his behavior and figure out a way we can help. We shall do it when Fluttershy says he is comfortable and asleep."

They all nodded in agreement as Fluttershy came trotting back into the ballroom. "Um..girls..Princess Luna and Princess Celestia...um...Toby is asleep now. I tucked him him and he is sleeping comfortably."

Luna bowed her head and looked at them. "Well, it is time. Let's go exploring into the mind of our young friend."

Twilight and the others with the exception of Princess Celestia who decided to stay behind followed Fluttershy to the guest bedroom where Toby was sleeping.

Author's Note

Finally done with this chapter. I want to apologize to everyone for being extremely late. I have been busy offline tending to my grandma who is home from the hospital. Thank you all for your patience.

Chapter Eight: Precious Memories (Edited)

Princess Luna's moon shown fully against the midnight canvas above Equestria with a few stars twinkling. The warm glow shined through a window in Canterlot Castle, into the room where the small child, Toby was sleeping peacefully under the covers. He laid curled up with his head laying softly on a nice fluffy white pillow.

Following Princess Luna quietly down a hallway toward the guest bedroom, was Twilight and the rest of her friends. They quietly trotted along as they came to the door of the room that was slightly opened. They all took deep breaths hoping that they wouldn't disturb the little colt.

Luna turned to them, and spoke softly. "Twilight Sparkle, and friends, were very calm as they entered. We must not wake young Toby and cause him to be scared." They all nodded in unison, and Luna turned back toward the door, and very lightly nudged it open with a forehoof.

Their hooves softly touched the floor as they trotted toward the bed. Luna spoke softly. "Now I need two of you to position yourselves on each side of the bed, two of you position yourselves at the head of the bed, and I will take post at the foot of the bed." They nodded.

Applejack stood with Pinkie Pie on one side while Rarity took one side with Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash sat at the head with Twilight.

"Aww..the precious darling looks so adorable sleeping." Rarity spoke softly as she watched him.

They all smiled warmly in agreement.

Luna took a calm breath, "now, I need for you all to close your eyes, relax, and just listen to the silence. I will work my magic and we shall enter into young Toby's mind." They nodded and carefully closed their eyes inhaling softly.

Luna closed her eyes and concentrated as her horn started to light up with a warm blue glow. "Alright everypony, keep your eyes closed and keep calm. Here we go." As the same warm blue glow enveloped all of them.

Age: One Year Old.

Slowly Luna, and the others opened their eyes to find themselves in a room with walls painted a baby blue with pearl white carpeting, and an alabaster white wooden crib in the center. A matching alabaster white wooden dresser sat catty in a corner behind the crib. In another corner of the room sat a wooden rocking chair. Above the crib was mobile with a small stuffed crescent moon, sun, and rainbow with two white clouds at the bottom of each end.

The ponies all looked around the room wondering where they were when Rarity gently spoke up, "well, it sure is clean and beautiful in here. Where exactly are we Princess Luna?"

She looked at the crib which they were all surrounding and looked inside. "Take a look everypony." She said softly with a warm smile on her face.

The other looked inside the crib and d'awwwed at what they saw. Inside wrapped in a warm soft baby blue blanket was a very small colt who was sleeping soundly.

Fluttershy carefully lowered her head inside the crib to take a closer look at the little creature. "Um..Princess Luna..that is Toby isn't it?" Luna smiled warmly, and nodded.

Suddenly the small infant started to cry which caused the ponies to jump a little. They saw the door of the room open immediatly and an adult mare came in dressed in a pink robe, pair of long silken pajama pants, fluffy bedroom slippers, and she had the same toned hairless form as Toby and a flowing blonde, and baby blue eyes.

She rushed to the side of crib passing right through the ponies and carefully reached into the crib to lift the crying child tenderly into her arms, and cradled him. "Shh..it's okay Toby..mommy is here." She carefully walked over to the rocking chair, and started to rock him very softly back and forth.

The ponies very carefully trotted up to the mare, and looked at how the infant calmed his crying as he looked up with a big smile at the mare who was holding him. Tears started to form in their eyes even Princess Luna.

"Shhh..that is mommy's boy. No more tears, mommy's got you." She continued to rock him gently in her arms, and started to softly sing to him.

"Hush little one, please close your eyes
be not afraid of darkening, and looming skies.
I am here to chase away your deepest fears
if you cry I will wipe away all of your tears.
Hush little one, please dream happy dreams
let my voice flow to you like calm gentle streams.
Listen to my words and know that this is true
that I have been blessed, because I have you."

She smiled down at the infant who fell asleep in her arms as she leant down to kiss his over, so gently. "Mommy loves you Toby." She whispered softly as she carefully stood up from the rocking chair, and walked to the crib. She carefully lowered the sleeping child back into the crib wrapped him in the baby blue blanket. "Sweet dreams my baby boy." She gave him one more kiss on his forehead. She turned on a little night light, and quietly walked out the door leaving it cracked open. The ponies wiped away their tears with their forehooves as they looked at the sleeping colt.

"This is young Toby's most precious memory. Being held in his mothers arms with her singing that lullaby to him." Luna spoke softly. "Close your eyes my friends, we shall visit another memory of his." They nodded and smiled down warmly one more time at the infant before closing their eyes. They were warmly enveloped in the blue glow of Luna's magic.

Age: Four Years Old.

As they opened their eyes they saw they found themselves in what appeared the identical room, but it looked completely different. Instead of baby blue painted walls, they were a deep royal blue, and there was a picture hanging on one wall with what appeared to the ponies to be a stallion dressed in a red, blue, and yellow colored costume with a red "S" in a red outlined shield with a yellow background on the upper part with the rest being blue. He had a red belt around the waist, matching blue pants, and red boots.

They moved their sights slowly around the room when they saw it had the same pearl white carpet, but instead of a crib sitting in the center, there was a nice comfy looking bed up against the wall with a window above the headboard. The bed had an all blue bed sheet with a large sized symbol on it the same as the symbol on the picture on the stallion's costume. The bed was made out of finely smoothed wood that had a deep brown tint to it.

Twilight spoke softly "hmm..this appears to be Toby's room, but everything is different." The others nodded in agreement.

Luna spoke softly, "yes Twilight Sparkle, it is his room, and it is different this memory is of him when he was four years old. This is his second favorite memory, let us watch."

They stood still as a little colt came running in jumping on the bed happily. He was wearing pajama pants that were all blue with the same little symbols they saw on the picture and on his bedsheets. He also wore a white top with short sleeves. He was followed by the same mare from his last memory.

"Easy there you little rascal." She giggled as she sat down on the edge of the bed next to the happy child.

He jumped down on his knees, and swung his legs over on the edge of the bed beside his mom. "Please mommy, show me what you got me for my birthday!" He asked happily.

She smiled happily at him, and nuzzled at his nose with hers. "Okay, okay. First, you have to close your eyes." She smiled.

"Yes mommy!" He giggled, and closed his eyes softly.

"That is mommy's boy." She reached into the pocket of her robe she was wearing and pulled out a little golden locket.

Rarity gasped. "Aww..that is the little gem that I sewn into the little darling's outfit." She said softly as the others placed their forehooves up to quiet her kindly. She nodded and they turned their attention back to the two.

"Okay Toby, open your eyes." She said with a bright smile.

He opened his eyes and saw the golden locket in his mom's hands. "Ooh, mommy, it is pretty!" He smiled up happily at her as she gently handed it to him.

"Go ahead sweetie, open it." She clasped her hands together excitedly as he started to open it. She pointed at the picture on the right. "Toby, this is you when you was just a little baby. I had this picture taken as soon as the doctor gave you to me."

Toby teared up, and reached up wrapping his little arms around her neck tightly while holding the locket in a hand. "I love it mommy! I love you!" He softly cried into her long blonde mane.

She patted his back as she hugged him back. "I love you to sweetheart, I always will." She very gently pulled him away from the hug, and looked into his eyes gently raising the locket up between them. "When you look at this, you will know that I am always with you in your heart." She pointed at his heart with a finger. "Now time to get to bed sweetie."

He took the locket and carefully placed it around his neck. "Okay mommy." He climbed underneath his bed covers, and looked up at her with a big bright smile.

She bent over to kiss him on his forehead. "Know that I will always love you Toby, and I will never leave you." He smiled, and nodded softly. "Goodnight sweetheart, sleep tight, and sweet dreams my baby boy."

"Goodnight mommy, I love you!" He said one last time before he softly closed his eyes. She smiled at him, and quietly stood up from his bed, and walked over to turn his night light on, and walked out of his room leaving the door cracked open.

The ponies wiped at their eyes again with their forehooves as tears started to form again. "Now my friends, time for us to move onto another, yet sad memory." Luna spoke solemnly.

They all nodded with a frown as they slowly closed their eyes. Once again they were enveloped with a warm blue glow of Luna's magic.

Age: Five Years Old - Three months after Toby's mother passed away.

When they opened their eyes, they found themselves to be outside in a field that was occupied by what appeared to be different sizes of stones either in rectangular, spherical, squared, or a combination of either. Also, it seemed to be thickly clouded in the sky with rain coming down lightly. As they were looking around the haunting place they noticed they were standing in front of one stone that had some sort of writing on it.

"R.I.P Ashley Mason Beloved Wife and Mother 1988-2011"

Applejack took a closer look and frowned immediately "That is Toby's last name ya'll." They all looked closer and nodded sadly.

"My friends, this is called a cemetary, and these stone figures are called graves. This is where ponies who have passed on are buried." Luna said with a frown.

Suddenly they heard a voice yell out "Hurry up son!" Then they saw the young colt walking toward them with a small bouquet of white roses. He had his head lowered as he stopped in front of grave, and knelt down on both of his knees.

He started shaking with sobs. "I-I miss you m-mommy!" He set down bouquet of flowers in front of the grave. "D-daddy let me come, and see you today. H-he started being mean to me, and calling me names." Tears streamed down his face, and the ponies wanted to just run to him, and embrace him.

"D-daddy says it is all my fault that you are gone. He says that if you weren't coming to pick me up, th-then you would still be here." He lowered his head, and shook harder.

The ponies, even Luna looked on unable to contain their tears anymore.

"I-I am sorry mommy. I love you so much! I-I miss you!" He slowly reached up and gently grazed his little hand over her tombstone. He got up slowly from his knees, and walked back to his father and they left in his pick-up truck.

Pinkie Pie's mane was flat from it's regular poofy manner while the others had their heads lowered sadly. "The poor little wittle Toby. He really thinks it is his fault that his mommy is gone."

Luna closed her eyes to subdue her tears as she looked at them. "Come my friends, there is one more memory left."

They nodded sadly, and closed their eyes for them to go. The warm blue glow of Luna enveloped them all for one last memory.

Age: Six Years Old - August 14, 2012 Two days after Toby's birthday and one year anniversary of Ashley's death

This time they found themselves inside the young colt's room once more but it seemed dark. They looked outside the window above his bed to see it was nightfall with the moon shining brightly in the night sky.

Suddenly they heard crying as they turned to see the small child running into his room shutting the door behind him, and running over to his bed jumping in. He buried his head in his pillow trembling with sobs, and screaming in his pillow. They looked on deeply scared for the little colt as he looked over to see the open again.

A big burly stallion trotted in heavily. "Stop your sniveling you little brat!" He walked over to Toby, and yanked him up without effort by the collar of his shirt. "Maybe your momma crashed on purpose, so she couldn't look at your blubbering face again!"

"D-d-don't say that d-daddy, please!" He begged his father between sobs.

The bigger stallion took his forehoof, and smacked the little colt across the face. "Shut up! Now I am going to bed, and I don't want to hear your pathetic crying anymore! If I do I will come back in here and make you shut up myself!" He wiped at his mouth with his foreleg, and stomped out of the child's room.

"Why that jerk! Let me get 'em!" Rainbow Dash tried to dash out the door when she felt somepony tugging at her tail, and it was Applejack. "Let me go Applejack, he deserves a good bucking after doing that to the kid."

Applejack tugged Rainbow back down "Sugarcube, this is just a memory it won't do any good. Ah' agree the darn varmint deserve a good buckin' but it is too late."

They all nodded as the turned toward the bed and saw the little colt sitting up on his bed with tears streaming down his face. He looked up out his window and clasped his hands together. Then they heard him start to speak with such a small and hurt tone.

"Star light, star bright,
The first star I see tonight,
I wish I may, I wish I might,
Have this wish I wish tonight."

"I wish to live in a new home with a new family who will love me and never be mean to me." He finished his wish, and kissed his closed hands. He looked up at the bright full moon one more time, and whispered "Goodnight mommy, I love you." He then climbed into his bed, and covered up tightly as he closed his eyes softly.

They started crying as Luna spoke softly. "It is time to go my friends. Close your eyes."

They nodded as they closed their eyes. The usual warm blue glow of Luna's magic enveloped them.

Back in Canterlot Castle

They slowly opened their eyes as tears started to stream down their faces. They watched the small child as he slept.

"The poor poor darling. No wonder why he is the way he is. That ruffian of a father hurt the poor colt, so much." Rarity said tearfully as she reached up, and lightly stroked at Toby's side through the covers.

Fluttershy carefully leaned her head down to the little colt's head, and whispered softly into his hear "I am so sorry little one for the pain you have been through. I promise that me, and my friends will love you as much as your mommy did, and we will never let anypony harm you ever again." She kissed his cheek gently.

Luna smiled at the six, and gently spoke. "My friends, let us leave, and let this little one sleep." They nodded as they followed behind Luna.

Before they trotted out the door they said softly in unison. "We love you Toby." They all trotted out of the room, and left the door opened slightly.

Chapter Nine: A Talk With Luna (Edited)

Celestia's sun rose majestically against a sky blue canvas, occupied by a few white fluffy pillowy clouds. It casted a blanket of warmth, and comfort over the land of Equestria. As it glistend through the windows of Canterlot Castle, it blanketed the small sleeping form of the human child who captured the heart of Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princes Twilight Sparkle, her friends, her family, and the many ponies of Canterlot and Ponyville.

The door to the guest bedroom in which he was sleeping quietly opened as Fluttershy gently trotted in. She carefully trotted over to the bed, and watched the sleeping colt's small form raise, and fall from his small breaths. She smiled warmly at him, and bent her head over to gently nuzzle at his cheek.

"Toby sweetie, it's time to wake up." She gave him a gentle kiss on his forehead.

He yawned softly, and slowly blinked his eyes open looking through his eyeglasses. He smiled warmly at her, "g-good morning F-Fluttershy."

"Good morning little one, did you sleep well last night?" She reached up with a forehoof as she sat on her haunches, and lightly stroked along Toby's arm through the covers.

"Y-yes. I didn't have any b-bad dreams." He smiled warmly as she stroked at his arm.

"Well that is good sweetie." She leaned her head over to nuzzle at his cheek. "Are you hungry? Applejack is in the palace kitchen preparing breakfast for all of us." She smiled warmly at him.

He nodded. "Y-yes.I am a little h-hungry." He gently reached up and uncovered himself as Fluttershy reached up to assist him.

She smiled softly at him, and stood up on all four legs, and turned her side toward the bed for him to climb on her back. He smiled softly at her, and carefully climbed up on her back, and hugged her neck lightly. She smiled at him, and kissed the top of his head as she trotted out of the guest room.

Fluttershy, and Toby arrived at the ballroom which was nice and clean. The princesses, and the others minus the CMC, and Spike were all seated in a big circle on red velvet pillows with gold frill. They smiled warmly as the two entered. The CMC, and Spike left the celebration to go back to Ponyville for the fillies to attend school the next day, and for Spike to tidy up the library when Twilight returned.

Celestia spoke softly. "Good morning my dear Fluttershy, and young Toby. Please come take a seat."

Fluttershy nodded as she trotted up to a space between Rarity and Pinkie Pie. She carefully laid down on a vacant pillow tucking her legs underneath her. Toby gently climbed off her, and sat down on the pillow between her, and Rarity. Fluttershy bowed her head to Princess Celestia. "Thank you princess."

Toby smiled softly up at Celestia, Luna, and around at everypony. "G-good morning e-everyone." He spoke softly.

They all smiled warmly at the little colt as Applejack came trotting into the ballroom with pulling a cart filled with plates of hearty breakfasts. She began handing out the breakfast plates to everypony.

Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy each had a dandelion sandwich with freshly made apple cider. Pinkie Pie decided to eat a large sized cupcake she saved from the celebration with some milk, Rainbow Dash had a salad of lettuce leaves, water chestnuts, and finely sliced carrots with apple cider as well.

Applejack carefully trotted over to Toby with his plate in her teeth and gently set it in front of him with a fork and knife.. "Howdy there Toby. Ah' made you some haycakes with some freshly made apple juice. Ah' hope you enjoy little feller." She smiled softly, and tipped her hat while she had the same thing.

Toby's stack of haycakes were made of two with a pat of butter and some syrup. He carefully picked up the fork and knife to start cutting at the haycakes which were soft and warm. He dug his fork into some, and took a bite. He smiled softly as he could taste the warmth of the haycakes, the sweetness and smoothness of the syrup and butter blended all together.

After he swallowed his first bite he looked up at Applejack who sat across from him between Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash. "Th-thank you A-Applejack. I like these. Th-they taste like pancakes that my m-mommy made for me for breakfast." He reached for his cup and took a drink at the applejuice. "Mmm..a-and this taste like the applejuice my m-mommy gave me to help me go to sleep at night i-if I had a bad dream."

Applejack smiled warmly at him "Aww..well, ya are quite welcome sugarcube. Ah' am happy that ya like them." She went back to eating at her haycakes.

As he was finishing his breakfast after a few minutes, Toby looked around at the group of ponies, and smiled a little. "They are so nice to me. Maybe my wish came true, but I wish mommy was here." He thought to himself as he lowered his head, and starting shaking.

Everypony noticed this which Rarity spoke up first. "Toby darling, what is the matter?" She untucked a foreleg, and reached up with a forehoof to rub at his back turning her head to try to look into his eyes

Fluttershy did the same by unfolding a wing, and stroking at his back, and looked at him with a concerned look on her face as long with the others. "Yes Toby sweetie, is something wrong? You can tell us, we all care about you, and want to help you." The others nodded in unison.

He started to sob, and shake heavily as he looked up at the group, and toward the princesses. "C-could I maybe*sniff* g-go out on the balcony *sniff* P-Princess C-Celestia *sniff* and P-Princess Luna?"

Celestia looked at the little colt, and nodded speaking softly. "Of course my dear."

Toby nodded and looked at the others with tears in his eyes. "I-I am s-sorry." He carefully got up, and gently backed away from the group, and walked in the direction toward the balcony. As he walked onto the balcony he folded his arms, laying them on the rail, and buried his face in them crying heavily.

The ponies all saw this from their point of view, and looked on sadly. Fluttershy was starting to stand up when Princess Luna gently lifted a forehoof. "My dear friend Fluttershy, would be okay if I go speak with young Toby?"

Fluttershy nodded, "um..of course Princess Luna." She smiled a little and looked out at the balcony at the crying child.

Luna gave her and everypony a warm smile as she lifted herself up on her legs, and turned to carefully trot toward the balcony.

Toby was standing at the rail looking out at Canterlot, and the land of Equestria. He watched as Celestia's sun stood against the sky blue canvas. "I-I miss you m-mommy, and I-I am sorry!" He said to himself as he lowered his head again with fresh tears pouring out of his eyes.

Luna carefully trotted up to the little colt, and gently spoke. "Toby dear. Is it okay if I join you?"

Toby jumped a little, and turned around to look up at the dark blue furred alicorn. "Y-yes *sniff* P-Princess Luna *sniff*. I-I am sorry for *sniff* being mean to you, *sniff* and the others." He lowered his head in shame.

Luna frowned down at the child, and took a step toward him and laid a wing over his small form. "Shh...no dear one, you have nothing to be sorry for. We all understand so don't ever think you were being mean to us, okay Toby?" She looked down at him with a soft smile.

He looked up and nodded. "O-okay *sniff* Princess Luna." He reached up with an arm to wipe at his tears. "I-I just miss my m-mommy." He turned his back toward Luna slowly. "If she wasn't on her way to pick me up from school, she will still be here. It is all my fault!" He closed his eyes tightly, and shook again with heavy sobbing.

Luna gently reached up her foreleg, and rubbed at his back. "Shhh...no dear Toby, you must stop blaming yourself for the loss of your mother. It was an accident, and you didn't know." She thought of something, and gently lowered herself on the balcony floor tucking her legs underneath her to be at Toby's level placing a wing over him. "Let me tell you a story little one, okay?"

Toby nodded, and wiped at his tears again. "O-okay *sniff"."

Luna took in a deep breath as she looked up at sky. "A very long time ago when my sister, and myself were ruling Equestria, everything was peaceful in all the land. All of ponykind treated each other with love, respect, and friendship." She lowered her head and frowned. "Until one day I allowed myself to be consumed with hate."

Toby looked to see her frowning, and watched her with a concerned look as he listened to her story.

She lifted her head back up to look at the sky, and continued. "As Goddess of the Night, I wanted it to be nightfall in Equestria forever, and wished for the sun to never return." She looked down at the little colt who was sitting down on his flank with his legs curled up close to himself with his knees up to his chest as she sat gently up against her under her wing.

He looked up and nervously asked. "P-please don't be mad P-Princess Luna, b-but w-why?"

Luna gave a soft smile, and gently nuzzled at the top of his head. "Dear Toby, don't be afraid of asking me a question, I am not mad. You should never apologize for asking a question." She made a long sigh. "You see little one I wanted the sun to disappear forever, because during the day all of ponykind would enjoy the sun playing, having picnics with family and friends, or working hard outside. When nightfall arrived, they did not enjoy the moon, but went to sleep when it would come out after the sun would set."

"One night when I raised the moon I refused to let it set when it was time for the sun to come. My sister tried to reason with me that Equestria needed both the sun and the moon to strive, but I wouldn't listen. That resentment ate at my heart until I turned into a dark sorceress known as Nightmare Moon." She let a tear shed as she lowered her head.

Toby watched with deep concern, and spoke softly.

"P-please don't cry Princess Luna. " He looked up with a soft reassuring smile.

She smiled warmly down at him. "Thank you dear Toby." She sighed heavily as she lifted her head back up. "With the powers of the Elements of Harmony, my sister had no choice but to banish me to the moon for one thousand years."

Toby looked up curiously, and asked "T-the Elements of Harmony Princess Luna?"

She nodded softly at him. "Yes little one. There are six, the Element of Honesty, the Element of Generosity, the Element of Loyalty, the Element of Laughter, the Element of Kindness, and the Element of Magic. Together they make the Elements of Harmony, and help protect Equestria from danger and darkness." She sighed deeply as she continued with her story. "After spending one thousand years on the moon, Nightmare Moon decided to avenge her defeat at the hooves of my sister by returning to Equestria, and taking the throne."

Toby looked up at her as he listened intently, but with fearful eyes.

She noticed his look and smiled softly. "Don't worry dear, she was unable to. My sister called for her most loyal, and trusted student at the time, Twilight Sparkle to retrieve the Elements of Harmony and present them to five other ponies, five friends to help defeat Nightmare Moon. They were successful, and I was able to break free from Nightmare Moon's grasp. My sister gave me the gift of forgiveness, and I was able to reunite with her to rule over Equestria along her side once again."

She looked down at the colt. "You see dear one, although I tried to overthrow my sister as ruler of Equestria as Nightmare Moon, she was able to forgive me after I turned back into myself. She is my sister, my family, and family will always be there to forgive you, love you, and help you in life when you make a horrible mistake." She lowered her head, and gently nuzzled at his cheek.

He nodded solemnly, and asked, "d-do you think my mommy forgives me Princess Luna for her being gone?"

Luna looked down with a small smile, and gently asked. "Well, dear, if a princess may ask, do you think your mommy forgives you?"

Toby nodded. "Y-yes."

She smiled softly asking with the same gentle tone. “And why do think she does forgive you?"

Toby smiled up warmly, "b-because she loves me, and she would tell me that it was all an accident. She would tell me to stop blaming myself, because she loves me and she is always with me in my heart."

Luna nodded, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "That is right dear Toby. I truly am sorry for the tragedy that fell upon you with losing your mother, and for the way your father have treated you by blaming it on you." She smiled softly, and gently spoke "Toby dear, I would like to tell you something, okay?"

Toby nodded, and looked up softly. "O-okay Princess Luna."

She sighed deeply, and looked down at the little colt. "As Goddess of the Night, I am able to listen to the hearts of all ponies in Equestria. Well, I heard a particular wish from my friend Fluttershy."

Toby smiled up softly "O-oh, what did she wish for Princess Luna?"

She smiled warmly. "Well, she wished to one day have a young colt or filly, son or daughter, to call her own that she could come to love and care for." She sighed deeply. "With my time on the moon, I was able to listen to the hearts of other ponies from different lands."

Toby swallowed nervously. "E-even humans Princess Luna?"

She noddedl. "Yes little one, even humans. Well, four nights ago I heard a wish from the heart of a young colt, and I could sense he was very sad. Would you like to know what he wished for Toby?"

Toby nodded a little nervously. "Y-yes, please?"

Luna smiled warmly. "He wished to have a new home to live, and a new family who will love him."

Toby looked up with widened eyes. "Th-that was my wish Princess Luna. I-I wished for a new home, and new family, because my daddy was being, so mean to me."

Luna nodded. "Yes dear one, you are the colt who I heard make that wish. So with deep concentration, I used my magic to envelope you in a warm glowing light, and brought you here to Equestria. Yet I brought you here, and placed you at the base of a tree at the entrance of a wooded area, we call the Everfree Forest."

Toby nodded, and looked up at Luna softly speaking. "Th-then Fluttershy found me, d-didn't she?"

Luna nodded and smiled warmly giving him a light nuzzle on his cheek. "Yes she did little one. You see dear Toby, she bears the Element of Kindness. She treats all creatures no matter how big or small, and no matter what species, with the kindest of hearts." She sighed deeply. "I believe her wishing for a colt to call her own, and you wishing for a new family who will love you, that you and Fluttershy were meant to find each other."

Tears started to form in Toby's eyes. "W-we were Princess Luna?"

"Yes Toby sweetie, we were meant to find each other." He heard the voice of Fluttershy who was standing at the doorway leading out to the balcony. She trotted carefully up to him, and laid down next to him, and Luna as the others along with Celestia stood in the doorway.

"Me, my friends, and Princess Celestia have been talking Toby...and..um..if you would like to..um..we all would love for you to stay in Equestria, and be apart of our family." She smiled at him, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head, and laid a wing over his small form.

Toby choked back a couple of tears, and asked gently "R-r-really?"

The others trotted out onto the balcony they all sat in a circle with Celestia taking her place beside Luna.

"Of course darling. You are the most precious little colt I have ever met, and you gave me inspiration for something new to do with my fashion." Rarity said gently as she looked over at the child with a warm smile.

Toby asked softly. "I-I did?"

Rarity nodded. "Yes you did darling. You know that gold gem that I sewn into your outfit there? Well, I have been thinking about doing custom dresses and suits for ponies who want something special to them sewn into their dresses and suits."

Toby smiled softly, and blushed at the fact he inspired Rarity.

"Yah sugarcube, Ah' would love for ya to stay, and Ah' know Applebloom would be happy if you stayed. Ah' could introduce ya to the rest of the Apple family when we have our annual Apple Family Reunion." Applejack said with a soft smile.

"Yea kid, I know Scoots would like for you to stay too. You could go on those crusading adventures with her, Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom. Also, if you would like to someday I would take you for a ride that you will never forget." Rainbow smirked softly, and flapped her wings proudly.

"YAY! If you stay little wittle Toby, we would have whole barrels of fun! We could have parties everyday! We could play any games you wanted! Have sleepovers a Twilight's! Have picnics together!" Pinkie Pie couldn't hold her excitement at the thought of Toby staying that she cartwheeled around the group.

Toby couldn't help but laugh happily at Pinkie's antics.

"PINKIE!!!" Everypony shouted, except for Toby who stayed in unison.

"UUH...YOU PARTY POOPER PONIES!" She said sticking her tongue out.

Twilight rolled her eyes, and looked over at the little colt with a soft smile. "Toby sweetheart, if you do decide to stay, you could come, and borrow any book you would like from the library. I have all sorts of books that I know you would like. Also, I could maybe show you some of my magic if you would want to see."

They all smiled warmly at the child as Celestia was the last to speak. "Toby dear, myself and my sister Luna would be honored if you would stay as well, but the choice is yours. We will support you with either decision you make young one."

Toby looked around at everypony and swallowed deeply. "W-well, I would like to live here, b-but.." He turned to Fluttershy with tears in his eyes. "F-Fluttershy, would you be mad at me if I called you m-momma?"

Everypony gasped quietly as Fluttershy had tears of her own. "Aww..Toby sweetie, no, of course not I will not be mad at you if you called me momma. Are you sure though? I don't want to take the place of your real mommy." She stroked at his back, and shoulders with her wing.

Toby looked up into her sky blue eyes. "Y-you won't replace her Fluttershy. I-I know she is with me in my heart. Y-you could be my second mommy. P-please Fluttershy, can I call you m-momma?" He carefully stood up and gave her a warm hug around her neck.

Fluttershy couldn't hold her tears any longer as she allowed them to happily shed. "Aww..Toby sweetie, of course you can call me momma." She sat up on her haunches and brought him into her forelegs in a warm hug. "My precious little colt, my precious little Toby, momma loves you!" She felt him shake with sobs in her embrace, but could tell he was happy.

Toby spoke between sobs "I *sniff* love you *sniff* too momma!" They hugged each other which felt like eternity as the others just looked on with warm smiles, and tears of happiness in their eyes.

Luna gently spoke at Fluttershy who held Toby in her forelegs. "Well, my kind Fluttershy, it looks like your wish has come true. Young Toby, it looks like your wish has come true as well."

Fluttershy nodded with her head on Toby's shoulder as she looked up at Luna. "Yes Princess Luna, it has. I have a colt to call my own, and I promise to always love him." She moved her head to kiss the top of his gently.

Toby very gently unwrapped his arms around Fluttershy's neck, and turned toward the princesses, and the rest of the ponies. "Y-yes Princess Luna, and Princess Celestia, m-my wish has come true. I-I love my new momma, and I-I love you all, my new family!" He cried happily as the others gently gathered around the little colt and Fluttershy in a big group hug.

"We love you Toby!!!" They all said in unison.

Celestia looked over at her sister with a warm smile in which Luna returned. "It looks like Luna, that we got to get some special duties done that are required to welcome this young one to Equestria for good."

Luna nodded "I believe so sister." Her and Celestia slowly stood up, and not wanting to disturb this warm moment quietly trotted back into the palace.

With Celestia's sun shining warmly upon the kingdom of Canterlot, it shined brightly upon the six friends, and the new addition to their circle of friends and family.

Author's Note

This might seem like an ending, but I promise it isn't I wanted this to be a talk with Luna, but it just evolved while I was working on it, and I wanted Toby to finally call Fluttershy momma. Don't worry, more chapters will be ahead. Working on Chapter Ten in my head. Thank you all for your support, I truly appreciate it.

Chapter Ten: The Adoption (Edited)

A golden glow of Celestia's sun cascaded all over Equestria as dawn began to break. Atop of the hill of Ponyville the kind, and timid Fluttershy was beginning to tend to all of her animal friends' needs. Outside of her cottage she fed the morning birds juicy worms, which she reluctantly pulled from the ground with her teeth. She retrieved fish from the little stream, which flowed near the cottage to feed to the ferrets, and then she made sure to give Angel Bunny a fresh, crunchy carrot.

Finally she trotted around back to feed her chickens who had their own little chicken coop.

After making sure all of her animal friends were well fed, Fluttershy happily trotted inside to feed those that hadn't been feed quite yet. She fed the birds, a mix of corn kernals, seeds, and berries. For the squirrels, and badgers she feed them nuts, and acorns. She was usually full of cheer while tending to her animals, but today was different, she was extra cheerful. Today she was going to finalize the adoption of her own little colt, Toby. She finished feeding all her animal friends inside, and quietly trotted up the stairs to her bedroom, where the small child slept comfortably in her bed.

She smiled warmly at the little colt as she carefully trotted up to the bed. She leaned her head forward, and gently nuzzled at his cheek. "Toby sweetie, it is time to wake up my precious little one." She gave him a soft kiss on his forehead.

He blinked his eyes opened triedly, and smiled softly at a yellow, and pinkish blur. Fluttershy reached over on the side table with a forehoof, and carefully picked his glasses up, and gently gave them to him. He rubbed his eyes a little, and put them on.

"G-good morning momma." He smiled at her and carefully crawled out of the bed. He gently climbed down onto the floor, and warmly wrapped his arms around her neck, laying his head against her soft chest fur.

She smiled down at her little colt, and wrapped a foreleg around him gently. "Good morning sweetie. Did you sleep well last night?"

He looked up from her chest and smiled warmly. "Y-yes I did momma. I-I didn't have any bad dreams." He gently let go of his grip on her neck.

She smiled, and kissed the top of his head gently. "Well, that is good. Momma wouldn't want her precious colt to be scared." She gave him a small nuzzle on his cheek.

"Are you hungry? I could make you some of my oatmeal..um..if you would like, okay sweetie?" Her heart just melted as she looked down at her little colt.

He smiled nodded happily. "Y-yes momma, I am hungry. P-please momma, will you make your oatmeal? Th-that is my favorite"

She giggled lightly at his excitement, and leaned her head down to gently nuzzle at his cheek. "Of course my precious, I will make you some oatmeal. Um..would you like to ride on my back down the stairs or would you like to walk on your own Toby?" She asked softly.

He looked up into her sky blue eyes "I-I think I would like to walk downstairs on my own momma, b-but could I maybe hold onto your tail?"

Fluttershy nodded, and smiled warmly down at him. "Of course sweetie, that would be okay with me." She turned around to face the stairs, and slightly lifted her tail for Toby to take it in his hand. Which he did ever, so lightly as she started trotting down carefully as he followed behind.

Toby took careful steps down the stairs while holding onto Fluttershy's tail, and watched to make sure he didn't trip. He smiled warmly as he saw all of the animals downstairs enjoying their breakfast. As he reached the bottom of the staircase the critters greeted him with a wave of their paws and talons.

He waved back at all of them. Speaking ever, so gently. "H-hi everyone." He smiled happily at them.

Fluttershy turned back, and smiled warmly at her little colt. Speaking very tenderly. "Toby sweetie, you can wait in here with the animals while I go fix your oatmeal..um..if that is okay with you." She leaned her head toward him, and gave him a gentle kiss on his forehead.

He nodded, and smiled up at her kindly, and spoke softly. "O-okay momma. I-I love you!" He gave her another warm hug around her neck.

She smiled warmly closing her eyes softly, so to subdue her tears of happiness as she gently wrapped a foreleg around his small frame. "I love you too my precious little Toby!"

They gently broke the embrace as Toby went to sit in the center of the den on the rug along with some of the animals. The birds were chirping happily as they perched in their birdhouses, which were positioned all around the room. Fluttershy smiled warmly as her animal friends were welcoming the new addition to the family with opened hearts.

As she trotted toward the kitchen, there was a light knock at the door. She trotted to the front door, and opened it slightly to see Rarity. "Hi Rarity, please come in."

Rarity smiled warmly at her kind friend, and Rarity trotted in carrying her saddlebags on her back. "Thank you Fluttershy darling."

Toby looked up to see Rarity enter the cottage, and carefully stoot up. "H-hi Auntie Rarity!" He said happily as he walked up to her, and gave her a warm hug around her neck, and laid his head against her chest fur.

Rarity d'awwed at the little colt, and gently wrapped a foreleg around his back, and gently kissed the top of his head. "Aww..good morning Toby precious." He gently broke the embrace as he smiled up softly at her which she returned the smile.

Fluttershy smiled at the two, and gently spoke. "I am going to go into the kitchen, and make your oatmeal now Toby sweetie." She turned toward Rarity with a soft smile. "Um...Rarity...if you would like...you can stay in here with Toby...if you aren't too busy."

Rarity nodded. "Of course darling, I don't mind at all keeping this precious little one company while you go fix him something to eat." She leaned her head near Fluttershy, and whispered in her ear. "Besides I have something special to give the little darling. It's his other clothes that I washed, and dried, but also a new outfit." She smiled warmly, and lightly giggled as she gently waved her horn toward the kitchen. "Now why don't you go, and fix the precious little one some oatmeal."

Fluttershy nodded, and trotted into the kitchen with a warm smile.

Rarity watched Fluttershy trotted into the kitchen, and smiled at him. "Toby darling, come sit with your Auntie Rarity, I have something special to give you precious." She gently trotted close to him offering her a shoulder to hold while she trotted to the center of the den. She carefully sat down tucking her legs underneath her as Toby carefully sat down beside her crossing his legs over each other.

Toby looked up at her with curiosity, and smiled. "W-what is it Auntie Rarity?" He asked with excitement, but sitll with his usual politeness.

Rarity smiled, and blushed at his excitement. She turned toward one of the pockets of her saddlebags , and opened the flap with her magic. She carefully levitated a small stack of finely folded clothes over to him. "These are your night clothes that you were first wearing when you came to Equestria, and the other set is the first outfit I made for you."

He very gently grabbed them, and settled them in his lap with a smile. He looked up at her happily. "Thank you Auntie Rarity."

She untucked her foreleg closest to him, and reached up to pat his back gently. "You are very welcome precious." As she leaned her head down, and gave him a little nuzzle on his nose. "Now close your eyes little darling, so I can give you the other surprise."

He nodded, and closed his eyes as he folded his hands on top of the stack of folded clothes.

Rarity giggled lightly, and smiled gleefully, and she looked at the other pocket of her saddlebags as she opened the flap with her magic. Carefully levitating the new outfit. It was a combination of chocolate brown jogging pants, a plaid short sleeve top of forest green, cardinal red, and deep orange. To finish off the outfit, she made a matching chocolate brown light jacket with hood.

She spoke softly. "Okay Toby darling, open your eyes!" She said happily.

He opened his eyes and a bright smile formed across his face. "O-oh, Auntie Rarity, it is very pretty." He gently reached for the clothes, and smiled warmly at how soft the texture was. "I-I love it Auntie Rarity, thank you!" He carefully folded the new outfit, and placed it on the stack of other clothes in his lap, and reached over to gently hug her around her neck.

She wrapped a foreleg around him, and kissed the top of his head gently. "You are very welcome darling. I was hoping you would like it." She rubbed him along his back as she hugged him.

Fluttershy carefully came trotting in with the bowl of oatmeal on her back, a cloth placed carefully underneath it, so not to burn her back since it was still very warm. She smiled as she saw Rarity, and Toby sitting beside each other happily, and she trotted up next to them. She carefully turned her head, and picked the bowl up by it's rim with her teeth, and set it down in front of Toby with a spoon in it.

She kissed the top of his head as she sat down beside him. "Be careful now sweetie, it is still very warm." She smiled softly at him and nuzzled at his cheek.

Rarity very gently levitated the clothes out of his lap, and placed them on the red velvet lounge in the den. "Oh, do not worry darling, I am just moving them out of the way, so that you can eat." She gave him a warm smile.

He reached for the bowl, and carefully placed it in his lap. He grasped the spoon by it's handle, and scooped out some oatmeal and took a bite. A happy smile formed across his face as he was eating, and looked up at Fluttershy. "Mm..th-thank you momma. I-it is very good like always when you fix it." He continued to eat at it happily.

Fluttershy smiled, and kissed the top of his head. "Well, I am very happy that you enjoy it my precious little one."

After a few minutes, Toby finished off his oatmeal. He looked up at Fluttershy. "Mm..that was, so good momma, th-thank you."

Fluttershy carefully stood up on all four legs, and nuzzled the top of his head. "You are very welcome sweetie. How about you go get washed up for today?

I will take care of this dish, okay?" She gently picked up the bowl with her teeth.

Toby smiled happily at her. "O-okay momma." He carefully stood up, and turned toward Rarity making sure Fluttershy was gone from the den.

He gently said ."I-I can't wait for momma to see my new outfit Auntie Rarity."

Rarity smiled, and nodded softly. "I know darilng, I am sure that Fluttershy will love it. Now you go wash up precious, and I will be out here when you get done." She nuzzled lightly at his cheek.

He smiled with a blush as he went over to the lounge, and got the stack of clothes. He carefully ascended the stairs up to
Fluttershy's room first, so he could lay his pajamas, and other outfits on her bed. Until they can find a place to put them, and then turned back to go to the bathroom to get washed up.

While Toby was getting washed up Fluttershy came trotting back into the den, and over to sit down beside Rarity. "Oh Rarity, I feel so happy that Toby will officially be my precious little colt after today." She smiled warmly at Rarity.

Rarity returned the smile with a light blush. "Oh Fluttershy darling, I am, so happy for you, and the rest of the girls are too. I talked with Twilight before coming, and she said the surprise party will be ready soon. Princess Celestia will be arriving in a little bit with the adoption papers for you to sigh. Also, Rainbow decided to take the little darling for a little flight to buy us more time with any extra preparations that need to be done."

Fluttershy swallowed nervously. "Oh... my. Um..Rarity...do you think Rainbow will fly carefully with Toby on her back? I don't want him to be scared."

Rarity nodded softly, and reached a foreleg up to gently rub at her friend's back. "Fluttershy darling, I know Rainbow can be a bit reckless at times when it comes to flying, but she promised to be easy with Toby. She cares for the little darling just like the rest of us, and won't ever think about scaring the sweet little colt."

Fluttershy sighed in relief. "Thank you Rarity. I just want Toby to know that he is loved by all of us, and that we will never hurt him." She looked at Rarity with a worried look. "Um..Rarity..um..do you think he will like the surprise party?"

Rarity giggled lightly, and looked at Fluttershy with a warm smile. "Of course darling. If he enjoyed the celebration at Canterlot, I am sure he will love the party at Sugarcube Corner." She patted at her back gently with a forehoof.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door, and Fluttershy carefully stood up, and trotted over to it. She opened it, and smiled warmly. "Oh, hi Rainbow Dash. Please. Come in..um..if that is okay with you."

Rainbow smirked, and shook her head lightly as she trotted in. "Heya Flutters, and Rar." She smiled at the white unicorn.

"Hi Rainbow Dash darling." Rarity nodded her head softly at the cyan pegasus.

Rainbow sat down on her haunches across from Rarity, and Fluttershy. She looked around the room. "So, where is the kid at? I can't wait to take him flying, he is going to love it!"

"A-Auntie Rainbow!" The three mares turned to the sound of the small happy voice of the little colt as they saw him descending the stairs in his new outfit. He walked over to Rarity first to give her his previous outfit to wash. He smiled happily at her, and walked up to her giving her a warm hug around her neck laying his head against her chest fur.

Rainbow smiled and placed a wing around him to hug him back. "Heya kid." They gently broke the hug as Rainbow looked down at him in his new outfit. "Ooh, very cool outfit there Toby. Did your Auntie Rarity make that for you?" She looked over Rarity with a smirk.

Toby smiled up softly at Rainbow, and nodded. "Y-yes she did Auntie Rainbow." He turned toward Fluttershy, and Rarity. "H-how do you like it momma?"

Fluttershy smiled warmly at her little colt. "I like it very much sweetie." She turned to Rarity. "You did a great job just as always Rarity. Thank you for doing that for him."

Rarity blushed, and shook her head softly. "There is no need to thank me Fluttershy darling." She looked toward Toby with a warm smile. "I am honored to make the little darling a new outfit."

She gently looked over at him, and gently asked. "How does it feel precious, is it soft, and warm enough?"

Toby nodded at Rarity. "Y-yes Auntie Rarity, it is very soft and warm. I-I love it!" He smiled happily as he felt a gentle hoof on his shoulder. He tilted his back a little to look at Rainbow with a soft smirk on her face.

"Hey kid, how would you like to go flying with your awesome Auntie Rainbow, hmm?" She rubbed at his shoulder with her forehoof gently.

He looked up with a nervous look. "F-flying? I-I never been flying before."

Rainbow gently patted his shoulder. "Don't worry kid, it will be fun. I will fly carefully, I promise."

He smiled softly, and gently look over at Fluttershy. "I-is it okay momma if I go flying with Auntie Rainbow?"

Fluttershy smiled warmly at him, and nodded. "Of course sweetie, it is okay with me."

He smiled happily, and walked up to her wrapping his arms lightly around her neck."Th-Thank you momma!"

She wrapped a foreleg around him, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "You are welcome my precious little one." She gently broke the hug to look into his eyes. "You just listen to Rainbow Dash, and be careful, okay sweetie?"

He nodded as he turned to give Rarity a light hug around her neck. "G-goodbye Auntie Rarity, thank you again for my new outfit."

Rarity smiled warmly, and wrapped a foreleg around him rubbing at his back gently. She gave a soft kiss on the top of his head. "It is quite okay darling, you don't need to thank me. I will see you later precious." They gently broke the hug as Toby walked over to Rainbow.

Rainbow kneeled on her forelegs. "Hop on buddy."

He smiled softly, and carefully climbed on top of Rainbow's back as she sat back up on her forelegs.

She looked at Rarity, and Fluttershy. "See you girls later." Toby waved at them both as Rainbow turned toward the door, and carefully trotted outside. She turned her head to the little colt. "Are you ready kid? Just hold on tight, okay?"

He nodded. "O-okay Auntie Rainbow." He wrapped his arms around her neck as she bent down on her forehooves. She made a soft smirk, and shot up in the air, and he tightly clenched his eyes shut. He held onto her tightly, shaking.

Rainbow flapped her wings as she stopped in the air, and looked back when she felt him shaking. "Hey kid, it's okay, your Auntie Rainbow won't let anything happen to you. You can open your eyes." She said reaching up with a foreleg to rub at an arm.

He carefully opened his eyes, and peered through his eye glasses. He calmed his shaking a little as he looked to see he was up in sky with the white puffy clouds that surrounded them. He carefully looked over Rainbow's mane, and shoulder to see that they were high above Fluttershy's cottage.

Rainbow smiled as she glanced behind her. "See, I told you kid, there is nothing to be scared of. Just as long as your Auntie Rainbow has you. Are you ready to fly some more?"

He nodded. "Y-yes Auntie Rainbow." He smiled softly as he hugged her around her neck.

She nodded, and started flapping her wings as she flew forward. She flown above Ponyville in a slow, and very steady motion, so that the little colt won't be afraid.

He looked down at Ponyville as he felt the wind blow against his face. "Oh, th-this is fun Auntie Rainbow. I-it feels good up here, and the wind feels nice." He giggled lightly.

Rainbow smirked at his excitement "I knew you would love it kid. Hold on tight, because I want to show you someplace totally awesome!" She smiled as she felt him tighten his grip, but making sure not to hurt her.

She flew upward above the clouds where they came into view of what appeared to be a whole city sitting on a giant bed of clouds. Toby looked at it in wonder as he gently asked. "A-Auntie Rainbow, what is that place?"

Rainbow looked ahead. "That is called Cloudsdale, and it is the home of yours truly, and other pegasi, including
Fluttershy. Although she lives in her cottage." She turned back towards him. "Don't worry though kid, someday I will bring you, and take you on a tour, okay?"

He nodded. "Th-that sounds like fun Auntie Rainbow, I would like to visit Cloudsdale one day." He smiled softly as he looked out at the cloud city.

Rainbow smirked softly. "Now kid, I want you hold onto me real tight this time, because I want to show you something really awesome. Don't worry, you won't hurt me little guy, I am strong, and it takes alot to hurt me."

He nodded and squeezed around her neck tightly."O-okay Auntie Rainbow."

She looked back to make sure he was ready then shot upward, then around into a loop. She then shot down toward Ponyville turning like a corkscrew in the air before suddenly coming to a safe, and careful landing in front of the Sugarcube Corner. She felt Toby shaking on her back, and turned around to see him smiling softly yet nervously.

"W-Wow Auntie Rainbow! Th-that was fast, and scary, but fun!" He giggled as calmed his shaking.

Rainbow laughed, and smiled. "Haha...I am glad you enjoyed it kid. Anytime you want to go flying, you just let me know, okay?" He nodded as Rainbow looked into the Sugarcube Corner to see all the lights off. She turned back to Toby. "Hey kid, close your eyes right quick, I just want to show you one more thing, but you need to close your eyes.

He nodded "O-okay Auntie Rainbow." He closed his eyes loosening his grip on Rainbow's neck.

Rainbow smiled as he closed his eyes, and carefully trotted into the Sugarcube Corner. The lights turned on, and she turned around to the little colt. "Okay kid, you can open your eyes now!"

He opened his eyes carefully.

"SURPRISE!!!" A group of ponies shouted as they looked on at the small child with big warm smiles.

Toby looked around at all the ponies who were in attendance as Rainbow trotted towards the other six who were waiting. Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna were both in the center with Princess Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie on one side, and on the other side was Rarity next to Fluttershy. They were all standing behind a long wooden table with an array of all different sweet treats lined on it.

Toby smiled warmly, and closed his eyes as he felt tears builiding up, but didn't want everypony to see him. He opened them back up, and gently asked "I-is this all for me?"

Everypony nodded as Rainbow knelt on her forelegs to let him climb off which he did, and walked up beside Fluttershy, and hugged her warmly around her neck.

She wrapped a foreleg around him and gave a kiss on the top of his head. "Yes sweetie, this is all for you. You deserve it my precious little one." She smiled down at him softly, and he looked up returning the smile.

Celestia smiled warmly at the two, and turned toward the small crowd. "Citizens of Ponyville, I welcome you here today to celebrate the offical adoption of this dear child Toby Mason." She levited a scroll, and quill over toward Fluttershy. "My dear kind Fluttershy, if you are ready, you may sign the legal adoption first."

Fluttershy nodded, and smiled warmly down at the little colt who has touched her heart. "I am ready Princess Celestia."

She gently grasped the quill between her teeth, and signed the scroll. She looked down at Toby, and kissed the top of his head gently. "Thank you Princess Celestia for allowing me to adopt this precious little one. I promise to love Toby with all my heart." She wrapped a wing softly around him hugging him close.

Celestia carefully levitated the scroll back, and rolled it up. "Well, dear Toby, I along with all of my little ponies would like to officially welcome you to Equestria." She smiled warmly down at the little colt as he gently get go of Fluttershy, and looked up with teary eyes.

"Th-thank you Princess Celestia. I-I have a new family now!" He said happily as he looked up at her, and at all the others.

Everypony in attendance d'awwed, and stomped their hooves, clapping for the little colt. Celestia smiled, and looked at everypony. "Let the celebration begin." With that Vinyl Scratch, who was in audience, started her record table, and started playing retro dubstep music as everpony started dancing, and conversing.

Rarity trotted around to the front of the table to where her, and the others sat at, and set up her camera. "Fluttershy darling, could I maybe get a picture of you, and the little darling together?"

Fluttershy smiled softly at her friend, and nodded, "oh..um..of course Rarity." She looked down at Toby "um...will it be okay with you sweetie if we get a picture taken together?" She leaned her head down, and nuzzled at his cheek.

He smiled warmly up at her. "Y-yes momma! Th-that would be nice." He gently turned toward Rarity, and her camera while Fluttershy carefully sat on her haunches, and placed a wing over Toby's back and shoulders.

Rarity smiled, and blushed. "Alright my lovelies, on the count of three. One.....two.....three!" She pressed the flash button as Fluttershy, and Toby stood beside each other with bright happy smiles. "Oh, simply splendid! That was a marvelous picture you two." Rarity smiled, and giggled lightly.

Toby looked up at Fluttershy with a warm smile "I-I love you momma!" He hugged her warmly around her neck, laying his head against her chest fur.

Fluttershy laid her head gently on top of his as she wrapped him up in a foreleg. "Momma loves you too my precious little one!" She kissed him gently on the top of the head.

After gently breaking the embrace, Toby turned to look at the others, then back up at Fluttershy. "M-Momma, will it be okay if we get another picture. With all of my family this time?"

She smiled warmly down at him, and nodded. "Of course sweetie." She looked at the others. "Um..if that is okay with you all."

They all nodded with bright smiles.

"Well darn tootin' it would be mighty fine with me sugarcube." Applejack tipped her hat, and crossed her forelegs with a smile.

"YIPPEE! PICTURE TIME WITH LITTLE WITTLE TOBY!" Pinkie Pie cartwheeled all the way around the table with the others just laughing at her randomness.

"Sounds cool with me!" Rainbow said as she hovered just a little bit above the group.

"Oh, that sounds like a marvelous idea darling Fluttershy, and precious Toby." Rarity chimed in as she began to set the timer on her camera.

"Sounds good to me." Twilight spoke.

Spike smiled, and blushed. "Yea, me too."

"Hey, don't forget about us!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders rushed over to the group.

"Well Tia, what do you say? Will you join your sister with them?" Luna asked her older sister.

"Of course my sister. Dear Toby, we are proud to be your family!" Celestia smiled warmly down at the little colt.

Everypony gathered around Fluttershy, and Toby. Toby smiled brightly. "I-I love you all!"

"We love you too Toby!" They all said in unison as the camera flashed with Toby, and his new family together.

After the photo was taken everypony along with Toby enjoyed the rest of the party together.

The broken heart which Toby once suffered from due to the loss of his mother, and the mistreatment by his father has finally become completely mended. The memory of his mother, and her love forever remains in his heart. Finding a new family who cares for him, and loves him made him feel whole again. The young human child who touched the hearts of many in the land of Equestria has found a new home.

Author's Note

Nope, not the end, not just yet! I don't want to spoil anything, so I will live the guessing up to you all about the next chapter will be about. Thank you all again for the continuing support and comments. I truly appreciate it. :)

Chapter Eleven: The First Day of School (Edited)

Dawn started to break as Celestia's sun rose against the cerulean blue canvas, accompanied by a few pillowy white clouds. It's warmth blanketed the land of Equestria as it's rays glistened through the window of Fluttershy's cottage into her bedroom. The warm glow covered the little colt, of the pegasus who slept in her bed underneath the soft, and warm bed covers.

Toby was asleep in his pajamas he had on when he first arrived in Equestria. He murred warmly in his sleep as could feel something gentle, and soft against his cheek. He blinked his olive green eyes open, and yawned softly as he reached over to the side table for his eyeglasses to put on. He looked through the lenses looking into the sky blue eyes, and soft smile of Fluttershy.

"Good morning my precious little Toby." She leaned her head over, and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead.

He smiled warmly at her. "G-good morning Momma." He carefully climbed out of the big soft bed, and onto the floor, and wrapped his arms around her neck softly. He laid his head against her chest fur. "I-I love you Momma!"

She wrapped a foreleg around his small form, and kissed the top of his head. "I love you too my sweet little one." She very gently pulled him away, and looked down into his eyes. "Are you ready for your first day of school Toby?"

Toby looked down at the floor, and twiddled his hands "I-I don't know Momma." He swallowed deeply, and looked up at her nervously. "Wh-what if the other ponies don't like me?" He lowered his head with a frown.

Fluttershy looked down at him, and pulled him against her chest with her foreleg, and nuzzled at his head. "Shh..Toby sweetie, I am sure they will like you. You are a very kind, respectful, and good little colt." She gently stroked at the top of his head with a fore hoof, and gently tilted it to let him look up at her. "Besides, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Applebloom will be there, and I know they will look out for you."

He looked up at her with a little smile. "Th-that would be good to see them at school. A-at least I will have some friends."

She smiled down at him, and nuzzled gently at his cheek. "That is my sweet colt. Now you go get dressed for school, and I will be downstairs fixing you some breakfast, okay sweetie?"

He smiled up softly, and nodded. "O-okay Momma." Fluttershy smiled warmly at him, and turned to trot downstairs to the kitchen. Toby went over to the chest in front of Fluttershy's bed where they decided to keep his clothes, and got his fire engine red outfit with the royal blue jacket out, and walked downstairs to the bathroom.

Fluttershy was preparing haycakes for her little colt as she thought to herself. "I sure do hope he has a good first day at school. I know Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Applebloom will be friendly to him, but I am worried about the other ponies treating him differently for not being a pony." She shook her head lightly, "now Fluttershy, quit thinking like that. Of course they will be good toward Toby."

Toby carefully walked down the stairs into the den area as he waved to all of the animals enjoying their breakfasts. "H-hi everyone." They chittered and chirped waving back at him with their paws and talons. He took a seat down on the center carpet.

Fluttershy hovered into the den with the plate of haycakes in her teeth carrying a glass of milk in a forehoof. She gently lowered down next to Toby, setting the glass of milk by him, and the plate of haycakes in front of him. "Here you go sweetie. I know you love the oatmeal I fix, but I wanted to try something different. I hope you like them." She tucked her legs underneath her as she laid next to him.

He smiled at her softly. "Th-thank you Momma." He took the fork, and knife on his plate, and began cutting at the haycakes.

He took a bite, and made a warm smile. "Mmm..th-they are very good Momma. They taste real good like the ones Auntie Applejack made at the castle." He took a drink of milk to follow behind his bite of haycakes.

Fluttershy smiled warmly at him as she laid a wing over his back, and shoulders. "I am very proud that you like you them Toby." She leaned her head down, and nuzzled at his cheek gently.

After he finished his breakfast, he wiped his mouth with a napkin that Fluttershy provided. "Mmm..my breakfast was good Momma. Thank you."

She smiled warmly, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "You are very welcome my precious little one." She untucked her legs, and stood up to take the plate, and glass back into the kitchen. As she was in the kitchen, Toby stood up carefully, and looked over his outfit to make sure it didn't have any crumbs or mess.

Fluttershy returned, and smiled softly at him. "Are you ready to go to school sweetie?" As she gently trotted up to him with a brown paper bag in her teeth.

He nodded up, but a little nervously. "I-I think, so Momma." He gently reached, and lightly grasped the paper bag. "Wh-what is this Momma?" He very softly asked.

"It is a daisy sandwich I made you for lunch sweetie. I promise it is very good." She smiled warmly at him as she turned toward the front door of the cottage, and lifted her tail for him to grab hold of.

He lightly grasped her tail, and started following behind her as they walked out of the cottage with him closing the door behind them. They walked onto the dirt path, and started toward Ponyville.

As they were walking through the town toward the school, ponies would smile warmly at both of them, and wave. Toby felt joy in his heart to know that they all was being nice to him. He waved back at them as they walked along the path leading to the schoolhouse.

While walking along the path, Toby could see a building up ahead. The walls were painted a deep pink hue with a brick colored roof, with white designs carefully crafted on the walls. There were three sets of windows with eight panels on each side of the building, and two sets of windows in the front on each side of the door with four panels. There were the top halves of light pink hearts painted above each window, and at the top of the building was a bell like that could be found at the top of chapel. In the front of the building was a sign with a book as the centerpiece, with two young ponies just above it.

Toby smiled as he could see what had appeared to be an area to play outside. As they got closer, he took a slow deep breath. "Come on Toby, you can do this. They will like you." He thought to himself encouragingly. He looked up at the schoolhouse as they approached the steps.

Fluttershy smiled as she saw the teacher of the schoolhouse, Ms. Cheerilee, standing up on the steps welcoming the fillies, and colts in. "Good morning Cherrilee."

Ms. Cheerilee had a deep dark pink tint to her fur, shamrock-like green eyes, a pale, and very light pink colored mane and tail, and on her flank she had three daisies. "Well, hello Fluttershy, how are you doing on this fine morning?"

"I am doing okay. Um...Cheerilee..I would like to introduce you to Toby." She motioned her head towards the little colt behind her. "Um..he is real shy, and timid at times, but he is real polite. Um..he will be attending here, and he will be a good student for you, I promise." She looked back at the child, and smiled warmly. "Come here Toby sweetie, I would like for you to meet your teacher Ms. Cheerilee."

Toby gave a light smile, and carefully walked up to the teacher mare. "H-hi Ms. Cheerilee." He gave a soft smile as he looked up at her.

She returned the smile as she looked down at the little colt. "Well, it is a pleasure to meet you Toby. I promise that you will like coming to school here in Ponyville."

Fluttershy smiled at the interaction between the two, and gently rubbed at the back, and shoulders of Toby with a wing. "Okay Toby sweetie, I am going to go for now, but I will see you after school, I promise."

He looked up, and nodded. "O-okay Momma." He waved at her gently, and turned around to walk into the schoolhouse.

She waved back at him, and smiled warmly as he walked in, and waved goodbye to Ms. Cheerilee before trotting off back toward her home.

As Toby walked into the schoolhouse into the classroom he looked around in wonder. There were nine small wooden desks with three in each row with a heart carved out on the front, and both sides of them, there were bookshelves on either side of the room, and a globe sat on one shelf. The windows in the back had blinds of green. Around the top of the walls was a sky blue painted pony, and silver horseshoe design that laid against a dark green canvas that went all the way around the room.

Toby swallowed deeply as he carefully walked to the back. The other fillies, and colts that were already sitting at their desks giving him stares, and started mumbling to themselves.

"Howdy Toby, ya can sit by me if ya like." He heard the voice of Applebloom, and saw her with Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. He walked over to the desk beside her, and sat down.

"Hi Toby! I hope you will like it here at our school!" Sweetie Belle was sitting in the desk in front of him giving him a bright, and warm smile.

"Yea buddy, you will like it here. We will look out for you." Scootaloo patted him on the shoulder gently, as he began to blush.

"Th-thank you." He said softly.

Ms Cheerilee walked in as the school bell rung to begin the day. "Alright class, settle down. Before we begin, I would like for you all to meet a new student, who will be joining us." She looked over at Toby with a warm smile. "Toby, if it is okay with you, would you be, so kind as to stand up for the class, so they can all meet you?" She asked very gently.

Toby swallowed deeply, and shook out of nervousness. Applebloom turned toward him, and gently reached over to rub at his back gently. He turned to see her give him a soft reassuring smile as Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo did the same.

He carefully stood up from his desk, and reached his hand up to wave at the class. "H-hi there e-everyone." He said very softly.

The class smiled warmly at the nervous colt, and said gently in unison "Hello Toby." He smiled at them all softly, and then sat back down at his desk.

Ms. Cheerilee smiled warmly at him, and the rest of the class as she trotted behind her desk. "Alright class, before we start our lesson for today, I would like to remind you all of our annual talent show, that will be happening this Saturday."

As she was talking to the class there was one filly in the back who was looking at the new colt with a disapproving look. Her fur a light pink, with a mane and tail a moderate violet with white streaks, sky blue eyes, and she wore a two toned violet colored tiara on her head. On her flank she had the symbol of a tiara. She was the schoolhouse bully, known as Diamond Tiara.

"So that little twerp thinks he can come into my school, and try to take over. I will see about that." She thought to herself with a mischievous smile. She felt a hoof on her shoulder, and looked over to her friend Silver Spoon.

Silver Spoon had the same kind of snobbish demeanor as Diamond Tiara. Her fur a moderate gray, with a pale gray mane, and tail with white streaks, and light violet eyes. She wore big rimmed light blue glasses, a pearl necklace around her neck, and on her flank she had a symbol of a silver spoon with a little pink heart on the handle.

She whispered over to Diamond Tiara. "Hey Diamond, what are you looking at, in that way?"

Diamond Tiara whispered back. "You know Silver, I think we need to welcome the new colt to our school, and show him who run things around here, besides Ms. Cheerilee." Her grin grew more mischievous at the thought. Silver Spoon smiled at her friend, and nodded in agreement.

Time went by slowly until the bell rang for lunch, and recess. "Alright class, we will continue after lunch." Ms Cheerilee told her students as they got up, and started to go outside. She looked over at Toby, and gently spoke. "Toby dear, could I maybe speak with you for a minute?"

Applebloom trotted close to Toby. "Don't worry Toby, we will be outside when ya are done." She gave him a warm smile along with Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo as the three fillies trotted outside.

He carefully stood up from his desk swallowing deeply as he walked up to Ms. Cheerilee. "Y-yes Ms. C-Cheerilee?" He asked softly as he looked up at her.

Ms Cheerilee smiled down warmly at him "There is no need to be nervous dear." She gave him a soft reassuring smile, and nod. "Toby, I know are new here in Ponyville, but you are more than welcome to participate in the talent show if you would like."

Toby frowned as he looked down at his sneakers, and touched the toes together. "B-but I-I don't have a special talent Ms. Cheerilee. I-I am sorry.." Speaking very softly. He felt a gentle hoof on his shoulder, and looked up to Ms. Cheerilee with a warm smile on her face.

"There is no need to be sorry Toby." She thought for a second. "Hmm..you know what dear, I bet you do have a special talent and you just haven't discovered it yet."

Toby made a little smile, "d-do you really think, so Ms. Cheerilee?"

She nodded with a warm smile. "Of course, everypony has a special talent. It just takes time for you to discover it." She gently trotted with Toby to the door. "I will tell you what dear, you just think about it, and you can give me your answer this week before Saturday, okay?"

He looked up, and nodded. "O-okay Ms. Cheerilee. Th-thank you."

She smiled softly down at him. "You are very welcome dear. Now you go have fun, and have a good lunch." She gently patted his shoulder as he walked out of the schoolhouse, and she trotted back inside.

As Toby stepped out looking for Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle, then he heard a voice "Psst..hey you." He turned to the direction of the voice, and there peeking out from behind one side of the schoolhouse was Diamond Tiara. "Yes you, come here." She motioned with a forehoof.

He swallowed deeply, and carefully walked to the side of the building. He saw Diamond Tiara, but felt a pair of hooves on his shoulders as he tilted his head back to look up at Silver Spoon who was sitting on her haunches behind him looking down at him with a smirk.

Diamond Tiara smirked as well as she trotted up to him. He swallowed deeply shaking as he looked up into her eyes. "So you are the new kid huh? A puny little thing, haha."

Toby nevously asked as he looked at her. "Wh-what do y-you want?"

She laughed at his nervousness. "Oh, I don't want anything. I would like to introduce myself however. My name is Diamond Tiara, and my friend behind you is Silver Spoon."

"Hello there shrimp." Silver Spoon giggled as she looked down at him, and felt his shaking against her.

Diamond Tiara nodded toward Silver Spoon to let her hooves off his shoulders. She looked down at him. "You see twerp, I run this school, and I don't like anypony that is new to try, and show me up, understand?"

Toby backed up into Silver Spoon shaking. "B-b-but I.."

"Be quiet!" She stomped a hoof down causing Toby to swallow deeply, and shake harder against Silver Spoon. "Now, if you just stay out of my way there won't be a problem, okay you little runt?" She looked down at him with a mean smirk.

Toby nodded, and nervously swallowed. "Y-y-yes, I-I promise I-I won't b-bother you, e-ever." Silver Spoon looked down at the frightened colt, but with a little concerned look, but didn't let Diamond see it.

Diamond Tiara smirked at him, and nodded patting him teasingly on the cheek. "Good." She thought to herself, then smiled mischievously. "Oh, one more thing twerp. You really think that Ms. Cheerilee, the Cutie Mark Crusaders *speaking the name with a whiny mocking tone*, and everypony really cares for you, and loves you? Haha..please, you aren't even a pony."

While Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon were still standing at the side of the schoolhouse with Toby, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom were all sitting at a wooden table eating their lunches.

"Girls, Ah am getting a little worried about Toby, he should have been out here by now." Applebloom looked at her friends sitting across from her.

"I know, Ms.Cheerilee doesn't usually talk with us very long when we're alone like this." Sweetie Belle spoke next, looking around for the little colt.

"C'mon you two, I think we should go look for the kid." Scootaloo said as the other two nodded in agreement. They all finished their lunches, and got up from the table to trot around the school yard in search of Toby.

"P-p-please give them back. Th-they are the only ones I have, p-please." They heard somepony's small voice, and galloped toward the direction of the voice. The other fillies and colts were having too much fun that they didn't hear anything.

The girls galloped up to the side of the school house to see Toby standing with his hindlegs trembling. Diamond Tiara was in front of him taunting him with his glasses held in the air by a forehoof, and Silver Spoon was to the side looking a little concerned at him.

"Diamond, I think you should stop. I mean look at him, he is scared. Just give him back his glasses, and let's go." Silver Spoon said to her with a little sympathy in her voice.

Diamond Tiara shot her a stern look. "Whose side are you on Silver? I thought you were my best friend. You know this twerp doesn't belong here."

The CMC was about to interfere until the saw Silver Spoon walk up to Diamond Tiara, and gently grab at Toby's glasses with a forehoof from Diamond.

"I am your friend Diamond, but I think he has had enough." She carefully trotted up to the litte colt while holding a tip of his glasses with her teeth. She gently reached out for one of his hands, and placed his glasses in it. "Here you go Toby, I am sorry." She bent her head down to give him a sad smile as he put his glasses back on.

He sniffled, and looked up at her. "Th-th-thank you."

She nodded, and turned back toward Diamond Tiara trotting up to her. "Come on Diamond, let's go, okay?" She asked pleadingly to her friend.

Diamond grunted annoyed. "Fine." She looked at Toby. "Just remember to stay out of my way, you little mistake."

Silver Spoon gasped, and grabbed one of Diamond's forelegs with one of her own. "That is enough now Diamond, let's just go." As she pulled Diamond, and they trotted away.

Toby lowered his head, and shook after hearing himself be called a mistake. The CMC galloped up to him, and looked on concerned at him.

"A-Are you ah'right Toby?" Applebloom asked as she gently rubbed at his back with a forehoof.

"Yea kid, don't pay attention to Diamond Tiara, she is always snooty, and mean to all of us who aren't as wealthy as her." Scootaloo patted at his shoulder gently.

"Yes Toby, we have been picked on by Diamond, and Silver ever since day one. I never seen Silver stand up to Diamond like that before though." She gave a little smile as she rubbed at Toby's arm gently.

Toby raised his head and smiled a little at each of the girls. "I-I am okay now. Th-thank you." Deep down though his heart began to break at the hurtful words Diamond said to him.

The school bell rang for lunch to end. "Well, girls, let's get back inside. Come on Toby, it will be ah'right." Applebloom said as the four went back inside to continue the rest of the school day.

Later that night

Luna's moon rose beautifully against a royal dark blue canvas as the sky filled with twinkling stars. The warm glow of the moon shined through the window of Fluttershy's window as Toby was just getting underneath the covers with Fluttershy gently tucking him in.

He looked up into her eyes, and gently asked "M-Momma, do you still love me although I-I am not a pony?"

Fluttershy looked down at him with a shocked look, and frowned. "Oh my precious little one, of course I love you even if you aren't a pony. What on Equestria will make you ask that for?" She asked as gently as possible as she gently reached a wing up to stroke at his side through the covers.

He smiled a little, and shook his head softly. "N-no reason Momma. I love you!"

She smiled softly at him, and give him a kiss on his forehead, and nuzzled at his cheek. "I love you too my precious little Toby. Sweet dreams sweetie." As she smiled warmly at him as he closed his eyes gently. She carefully turned to trot back downstairs.

While Toby's eyes were closed, he was haunted with the cruel words of Diamond Tiara. “They don't really love you or care for you, because you are not a pony. You don't belong here."

Author's Note

Alright everyone, I know this is my story, but I would like some help. The next two chapters, I am going to test the bond of family the Mane Six has with Toby. Next chapter I want Toby to have nightmares of each of the Mane Six. But here are my two choices.

A). In his nightmares make each of the Mane Six torture him and hurt him real badly. This would be dark as in Pinkamena Diane Pie Dark.

B). Have a dream version of Toby as a pony, and the Mane Six treat pony Toby as loving as they do him now, but in the dreams treat Toby as his human self like a threat and force him to leave.

Thank you all for your wonderful support. I truly appreciate it. :)

Chapter Twelve: Nightmare (Edited)

During the night Toby whimpered quietly while tossing, and turning in the big, soft bed of Fluttershy's. He couldn't get those cruel words of Diamond Tiara's out of his head. He curled up tightly in a ball with his legs curled up to his stomach, his knees meeting his chest, and covered his head with his arms, and hands. He started to tremble like a leaf underneath the bed covers.

While trying his best to sleep, Toby began to dream, but found himself in a place void of any light or sound. A shiver ran down his spine as he stood looking to see if he could see, or hear anything, but was unable to. "Wh-where am I?" He whispered softly to himself out of fear. As he looked around the space of blackness he could see it start to ripple all around him, and he closed his eyes afraid what may happen.

Carefully he opened his eyes as he looked to see that he was outside of Sugarcube Corner. "This is where Auntie Pinkie lives, but why am I here?" He thought to himself as he carefully walked up to the steps where could hear a couple of voices through the door. He quietly stood at the side to see if he could tell what they were saying.

"Pinkie dear, we knew that colt was trouble when he first set hoof in here." Mrs. Cake's voice was the first to speak. "Don't go blaming yourself, you were only trying to cheer the little colt up, and this is how he repays you."

"Yea Pinkie, try to calm down." Mr. Cake was next to speak. "I know, how about myself, and Cup Cake go fix you something to eat, will that cheer you up?"

Toby frowned as he could hear Pinkie lightly sob. "Thank you *sniff* Mr. and Mrs. Cake, I would really like that alot."

"Alright dear, we will fix you something good. Just forget about that bad little colt." Mrs. Cake told Pinkie as she, and Mr. Cake went into the kitchen.

Feeling concerned for Pinkie Toby lightly knocked on the door.

Pinkie wiped at her eyes with a foreleg and turned to trot to the door. "Coming." She spoke with her joyful tone, but Toby could sense something was wrong. She opened the door, and looked down. "Oh, it's you." She said sternly. "What are you doing here?"

Toby shook at her tone, and asked worriedly "A-Auntie Pinkie, wh-what's wrong?" He looked up to see that her mane, and tail were straight, and not at their usual puffiness.

She glared down at him with her brows furrowed in anger. "Auntie Pinkie? AUNTIE PINKIE!? How dare you call me Auntie Pinkie after they way you lied to me, and everypony else!" She yelled down at the little colt causing him to tremble.

"Wh-wh-what do you mean A-Auntie Pinkie?" He asked nervously as he took two little steps back.

Pinkie stomped her hoof in front of him causing him to jump, and fall down on his flank. She stood over him leaning her head down to him. "STOP CALLING ME THAT YOU LITTLE WITTLE LIAR!" She looked at him with pure disgust.

"After all me, and my friends have done for you to make you feel welcomed in Equestria, you repay us by lying to us?! Princess Celestia told us about how humans mistreat animals, especially us ponies." Toby just curled up trembling with tears in his eyes as Pinkie stepped forward with a forehoof on each side of him. "Some of the ponies where you live, are taken to birthday parties, and are used to give little mean meanie pants like yourself, rides as they trot in circles over and over. I thought parties are suppose to be fun for everypony, but not the ponies where you live. Their legs are worked until they cannot continue, and their backs are worn out from carrying both little wittle and big mean meanie pants."

Toby tried to speak "B-b-but A-Auntie P-Pinkie, I..."

"I SAID STOP CALLING ME THAT! I AM NOT YOUR AUNTIE, AND I WOULD NEVER BE ONE TO SUCH A LITTLE MEAN MEANIE PANTS LIKE YOURSELF!" Her voice got louder which caused Toby to cover himself in with his arms and curl up tighter under her forelegs. "NOW GET OUT OF HERE, OR I WILL SHOOT YOU OUT OF HERE WITH MY PARTY CANNON!"

Toby sobbed, and quickly crawled out from underneath Pinkie, and down the porch of Sugarcube Corner. He was, so afraid to stand up that he crawled on his hands, and knees until he bumped into something. He looked up to see a cyan fur-covered foreleg. He slowly looked up into the magenta eyes of Rainbow Dash.

"O-o-oh A-Auntie R-Rainbow Dash." He hugged at her foreleg. "A-Auntie Pinkie is.." He felt Rainbow kick off with great strength that he started to roll backwards until he crashed up against Pinkie's forelegs. He looked up trembling, and tried to stand up, but Pinkie held him down with her forehooves.

"Auntie Rainbow? Sorry runt, I won't ever want to be an auntie to such a weakling like you." She said down with an evil smirk.

"B-b-but A-Auntie Rainbow, i-it's me T-Toby" He looked up at her with wide, and fearful eyes.

"I KNOW WHO YOU ARE, BUT YOU ARE NOTHING TO ME, BUT A LIAR!" Her voice got as loud as Pinkie as she glared down at him with Pinkie holding him in place. She trotted slowly up to the two, and lowered her head down to look into his eyes with her brows furrowed with the same angry look as Pinkie.

"Here I am trying to show you a good time by giving you a ride up to take a glance of my home of Cloudsdale, and show you a few tricks, and you repay me by thinking of me as a fool! I know how the ponies who are fast where you live are treated." She glanced up at Pinkie for her to let go of Toby, and she placed her hoof on his small chest pushing him to the ground.

"OW! Hu.hu..A-Auntie Rainbow, p-p-please.."

"BE QUIET!" She added a little bit more pressure on his chest his chest, which he whimpered. "You humans like to force ponies to show their speed off by running around in circles, and racing to see which one can beat the other. Now, I love to race, but I don't have to carry anypony on my back to do it. Those ponies where you live have to run with you riding on their back, and are pushed to their limit where they stumble, and fall at times." She lowered her head down to him her breath hot against his face. "Never will I give you a ride again you little monster, and be made a fool of."

Toby trembled under Rainbow's hoof as she looked down at him with an evil grin. "I'll tell you what. Since humans like to race us ponies, how about you, and me have a race. From here to Sweet Apple Acres. If you beat me, I will be forgiving, and let you ride me when you want to. But if I win, you have to let me ride on your back as you run around Ponyville." She lifted her hoof up his chest. "NOW GET YOUR FLANK UP AND LET'S RACE!"

"Hey, hey Rainbow can I race him too? We can both race him?" She looked at Rainbow Dash with an evil grin as Toby coughed as he slowly stood up. Rainbow nodded at Pinkie. "YIPPEE! Tell you what you little wittle meanie, if you beat the both of us, we will be nice to you, and I will even bake a delicious chocolate cake. But if I win *poking at his nose with a forehoof* I get to ride on your back as you trot around in circles." She looked down at him evilly. "Okie dokie lokie, I'm ready." Rainbow, and Pinkie stood on each side of Toby.

Toby trembled as he stood looking up at the two intimidating ponies. Rainbow looked over at Pinkie "You know what Pinks, I think we should give the little runt a huge head start, since he is such a weakling." Pinkie nodded in agreement. Rainbow placed a forehoof on the frightened colt's back, and shoved him. "Get going runt, we don't have all day!"

Toby swallowed nervously at Rainbow Dash's tone, and began running toward Sweet Apple Acres. "Why are they doing this?" He thought to himself as tears started to pour from his eyes. He was running along the dirt path toward Sweet Apple Acres trying to calm his tears, but was unsuccessful.

As he approached the farm he saw a barn, and decided to run to it. He reached it and ran inside to hide. "Please don't find me" he thought to himself. He could hear their voices nearing.

"Where did that little runt run off to? Did you see him Pinkie?" Rainbow asked frustrated in not able to find the little colt.

"Nope, sorry Dashie. That little wittle liar must have hid somewhere. Don't worry though silly, we will find him." Pinkie said evilly, and giggled.

Toby trembled as he started backing away from the door until he bumped into something. He tilted his head back to look into the green eyes of Applejack. "O-oh A-Auntie Applejack, p-p-please help me. A-Auntie Pinkie and A-Auntie Rainbow are trying to...auh." Applejack shoved the little colt backward making him land on his flank.

"Hush up now you low down little varmint!" Toby looked up with fright as he crawled backward to end up bumping into something as he looked up to see Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie both standing over him. Applejack trotted up closer to him, and peered down at him with an angry look.

"Now don't be a'calling me auntie, because Ah' wouldn't ever want to be to a no good liar like ya!" Toby couldn't help, but tremble against Rainbow's forelegs with tears flowing down his face as he looked up at Applejack. "Ya saying ya love us, but being the Element of Honesty, Ah' can tell a rotten apple from a good one, and ya feller are rotten. I know how you humans make us ponies where you live, pull heavy loads on our backs. Ya make us plow yall's fields, so ya can plant y'all's crops. And what do we get in return? Nothing, but more heavy loads to pull."

Toby just covered his head, and face with his arms curling up in the fetal position crying hard.

Applejack went over to a stable in the barn, and grabbed a lasso. "Now hold still there little feller. We are going to take you to the others, so you can see how they are affected by your lies." She trotted up and started tying the lasso around Toby's ankles with the long end, and places his arms through the loop, and tightened the lasso to keep him secured.

He tried to beg "P-p-please A-Auntie Applejack, p-please sto.." He was silenced as Applejack placed an apple in his mouth.

"I said hush now! Rainbow put him on my back." Rainbow smiled evilly down at the now tied up Toby, and scooped him helplessly in her forelegs, and placed in on Applejack's back. "Next stop Twilight's!"

Rainbow hovered in the air as Pinkie hopped, and Applejack trotted toward the Golden Oaks Library with Toby tied up on her back, and stuffed with an apple to silence him. They all walked up to the door of the library, and knocked.

"Coming." Twilight spoke from inside, and opened the door. "Oh, hey girls." She looked at Applejack's back at the tied up colt. "Oh, I see you brought a special guest with you, please come in." She said with an evil grin.

"Howdy Twilight. Yup, this little varmint is going to feel how we all felt when he lied to all of us." The three girls entered the library, where Rarity was waiting inside.

"Hello darlings." She giggled as she saw the frightened little colt on Applejack's back. "Oh, well, isn't he just adorable all tied up, and helpless." Rarity grinned mischievously.

Applejack stood sideways in the center of library, and bucked Toby off, and onto the floor with a thud. He whimpered, and looked up at them all standing above him with tears in his eyes, and trembling out of fear. Applejack removed the apple from Toby's mouth as he closed his mouth with his lower lip quivering. She left him tied up in her lasso.

Twilight lit her horn up, and surrounded the helpless little colt in her magic with a purple aura. "Now Toby, you just listen, and don't speak, do you understand?" As she used her magic to squeeze at Toby making him whimper, and he sadly nodded. "Good. Now we are very disappointed in you for lying to us. We have done nothing, but show you love and care, and you repay us by lying to us by telling us you love us in return."

"B-b-but I do lo....gah.." Twilight squeezed at him with her magic.

"I TOLD YOU NOT TO SPEAK, DIDN'T I!" Twilight took a deep breath. "No, you don't love us. You humans don't care about us ponykind, nor any animal. I know how you humans get an animal, a pet, and treat them badly by leaving them outside in the hot sun on a summer day without food or water, or let them freeze in the cold of winter." She shook her head down at him "AND YOU WANT TO SAY YOU LOVE US?!"

Twilight stepped aside to let Rarity speak next. Toby looked up at all of them in fright and trembling. Rarity trotted up him, and used her magic to just lift the back of his shirt up a little bit. She reached out with a forehoof and stroked up, and down his small back, but more roughly than she usually does.

"Ah..that feels very nice you little monstrosity. You know, I could use your furless coat as a new material for clothing."

Toby trembled, and his eyes widened with fear. "A-Auntie R-Rarity, p-please hel..." Rarity used her magic this time to squeeze at his small form.

"Tsk..tsk, it is very rude to interrupt a lady little darling." She looked down at him trembling, and stroked at his head. "That mane would look marvelous as a nice warm hat." She lowered her head down to him as he trembled and tears shedding down his cheek. "You are a very naughty little colt, because I have discovered that humans use the fur of animals for all sorts as clothing. Tsk.tsk.tsk, and I thought you were different." She gave him a little squeeze with her magic making him whimper.

There was a knock at the library door. "Come in." Twilight called out to the guest, and came trotting in was Fluttershy.

She looked at the girls with a soft smile "Um..hi girls." She saw them all standing around in a circle.

Toby recognized the soft voice as Fluttershy's. "M-Momma, p-please help." He cried.

Fluttershy trotted between Applejack, and Pinkie Pie to see the little child tied up and crying. "Oh...my." She turned toward Applejck. "I hope he wasn't too much of a bother."

Toby swallowed deeply, and trembled at the Pegasus who took him in, and adopted him just said.

"Naw, it was very easy sugarcube. The little varmint didn't put up a fight." She made a proud smirk.

Fluttershy smiled a little evilly, and trotted around in front of Toby looking down at him. "Hello there Toby sweetie." She said with a very low, and disturbing tone.

Toby's lower lip quivered as he looked up at her trembling in his restraints. "M-M-Momma?" He asked choking back, sobbing.

Fluttershy glared at him angrily, and raised a forehoof and brought it down across his back. "HOW DARE YOU! HOW DARE YOU, YOU LITTLE MONSTER LIE TO ALL OF US ABOUT LOVING US! I WISH I NEVER HAVE FOUND YOU, AND TOOK YOU IN!"

Toby lowered his head, and face into his tied arms, and shook with sobs, unable to speak.

"THERE IS NO TELLING WHAT YOU WOULD HAVE DONE TO MY PRECIOUS LITTLE ANIMALS IF I DIDN'T GET APPLEJACK TO TIE YOU UP, AND BRING YOU HERE TO TWILIGHT'S! I KNOW HUMANS LIKE YOU EAT MEAT, WHICH MEANS YOU ARE EATING DEFENSELESS POOR LITTLE CREATURES! HOW DARE YOU! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?!" She brought her forehoof up again, and struck at his back.

Toby yelped at the second strike trembling like a leaf as they all just stood over him smiling down evilly at him.

Fluttershy reached down to finally untie him from the lasso, but still spoke with her loud angry tone "NOW YOU GET YOUR LITTLE FLANK OUT OF EQUESTRIA AND OUT OF MY LIFE YOU LITTLE MISTAKE! NOW I CAN SEE WHY YOUR DADDY DIDN'T WANT YOU, YOU ARE JUST A BLUBBERING BABY, AND YOUR MOMMY'S ACCIDENT WAS YOUR FAULT!"

Toby was unable to speak as he backed away from the six mares, and ran out of the library. As he ran out he found himself back in the same black space he found himself in to begin with. He looked around trembling uncontrollably. As he frantically looked around until he found a warm blue glow which was moving toward him.

He just laid down, and curled up shaking with sobs. "P-p-please d-dont h-hurt m-me." He covered his head with his arms, and clenched eyes shut.

He felt something soft over his back, but was afraid to open his eyes. "THOU YOUNG ONE, I DEMAND YOU OPEN YOUR EYES NOW!" Toby trembled at the voice and looked up to look at the intimidating figure of Princess Luna.

"I am afraid young one, that I have made a mistake. A mistake of bringing you here to Equestria!"

Toby sobbed heavily as he shook his head. "N-no, no, no.." Suddenly he shot up in the big soft bed of Fluttershy's panting heavily. "Diamond Tiara was right, I don't belong here." He thought to himself lowering his head to let his tears fall.

He swallowed deeply, and carefully climbed out of bed. He quietly walked over to the dresser in Fluttershy's room, and gently picked up the picture of him, and her together on the day she adopted him. "I-I am sorry M-Momma that I am a mistake." He hugged the picture close to his chest for a little bit before putting it back down.

He then walked over to the chest in front of her bed, and quietly opened it. He looked for the little royal blue jacket with his mommy's locket sewn into it and put it on. He carefully shut the chest back and then walked to the staircase to very quietly descend it. He quietly walked down into the den to see Fluttershy sleeping peacefully on her red velvet lounge.

He tip-toed toward the door, and turned to see her one last time. "I-I love you M-Momma." He quietly whispered as he sobbed, and opened the door to walk out. He hugged the jacket closely around his small form, and walked down the pathway to the right and headed for the dreaded Everfree Forest.

Author's Note

I hope I didn't go too dark with this chapter.

Chapter Thirteen: Timberwolf Encounter (Edited)

Celestia's sun rose calmly against the crystal clear blue canvas of the morning sky as it radiated a shower of warmth over Equestria. The rays of sunlight glistened through Fluttershy's window upon her bed, but there was no sign of the little colt she called her own. An eerie silence was all that existed within the bedroom, and down in the den unaware of the absence of her precious little one, Fluttershy was tending to her animals.

"Okay my babies, you all eat up, and get your little tummies full. I am going to go see if my precious little Toby is awake yet." She spoke soflty to her animal friends as they all, along with Angel Bunny, chittered, and chirped. She smiled warmly at them all, and turned to the staircase to carefully trot up. She starting humming a happy tune as she ascended the stairs.

"Toby sweetie, it's time to...AAH!" Fluttershy reached the very top of the stairs, and looked over at the bed to find an empty space in the bed, gasping. She galloped over to the bed, and reached for the bedsheets to see if he might be hiding underneath them. "Toby?!" She didn't find him under the bedsheets. "Maybe he is in the bathroom" she thought to herself as she quickly turned, and trotted down to the bathroom. She trotted in to see an empty room.

She trotted into the den, and looked at Angel Bunny eating at his specially made salad. "Angel honey, have you seen Toby this morning?" She looked at him with a look of hope and concern. Angel chittered, and shook his head. "Oh dear. Maybe he..." Her train of thought was interrupted by a knock at the door.

She trotted quickly over to the door and opened it expecting the little colt. "Toby?!" She only found Rainbow Dash. "Oh, Rainbow." She looked at Rainbow with a deep concerned look.

"Heya Flutters, what's happening?" Rainbow asked in her usual cool tone. Yet seeing the look on Fluttershy's face, she became worried.

"Oh, Rainbow I can't find Toby!" She stepped aside to let Rainbow trot in. "He wasn't sleeping in the bed this morning, or in the bathroom. I asked if Angel have seen him, and he says he didn't." Fluttershy was bitting her lower lip, panting heavily.

Rainbow tried to calm her down by gently placing her forehooves on Fluttershy's shoulders. "Okay, first Fluttershy, you need to try to calm down." Fluttershy started to breathe slower. "That's it. Now, maybe the little guy already left for school, and just didn't want to wake you up. How about we go see, okay?"

Fluttershy nodded with a little smile. "Maybe you are right Rainbow." She turned to all of her animal friends, and motioned for Angel to come to her. "Angel honey, Momma's got to go out, and see if I can find Toby, okay?" Angel nodded, and looked up with concern at his caretaker. She gently brought in him in for a hug against her chest, and nuzzled between his ears on the top of his head. "Don't worry baby, Momma will find him." She turned to Rainbow. "Let's go!"

Together they galloped out of the cottage toward the town of Ponyville, to the schoolhouse.

Deep within in the Everfree Forest, although it was just morning the thick woods appeared to darken quickly. Limbs were covered with moss which hung freely down from them, and there were only a few patches of light shining upon the forest floor through small clear spaces above some of the towering trees. At the base of one trees, laid the little colt curled up in a little ball shaking with sobs that barely ceased from the night before.

"Hu..hu.hu..I-I would n-never hurt th-them, I-I love them." He whispered quietly to himself trying to calm his tears. "W-why would th-they want to hurt me for?" He wrapped his arms around himself as he thought "I know it was all a bad dream, but it felt so real. Maybe I really don't belong here, or anywhere. Maybe Diamond Tiara was right." Tears streamed down his face as his body was racked with sobs.

As Toby laid there curled up, he was unaware of the eerie green eyes that were peering at him through the thick brush of the forest.

Fluttershy, and Rainbow arrived at the schoolhouse where Ms. Cheerilee was standing out on front steps welcoming the last couple of her students. She spotted Fluttershy, and Rainbow galloping up to them. "Good morning Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash, how are you girls doing today?"

Fluttershy looked at her with a concerned look. "Um..we are doing good Cheerilee..um..but has Toby come to school yet? I didn't find him sleeping in the bed this morning...and..um..Rainbow thought maybe he came to school already, so not to wake me up." She looked at Ms. Cheerilee with a small hopeful smile.

Ms. Cheerilee shook her head and had a concerned look on her face. "Oh dear, I am sorry Fluttershy, and Rainbow, but I haven't seen Toby this morning." She looked at the two mares worriedly as she looked behind them to see the CMC trotting up the pathway. "Wait, the girls might have seen him. Oh, girls!" She called out to the three fillies.

They galloped up to the three adult mares, and replied in unison. "Yes Ms. Cheerilee?"

Ms. Cheerilee gently asked. "Have you three seen Toby yet this morning? Fluttershy, and Rainbow couldn't find him this morning at Fluttershy's house, and thought maybe he left already to come here."

The three fillies looked at Ms. Cheerilee then at the other two shaking their heads. "No Ma'am." They replied in unison.

Fluttershy gently stepped toward them, and asked softly. "Um..girls..um..did Toby talk to you three about anything about not being a pony?"

"What?!" Rainbow exclaimed as she had a confused look on her face.

Fluttershy turned to Rainbow with a sad smile. "Well..um..last night when I was tucking him into bed..um.." She started to tear up. "He asked me if I loved him, even though he isn't a pony."

Rainbow gently laid a wing over Fluttershy's back to tried comforting her, but asked shocked "Why would he ask something like that for?"

"Diamond Tiara!" The three fillies exclaimed.

Ms Cheerilee looked at the three, and asked. "What girls? What about Diamond Tiara?"

Rainbow, and Fluttershy turned their heads to look at the three fillies.

Applebloom was the one to speak up first. "Well, yesterday when Toby didn't come sit with us during lunch Ms. Cheerilee, we got worried, and went to look for him."

"Then we heard a small voice at the side of the schoolhouse, and we went to go see who it was." Sweetie Belle spoke next. "When we got there, we saw Toby standing there shaking, and Diamond Tiara was in front of him holding up his glasses in her hoof." She lowered her head sadly.

Scootaloo was the last to speak. "We were about to stop her, but Silver Spoon grabbed his glasses, and gave them back to him." Scootaloo sighed deeply. "When they were leaving, Diamond turned around, and called Toby a mistake." She lowered her head.

Fluttershy, and Rainbow looked at each other shocked. Fluttershy gave the three fillies a sad smile.

"Thank you girls." She then looked at Cheerilee.

"If he does show up Cheerilee, please tell him that I am not mad at him, and just to stay here until I come back." Ms. Cheerilee nodded softly.

Ms. Cheerilee smiled softly at the three fillies. "Thank you girls for telling us the truth. I will have a talk with Diamond Tiara. You can go inside now." They nodded, and trotted into the schoolhouse. She turned to Fluttershy, and Rainbow. "Is there anything else I can do to help?" She gave a soft smile

Fluttershy returned the smile. "Thank you Cheerilee, but me, Rainbow, and the others will look for him. Just please tell Toby that I am not mad at him if he shows up" Cheerilee nodded as Rainbow, and Fluttershy turned, and started to gallop off.

"Oh Rainbow, I hope he is okay. My precious little Toby is out there somewhere probably scared, and alone." Fluttershy couldn't hold her tears back as she started to cry.

Rainbow carefully sped up and, stopped in front of her placing her forehooves gently on Fluttershy's shoulders. "Calm down Fluttershy, we will find him." Rainbow thought to herself for a second, and intently looked into Fluttershy's eyes. "You go get the girls and I will meet you all at Twilight's place. I am going to soar the skies see if I can find him." She gently pulled Fluttershy into a soft hug. "Don't worry Flutters, I promise we will find him." She gently pulled away, and gave Fluttershy a reassuring smile.

Fluttershy reached up with a forehoof to wipe at her tears. "Th-thank you Rainbow, I know we will. I will go get the others, and meet you at Twilight's. Just please make sure you, and Toby stay safe, if you find him." She looked into Rainbow's eyes pleadingly.

"You mean when I find him, Fluttershy. I promise I will keep him safe." She turned to look up at the sky, and bent her hind legs, and shot up into the sky. She hovered a bit, and looked down at Fluttershy. "I will be back with Toby, I promise." She flew off.

Fluttershy looked up at Celestia's sun, and whispered softly to herself. "Please stay safe Toby. Momma loves you." She turned to the path ahead and galloped off toward Golden Oaks Library.

As Toby laid curled up at the base of one of the many big looming trees of the Everfree Forest, his stomach started to make a little growl. "Auh..hu.hu.my tummy. I need to try, and find something to eat." He whispered to himself. He carefully yet weakly stood back up on his feet, and legs.

He looked around at the thick brush of the forest. "Maybe I can find some berries like mommy, and I used to do." He thought to himself as he started to walk, his tears finally subsiding as he wiped at his face. He hugged his stomach as he started to growl a little more, and aching.

As he ventured onward into the forest he found some bushes that had some berries on them. There were berries of red, blue, pink, purple, and black. "They look good. Maybe I can eat a couple of them." He thought as he walked up to a bush and picked a red one, and pink one. He popped the red one in first. He started to chew it feeling the sweet juice gush out onto his tongue. "Mm..this one is nice and sweet."

He decided to pop the pink one in next. As he began to chew it he could taste the juice of it, and scrunched his face a little. "Yuk..that one is sour." He thought to himself. He decided to see what the other colored berries tasted like, so he picked them. While he was trying out the other berries he could smell something floating through the thin forest air around him. "Eww..what is that smell?" He said quietly.

A low rumbling growl could be heard from behind him, and he swallowed deeply as his body shook nervously. He quickly panted as he very slowly started to turn around. He came face to face what looked like a pair of legs made out of the limbs of a tree. He swallowed deeply, and trembled as he looked up to a pair of green glowing eyes. He was looking at what appeared to be a wolf made out of wood from the forest.

The timberwolf roared at Toby causing him to fall backwards on his rear dropping the berries. He looked up at the wolf with his eyes wide with fear, and whimpering. He crawled backwards as fast as he could into the bush as the creature slowly stalked towards him. Toby was able to crawl back far enough into the bushes to get hidden enough. He heard the creature stop, and suddenly reach a wooden paw into the bush.

Toby backed away some more as best as he could until he bumped into a tree. He cried as now he was trapped in the bushes up against a big looming tree, and with the wolve's claws just a few inches from him. He brought his legs up to him with his knees against his chest, burying his head in his lap. He sobbed hard as he looked back up at wooden wolf paw, and timidly whispered. "Please someone help me."

Author's Note

I know, I know, I am stopping this chapter with a cliffhanger sort of. Will Rainbow Dash be able to find Toby in time and rescue him from the timberwolf, or will the timberwolf enjoy a little human snack? Stay tuned! Lol..j/k with all the dramatics, I just wanted to try to be like those narrators of shows that leave you with a cliffhanger. Seriously though, going to start working on Chapter Fourteen. :)

Chapter Fourteen: Consoling Toby (Edited)

Rainbow Dash was soaring high among the clouds above Ponyville looking closely for the small child. "Come on little buddy, where are you?" She quietly said to herself. She flew above Ponyville passing by nearing the Everfree Forest. She decided to slowly come to a hover, and slowly descend to the ground. She looked toward the forest with reluctance. "I sure do hope he isn't hurt." She thought to herself as she carefully trotted into the forest.

As she was trotting deeper into the forest she saw it was getting darker by the minute. With each hoofstep she got nervous. "Please be here Toby." She quietly whispered as she trotted on.

Suddenly in front of her she saw a timberwolf, but it didn't see her. Instead it was busy trying to get something in a bush. She slowly turned to trot away until she heard a small cry. "P-please s-someone help!" She gasped knowing that it was Toby's small voice.

She turned around abruptly, and bent her hindlegs. She stretched out her forelegs, and lowered her head with a scowl of anger on her face. She eyed the timberwolf with all nervousness thrown out the window. "Hey you!" The Timberwolf blinked it's glowing green eyes, and turned it's head. "Yea you, you useless toothpick! Leave that colt alone!" The wolf roared loudly, and charged at her. She smirked, and blasted off into the sky. "Follow me you pile of firewood!" She flew straight ahead causing the wolf to turn, and chase after her.

She flew ahead until she found a cliff to land on. She hovered slowly descended onto the top of the cliff. She looked around, and found a big boulder. "Hmm..that should put that timberwolf out of his misery." She flew to the boulder, and got behind it. "Alright Dash, put all your strength into it." She stood up on her hindlegs, and turned to face her back, and wings toward the boulder. She dug the heels of her hindhooves into the ground, and started pushing the boulder to the edge.

She slowly walked to the side of the boulder to look over the cliff's edge to see if the timberwolf was far behind. She looked down to see it right on the spot where she wanted to drop the boulder. "See you later Woody!" She got back behind the boulder and pushed it with all her might. It slowly slid off the cliff crashing down ontop of the timberwolf shattering it into small sticks, and twigs. Rainbow hovered above the cliff, and looked down at her work. "Gotcha!" She hovered down to the forest floor, and trotted back into the woods to find Toby.

Toby swallowed deeply, and very carefully got on his hands and knees to crawl out of the bush he was hiding in. As he crawled out he carefully stood up still shaking with fear. He looked up to see the patches of sunlight fading. "It sure is scary in these woods." He just stood there hugging himself tightly trembling without knowing where to go.

He could faintly hear something moving towards him, and slowly turned toward the direction of the sound. He looked to see the cyan pegasus lightly galloping toward him. He turned to run, but tripped over a root of the tree. He fell to the ground with a soft thud as he turned to see Rainbow just a few inches away. He looked up at her trembling and covered himself with his arms, and hands.

"P-please R-Rainbow D-Dash. D-don't hurt me, p-please." He begged with a whimper. He couldn't help, but remember the bad dream he had.

Rainbow frowned down at the frightened little colt, and gently trotted to his side. "Shh..it is okay little buddy. I'm not going to hurt you." She gently sat down on her haunches, and reached a forehoof to rub at his back to try, and comfort him. "Shh...come here kid, let me take you to Twilight's."

Toby just shook with sobs as Rainbow carefully got up and trotted around to Toby's back as he laid curled still covering himself with is arms, and hands. Uncharacteristically, she very carefully place her forelegs underneath his small trembling frame, and cradled him to her chest as she hovered in the air. She gently leaned her head down to nuzzle at his cheek.

Toby opened his eyes with tears streaming down his cheek which caused Rainbow Dash to frown. "P-p-please Rainbow. D-don't tell R-Rarity that I-I got my outfit dirty." He turned his head, and buried it into Rainbow's chest fur.

She couldn't help, but tear up herself, although she hated to show her sensitive side when she looked down at the poor child. "Shh..just try to close your eyes, and rest, okay buddy? We will be at Twilight's soon." With that she looked for a patch in the top of the trees, and flew up through it. She kept the little colt cradled to her chest as she flew toward the library.

Rainbow Dash arrived at the library as Luna's moon started to rise against the dark blue canvas above, and hovered above the door knocking on it with a hindhoof with Toby cradled in her forelegs. The door opened to reveal Twilight, and Rainbow carefully hovered inside. "Hey girls, I found him in the Everfree Forest being cornered by a timberwolf." She carefully hovered over to the group who were all sitting in a circle. Rainbow carefully lowered Toby onto one extra pillow. "I got rid of it though before it could get him.

Fluttershy frowned as she saw him shaking, and could hear faint little sobs. "Oh, my precious little one." She carefully stood up, and trotted close to him nuzzling at him. "Momma's here baby, please don't cry." She laid down beside him, and laid a wing over him to try to keep him warm. She looked up at Rainbow with a soft smile. "Thank you so much Rainbow for finding him, and saving him." Rainbow just nodded, and smiled softly.

The others looked at the little colt with concerned as Rainbow laid down on the other pillow provided by Applejack. She turned to Rarity. "Rarity..uh..he begged me not to tell you that he got his outfit dirty."

Rarity looked at Rainbow with tears in her eyes then back at the little colt under Fluttershy's wing. She carefully got up, and trotted over to the other side of Toby, and laid down with her legs tucked under her. She gently lowered her head next to his, and softly whispered. "Shh..Toby darling, don't be afraid of getting your outfit dirty. I am not mad at you at all precious. I can get it washed up without any trouble. Please little one, don't cry, your Auntie Rarity is here." She gave him a light kiss on his cheek.

Rainbow looked around the library to notice that Princess Luna. "Ohmigosh, Princess Luna. I didn't even see you, I am so sorry." She stood up, and bowed.

Princess Luna shook her head softly, and gently raised a forehoof. "No need to apologize at all my friend Rainbow Dash. I am here, because my fellow princess, and friend Twilight Sparkle, wrote my sister a letter about young Toby being gone." She frowned a bit, and lowered her head. "I volunteered to come while I watched after the castle, because last night Toby had a nightmare which caused him to run away. However, I was unable to enter into his dreams in time. For some reason I couldn't sense his mind's thoughts right then."

Twilight gently spoke up. "Don't blame yourself Luna, no one could have known he was having a nightmare." She gave Luna a soft reassuring smile, and then looked down at the poor little colt.

Princess Luna nodded lightly, and gently spoke to everypony. "My friends, I think we should go into Toby's mind again to see what would cause him to run away like he did."

Fluttershy looked up at the others then at Luna. "Um..you mean back into his memories Princess Luna?"

Luna nodded. "Yes my kind Fluttershy. I promise it will be as calm as the last time we went, and it would cause him no pain." Fluttershy nodded. "Alright my friends, I need to you all to stand in a circle around him."

They all nodded as Fluttershy, and Rarity carefully stood up so not to disturb the small child. Applejack gently covered him with a blanket to keep him warm. The rest stood around Toby as Luna stood at his feet.

"Alright, like we did last time, just close your eyes, and relax." Luna spoke softly as she closed her eyes with everypony else. Her horn lit up and the usual warm light blue glow surrounded them. "Prepare yourselves, my friends, here we go."

*After several minutes*

Toby started to stir, and slowly opened his eyes. As he did he looked up to see everypony looking down at him with worried looks. Remembering back his bad dream he eeped, and crawled backwards up against the bottom of a bookshelf. He looked up at all of them, and started trembling.

"P-p-please, I-I promise I-I will be a good human. P-p-please just don't hurt me." He started tearing up once again, and covered his head with his arms, and hands.

They all looked at him worriedly as Luna was the first one to carefully trot up to him. She gently laid a wing over his shaking form, and carefully brought him close to her forelegs. "Toby dear, please don't be afraid. It was all just a bad dream." She frowned as Toby kept his head hidden within his arms, and hands. She lowered her head, and very gently nuzzled the top of his. "Shhh..it is okay young Toby. Please little one, look up at me." She spoke with the softest of voices.

He carefully lowered his arms, and hands uncovering his head. He looked up at Luna with tears in his eyes. "I-I-I would n-never h-hurt an animal, nor p-pony P-Princess L-Luna. I-I love animals." He couldn't help but stand up shaking on his legs, and wrapped his arms around Luna's neck crying into her chest fur.

Luna reached up a foreleg, and gently rubbed at Toby's back softly with a forehoof, and lowered her head to gently nuzzle into his hair. "Shh...dear one, it is okay. You are nothing at all like those humans that the dream version of my friends told you about."

Applejack carefully trotted up. "Princess Luna, may Ah'?" Luna nodded, and gently let go of Toby with her forehoof, and lifted her wing off him. "Come here to Auntie Applejack, sugarcube." She lifted a foreleg up to motion him over for a hug.

He reached up with an arm of his own to wipe at his eyes. "O-Oh A-Auntie Applejack, I-I am so s-sorry that I dreamt of you doing that to me." He walked up to her, and hugged her gently around her neck releasing light sobs into her chest fur.

She gently hugged him back, and rubbed at his back with her forehoof. "Shh..now now sugarcube, there ain't no reason for ya to apologize. Ya just had a bad dream, that is all." She gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head as he shook with sobs. "That is right sweetheart, just let it out. It isn't good to keep all that emotion held in." She rubbed and patted at his back.

Pinkie was the next one to step up. "My turn, my turn!" She said a little excitedly.

Toby gently broke his hug from Applejack as she smiled down at him. Toby giggled a little at Pinkie's excitement as he wiped at his tears again.

Pinkie smiled brightly at the little colt as she sat on her haunches. "Come here you little wittle cutie!" She gently swept him up in her forelegs, and gave him a big warm hug as he wrapped his arms around her neck laying his head against her chest this time. "That dream Pinkie was being a real mean meanie pants to you! I would never want to shoot such a little wittle sweetie like you out of my party cannon! I love you calling me Auntie Pinkie, so don't ever be afraid to call me that, okie dokie lokie?" She nuzzled at the top of his head gently.

"Okay, okay come here you little rascal. Before I get too sappy." Rainbow Dash waved him over with a foreleg as Pinkie set him down. He walked up to Rainbow, and wrapped his arms around her neck, laying his head against her chest. "I am sorry little buddy for the dream version of me kicking you like she did, and calling you a weakling." She gently pulled him away, and looked down into his eyes. "You are stronger than anypony I know, because you have a big heart." She smiled, and gently rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof.

Twilight was next to step forward. "Come here sweetheart, I want to show you some real magic." Toby gently nodded as his tears was finally starting to calm down. Twilight lit her horn up surrounding Toby with the same purple aura like the dream Twilight, but this was much more gentle as she brought him forward to her, and wrapped her forelegs, and wings around him gently. He laid his head against her chest fur. She laid her head on top of his and nuzzled. "We all love you Toby, and we would never dream of hurting you like that in your dream. Don't ever apologize for dreaming of us doing something that to you, it was all just a bad dream." She kissed the top of his head.

She gently released her hug and Rarity was next. "Come here precious, it is Auntie Rarity's turn." He smiled softly as he walked up to her, and she placed her foreleg over his shoulder, and gently pulled him against her warm chest as he gently hugged her around her neck. "Darling, that dream Rarity was no such lady at all. She was as much of a brute as I ever saw one. I would never, ever think about using your furless body or your mane for clothing. That is simply barbaric." She kissed the top of his head. "But don't you ever blame yourself for the bad dreams you have, okay precious?"

He looked up at her, and smiled softly. "O-okay Auntie Rarity, I-I love you."

She smiled, and patted at his back gently. "Auntie Rarity loves you too darling!"

Fluttershy timidly stood behind Rarity as Toby looked up after gently releasing his hug from her, and ran towards Fluttershy crashing into her, but not knocking her down and wrapped his arms around her neck. "O-oh M-Momma, can you forgive me for dreaming that you would hurt me like that? I should have never thought that any of you would hurt me." He sobbed some again into Flutterhy's chest fur.

She reached up, and wrapped a foreleg around him gently nuzzling the top of his head. "Shh..my precious little one..shh..Momma loves you, and always will. Of course sweetie, I forgive you, you done nothing wrong, but have a bad dream, that is all." She gently pulled him away just for a second, and looked into his eyes. "I will always love you Toby, even if you are not a pony, I promise." She hugged him warmly.

Luna smiled warmly at all the ponies showing their love for the little colt as she stood in the background. She slowly trotted up as Flutttershy was hugging Toby, and gently spoke. "Now dear Toby, there is something we would like to tell you, but please don't think we are mad at you, okay little one?"

Fluttershy gently released Toby to speak first choking back a couple sobs. She blinked her eyes to subdue her tears as she looked down into his. "Toby sweetie, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle told us about yesterday at school." He looked up at her, and around at the others with a little bit of fear. Fluttershy shook her head softly. "Shh..don't be scared Toby, we aren't mad at you. They told us about how the little filly Diamond Tiara was being mean toward you."

Toby nodded lightly. Fluttershy smiled warmly. "Sweetie, is what Diamond Tiara said to you the reason you asked me last night if I loved you? Even though you aren't a pony?" He replied with a sad nod, and lowered his head.

The others looked at Fluttershy with a shocked look, except for Rainbow Dash.

Applejack spoke up gently. "Sugarcube, ya shouldn't let words like what that little filly says get to you." She smiled softly at him, and rubbed at the side of his arm with a forehoof. "Next time she or anypony says something like that to you sweetheart, ya come to either one of us, and we will be there to listen. Okay little feller?"

He nodded softly. "O-okay Auntie Applejack."

Rarity reached over with a forehoof, and rubbed at his other arm gently. "Yes darling, we are always here for you if you want to talk. Like I told you the day we were out on the balcony of Canterlot Castle, you inspired me with my new line of fashion I have decided to start." She smiled warmly at him, and gently asked. "Would you like for me to take your outfit to the boutique to get washed precious?"

He smiled softly, and nodded. "Y-yes please Auntie Rarity." He carefully unzipped the jacket, and took it off. Rarity gently lit her horn up, and levitated it over to her side.

They all gave a little yawn along with Toby. Fluttershy smiled, and let out a little giggle. "Is some special little colt sleepy?" She kissed the top of his head.

He looked up, and nodded. "Y-yes Momma. I am sleepy." He reached up with a small hand, and rubbed at his eyes.

Fluttershy gently motioned for him to climb up on her back if he wanted, and he obliged. He looked at the others. "G-goodnight Auntie Applejack, Auntie Rarity, Auntie Pinkie, Auntie Rainbow, Auntie Twilight, and Auntie Luna! I love you all!"

"We all love you Toby! Goodnight sweetheart!" They all said in unison, even Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy smiled warmly at all of her friends. "Goodnight girls. We will see you tomorrow." She waved a wing lightly, and trotted out of the library.

After returning home from a long day Fluttershy was tucking Toby into her big warm soft bed. "Toby sweetie, would you like for me to sing you a lullabye I have been thinking of for you."

He smiled up warmly into her sky blue eyes, and nodded. "Y-yes Momma, I would like that!" He comfortably curled up underneath the covers on his side, and laid his head on the soft white pillow.

"Okay my precious little one. I came up with this just for you. Just know Toby that I will always love you, and it doesn't matter if you are a pony or not, because you are my son." She leaned her head toward him, and kissed him gently on the cheek. She took a slow deep breath, and began singing with the softest of voices.

"No more tears be shed
No more broken hearts
I'll always be there to tuck you into bed
And pick up all the parts
I'll make the days not seem so blue
By always being there for you
On your brightest days, and darkest nights
I'll hold you close, and take away your frights
I wouldn't know what to do
If I wasn't there to care for you
It doesn't matter if we're the same or not
You're the wish I've always sought
I'll always be there within your sight
And I'll love you for the rest of my life
Whether you're awake or resting your head
I'll always say what needs to be said
Now rest while I wipe away your tears
And imagine how we'll be in many years
As I put the pieces back in place
And tie them together with a golden lace
Until the sun breaks through with its golden light
I'll always hold you ever so tight..."

She smiled warmly as the little colt slept peacefully. She gave him one more gentle kiss on his cheek. "Goodnight my sweet little Toby. Momma loves you!" She carefully turned, and quietly trotted downstairs.

Luna's moon shined beautifully in the night sky, and glistened a warm glow through Fluttershy's window comforting the small child as he slept.

Author's Note

First, I want to apologize for not getting this chapter posted as soon as I planned to earlier today. Next, I would like to first thank you all for your continuous support for this story, which is my very first fimfic. I truly appreciate all of your comments, criticism, etc. I am simply astounded by the many likes and favorites that this story has earned, and it touches me deeply to know that I am able to really pull you all into my writing. So thank you all once again.

One person I would like to give credit to is CJY101 who shared with me the lullabye/poem at the end of this chapter. I thank him for allowing me the chance to use it in my story and it is very beautiful.

Next person is Mr101 who gave me the advice of going with the verbal abuse or less torturing method in Chapter Twelve. I wanted to go dark with it, but thanks to Mr101, I didn't go too dark, at least I hope not.

Lastly, I want to give credit to all who have given me great advice throught this story so far. Thank you all so much again. Next chapter should be up I hope either by tomorrow, or tomorrow evening. :)

Chapter Fifteen: A Story of Fear & Destiny (Edited)

Chapter Fifteen: A Story of Fear & Destiny (Edited)

Clouds of light grey filled the ocean blue sky of Equestria as rays of light from Celestia's sun poked through. The Pegasi of Cloudsdale carefully organized the clouds all over the land for it to be nourished by refreshing rain. The gardens of Ponyville were being fed to let the flowers, vegetables, and plants to grow.

Fluttershy made sure to bring all her outside critters inside, so they won't get wet. The rain was coming down in a steady flow as it watered the bushes outside her cottage. She smiled warmly at all her animal friends who were enjoying their breakfast. "Okay my little ones, you all eat, and enjoy." She then turned to trot up the stairs to go wake her little colt up.

Her heart melted when she saw the small child sleeping peacefully as she reached the top of the stairs. She carefully trotted over to the bed, and leaned her head over to give him a soft kiss on the cheek. "Toby sweetie, it is time to wake up my precious litte one." She reached over to the table by her bed, and carefully picked his glasses up by a handle with her teeth.

He reached up from underneath the covers, and rubbed at his eyes with his hands. He smiled brightly at her as he reached for his glasses, and carefully placed them on. "G-good morning Momma!" He said happily as he climbed out of the bed and hugged her around her neck laying his head against her chest fur.

She smiled warmly, and reached up with a foreleg to hug him back nuzzling at the top of his head, and softly asked. "How did you sleep last night sweetie? Did you have any more bad dreams?"

He looked up at her with a soft smile and, shook his head. "N-no Momma. I had a good rest last night. Thank you for singing to me. That made me feel better."

She squealed, and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead. "You are very welcome sweetie, but you don't have to thank me Toby. I am always happy to sing for you whenever you want me to, okay?"

He nodded up at her softly. "O-okay Momma. I love you!" He gently hugged her again around her neck warmly.

She kissed the top of his head. "Momma loves you too my precious little one!" They gently broke their embrace, and she looked down into his eyes. "Are you hungry sweetie? I will make you some of the oatmeal you like before you go to school."

He smiled a little bit reluctantly. "Y-yes Momma, I am hungry, but I don't know if I want to go back to school. I-I am afraid D-Diamond Tiara might try to be mean to me again." He lowered his head.

Fluttershy frowned down at the little colt, and lowered her head to gently nuzzle at his cheek gently. "Oh, sweetie please don't be upset." She gently lifted his head up with a forehoof. "Listen my precious little Toby, I know what it is like to be treated meanly by other ponies." She started to tear up a little.

He looked up snifflling. "Y-you do Momma? Why would somebody be mean to you though? You are very pretty, and very caring." He smiled softly up at her.

"Thank you sweetie." She closed her eyes a bit to subdue her tears, so he won't get too upset. She opened them again, and sighed deeply. "When I was a filly Toby, the other colts, and fillies used to tease, and laugh at me, because I was afraid of flying at first."

He looked up at her a little frown. "Y-you were scared Momma?"

She nodded as she rubbed at his back gently with a forehoof. "Yes I was. It was the fear of being up, so high that got to me. That fear also caused me to become the shy, and timid pegasus I am today." She closed her eyes a little again to stop them from tearing up. "One day I was being teased two male Pegasi."

He hugged her warmly around her neck. "O-oh, I am sorry Momma."

She rubbed at his back, and kissed the top of his head. "Shh..it is okay Toby, because when they were teasing me, Rainbow Dash stood up to them, and told them to stop."

He tilted his head up, and smiled softly. "A-Auntie Rainbow helped you?"

She nodded, and smiled warmly down at him. "Yes she did. She challenged the two colts to a race to get them to stop picking on me." She sighed deeply. "Well, I held up the flag to start the race. As soon as they started, they zoomed past me making me fall off the cloud I was standing on. "He looked up with concern.

"When I was falling to the ground I was too scared to use my wings, so I closed my eyes afraid of hitting the ground. Well, I landed on something soft that felt like a bed of feathers. When I opened my eyes, I found myself floating on a bed of butterflies that caught me." She sighed softly.

Toby smiled up softly. "W-well, that is good. I wouldn't want you to get hurt Momma."

She smiled warmly, and patted gently at his back. "Thank you my precious little one." She sighed deeply and continued. "Well, when the butterflies let me climb off them there were critters of the forest who started to come out, and approach me. They filled my heart with joy that I started to sing."

Toby smiled up happily. "O-oh, I know they enjoyed your singing Momma as much as I enjoy it!"

Fluttershy blushed with a soft smile. "Yes they did, but..um..while I was singing I heard a loud boom coming from high above, and it scared all of the animals into hiding."

He looked up, and gently asked "Wh-what was the loud boom Momma?"

She smiled warmly at him. "Well, do you remember the celebration we had for you at Canterlot Castle?" He nodded as he looked up curiously. "Well, the Sonic Rainboom that your Auntie Rainbow performed was that loud boom she created when we were fillies."

He smiled brightly. "O-oh, that is neat Momma. You and Auntie Rainbow knew each other since you were my age." He giggled lightly.

Fluttershy giggled lightly in return, and nuzzled at his nose. "Yes we did sweetie." She sighed deeply. "As the Sonic Rainboom was over with, that fear I once had disappeared as I went each of the animals hiding in their homes, and told that them it was all over, and everything will be okay." She smiled down at the little colt, and gave him a kiss on the forehead. "In that moment, I discovered that my destiny was to help take care of all the living creatures of Equestria both big and small. That is the moment I received my cutie mark." She gently motioned with her head toward her flank for him to see.

She gently placed a forehoof on his shoulder, and looked down into his eyes. "You see Toby, although I was afraid of flying when I was a filly, that fear helped me chase away the fears of all the animals and helped me become the Pegasus I am today." She smiled at him warmly, and nuzzled at the top of his head. "I took that fear which was bad, and turned it into something good. I used it to start taking care of all my animal friends, and it helped me make friends with everypony here in Ponyville. Do you understand sweetie?"

He nodded softly. "I-I think so Momma. I was afraid of being hurt by my daddy again, and that was real bad. It was also good though, because I met you, and my new family." He smiled up happily.

She kissed the top of his head gently, and nodded. "That is right my precious little one." She sighed deeply, and looked back into his eyes. "Now I know you might be afraid of Diamond Tiara being mean to you again, and saying mean things to you, but you have to try, and not let them words get to you, okay sweetie?"

"O-okay Momma, I will try." He gave her a warm hug around her neck laying his head against her chest fur.

She wrapped a foreleg around his small form, and rubbed comfortably at his back. "That is my brave little colt." She gently pulled him away, and smiled down at him. "Now how about I go fix you some breakfast, and you get ready for school. Okay my precious little Toby?"

"O-okay Momma." He smiled up at her warmly as she turn to trot downstairs, and he went to go get his outfit out for the day. He thought to himself. "Diamond Tiara, I won't let you be mean to me today. I will be brave for me, my Momma, and my Mommy." As he started to get dressed.

Author's Note

I apologize for another cliffhanger, but I wanted to let Fluttershy talk to Toby about being brave and not being afraid of others teasing him, because she was teased when she was a filly. :)

Chapter Sixteen: Confrontation with Diamond Tiara (Edited)

Celestia's sun began to shine brightly as the clouds started to disappear for it was only a morning shower. Fluttershy smiled warmly as she was preparing fresh oatmeal for her colt. Toby came walking downstairs carefully dressed in his outfit of chocolate brown jogging pants, the forest green, cardinal red, and deep orange plaid shirt with a matching chocolate brown light jacket.

He waved at all of the critters enjoying their breakfasts. "H-hi everyone." They chittered, and chirped happily waving to him with their paws, and talongs. Angel hopped up to the little colt. "H-hi Angel, how are you doing today?" Angel chittered as Toby gently rubbed the top of his head between his ears. Angel churred happily, and thumped his foot against the wooden floor.

Fluttershy trotted into the den from the kitchen with a warm smile on her face as she watched the two. She was carrying the bowl of warm oatmeal on her back. She trotted over to him as he was sitting down on the rug with the animals around him. She laid down on her legs tucking them underneath her. "Here you go Toby sweetie. It is still very warm, so be careful not to burn your mouth, okay my precious little one?"

He carefully reached up, and gently took it off her back. "Th-thank you Momma." He scooped some oatmeal into the spoon in the bowl, and took a bite smiling warmly as he could taste the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of milk and honey.

Fluttershy smiled at her little colt, and gently lowered her head to nuzzle at his cheek. "You are welcome sweetie. I also fixed you a nice salad for lunch today." She smiled warmly at him as a knock at her door could be heard. "Oh..um..come in."

The door opened and trotting in in unison was the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "Hey Fluttershy, hey Toby!" They all said in unison.

"Um..hi girls..what are you doing here this morning? Shouldn't you three be on your way to school?" Fluttershy asked softly.

"Yah, but we thought Toby would like to walk with us, if that is ah'right with him." Applebloom smiled at Toby softly as he was eating at his oatmeal, but smiled warmly back at her, and the other two fillies.

Fluttershy smiled warmly at the three fillies, and gently turned to look at the small child as he was just finishing his oatmeal. "Well, Toby sweetie, will you like to walk to school with the girls this morning? I am okay with whatever you want to do, okay my precious little one."

He wiped at his mouth with a napkin that Fluttershy provided with his bowl of oatmeal, and smiled softly up at her. "I-I would like that Momma." He carefully stood up and wrapped his arms around her neck, and laid his head against her chest fur. "I love you Momma!"

She smiled warmly, and wrapped a foreleg around him rubbing gently along his back, and giving him a tender kiss on the top of his head. "Momma loves you too sweetie. Now you be good, and I will see you after school, okay?"

He nodded, and smiled up at her softly. "O-okay Momma." The gently broke their embrace.

Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle smiled at the sight of mother and colt, and d'awwed with the exception of Scootaloo. "Guh..a little too sappy if you ask me." She said in a low whisper as Applebloom, and Sweetie ignored her, and gave her a group hug. Scootaloo just sighed tiredly. "Okay, okay, that is enough."

They both giggled, and released the hug.

Toby walked over to them as Fluttershy gently asked. "Um..girls..um..how did you get here?"

"We came in our wagon, and Scootaloo's scooter." Applebloom spoke up.

"Yea, don't worry though Fluttershy, I will be careful so not to scare Toby." Scootaloo smiled, and patted gently at Toby's shoulder.

Fluttershy quickly trotted into the kitchen, and grabbed Toby's salad carefully placed in a paper bag, and trotted back into the den with it in her teeth. She trotted up to her colt, and gave it to him. "Have a good day at school sweetie."

He smiled at her, and waved. "B-bye Momma, I love you!" As he turned to the fillies, and they started walking out the door.

Fluttershy followed behind them. "I love you too Toby sweetie." She watched Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, and Toby climb into the wagon with Toby sitting between the two fillies who sat on their haunches, and each gently laid a forehoof on his shoulders. She looked at Scootaloo putting her helmet on, and stepping onto her scooter. "Um..please do be careful Scootaloo."

"Don't worry Fluttershy, careful is my middle name." Scootaloo responded proudly as she kicked at the ground with a hindhoof, and flapped her wings, using them as a propellor, and started to roll down the dirt path toward Ponyville.

Fluttershy just looked own "Oh...my." As she watched to make sure nothing bad happened before trotting back into her cottage. "I sure do hope Toby will be okay today, and not let that filly Diamond Tiara hurt him again." She thought to herself.

During their way to the school the wagon was bumpy along the road, but Toby smiled happily. "Hehe..th-this is fun." He said excitedly.

"I knew you would like it kid." Scootaloo smiled back, and turned to the path in front of her.

"Toby, are ya ah'right?" Applebloom gently rubbed at his shoulder she had her forehoof on. "Applejack told me ya ran away, because of what Diamond Tiara said to ya the other day." She looked into his eyes with a soft smile.

"Yes Toby, we were worried about you. " Sweetie Belle rubbed at the other shoulder, and nuzzled gently at his cheek reassuringly. "Don't worry, Ms. Cheerilee talked to Diamond Tiara yesterday when you weren't at school. She gave her detention for the week, and decided to not let her participate in the talent show Saturday." She gave him a soft smile.

Toby returned the smile, but frowned a little. "I-Is Ms. Cheerilee mad at me for not coming to school yesterday?" He looked back, and forth at the two fillies as Scootaloo paid attention to the path ahead. They were nearing the schoolhouse.

Applebloom gently rubbed at his shoulder, and patted him on his back. "Ah' think ya should talk to Ms. Cheerilee about that Toby. She sure was worried about ya yesterday when Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash told her they couldn't find ya." She gave him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry though, Ah' am sure she isn't mad at you."

The four arrived at the schoolhouse as Scootaloo parked her scooter, and the wagon behind one of the few big trees outside. She stepped off it, and placed her helment on the handlebars.

Applebloom climbed off the wagon first, and offered a forehoof for Toby to gently grab, and helped him off next. "Th-thank you Applebloom." Speaking politely.

"Ya are very welcome Toby." She smiled softly at the little colt as Sweetie Belle followed behind.

Together the four walked toward the schoolhouse as Toby took a deep breath.

Scootaloo took notice, and patted at his shoulder gently. "Don't worry buddy, we won't let that little snooty tooty Diamond Tiara mess with you." She gave him a reassuring smile.

He smiled softly in return.

Ms. Cheerilee was standing on the school steps greeting the colts, and filles who were arriving at school. She looked to see the three fillies, and colt coming up the walkway. "Well, hello girls." She turned to look at Toby, and smiled softly at him. "Well, hello there Toby dear. How you doing today?" She asked kindly.

He looked up at her with a soft smile, and nodded. "G-Good, Ms.Cheerilee. Th-thank you. I-I am sorry for running away yesterday, and not coming to school." He lowered his head with a frown.

She very gently placed a forehoof under his chin, and lifted his head up to look at her. "I am just happy that you are safe dear. If it is okay with you though, I would like to talk to you after school, okay Toby?"

He smiled a little bit, and nodded* "Y-yes Ms.Cheerilee." The three fillies smiled softly at him as they stood behind him to trot into school with him.

"Okay dear. Now you four go in and sit at your desks I will be in just a minute to begin class." They all smiled, and walked in as the three fillies kept close to Toby.

As they walked into the classroom Toby looked up to see all the other colts, and fillies smile softly at him and wave. However, as he looked in the back a chill ran down his spine as he looked a scowl of anger on the face of Diamond Tiara. He swallowed deeply, and thought to himself. "Come on, I have to be brave. I have to be brave for my Momma, and Mommy." As he carefully walked to his desk on the far right side of the room, and between Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo with Applebloom sitting on his right.

Diamond Tiara looked at the colt with anger, and disgust. "That little brat cost me my spot in the talent show this Saturday, and got me a week of detention. Oh, he is going to get it after school today." She quietly said to herself.

Silver Spoon could hear her friend faintly, and looked over at her. She looked at her eyes focused on somepony, and looked carefully in the direction of her sight to see she was staring at the little colt up toward the front. She looked in concerned, and turn back toward Diamond Tiara.

"Diamond." She whispered lightly over to her. "Just leave the poor little colt alone. You saw how scared he was the last time you talked with him. He ran away, because he was hurt from the stuff you said to him." She frowned a little at Diamond.

Diamond huffed "Ha..he didn't run away far or stay gone long enough." Silver Spoon gasped quietly, and just lowered her head shaking it.

The class went by regulary while Toby was paying attention intently to Ms. Cheerilee teaching the day's lesson. Yet he still had that feeling of nervousness in his mind as he could feel in a way that Diamond Tiara kept on looking at him with a look of pure anger.

The bell rang for lunch, and recess to began. "Alright kids, you all have a good lunch and have fun." The colts, and fillies galloped outside as Toby walked out with the CMC, and Diamond Tiara along with Silver was the last two to leave the classroom.

Toby and the three fillies found a small wooden table to sit at with Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle sitting on one side with Applebloom, and Toby sitting across from them.

"So girls, what have ya'll decided to do for the talent show Saturday?" Applebloom asked as she was munching on a daisy saindwich.

"Well, I think I am going to sing! I have been practicing a new song for the last few days. I can't wait for you to hear it!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed with a beaming smile as she was eating at a daisy sandwich as well, and some hay fries.

"I am going to do some stunts on my scooter. I am going to set up a pair of boards up and put on an awesome show! I will be like Rainbow Dash!" Scootalo smirked, and gave a salute as she was also eating a daisy sandwich. The other two fillies, and Toby giggled lightly.

"Ah' think I might do some juggling with some apples. That delicious fruit can be used for more than just eating Ah'm sure of it." Applebloom smiled brightly.

Toby sat quietly as he was eating his salad. The three looked at him curiously as Sweetie Belle gently asked. "What are you planning to do for the talent show Toby? I bet is going to be real neat!" She gave him a beaming, and reassuring smile.

"Yah, Ah' bet it will be great Toby." Applebloom said as she reached her forehoof over, and rubbed at his back gently.

"Yea buddy, I know it will be awesome!" Scootaloo said with a bright smile and flap of her wings.

Toby smiled a little, but lowered his head. "I-I think I will just watch. I-I don't have a special talent." He frowned a little as the three looked at him with frowns of their own.

"Aw..don't think like that Toby. Ah' bet ya have one. Ya just need time to find it." Applebloom gave him a soft, and reassuring smile.

"Yea kid, we don't have our cutie marks yet, and cutie marks help you discover what your special talent is. Don't worry buddy, you will find your special talent." Scootaloo smiled softly at him, and her and the other two nodded reassuringly.

"Th-thank you Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle for being nice to me. I-I don't know though. I hope I will find out what my special talent is." He gave a small smile as the three looked at him with cocerned looks on their faces.

The bell to end lunch, and recess rang just as the four finished off their meals. "Well, let's get back to class ya'll." Applebloom said with a sigh as the four got up from the table, and walked back toward the schoolhouse.

The rest of class went by smoothly as the final bell rang for school to end. "Have a good day kids, and remember tomorrow we will get stuff ready for the talent show Saturday."

"Yes Ms. Cheerilee." The class said in unison as the started to leave one by one.

"We will wait outside for you Toby, ah'right?" Applebloom smiled softly at the little colt as her, and the other two fillies trotted outside.

Toby sat nervously a little in his desk as he looked up at Ms. Cheerilee as she trotted up to him. He twiddled at his fingers with his head lowered.

Ms. Cheerilee frowned down at the small child. "Toby dear, please don't be upset, I am not mad at you." She very gently reached under his chin to lift his head up.

Toby swallowed deeply and looked up into her eyes. "I-I am sorry M-Ms. Cheerilee."

She shook her head softly. "Oh, no, no, no, you don't have anything to apologize for dear." She gave him a soft smile. "Next time if Diamond Tiara or anypony says something mean to you, you can always come talk to me, and I have a talk with them, okay?"

He nodded up and gave a little smile in return. "Y-yes Ms. Cheerilee. I-I will come to you next time, I promise."

She smiled down at him, and gently patted him on the shoulder. "Good. Now, how would you like to help the class with preparing for the talent show?" She asked gently.

He looked up with a soft smile. "I-I would like that Ms. Cheerilee. Th-thank you."

"You are very welcome dear. Now you have a nice day and I will see you tomorrow." She waved a forehoof at him as he started to walk toward the doors.

He turned around and gently spoke. "M.Ms. Cheerilee, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo told me that you took Diamond Tiara out of the talent show Saturday, because she was being mean to me. I-Is that true?"

Ms. Cheerilee carefully trotted up to him, and looked down into his eyes as he looked up at her. "Yes I did dear. Why do you ask?" She looked down at him with a little worry.

"W-well, if it is okay with you Ms.Cheerilee could you let her perform in the talent show? I-I don't want her to be mad at me, because it is my fault she is out of it. I-I can understand the week of detention, but don't let her miss the talent show." He looked up at her with pleading eyes.

She sighed deeply. "Are you sure about this dear? I don't.." She was gently cut off.

"Y-yes Ms. Cheerilee, I am sure. P-please just don't tell Diamond Tiara I told you this." He swallowed deeply.

"Alright dear, I will let her know tomorrow that she is back in the talent show." She smiled down at the little colt, and gently rubbed at his shoulder. "You have a big heart Toby, you know that, don't you?"

He nodded softly, and blushed a little. "Y-yes Ms. Cheerilee. Th-thank you, and I will help tomorrow with getting the stuff ready for the talent show." He said softly as he waved at her, and walked to the doors to leave the schoolhouse.

"He is such a sweet little colt." Ms. Cheerilee thought to herself as she went back to her desk.

Toby walked out of the schoolhouse to see the CMC waiting on him with Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom sitting in the wagon, and Scootaloo leaning up against her scooter with a smirk. However, he didn't notice Diamond Tiara coming from out of the side of the school house, and nudged him hard to cause him to fall to the ground with a whimper.

The three fillies immediately galloped over to the fallen colt, and gently helped him up. "Are ya al'right Toby?" Applebloom gently asked as she gently helped brush the dirt off his clothes.

Scootaloo looked worriedly at the child then eyed Diamond. "What is the big idea Diamond Tiara? Toby never done anything to you, and you are treating him , so rudely." She helped dust off the back of Toby's clothes.

Sweetie Belle reached for a hand of Toby's, and rubbed at it. "It's okay Toby, we got this." She eyed Diamond Tiara. "You big meanie! Leave him alone!"

Diamond scowled at the four with anger. "Oh, be quiet you blank flanks!" Then she glared at Toby stomping a hoove on the ground causing him to shake nervously. "And you, you little runt you made me lose my spot in the talent show where I can show of my fabulousness to all of Ponyville!"

Silver Spoon came up from behind Diamond, and stepped in between the five. "Diamond, please leave him alone. He is just trying to leave." She looked into Diamond's eyes pleadingly.

Diamond let out an annoyed huff, and looked over Silver's shoulder at the shaking colt. "Fine. You listen here though you little brat, if you even think about performing in the talent show Saturday, you will regret it!" She turned to trot away.

Silver Spoon lowered her head, and shook it disappointly. She turned to Toby, and looked down at him. "Toby, I am so sorry for Diamond Tiara being so mean to you. I also want to apologize for calling you a shrimp the other day, it was wrong of me." She gently reached out a forehoof to very lightly rub at his arm frowning as he was still shaking a little.

He looked up at her with a soft smile, and calmed his shaking as best as he could. The CMC stood behind him. "Y-you did nothing wrong S-Silver Spoon, and I forgive you. I-I forgive Diamond Tiara too, but I don't know if she will accept my forgiveness." He lowered his head.

Silver Spoon gently lowered her head to try, and look into Toby's eyes. "Don't worry little guy, I will talk to her. Thank you for forgiving me." She looked up at the CMC with a light smile. "I am, so sorry you three for all that me, and Diamond has put you through. I will talk to her, I promise."

"Aww..it is ah'right Silver Spoon. We know that you are different from Diamond Tiara, because we saw you preventing her from doing something bad to Toby's glasses, and getting her to stop messing with him. So ya are good in our books." The other two nodded in agreement.

"Thank you. You take care you four." As she turned to trot away.

Toby gently spoke up. "S-Silver Spoon?" He carefully walked up to her.

She turned to look at the colt with a light smile. "Yes Toby?"

He very gently gave her a small hug with his arms around her neck laying his head on her shoulder. "Th-thank you for not letting her break my glasses.Th-these were given to me by my Mommy, and I would be afraid if something ever happened to them. Th-thank you."

Silver Spoon smiled warmly as she looked at the CMC who smiled softly as she gently wrapped a foreleg around his small form. "You are very welcome Toby." They gently broke the hug as she waved at him, and the others with a forehoof as she trotted after Diamond Tiara. The others waved at her as well.

Toby turned to walk with the three fillies to the wagon. Sweetie Belle offered a forehoof for him to hold as he climbed up into the wagon. Applebloom climbed in behind him, and sat on her haunches along with Sweetie Belle with the little colt sitting between them. Scootaloo kicked at the ground, and flapped her wings to start rolling the scooter along the path back to Fluttershy's cottage.

As they were on their way to Fluttershy's Applebloom looked at Toby with a soft smile, and asked. "Toby, how come did ya forgive Diamond Tiara, so easily? Ah' understand you forgiving Silver Spoon, but Diamond Tiara?!"

Toby looked at Applebloom with a soft smile in return. "B-before my Mommy died, she taught me to never stay mad at someone for, so long. S-she told me if I stay mad at someone for a long time, I will change, and become mean like that person as well. I-I don't want to be mean to anyone." Applebloom smiled, and gently rubbed at his back.

"Ya aren't mean at all Toby. Ya are the nicest little colt that we have ever met, and that is a very good lesson your mommy taught you." She smiled at him warmly as Sweetie Belled nodded in agreement.

Fluttershy was outside her cottage watering her flower bushes as the CMC, and Toby came up the hill. She smiled warmly, and placed her watering can down to greet them.

"Hello girls, and my precious little Toby. How was school today?" She asked gently as Scootaloo brought her scooter to a stop and the other two helped Toby climb out of the wagon. He ran up and gave her a big hug with his little arms around her neck, and laying his head against her chest fur.

"I-it was good Momma. M-Ms. Cheerilee asked me if I would like to help the class tomorrow to get stuff ready for the talent show Saturday. I-is that okay Momma?"

She leaned her head down and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "Of course it is okay with me sweetie." She looked at the CMC. "Thank you girls for bringing him back home."

They smiled softly, and nodded. "Of course Fluttershy. Ya know that we care for him, and we will always be here for him like everypony else." Applebloom smiled at the two. "We will see ya tomorrow Toby."

"Yea kid, we will come pick you up tomorrow. Keep cool Toby." Scootaloo said with a soft smirk.

"Yea, see you tomorrow cutie!" Sweetie Belle beamed.

"B-bye Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo." As he waved at them while Scootaloo kicked at the dirt, and started riding her scooter down the hill. They all waved back with a forehoof.

"Okay my precious little one, let's go inside, and find something for dinner." Fluttershy smiled softly as she laid a wing over him as they turned toward the door.

He looked up with a bright smile. "O-okay Momma." They both walked inside the cottage as Fluttershy gently shut the door behind them.

*At the Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse*

"Ya know what girls, Ah've been thinking. Ah know that Toby isn't actually a pony, but he is our friend. Also he hasn't found his special talent either, like all three of us. So, how about we make him an honorary member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders?" Applebloom asked with a big smile.

Sweetie Belle beamed with excitement jumping up in mid-air causing a spark to shoot from her horn. "That sounds like an excellent idea Applebloom!" She giggled, and blushed with glee.

Scootaloo crossed her forelegs, but then smiled and nodded. "Sounds cool to me. It would be awesome to have the colt apart of the group!"

Applebloom touched her forehooves together with a big smile. "Then it's settled. Tomorrow we will surprise Toby by making him an honorary member."

They all said in unison. "We can be the CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS INDUCTERS!" The three fillies hugged each other, and giggled as they started to come up with ways to make it a special day for Toby when they welcome him into their group.

Author's Note

Well, it looks like that Toby has gained another big sister along with the Cutie Mark Crusaders in Silver Spoon.

Chapter Seventeen: A Royal Visit (Edited)

Celestia's sun cascaded it's shower of warmth over all the land of Equestria as it rose beautifully against the crystal clear blue sky with no clouds in sight. The sunlight warmed all of the houses of Ponyville as the residents of the town started to wake up. Yet the little colt of Fluttershy was still peacefully asleep in the big soft bed underneath the warm bedsheets. He smiled warmly in his sleep as he dreamed.

He found himself in a spacious room with snow white carpeting, baby blue painted walls which appeared to be decorated with pictures of himself as an infant with his mother. He was sitting on an alabaster white bench in front of a black grand piano, and he looked down at the ebony and ivory keys to see a pair of beautiful delicate hands with the nails painted ruby red. He swallowed deeply as he followed the hands that was stroking the piano keys, and traced his eyes along the arms up to a warm smile which was on the face of his mother.

"M-M-Mommy?!" He exclaimed with a big smile, and tears starting to sting his eyes. He looked to see that her smooth flowing blonde hair cascading over her shoulders like a silent waterfall, her lips the shade of ruby red like her nails, and she was wearing a flowing white dress. Her sky blue eyes looked at him with great joy in them.

"Yes baby, it's me." She leaned her head down to kiss his forehead tenderly. "Would you like to play Twinkle Twinkle Little Star with me sweetheart?" She gave him a comforting smile.

He looked up softly, and nodded. "Yes Mommy!"

She smiled at him warmly at his excitement. "That is my baby boy. Now just play the same keys I do, okay my little man?" She stroked four keys rhythmically to the syllables of twinkle twinkle.

He nodded, and smiled brightly as he paid attention to her hands. He repeated the same stroking of keys just like his mother. "Was that good Mommy?"

She nodded, and smiled at him giving him a tender kiss on the forehead. "Yes, that was perfect precious. Shall we continue?" He nodded as she started stroking at the many different keys creating a beautiful harmony. He smiled warmly as he watched the delicate hands of his mother stroke along the piano keys with much ease, and he followed.

They came to a slow, and steady stop as Toby smiled brightly. "That was fun, and it sounding pretty Mommy!" He turned his head to her to notice that she wasn't there, and his face turned pale. "Mommy?!' He shot his head back and forth not seeing her anywhere. "MOMMY?!" He cried out as he felt tears started to sting eyes again, this time out of sadness.

He shook with sobs as he heard a soft calm voice . "Toby dear?" He snapped his head up to see that the once room of bright color was suddenly a silent black void just like how his nightmare started.

He trembled and let out a small whimper at the voice. "M-Mommy?" He looked around the complete darkness. "M-Mommy, i-is that you?" He felt terrified as he saw a warm blue glow ahead of him.

"Shh...don't be afraid little one." Suddenly the figure trotted forward to reveal she was Princess Luna. She gently trotted up to the trembling child, and sat down on her haunches. She carefully lifted a wing, and gently placed it over his small form. She looked down into his teary eyes. "Shh...it is okay young Toby, I am not going to hurt you." She leaned her head down, and gave him a gentle kiss on his forehead.

He reached an arm up to wipe at his tears. "P-Princess Luna, how come are you in my dream?" He asked with a small voice. He looked up at her with a hint of fear.

She gave him a warm smile as she laid down on her forelegs, and tucked them underneath her keeping her wing over him to comfort him. "Well, dear Toby, not only am I able to hear the wishes of others, but I am also able to enter into their dreams. Another gift of being Goddess of the Moon." She blushed as Toby gave a light smile, and sniffle.

"That was a beautiful song you were playing on the piano with your mommy little one. If a princess may ask, what was it called?" She looked down at him, and gave him a soft and warm smile.

"I-it is called Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Princess Luna. M-my mommy used to play it for it when I was sad or scared. S-she taught me to play the piano when I was three." He sniffed, and turned his head to the side to not let Princess Luna see the tears that was once again starting to form in his eyes. He began shaking with sobs. Luna looked down concerned for the small child. "Toby?" She spoke very soft and calm.

He clenched his eyes as hard as he could to subdue the tears. He then turned to look up at her. "I-I am sorry Princess Luna. I-it is just I loved playing the piano with my Mommy." He looked up at her with tear stained eyes. "I-I never said goodbye!" He cried and buried his face in his arms shaking.

Luna frowned at the little colt, and felt tears start to sting at her eyes. She lifted a foreleg and brought him closer to her with her wing and brought him to her chest. She stroked up and down his back with her foreleg, and leaned her head down to lay it over his shoulder. "Shh...little one, please don't cry." She gave him a gentle nuzzle on his cheek, and softly whispered. "You know what young Toby, you are very good at playing the piano. Maybe you could play the piano at the talent show? I know that your mommy would be proud of you if you play it." She lifted her head, and looked down into his eyes with a warm smile.

He sniffled, and raised his head up from his arms. He wiped at his eyes with a forearm. "D-do you think so Princess Luna?" He asked gently.

She gave him a warm smile. "Well, if a princess may say little one, you may just call me Luna, okay?" He nodded up softly. "Now, of course I know she would be proud of you. That could be your way of finally able to tell her goodbye."

He smiled up a little. "Y-you really think, so Luna?"

She stroked along his back some more, and nodded. "Of course my dear Toby. Music can express our deepest emotions. You just got to believe in yourself little one." She gave him a gentle nuzzle on the top of his head.

He smiled up softly with his eyes finally drying of tears, and his sobbing calmed. "Th-thank you Luna. I-I think I will play the piano in the talent show tomorrow." He gently reached up, and hugged her neck with his little arms.

"You are very welcome little one." She gave him a soft kiss on his forehead. "Now it is time to wake up dear Toby, and get ready for school, so you can help prepare for the talent show." She lit her horn up, and casted a warm blue aura over his small form causing him to slowly close, and rest his eyes.

He slowly opened his eyes as he woke up in the big soft bed of Fluttershy's. He thought to himself. "Thank you Luna. I will play the piano tomorrow, and make my Mommy proud!" He carefully climbed out of bed, and started to get ready for the day ahead of preparing for the talent show. His heart beamed with joy from having discovered his special talent.

Author's Note

Alrighty, i appreciated and loved all of the advice I got from you all for Chapter Twelve, and I would appreciate your help and advice/ideas again for the next chapter. I want Toby to dedicate his performance on the piano to his mother, just for him to say goodbye to her in a beautiful way. I have several songs that I thought he could play on the piano to dedicate to her. Let me know which one would sound best for him to play for his mother.

Enya - If I Could Be Where You Are
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlacSlV0D_A

Celine Dion - Fly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5W4RjTW3zQ

This Broken Soul from The Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMDVheA6PUk

I chose these songs, because it is how Toby is feeling at the moment in his heart for his mother, because he never was able to say goodbye to her properly. thank you all for your wonderful support, and I can't wait to see what you all choose. :)

Chapter Eighteen: Comfort & Reassurance (Edited)

Fluttershy trotted into her cottage after tending to her animal friends outside. Celestia's sun was shining brightly over Equestria, and the sky was occupied with fluffy white clouds that kept the sun company. Fluttershy hummed to herself as she started to get the food ready for all of her animal friends inside.

While she was feeding them she turned around to see her little colt carefully walking down the stairs. Dressed in his all royal blue outfit with red light jacket, and his red, and black sneakers. She smiled brightly at him as he came near her, and hugged her around her neck ever, so lightly. She lifted a foreleg, and hugged him gently.

She nuzzled him on the top of his head. "Good morning my precious little one." As they gently broke their hug she gave him a tender kiss on the forehead.

He looked up at her with a soft smile. "G-good morning Momma!" He waved at all the critters that was inside eating their breakfast. "G-good morning everyone!" They chirped, and chittered waving back at him.

Fluttershy smiled at all her animal friends who have already welcomed Toby warmly into her home. She looked down at the small child. "What would you like for me to fix you for breakfast sweetie?" She thought for a second. "Oh, I know. I just got done collecting eggs from the chicken coup this morning. How would you like for me to fixed you an egg my precious little Toby?"

He smiled up softly. "Th-that sounds good Momma!" He walked over to take a seat with all the animals on the carpet.

"Okay sweetie, I will be back in a minute." She smiled warmly at him, and trotted into the kitchen to prepare his breakfast.

After a few minutes Fluttershy hovered back into the den with a plate with scrambled eggs, and a piece of toast in one of her forehooves, and a glass of orange juice in the other. She carefully lowered herself on her hind legs, sitting herself down on her haunches, carefully placing Toby's breakfast in front of him. "I hope you don't mind them being scrambled, sweetie."

He smiled up softly at her, his head shaking softly. "I-I love scrambled eggs Momma! Th-thank you." He gently took the fork provided by Fluttershy, and took a nice big bite of scrambled eggs. "Mmm..j-just how my Mommy used to cook them. Th-they are very good Momma!"

She smiled warmly at him, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "Momma is very proud that you enjoy them Toby sweetie!" She nuzzled lightly at his cheek, and smiled as he continued to eat.

While he ate, Toby made sure to finish each bite before speaking, he looked up at her with a soft smile. "M-Momma, I think I know what I want to do for the talent show tomorrow."

Fluttershy smiled warmly at him, and unfolded a wing to gently stroke along his back. "Oh, that is wonderful sweetheart! What are you planning to do as your talent?'' She softly asked with a squeal.

He finished the last few bites of his breakfast, and took a dsip of his orange juice. He looked up at her happily. "I-I want to play the piano." He sighed softly looking up into her eyes. "I-I had a dream this morning Momma, I was playing the piano with my Mommy. S-she used to play the piano for me when I was sad or scared, and she taught me how to play too, but.." He lowered his head, and frowned.

Fluttershy frowned as well, and continued to stroke at his back with her wing. "What's wrong sweetie?" She lowered her head to gently nuzzle at his cheek.

He smiled a little at the nuzzle, and turned to look into her eyes, his own stinging with tears. "W-when I got done p-playing the piano in my dream, m-my Mommy was g-gone!" He lowered his head again, and shook with sobs allowing his tears to fall from his eyes. "I-I never said g-goodbye to her!" He cried out.

Fluttershy felt her heart break for the small child, and carefully sat on her haunches. She gently used her wing to bring him closer to her against her chest, and wrapped both forelegs around his small frame, gently enveloping him in a hug. She leant her head down, and nuzzled at the top of his. "Oh, sweetie I am, so, so sorry." She gently rocked him in her forelegs to comfort him as she felt his shaking calm down a little. "Shh..it's okay sweetheart, let it out..."

He calmed his shaking, and sniffled into her warm, soft chest fur. He looked up at her, and spoke between sobs. "Th-thank...you M-Momma." He gently laid his head on her side against her chest

She smiled warmly down at him, and gently stroked his hair with a forehoof. "There is no need to thank me, my precious little one." She kissed the top of his head. She very gently pulled him away, and looked down into his eyes. "Do you feel better now sweetie?"

He sniffled, and a soft smile formed across his face. He reached an arm up to wipe away the few remaining tears, and nodded. "Y-yes Momma." He breathed deeply, and gently asked. "M-Momma, will you be mad at me if I played the piano tomorrow for my Mommy? M-maybe I could say goodbye to her through a song."

Fluttershy smiled down at him warmly. "Of course sweetheart, I won't be mad at all. That will be a beautiful thing for you to do for your Mommy." She bent her head down, and gave him a kiss on his forehead.

"Th-thank you Momma. I-I hope I can make her proud tomorrow." He smiled up at her softly.

"Oh sweetie, I know you will make your Mommy very proud of you! Me, and your aunties will be very proud of you as well, because we will be there." She stroked along his back with a foreleg when a knock was heard from the door. "Come in." She said gently as she smiled down warmly at her little colt.

"Howdy Fluttershy, and Toby!" Applebloom greeted as she, and the other two fillies walked in.

"Hi girls. Coming to pick Toby up again?" Fluttershy asked kindly with a smile, as she stood up from her haunches on all four legs.

"Yes!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed happily as they trotted over to the two.

"Hey buddy, what's happening?" Scootaloo asked the little colt with a soft smirk.

"I-I am doing good Scootaloo. H-Hi Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom." He greeted the other two, who came up, and gave him a gentle group hug. Scootaloo just rolled her eyes.

"Okay sweetie, I am going to go get your lunch ready, and I will be back in just a minute." She smiled warmly at the four, and trotted off into the kitchen.

"Have ya thought about what ya are going to do for the talent show tomorrow Toby?" Applebloom asked as she rubbed at his back gently.

"Yea, I hope you will be in it tomorrow!" Sweetie Belle said as she gave him a friendly nuzzle on his cheek.

"Yea kid, it won't be cool if we all participated in the talent show, and you didn't." Scootaloo said as she gently rubbed at his shoulder.

He smiled up at the three fillies with a soft smile. "I-I am going to play the piano. M-my Mommy taught me how to play, and played it for me when I was sad or scared." The three fillies each gave the small child a warm smile.

"Ah' think that is a great thing to do Toby." Applebloom gave him a gentle pat on the back. "Ah' am sure yer mommy will be proud of ya tomorrow. Also, we will be rooting for you too!" The other two crusaders nodded in unison.

"Yes Toby, that sounds like a fabulous idea! I am sure Rarity could make you a nice suit for the talent show!" Sweetie Belle smiled brightly, and stroked his arm gently.

"It is going to be awesome, don't you worry buddy!" Scootaloo said giving him a reassuring smile, and patted him gently on the head with a forehoof.

"Th-thank you." He said softly. "I-I am going to play it so I can say goodbye to her. I-I never said goodbye to her when she died." He gave a sad smile, but kept himself from tearing up.

The three gave him a sad smile in return, and pulled him into a warm group hug, even Scootaloo. "It's ah'right Toby, we will all be there to root for you and Ah' know your mommy will be listening." Applebloom gave him a reassuring smile.

Fluttershy trotted back in with a lunch box. She smiled warmly at the four as she trotted up to give her little colt his lunch. "Here you go Toby sweetie. I made you a salad, a small bowl of applesauce, and a cup of orange juice."

He very gently took it from her, and smiled happily up at her. "Th-thank you Momma! I love you!" He gave her a hug around her neck.

She wrapped a foreleg around his small form, and gave him a kiss on the top of his head. "Momma loves you too my precious little one!" She smiled down at him as they gently broke the hug. "Now you have a good day to day at school sweetie, and I will be here waiting for you, okay?"

He nodded up softly. "O-okay Momma." He turned, and joined the CMC to walk out the door. She followed behind them as she smiled at the four. Sweetie Belle climbed up in the wagon first, and offered a forehoof to help Toby in. Applebloom climbed in after Toby climbed in. Scootaloo put her helmet on, and got onto her scooter kicking at the ground, and flapping her wings as they started down the hill.

Toby turned around to wave bye to Fluttershy, she returned the wave with a forehoof, and smiled warmly at her little colt, and the other three fillies as they headed toward Ponyville to the schoolhouse.

She closed her eyes softly, and said to herself. "Momma loves you Toby. I, and your Mommy will both be proud of you tomorrow." She opened her eyes, and smiled warmly as she trotted back into the cottage closing the door behind her gently.

Author's Note

I want this performance of Toby's to be very special and emotional, that is why I am building up steadily to the moment. Next chapter, the preparations begin, and a big surpirse for Toby! :)

Chapter Twenty: Saying Goodbye (Edited)

Morning arrived as Celestia's sun rose majestically against the cloudless blue sky. It shined warmly through the window of Fluttershy's bedroom upon the sleeping form of Toby. He began to stir calmly underneath the soft warm bedsheets of Fluttershy's bed. He let out a soft yawn as he reached up with his hands to rub at his eyes, and reached over to the side table to get his glasses to put on.

He carefully climbed out of bed, and stretched before going over to the chest in front of the bed to get out his clothes for the day. He changed from his pajamas into the all royal blue outfit with a light red jacket. He folded up his pajamas in a nice neat stack, and placed them into the chest. Before he decided to go downstairs to the den he walked to the window, and peered out at the land outside looking up at Celestia's sun.

He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and whispered to himself. "Please let me do good tonight. Please let me play the piano good, and make my Mommy proud." He placed his hands over his heart, and bowed his head taking in another deep breath.

"Toby sweetie, is everything okay?" The tender voice of Fluttershy could be heard from behind him as Toby turned around to see her ascending to the top of the stairs.

He sighed deeply, and walked over to her to give her a warm hug around her neck laying his head against her soft chest fur. "I-I am okay Momma. I was just hoping that I do good tonight at the talent show. I really want to make my Mommy proud of me." He sighed softly against Fluttershy's chest.

Fluttershy smiled warmly down at her little colt, and reached up with a foreleg embracing him lovingly. She leaned her head down, and nuzzled the top of his head gently. "Oh, my precious little one, I know you are going to make your mommy very proud. Don't you worry about not doing good tonight, because I promise you will." She stroked along his back with her foreleg.

He turned his head to look up into her beautiful blue eyes. "Th-thank you Momma. I hope I make you, and my aunties proud of me tonight too." Giving her a soft smile as he carefully released his hug from around her neck.

She smiled warmly down at him, and leaned her head down to nuzzle at his nose. "Oh, don't worry sweetie, you will. Momma will always be proud of you, okay?" She gave him a bright, and reassuring smile.

"O-okay Momma. I love you." He blushed at the nuzzle on his nose, and smiled warmly as he looked into her eyes.

"Momma loves you too very much my precious little one." She gave him a tender kiss on the forehead. "What would you like for breakfast this morning Toby?"

"C-can you fix me your oatmeal Momma?" He asked with his usual soft, and polite tone looking up at her with a warm smile.

She returned the smile, and nodded. "Of course sweetheart." She carefully turned around, and allowed Toby to hold onto her tail if he wanted to, which he did. She started to carefully trot down the stairs as he carefully stepped down, while holding onto her tail very gently.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs all of the animals inside chittered and waved at the little colt. "H-hi everyone." He said happily as carefully let go of Flutterhy's tail and went to join them on the carpet.

Fluttershy smiled at her little colt, and all of her animal friends. "I will be back in just a minute sweetie." She carefully trotted into the kitchen to prepare Toby his oatmeal.

After a couple of minutes, she hovered into the den with the bowl of oatmeal in one foreleg, and a glass of fresh cold milk in the other foreleg. She hovered over to him, and carefully lowered onto her haunches placing the bowl of oatmeal, and milk in front of him. "Here you go sweetie." She laid down beside him tucking her foreleg underneath her.

He smiled up at her. "Th-thank you Momma." He used the spoon provided to scoop some, and take a bite. He smiled warmly at the sweet, and warm taste of the oatmeal. He swallowed his first bite, and took a drink of the milk.

Fluttershy smiled softly while he continued enjoying his breakfast, and looked around at all of her animal friends who were enjoying their breakfasts as well. She looked back down at him eating, and softly asked "Sweetheart, after you eat, how would you like to go visit your aunties before we go to the talent show tonight?"

Making sure he finished the bite of oatmeal he had in his mouth before speaking, Toby smiled up softly, and nodded. "I-I would like that Momma." He took another drink of his milk.

She smiled warmly at him as she looked around at all of her animal friends.

After a few minutes, Toby finished all of his oatmeal, and drank all of his milk. "I-I'll go put my dishes in the sink Momma." He smiled up at her as he carefully stood up with plate and glass in hand, and walked into the kitchen putting the dishes in the sink to be washed.

Fluttershy stood up on all four legs, and waited on him to return from the kitchen. She looked over at Angel. "Angel baby, Momma and Toby is going to be out for the day, so you are in charge, okay my precious?" Angel chittered happily, and saluted his caretaker with a paw. She reached a forehoof, up and rubbed between his ears.

Toby returned from the kitchen, and smiled at the two. Angel looked over at the child, and hopped over to him. "H-hi Angel. Wish me luck tonight at the talent show." He smiled at the bunny, and patted him between the ears. Angel nodded, and reached out his paw to shake at Toby's hand, and saluted him. He started to thump the floor gently with his footpaw as the rest of the animals followed suit.

Fluttershy smiled warmly as she looked at Angel, and around at the other critters. "Oh, look sweetie, I think they are giving you a round of applause already." She squealed, and blushed as she trotted up to the small child leaning down on her forelegs for him to climb up on her back.

He climbed up on her, and smiled at the animals. "Th-thank you all. I hope I can make you all proud too." He waved at them as Fluttershy smiled at them, and waved bye to them as she trotted out the door onto the pathway leading to Ponyville.

The arrived at the Golden Oaks Library to visit Twilight first. Fluttershy carefully trotted up onto the front step, and knocked on the door with a forehoof. "Hold on, I'm coming...aaah!" The heard a scream, and what sounded like somepony falling down the steps.

"Oh...my." Fluttershy gasped as she opened the door and trotted in to see Spike down at the foot of the staircase. He was laid out on his belly with his tail straight out, and chin on the floor. She had a look of worry as well did Toby as she trotted over to him, and helped him up stand up. "Oh, my goodness. Spike are you okay?"

Spike dusted himself off, and shook the cobwebs out of his head. "Oh, sure I am fine. Tough scales, remember? Able to withstand anything." He pointed at himself with his two claw thumbs, and made a sly smile. He looked up at the colt on her back. "Hiya Tobes."

Toby looked worriedly at the baby dragon, but smiled softly. "H-hi Spike. Are you sure you are okay?"

Spike nodded, and crossed his arms with a smirk. "Of course buddy. It takes a lot more to keep this dragon down." He smiled proudly. "I was just practing my announcing for tonight, because I am going to host the talent show with Ms. Cheerilee tonight." He looked at the two guests. "Anyways though, what brought you two by?" Asking curiously.

"Well..um..is Twilight here?" Fluttershy asked softly.

Spike shook his head. "Nope. I fixed her breakfast this morning, and after she got done eating she said something about meeting the girls, and those three fillies who keep dragging me along on their annoying crusading adventures at Rarity's." Sighing deeply shaking his head at the thought of the three.

"Oh. Um...I guess we should go to Rarity's, okay sweetie?" She looked back at Toby, and he gave her a nod. "Thank you Spike, and I can't wait to see you there tonight. I am sure you will do good as a host." She squeed.

Spike rubbed at his arm with a claw, and blushed pink on his cheeks. "Shucks, thank you Fluttershy. Oh, before I forget. The crusaders told me about you playing the piano tonight Toby. I am sure you will do good tonight, just remember to have fun." He smiled up at the colt, and patted at his hand gently.

Toby smiled softly. "Th-thank you Spike. You will do good too."

"Thanks buddy. I will see you two tonight. I got to get started on cleaning up this library before Twilight gets back or she will give me one of her hour long boring lectures about responsibility, and work ethic." He sighed deeply, and went to retrieve a broom from the corner of the staircase.

"Well..um..bye Spike." Fluttershy spoke softly as she turned to trot out of the library.

"Wait!" Spike yelled causing Fluttershy to flinch, and Toby to shake a little. "Sorry about that. Uh..Fluttershy, if it isn't too much trouble, could you maybe help me re-organize the bookshelves? Now Twilight wants to organize them by alphabetical order, and with only one little baby dragon doing it alone, it will take forever. Please?" Spike looked up at Fluttershy with pleading eyes like a puppy.

"Um...I guess I could." She turned her head back toward her little colt. "Toby sweetie, if you would like to..um..I am sure Spike wouldn't mind you reading a book while I help him with fixing the library up, right Spike?" She turned back to the baby dragon.

"Of course you can read a book Tobes. I recommend a Daring Do book, they are real cool." Fluttershy leaned down on her forelegs for Toby to climb off. He climbed off her back, and carefully walked to the bookshelves to look for a book. He pulled out a book on art, and went over to sit on bottom step of the staircase. Fluttershy went to work on re-organizing the bookshelves as she smiled warmly at him.

"Rarity, are you almost done? This is so boring." Rainbow facehoofed, and sighed as she sat on her haunches looking out the window in Rarity's bedroom watching for Fluttershy, and Toby.

"Yes I am Rainbow. I just got to add just a couple more gems here and...WALLAH!" Rarity beamed happily as she was just putting on the final touches of a new outfit. "There, all done. Ooh, the little darling is just going to love this." She hit the floor with her forehooves happily.

"Aww..Rarity it's beautiful!" Twilight exclaimed. "I can't wait for the little sweetheart to see it. He is going to be amazed." She turned towards Rainbow. "Besides Rainbow, I had Spike come up with a way to keep Fluttershy, and Toby occupied while Rarity finished his suit."

"Well, that's good. I need to stretch." Rainbow stood up on all four legs and stretched her forelegs, letting out a big yawn.

There was a knock on Rarity's bedroom door. "Rarity, we are ready to show you our costumes." Sweetie Belle said behind the door.

"Hold on a minute Sweetie Belle." Rarity levitated Toby's suit over to an empty available clothes rack while another was filled with the other costumes for the other fillies, and colts in the talent show. "Alright girls, you may come in." She lit her horn up, and used her magic to open the door.

The three fillies proudly leaned back, and jumped in through the doorway dramatically, and posed with their forehooves in the air. "WE ARE THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS SHOW STEALERS!"

"Girls, do you always have to be, so loud?" Rarity held her hooves up to her ears. She shook her head, and looked at the three fillies. "Aww..don't you three just look marvelous." She beamed at her creations.

"Thank you sis." Sweetie Belle beamed with glee at Rarity. She wore a pearl white dress with a medium sized silver gem encrusted microphone on the back. "I love this Rarity. It fits me perfectly, and it is going to look great on me when I sing."

"Yes it will Sweetie Belle." She smiled at her, and trotted up to her giving her a hug. "I know you are going to make the Belle family proud tonight." She beamed.

Applejack was sitting on her haunches in front of Rarity's bed when she spotted her sister. "Haha..Applebloom, why in tarnation are you dressed as a clown?" She couldn't help, but laugh.

Applebloom was wearing an all yellow clown outfit with pink, blue, red, and white polka dots, and pink frilly cuffs on the forelegs, hindlegs, and a pink frill on the neck. She also wore a red puffy wig, white make-up on her face with two pink dots on her cheeks, and a red clown nose.

Applebloom stuck her tongue at her older sister. "Applejack, Ah' thought Ah've told ya, Ah'm gunna do tricks. Ah'm going to juggle three apples, walk on my beach ball, and Ah'm going to walk on my beach ball while juggling three apples all at the same time. Maybe Ah' can my cutie mark as a circus performer." She smiled proudly.

"Hahaha..why in tarnation would ya want to be a circus performer Applebloom? Well, no matter what, Ah' will be cheering for ya sis. Just don't ruin any fine apples or ya will have double bucking duty for a week." Applejack looked at her with a soft, yet stern look.

"Hey, hey, hey Applejack what is wrong with wanting to be a fun clowny clown?" Pinkie Pie asked as she started to cartwheel around the room. "Dressing as a clown is loads of fun." She stopped in front of Applebloom. "Oh, I know, how about I shoot you out of my party cannon into a little wittle pool?"

"Uh..no thanks Pinkie Pie. Ah' think Ah'm fine with just my three tricks. Thank ya though." She gave Pinkie a soft smile.

"Well, suit yourself." The whole group of mares, and fillies laughed at Pinkie's antics.

"Yea, yea your costumes are nice, and all girls, but mine is simply awesome." Scootaloo stood up on her hindlegs crossing her forelegs proudly with a smirk on her face. She was wearing an all black body suit with red flames reaching up from the cuffs of her hindlegs along with her forelegs and had an all orange gem encrusted scooter on the back.

"That's right squirt. Now that is 20% cooler." Rainbow said proud of her protege as she hovered over to Scootaloo, and rubbed the top of her head.

"Gee, thanks Rainbow Dash." She said happily.

"I think they all look wonderful girls." Twilight spoke up next, and then looked at Rarity with a bright smile. "You have done a great job, as always Rarity."

"Thank you Twilight darling. I agree with Twilight girls, your costumes all look fabulous if I do say so myself. I hope the other fillies, and colts will like their costumes." She looked over at the other costumes. She levitated a large sized suitcase over onto her bed, and then levitated the costumes over to her bed, and placed them into the suitcase shutting it. "There, they are all ready."

Rainbow Dash was hovering above the group as she looked out the window to see Fluttershy nearing the boutique. "Here they come everypony."

"Alright girls, you all just stay up here, and I shall go let them in." Rarity said as she turned, and trotted out of her room to descend the stairs to her dress studio/den area.

There was a knock at the door, and Raritly lightly galloped to open it, and saw the cream colored pegasus with the little colt on her back. "Hello darlings, please come in." She stepped aside to let them enter.

"Um..hello Rarity. Spike told us that the others was here too. We aren't intruding, are we?" She asked softly.

"Of course not my dear." She leaned her head close to Fluttershy, and whispered into her ear. "In fact we were waiting on you two to arrive. I have a big surprise for our little Toby." Fluttershy nodded as Rarity raised her head from Fluttershy's ear. She looked at the small child, and gave him a warm smile. "Hello Toby darling, how are you today?" She reached up with a foreleg, and rubbed at his back gently.

He smiled warmly. "I-I am doing good Auntie Rarity, thank you." He sighed softly at the rubbing of his back.

"You know you don't need to thank me precious, but you are certainly welcome." She leaned her head over to him, and gave him a kiss on the forehead. "Shall we go upstairs to my room." The two nodded as Fluttershy trotted behind Rarity as they ascended the stairs.

As they reached the top Rarity turned to Toby with a soft smile. "Darling, if a lady may be, so kind to ask, could you maybe close your eyes for a little bit?" Asking with a soft, and elegant voice.

He nodded. "Y-yes Auntie Rarity." He closed his eyes as Rarity trotted forward motioning Fluttershy to follow. Fluttershy followed behind as they walked into Rarity's bedroom where the others were waiting.

Rarity turned toward the little colt, and sat on her haunches lifting up her forelegs to carefully lift him off Fluttershy's back. She smiled warmly at him as she lifted him up, and placed him on the floor. She lit her horn up, and levitated the suit over in front of him holding it still with her magic. She gently placed her forehooves on each of his shoulders, and leaned her head down next to his. "Okay precious, you can open your eyes now." She gave a beaming smile.

He opened his eyes and his mouth gaped open into a smile as he saw the suit. It was a black suit with matching black pants, a white buttoned up dress shirt, a black bowtie which had white spherical gems on the corners of both sides and a white gem in the middle, and to complete the suit there was a pair of black dress shoes.

He looked at the suit in wonder, and smiled brightly. "A-Auntie Rarity, I love it!" He turned, and wrapped his little arms around her neck laying his head against her chest fur.

She smiled warmly with tears of happiness stinging her eyes as she lifted a foreleg, and gently hugged him back bringing him against her. She lowered her head, and kissed the top of it tenderly while still holding the suit with her magic. "Aww. precious, I am so happy that you love it. Tonight you are going to be gentlecolt of the talent show."

She gently rubbed up, and down his back with her forehoof. He tilted his head back. "A-Auntie Rarity, can I go put it on?" Smiling up at her happily.

She nodded. "Of course darling. We will all be waiting in here when you get done, okay?" She gave him a warm smile, and gently patted at his back. He smiled up at her softly, and carefully walked out of her bedroom toward the bathroom to put on his suit.

While he was in the bathroom getting ready, the mares, and fillies were talking among themselves.

"Ya know what girls, Ah' think it is a darn sweet thing of the little feller playing the piano for his mom tonight." Applejack smiled softly as the others nodded in agreement.

"Yea, I am not the one to like sappy things, but that will bring a smile to my face. That little guy is awesome." Rainbow Dash said with a soft smirk.

Fluttershy spoke up next. "Um..girls?" Yet none of them heard her as they continued to talk above her soft voice.

"The little darling really loves his mother, and I believe she will be proud of him tonight. I know we all will." Rarity smiled happily.

"Um...girls?" Fluttershy tried to speak up again, but yet not able to be heard.

"That is right sis. We are going to be cheering for him when he gets up on stage." Sweetie Belle exclaimed as the other two fillies nodded happily.

"GIRLS!" Fluttershy yelled causing the others to jump. She hid behind her mane. "Oops..um..sorry."

"That is okay Fluttershy." Twilight shook her head, and smiled at the pegasus. "What is the matter?"

"Well, um..I don't know I should say this without Toby's permission, but he isn't only playing the piano just for his mommy tonight." They all looked at her with a confused look on their faces.

"Whatever do you mean darling? Is he going to do something else special?" Rarity asked curiously arching an eyebrow.

"Um..no. Please don't tell him I told you all, I don't want him to be upset with me. He wants to play the piano for his mommy, because he never was able to say goodbye to her." She rubbed her forehooves together nevously while the others gasped, and had sad smiles on their faces.

There was a soft knock on the bedroom door. "A-Auntie Rarity, I'm ready." The little colt said softly from behind the door.

"Oh, please come in darling." She opened the door with her magic as the small child carefully walked in.

He swallowed deeply as he looked up at all of the ponies. "I-I love it Auntie Rarity. It feels comfortable, and I really like the bowtie. It is very pretty with the gems on it." He smiled up at her softly.

"My, aren't you just a handsome little gentlecolt Toby." Rarity gleamed at her creation, and gave a kiss on the top of his head.

"Ya sugarcube, Ah' would bet ya will catch the eye of many of the fillies tonight." Applejack smiled, and tipped her hat toward Toby as he blushed at the comment.

"You look very nice sweetie." Fluttershy smiled down at her little colt, and gave him a gentle kiss on his forehead. The others smiled warmly at him.

He smiled softly up at her. "Th-thank you Momma." As he looked at the three fillies. "Y-you look great too Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle."

"Thank you Toby." The three of them said in unison.

Sweetie Belle trotted up to him, and nuzzled him soflty on the cheek. "You look very cute in your suit Toby." She gave him a bright smile. He blushed as Scootaloo, and Applebloom trotted up next and all three gave him a group hug.

The mares d'awwed at the four.

Twilight took in a deep breath. "Well, everypony are you ready to go to the schoolhouse? I am sure they might need to practice their acts before it starts tonight." They all nodded. Fluttershy leant down to let Toby climb up onto her back as they are exited Rarity's bedroom, and descended the stairs.

Making sure she has everything with her, especially the costumes Rarity was the last one to exit the boutique placing the open sign to closed. She made sure to lock the door, and turned to join the group.

Soon they arrived at the schoolhouse where the parents of the colts, and fillies, and the other ponies of Ponyville were conversing inside the schoolhouse. They stopped at the door, and Fluttershy leaned down to let Toby climb off her.

"Ah'right yall, we are going inside while yall go rehearse." The four young ones nodded at Applejack.

Fluttershy gently sat on her haunches, and carefully reached her forelegs up gently smoothing the arms of Toby's suit. "We will be sitting in the front row sweetie." She gave him a tender kiss on the top of his head, and looked down into his eyes. "Now, don't you worry about anything. You will do good sweetheart. Momma loves you." She rubbed at his shoulders softly.

"I-I love you too Momma. I love you too Auntie Applejack, Auntie Twilight, Auntie Pinkie, Auntie Rainbow, and Auntie Rarity." He smiled at all the other mares.

"We love you too Toby." They said in unison giving him warm smiles.

He waved at them as he went over to join the three fillies to walk to the outside stage.

Rarity looked at the girls. "I will be joining you soon girls, I got to go deliver these costumes to Cheerilee, and the kids." They all nodded, and trotted inside the schoolhouse while she followed behind the four young ones.

"Ah' can't wait to perform my tricks. It is going to be, so fun." Applebloom smiled brightly.

"I know. I am going to sing my heart out tonight." Sweetie Belle spoke next hopping happily.

"I am going to blow the ponies' minds with my awesome stunts." Scootaloo smirked confidently.

"I-I know you all will be good. I just hope I won't be too nervous when I play the piano." Toby spoke softly with a small smile.

Applebloom smiled at the little colt, and reached up a forehoof to rub at his back. "Don't worry Toby, ya will do good. We believe in ya, and we all will be rooting for ya." The other two nodded, and Toby smiled softly.

They arrived at the stage which was built out of the strongest of wood, and surrounded in the back, and sides with a big red curtain. Three stage lights were set up on the left, and right sides on a long metal beam with one stage light in the center. The other colts, and fillies were already underway practicing their routines.

Toby looked at the stage in wonder as he saw a black grand piano sitting on the stage in the center. He swallowed deeply as he approached the stage, and walked over to the steps to the side of it, and ascended them. Scootaloo, and Applebloom trotted a little ways away from the stage to practice their performances while Sweetie Belle followed behind Toby.

"Toby, don't be nervous.Everypony is going to like your piano playing." She smiled, and gently placed a forehoof on his back and rubbed it reassuringly.

"I-I know Sweetie Belle. I just haven't ever been in front of a crowd before, or played the piano in front of anyone." He said as he looked up at her a bit, and walked over to the piano. He sat down on the bench provided.

"It will be okay cutie. I will be in the back practicing my singing if you need me, okay?" She said politely as she trotted backstage.

Toby gave her a light smile as she watch her trot off. He lifted his hands, and stroked a few keys to get the feel of playing the piano. He thought to himself. "I hope you will be proud of me Mommy."

"Well, well, well, look at what the runt is doing for the talent show." The arrogant tone of Diamond Tiara's voice could be heard as Toby turned to see her trotting up to him with Silver Spoon behind her. She sat down on her haunches, and placed a forehoof on the edge of the piano. "So brat, you are planning to play the piano tonight, huh?"

He nodded, and looked nervously into Diamond Tiara's eyes. "Y-yes. I am going to play it for my Mommy." He swallowed deeply.

"Aww..isn't that sweet... not. You just listen here you little runt. If you think about upstaging me tonight, you will regret it. Do you understand?" She leaned her head close to him with her brows furrowed in anger, while smirking.Toby shook nervously.

"Diamond that is enough. Just go practice your ballet, and leave him alone." Silver Spoon spoke up as Diamond Tiara let out a huff flicking her mane, and trotted off to the far side of the stage.

Silver Spoon looked at Toby, and raised a foreleg gently placing a forehoof on his shoulder. "Are you okay little guy? Don't let Diamond Tiara scare you, I won't let her do anything to you." She looked into Toby's eyes with a soft reassuring smile.

He gave a little smile. "Th-Thank you Silver Spoon. It's okay, I won't do anything to cause Diamond Tiara to do bad tonight. I just want to make my Mommy proud of me tonight when I play the piano."

Silver Spoon reached her forehoof down, and gently patted his hand. "Well, that is sweet of you Toby. I am sure Miss Fluttershy will love it. The Cutie Mark Crusaders told me that she adopted you, and you are her colt now." She gave him a warm smile.

He looked into her eyes with a frown. "W-well, no I am not playing it for Momma. Please don't be mad Silver Spoon, but I love Momma Fluttershy, but I am playing the piano for my other Mommy. My real Mommy." He lowered his head sadly feeling bad that he wasn't doing it for Fluttershy.

Silver Spoon frowned. "Oh, sweetie pie, I am, so so sorry." She reached up with both forelegs, and gave him a soft hug. She felt him shaking. "Shh..please Toby, don't be sad." She gently rubbed up, and down his back before carefully pulling him back to look into his eyes. She frowned when she saw him frowning, and gently rubbed at his cheek with a forehoof.

He looked at her, his frown turning into a light smile at how caring she was being toward him. "I-it is okay Silver Spoon. I lost my Mommy last year, and I never said goodbye. I thought I could say goodbye to her tonight through playing the piano. So I hope I do good tonight to make her proud of me, and also make Momma Fluttershy, and my aunties proud of me too."

Silver Spoon smiled sadly as tears started to sting her eyes. "Oh, I am, so sorry Toby for you losing your mother. I didn't know, can you ever forgive me?" She gently held his little hand between her forehooves, and rubbed it to try, and make him feel comfortable.

He nodded. "S-Silver Spoon, you didn't do anything wrong. Yes, I forgive you, but please don't be sad." He noticed the tears in her eyes. He reached into the pocket of his black pants, and pulled out a tissue. "H-here Silver Spoon. Please don't cry."

Her heart melted at the kindness the small child shown as she very gently accepted the tissue, and reached up with fore hoof to wipe at the tears in the corners of her eyes. "Toby, you are such a sweet litlte colt. I just know that you will do your mommy, Miss Fluttershy, and your aunties very proud tonight. I will be cheering for you sweetie pie." As she gently leaned her head toward him, and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek. She smiled at him, and waved at him with a forehoof as she trotted backstage.

He blushed at the kiss on his cheek as he smiled softly as she trotted backstage. He turned back to stroke at the keys gently with his fingers as he sighed deeply.

Eight o' clock soon arrived, and the adult ponies started to take their sets along the ground before the stage. Fluttershy, and the other mares took their places in front, so they could be close to the stage.

Backstage the fillies, and colts were getting ready to go on stage when called upon. Ms. Cheerilee trotted backstage, and looked all of them with a bright smile. "Alright kids, tonight I just want you all to do your best, and have fun."

Spike came walking backstage on his short chubby legs. "I'm all ready Cheerilee. I am ready to show everypony the smooth hosting skills of Spike the Magificent." He threw his short arms, and claws in the air with a big smile.

Cheerilee smiled awkwardly, and nodded. "Okay Spike." She turned her focus to the kids again. "Alright, when I call your act, just come out and do your performance." Together her, and Spike walked out onto the stage.

She trotted up to the microphone stand. "Good evening mares, and gentlecolts. Welcome to the Annual Ponyville Elementary School Talent Show. I am your host for the evening Ms. Cheerilee." She lowered the microphone down for Spike to speak into.

"And I am your co-host for the evening Spike the Magnificent." The audience clopped their hooves against the ground softly. Twilight facehoofed at her number one assistant. "Whew, tough crowd." The baby dragon said as he crossed his arms.

Cheerilee patted at the top of his scales. "That is okay Spike." She sighed softly as she looked out at the crowd. "Shall we get started? The first act tonight is the magical duo of Snips and Snails." The crowd clopped their hooves louder to welcome out the two unicorn colts, who came out dressed in matching black ties with white collars, and black top hats.

"Hello everypony. Tonight me, and my assistant Snails are going to attempt something, so dangerous, that it is considered more dangerous than going into the Everfree Forest." The crowd ooo'ed, and ahh'd at the speech. "Tonight I am going to saw my assistant in half."

Snails nodded his head with his tongue half hung out, and shot it toward Snips realizing what they were going to do. "Uuh..huh? I thought we were going to pull a rabbit of our hats Snips." He asked with a confused look.

Snips leant his head closer to whisper into Snails' ear. "Be quiet Snails. Don't worry, it is a trick box, I am not really going to saw you in half." Snails nodded yet with reluctance.

Snips turned back to the crowd. "Now if my assistant would be, so nice as to get in the box."

Snails huffed, but complied as he went to the side of the stage behind the curtain, and brought out a box. It had a big round hole both on the squared ends, four holes on the bottom of it, and a slit to place the saw in the middle. It was carried on a set of wheels.

"Now Snails, may you be so kind to climb inside the box." Snails complied, and climbed inside the box. He stuck his head out in one of the end holes, placed his legs through the four bottom holes, and his tail through the other end hole. Snips closed the box around Snails' body. He grabbed the handle of the saw which was smoothed around its edges to fit perfectly in the slit.

"Duu..just be careful Snips." Snails begged his friend.

Snips leant his head to whisper in Snails' ear. "Don't worry buddy, it will be safe, I promise." He turned his attention to the crowd. "Now everypony, allow your eyes to be amazed by the one, and only Great, and Powerful Snips."

Snails gasped. "Duu..Snips, that is suppose to be Trixie's thing to say. She will be very upset with us if she found out one of us were using her line."

"She isn't here anymore, so she doesn't have to know. Now be quiet Snails." He smiled awkwardly at the crowd. He placed the smooth edged saw into the slit, and carefully seperated the two halves of the box apart. "Presto! Witness the first pony ever to be sawed in half." The crowd clopped the ground loudly.

He smiled proudly at the crowd's reaction, and carefully pushed the halves together. He took the saw out of the slit, and opened the box to reveal that Snails was in one whole piece. Snails stepped out of the box.

Ms Cheerilee, and Spike walked back out onto the stage. "Well, that was certainly a suspenseful act Snips, and Snails." She smiled soft at the two. "Mares, and gentlecoats, Snips, and Snails, and their wonderful magic act." The crowd clopped at the ground loudly again as the two unicorn colts bowed their heads happily, and trotted backstage.

Toby was sitting on a bench against the wall as he held his hand in his lap, and looked down at them. He was breathing deeply in, and out. "Please let me do good, please let me make Mommy proud." He thought to himself over, and over again.

He lifted his head to see Silver Spoon getting ready to go out next. "D-do good out there Silver Spoon." He said softly as she trotted up to him. She was wearing a suit like his without the dress shirt, and shoes on all four of her hooves, which looked like tap dancing shoes.

She smiled warmly down at him. "Aww..well, thank you sweetie pie. I appreciate that." She gently leant her head foward, and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead. "You do good too Toby, when your turn comes up." She smiled, and trotted toward the curtain to wait to go out next.

He smiled softly at her as he turned his attention back to his hands in his lap. "Alright mares, and gentlecolts, next up is the tap dancing filly, Silver Spoon." He could hear Ms. Cheerilee announce Silver Spoon as she walked out on stage, and the crowd began getting louder with each clop of their hooves against the ground.

Toby sat quietly backstage as he watched her begin her tap dancing act. As he was watching Silver Spoon he felt a rough nudge on his shoulder that nearly made him fall of the bench he was sitting on. He turned around to see the glaring eyes of Diamond Tiara with a smirk on her face.

"It looks like my best friend found a coltfriend, well, a bratfriend..hahaha." Laughing cruelly. She lifted a foreleg, and placed her forehoof against Toby's chest. She leant her head close to him furrowing her brows. "I don't see what she sees in such a puny little runt like you, but you better just make sure you don't do better than me."

He swallowed deeply, and nodded. "Y-yes Diamond Tiara. I promise." He shook a little as Diamond Tiara lifted her forehoof of his chest, and placed it back on the ground. He nervously looked into her eyes. "D-do good out there Diamond Tiara." Speaking with his usual politeness giving her a small smile.

"Like I need good luck from you, you little brat." She turned to see Silver Spoon bowing her head, and turned to trot backstage. "Well, it looks like it is time to show my fabulousness for all of Ponyville to see." She flicked her mane arrogantly, and turned to Toby. "See you runt." Then she trotted up to the curtain.

Silver Spoon whispered over to her friend. "Have fun Diamond." She gave her smile as she trotted backstage.

"Thanks Silver." She returned the smile, and trotted onto the stage.

After Diamond Tiara performed her ballet act, the next one up was Applebloom. She saw Toby sitting on the bench looking down at his hands in his lap, and trotted up to him. She reached a foreleg up, and gently rub at his shoulder. "Are ya ah'right Toby?" She lowered her head to tried looking into his eyes.

"Y-yes I am okay Applebloom." He gave her a little smile. "D-do good out there, and have fun."

"Thank ya buddy." She smiled at him, and jumped up on her beach ball, and balanced on it to she could trot on it toward the curtain.

Ms. Cheerilee welcomed her as she came rolling on the stage on top of her beach ball. "Next we have the fun, and entertaining performance of Applebloom." The audience clopped at the ground loudly, and laughed at her clown outfit as she jumped on top of the beach ball bouncing, and doing a somersault in midair landing on the stage on her hindlegs, and raising her forelegs in the air with a bright smile.

"Howdy everypony!" She looked over the crowd. "Tonight, Ah' am going to entertain you with some darn tootin' great juggling, and while walking on my ol' trusty beach ball. So y'all get ready for a great ol' time." As she went to the side of the stage to retrieve three apples.

She returned to the center of the stage carrying the apple in the crook of her foreleg. She sat down on her haunches, and placed them in one forehoof. She started out by throwing one up in the air, then another one, and the last one, until she was tossing them back and forth between each forehoof rotating them around in a spherical motion.

"WOOHOO! GO APPLEBLOOM!" Pinkie Pie yelled whistling, and slopping all four hooves against the ground. The crowd followed along with clopping their hooves loudly.

Applebloom smiled proudly at the crowd's reaction, and threw all three apples in the air and caught them in her mouth while they came falling down. She smiled with the apples filling her mouth. "Thank y'all very much. Next, Ah' am going to balance on mah' beach ball while doing some extra tricks. Be prepared to be amazed." She smiled at the crowd.

Applejack covered her face with her hat. "Ah' sure do hope this don't turn out to be a darn mess for her." She thought to herself.

Applebloom jumped up onto her beach ball on all four legs first then carefully sat up on her haunches raising slowly on her hindlegs.She walked on the beach ball making it roll along the stage, and jumped up cutting a flip in midair, and landing on a single foreleg doing a hoofstand. The crowd clopped the ground louder, and hollered. Applebloom pushed down on the surface of the beach ball, and leaped in midair turning to land back on her hindlegs.

Balancing on the ball she tilted her head back, and spit the apple up in the air positioning her forelegs to catch them. As soon as one hit one forehoof she started juggling them in between both forehooves while walking on the beach ball. The crowd had their mouths opened in awe at how easily Applebloom made it look.

For her finale she tossed the apples high in the air, backflipping off the beachball onto the stage, and opening her mouth to retrieve the apples which she was successful. She spit them out onto her forehooves, and bowed her head. The crowd went crazy, and Applejack let out a big sigh of relief.

Ms. Cheerilee, and Spike came out with an applause of their own. "Well, that was a very very good performance Applebloom." She smiled at the filly as the crowd gave her one more round of applause as she bowed her head, and trotted backstage.

Spike got the mic. "Next, we have the awesome, and cool pegasus filly herself Scootaloo." The crowd cheered, and everypony was smiling brightly at what was coming up next still wowed by Applebloom's performance.

Scootaloo came speeding out onto the stage on her scooter. "Alright everypony. If you think that Applebloom was cool, get ready to be amazed by the awesome stunts of me, the one, and only Spectacular Scootaloo!" She smirked holding a foreleg up in the air.

"Yea, you go Scoots!" Rainbow cheered from her place on the ground. "Now it is about to get twenty percent cooler." The girls just laughed, and shook their heads.

There were two wooden ramps sat up on each side of the stage that were supported by two concrete block on one end to make the ramps become slanted. Scootaloo smirked, and kicked off on her scooter to go to one side. She placed her helmet on, and licked at her lips confidently.

She kicked her scooter off, and sped up the ramp flying on her scooter in midair letting go of the handlebars first to hold her forelegs in the air for a second before grabbing onto them again landing on the other ramp. The crowd clopped a little loud. Scootaloo smiled, and thought to herself. "They haven't seen anything yet."

She kicked her scooter off, and sped faster than the first time up the ramp on the otherside of the stage. As soon as she came off the ramp she performed a backflip with her scooter landing on the other ramp safely. The crowd clopped louder.

She kicked off her scooter again going up the ramp again, this time rotating herself, and her scooter in a sideways spherical motion, and landing on the other ramp succesfully. The reaction got louder. She smiled confidently as she kicked off to the very end of the side of the stage. She took a deep breath. "Here we go Scoots, all or nothing." She thought to herself.

She kicked her scooter off one more time going real fast as she approached the ramp, and she leaned back to make the scooter go straight up into the air where she cut two backflips, and landing safely on the opposite side. She smiled brightly, and held up her forelegs in the air which the crowd went crazy.

"WOW! That was simply awesome. That's my filly." Rainbow said proudly of her protege.

Ms. Cheerilee came trotting out on stage. "Another great, and wonderful performance. Good job Scootaloo." Scootaloo smiled, and bowed her head with a foreleg stuck out to the crowd.

As Scootaloo lifted her head she saw the mouths of Rainbow, and the rest of the crowd agaped. "What is it everypony?" She asked curiously.

"Scoots, look behind you, at your flank." Rainbow pointed out with a hoof.

"What do you mean.." Scootaloo gasped as she saw the glowing of a white light which slowly subsided. "No way! I got my cutie mark!" Smiling ear from ear she looked at the symbol on her flank.

It was a scooter with the same orange color as her fur with three red flames in the back of it. With one on top of the back wheel, one in the middle, and one under the back wheel, and a white helmet with wings on it that were the same color as her mane and tail.

"This is so awesome!" She exclaimed as the crowd cheered, and clopped the ground loudly.

Rainbow Dash smiled proud at the pegasus, and shot up in the air with one foreleg in the air, and the other against the chest. "That's my Scoots!" Scootaloo looked up at her idol with a big grin.

She looked to the crowd again, and bowed her head one more time before getting on her scooter, and kicking off on it backstage.

Toby stood up from the bench, and clapped his hands together as Scootaloo was coming backstage. "Th-that was very cool Scootaloo. You, and Applebloom did very good. I can't wait for Sweetie Belle." He smiled softly up at the pegasus filly.

He then looked at her cutie mark. "C-Congratulations on getting your cutie mark too."

She reached a forehoof up, and patted him on the head. "Thank you buddy." Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom came trotting up to the two.

"That was awesome Scootaloo. Ah' was worried though for ya, if ya fell or something." Applebloom smiled brightly at her friend. "Your cute mark rocks. I guess your special talent is being a stunt performer." She smiled, and gave her friend a big hug.

"Yes, that was some scary stuff Scootaloo. At least you are safe, and you did fabulous. I am very proud of you getting your cutie mark." Sweetie Belle smiled, and cleared her throat.

"Thanks you three. Oh, this is so cool. Have fun out there Sweetie Belle." She gave both of them a hug bringing Toby into it as well.

They broke the hug, and Sweetie Belle spoke up. "Well, I guess it is my time to go on out there." She smiled at the three taking a deep breath, and trotted up to the curtain.

Ms. Cheerilee got up to the mic. "Well, mares, and gentlecolts there are only two acts left, and then we will announce the winners of each category. Next up is the wonderful singing of the sweet little filly Sweetie Belle." Sweetie Belle came trotting on stage to a thunderous ovation with the crowd really into the talent show.

"Yay Sweetie Belle! That is my sister." Rarity cheered proudly, causing Sweetie Belle to blush slightly.

Sweetie Belle stepped up to the mic taking a deep breath. She looked out to the crowd, and at her sister with her friends. "Hello everypony. Tonight I am going to be singing the song of the group me, and my friends, Applebloom, and Scootaloo created called The Cutie Mark Crusaders. I hope you all like it." She took another deep breath, and started to sing.

As she was singing, Toby smiled softly as her voice was elegant, and smooth. "She sounds like Momma when she sings me to bed, and also Mommy when she sung to me." He thought to himself.

After she got done singing the crowd gave her a thunderous ovation like they have been doing all night for all the talents. She smiled brightly, but then noticed shocked looks on their faces and especially Rarity.

"Oh, Sweetie Belle, look." She pointed her forehoof at her sister's flank. Sweetie Belle slowly turned her head to see the same white glowing light that appeared on Scootaloo's flank.

The light slowly faded as a symbol appeared on Sweetie Belle's flank. It was a microphone with a grey handle with the speaker being light pink, and there were the music notes surrounding the speaker.

Sweetie Belle beamed with excitement. "Yes! I got my cutie mark!" She jumped, and down happily as Rarity had tears in her eyes to see her sister finaly receive her cutie mark. Sweetie Belle bowed her head toward the crowd one more time, and skipped to the back.

"Yay Sweetie Belle!" The two other CMC came up and hugged her tightly. "Ah' knew ya had a special talent in singing, and this proves it." Applebloom said proudly for her friend.

"Yea Sweetie Belle, that was cool." Scootaloo patted her friend on the back.

"C-congratulations Sweetie Belle on getting your cutie mark too." Toby said politely as Sweetie Belle gave him a hug, and nuzzled his cheek.

"Thank you all." The four smiled happily, but the two fillies looked at Applebloom.

"Aw..jeez, Applebloom I am, so sorry. You didn't get yours though." Sweetie Belle frowned.

"This stinks. Why couldn't we all get our cutie marks tonight." Scootaloo lowered her head.

"Hey now, don't y'all worry about a thing. Ah' will get my cutie mark another time. Maybe being a circus performer wasn't my special talent." Applebloom giggled giving the two a reassuring smile. "Ah' am very proud of you two, and soon Ah'll get my cutie mark, then we can ourselves THE CUTIE MARK ACHIEVERS!" She smiled brightly while the two gave her a big hug.

Toby took a deep breath knowing this his turn was next. He closed his eyes, and thought. "Please let me do good. Please let me make Mommy proud." As he felt a couple hooves on his shoulders, and one on his back. He opened his eyes to look up at the CMC as they gave him warm smiles.

"Ya can do it Toby." Applebloom said giving him a reassuring, and gentle pat on the back.

"Yea buddy, go out there, and knock them off their flanks." Scootaloo said with a soft smirk, and patted his shoulder.

"You will do your mommy, and all of us proud Toby, don't worry." Sweetie Belle gave him a soft nuzzle on the cheek.

He looked up at them. "Th-thank you all." As he took a deep breath, and walked to the curtain. He felt another hoof on his shoulder, and turned to look up at Silver Spoon. "H-hi Silver Spoon. You did good out there with your tap dancing."

"Aww..well, thank you sweetie pie. I just wanted to wish you a good job tonight, and I know that you will make your mommy proud." She gave him a warm smile, and gently gave him a kiss on the cheek.

He blushed, and smiled up at her. "Th-thank you Silver Spoon, that means a lot."

She gently rubbed at his arm. "You are very welcome little guy." She smiled down at him, and returned backstage.

"Alright everypony. It is time for the last act of the night." Toby watched Ms. Cheerilee stand at the mic getting ready to bring him out. He took a deep breath. "Please welcome our new student at Ponyville Elementary School who will be playing the piano for you all tonight, Toby Mason." Ms. Cheerilee smiled toward the curtain, and motioned for Toby to come out onto the stage.

"Come on Toby, don't get nervous. This is for Mommy." He thought to himself as he carefully walked out onto the stage to a loud clopping of hooves from the crowd. He nervously lifted his arm, and waved at the crowd of ponies. He looked in the front to see Fluttershy, and the other girls who were clopping their hooves, and giving him bright reassuring smiles.

Backstage Diamond Tiara was beside Silver Spoon. "Gah. Well, at least I don't have to worry about him upstaging me, because he is just going to mess up." She let out an arrogant huff.

Silver Spoon looked over at her. "Diamond! Come with me over here." She trotted away from the curtain to the backstage area. "Do you know why you was even put back into the talent show? It is because Toby asked Ms. Cheerilee to put you back in it. He didn't want to be the reason you were taken out of it, and he didn't want you to be mad at him for it." She looked at Diamond disapprovingly.

"WHAT?" Diamond said with a shocked look on her face. "That is redicilous. Ms. Cheerilee let me back into the talent show, because..." She was cut off by a hoof stomp. The two fillies turned to see Applebloom and the other two CMC.

"It is the truth Diamond Tiara. Toby did ask Ms. Cheerilee to put ya back in the talent show. He also asked us not to tell ya, because he didn't want you think he was the only reason ya were put back in." Applebloom looked at her sternly.

"But..but.." She was cut off again, this time with a calm hoof on her shoulder that belonged to Silver Spoon.

"Listen Diamond, I am your friend, but I don't like this mean side of you. Do you want to know why Toby is playing the piano? He lost his mommy, his real mommy last year, and he never had the chance to say goodbye." Silver Spoon frowned, and lowered her head.

Diamond swallowed deeply, and looked at the CMC with a look of concern.

"She is telling the truth Diamond Tiara." Sweetie Belle spoke up. "His mommy died last year in an accident, and his own daddy blamed it on him saying it was his fault that his mommy was gone." Sweetie lowered her head with a frown.

Diamond swallowed deeply again, and turned her head toward the stage at the little colt.

Scootaloo was the last to speak. "Also, Diamond I don't know why he would do it, but Toby forgives you for the mean things you said to him on his first day of school. He told us that his mommy taught him never to be mad at somepony for too long, or he would turn out to be mean himself, and he doesn't want to be mean."

Diamond looked at Scootaloo, and the others with her lower lip quivering, and tears stinging her eyes. She lowered her head, and started shaking. "I.I." She lowered her head down onto her forelegs on the ground and started to sob. "I am a horrible pony!"

Silver looked on concern at her friend, and sat down on her haunches beside her along with the other fillies. "No, Diamond you aren't horrible. It is the words you say, and the stuff you do that is horrible, but that doesn't make you a horrible pony on the inside." She reached out a forehoof, and rubbed at Diamond's back.

Diamond carefully laid down on all four legs, and lifted her head sniffling. "Do you really think, so Silver?"

"Yah, she is right Diamond Tiara. Ah' know that there is good in ya. Ya just got to try, and not say mean stuff, or do mean things to other ponies." Applebloom smiled reassuringly as the other two nodded.

Diamond gave a little smile, and swallowed deeply. "Oh Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, I am so so sorry for how I have treated you three ever since we met. If I have just given the chance to get to know you all, I would have good friends just like Silver Spoon. Can you three ever forgive me?" She looked at the three with pleading eyes.

"Sure Diamond Tiara. We forgive you, and we would like to become friends with you." Sweetie Belle said as she reached out a forehoof. Diamond reached her on forehoof out, and they both shook hooves. Scootaloo and Applebloom followed suit.

"Thank you three. Great job on getting your cutie marks Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. Don't worry Applebloom, I know you will get yours soon." She sniffled, and looked out at the stage at the small child. "Now I must make it up to Toby." She said softly as she lightly smiled.

Toby walked up to the mic swallowing deeply. "G-good evening everypony. The song I want to play for you all is called This Broken Soul. I hope you are enjoy." He took a deep breath and walked to the piano bench. The crowd fell silent to let him get ready.

He reached up to put his hands on the piano, but immediately started shaking. He lowered his head with tears stinging his eyes. "Please don't let me cry, please don't let me do bad." He stroked a couple keys, but stopped putting his hands in his lap closing his eyes shut tight. "I can't do it."

The crowd looked on concerned for the little colt, and Fluttershy with the others frowned.

"Oh... my. Maybe I should go up there to see if he is okay." Rarity who was sitting beside Fluttershy gently placed a forehoof on her friend's shoulder.

"Fluttershy darling, just relax. I am sure he is okay, he is just nervous." She gave the worried pegasus a soft, and reassuring smile as they turned their attention back to Toby.

While Toby had his head lowered, and eyes shut he could hear a soft familiar voice. "Toby sweetheart, look at me please?"

"M-Mommy?" He swallowed deeply opening his eyes, and lifted his head to look up, and beside him. It was the same apparition of his mother like in his dream. "M-Mommy!" He smiled brightly.

"That is right my baby boy. It's me." She gave him a soft smile. "Now Toby, I want you to listen to me, okay?" He nodded.

"Uh..who do ya think he is talking to yall?" Applejack asked the group of mares as she looked up at him at the piano. They shook their heads, but looked on intently at the small child along with the crowd.

"Sweetheart, the moment you came into my life was the proudest day of my life. When I first held you in my arms, and looked into your eyes, I know that I was blessed with you." Tears started to shed from Toby's eyes as he looked up into his mother's. "Every day spent with you made me proud of my baby boy. Just remember that I will always love you, and when you ever want to think of me just close your eyes, and listen to your heart. I will always be with you my angel deep within your heart."

She leant her head down, and gave him an angelic kiss on the top of his head. "I will be listening to you sweetheart play the piano. I love you my baby boy, I always will."

Toby swallowed deeply allowing the tears to shed freely down his cheeks. "I-I love you too Mommy!" He smiled softly with his lower lip quivering. "G-goodbye." The apparition of his mother slowly disappeared as he turned back toward the piano, and placed his hands on the keys. He started stroking the keys.

(All rights of the song This Broken Soul belong to The Legend of Spyro : Eternal Night and sung by Rebecca Kneubuhl)

After several minutes of playing the song Toby's tears finally dried as he swallowed deeply, and carefully stood up from the piano bench. He turned toward the crowd, and they all had tears in their own eyes along with Fluttershy, and the other girls.

Ms. Cheerilee came out with Spike who both had tears stinging their eyes. "That was very beautiful Toby." The crowd clopped the ground loudly giving Toby the loudest reaction of the night. Toby smiled softly out at the crowd, and bowed his head.

When Toby walked backstage he was gently swallowed in a big group hug by the CMC. "Ya did great Toby." Applebloom said softly rubbing at his back.

"You did awesome buddy." Scootaloo smiled brightly at him, and rubbed at the top of his head.

"You play the piano beautifully Toby." Sweetie Belle gently nuzzled at him on the cheek.

Silver Spoon trotted up and sat on her haunches, and lifted her forelegs up to bring him to her giving him a warm hug. "That was wonderful Toby. You made us all proud, but you should be proud of yourself." She smiled warmly as she rubbed up, and down his back.

"Toby?" Suddenly the voice of Diamond Tiara was heard as she very slowly trotted near the group.

He looked up at her and swallowed deeply. "Y-yes Diamond Tiara?' He asked kindly.

She started to sob as she looked at him. "Oh, Toby, I am, so so sorry for those nasty mean things I said to you on your first day of school, and all of the mean things I have done, and said to you recently. You deserved none of that, and I am so sorry. Can you ever forgive me?" She lowered her head allowing tears to fall from her eyes.

Toby frowned at her, and carefully wrapped his little arms around her neck, and laid his head on her shoulder. "O-of course Diamond Tiara. I already have forgiven you, please don't cry." He carefully reached a hand down along the back of her neck to rub gently at her back.

Diamond swallowed deeply, and gently lifted a foreleg up to hug him back. "Aw..Toby, you indeed are a sweet little colt." She laid her head on his shoulder as the other four fillies smiled warmly at the two, and Snips, and Snails who were standing off the distance smiled as well.

Ms. Cheerilee got back on the mic. "Before I announce the winners, let us have one more round of applause for all of our acts tonight." The crowd cheered, and clopped loudly. "Now, the first medals goes to the best variety act. Will Snips and Snails, Scootaloo, and Applebloom please come out."

The four came out to a big ovation as they bowed their heads, and had bright smiles on their faces.

"Third place goes to Snips and Snails for their magic act." Spike presented the two colts with two bronze medals. "Second place goes to Scootaloo for her scooter act." Spike represented the pegasus filly with a silver medal which she smiled proudly. "And first place goes to Applebloom for her circus act." Applebloom smiled brightly as Spike presented her with a gold medal. They gave one bow of their heads to the crowd who gave them a roaring ovation as the trotted backstage.

"Next up is the medals for best dance act. Could I have Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon come out?" The two fillies and friends came out to the same loud ovation. They bowed their heads and turned to Ms. Cheerilee. "Second place for best dance act goes to Diamond Tiara for her ballet." Spike presented her with the silver medal. "And the winner for best dance act is Silver Spoon for her wonderful tap dancing performance." The crowd clopped loudly as Spike presented her with the gold medal.

The two fillies bowed their heads, and clapped their hooves together as they trotted backstage next.

"The final medal of the night will go to the best musical act. Will Toby Mason, and Sweetie Belle please come out on stage?" Toby took a deep breath behind the curtain as Sweetie Belle joined beside him as they both walked out on stage to the loudest ovation of the final medals.

"Now this was a tough one to decide, because both of you done an exceptional job with your music act." Ms. Cheerilee smiled at the two. "Second place for the best music act goes to...Sweetie Belle for her singing of the Cutie Mark Crusaders song." The crowd gave her a loud ovation, and Spike presented her with the silver medal. Sweetie Belle beamed with glee as she looked over at Toby. "And the best music act of the night goes to Toby Mason for his beautiful, and touching piano performance." Toby smiled softly as Spike walked up and presented him with the gold medal.

The crowd cheered loudly and Fluttershy and the other girls clopped the ground loudly with big smiles on their faces.

"May all the kids come out one more time please?" Ms. Cheerilee asked as they came back out on stage. "Thank you all mares, and gentlecolts for attending the talent show tonight. Give a round of applause one more time for our wonderful acts." The crowd gave a thunderous reaction as the colts, and fillies bowed their heads.

Deep in thought as he looked out into the crowd Toby smiled. "Thank you Mommy for being there for me. I love you, and I always will. I am happy I made you proud. Goodbye, I love you so much." He closed his eyes softly, and took in a deep breath letting out a heartfelt sigh.

Author's Note

First off, this story is not over, but i wanted to make this chapter very special. Also, I would like to apologize for not updating as soon as I hoped, but I hope you all enjoy it. Also, i know it is longer, but I wanted this to be a very special chapter for Toby and all of his new family. :)

I wanted to include the singing of "This Broken Soul" as well, because I just love it and it is such a beautiful song. Also, I admit I did fill up when I was writing the part with his mom appearing to him before playing. :)

I wanted to give thanks to Rainjackpie and Hawkx1 for giving the idea and also making me realize that I should have given at least two of the CMC their cutie marks, with it being Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Don't worry though, I have a plan for Applebloom to receive her cutie mark with the help of Toby. :)

Chapter Twenty-One: A Morning Visit (Edited)

Dawn started to break as the crowing of a rooster could be heard on the farm of Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack let out a big yawn, smacking her lips as she carefully sat up in her bed. She blinked her eyes open as she climbed off the bed, and onto all four legs. She trotted over the wooden floor to grab her Stetson hat, and put it on.

She trotted out of her room, and down the hallway to Applebloom's room. She saw the door slightly opened, and decided to trot inside pushing it open with a forehoof. She saw Applebloom in her bed rolled over onto her side with her back facing her, and decided to carefully trot up to her bed. She reached a foreleg up, and gently nudged at her sister with her forehoof. "Hey, Applebloom, are ya'll awake?"

The yellow filly turned onto her side to face Applejack blinking her eyes tiredly, and letting out a yawn. "Yah, Ah'm up, Ah'm up." She stirred in her bed stretching her forelegs, and hindlegs. "What is the big deal sis? It's too early to do any applebucking." She climbed out of the bed, and onto the floor.

Applejack shook her head. "Ah' know Applebloom. Ah' am going to go get Toby, and bring him to the farm." She said giving her sister a wink.

Applebloom smiled brightly. "Well, that is mighty nice of ya sis. Ah'll keep an eye out here, and help out with anything that Granny Smith or Big Mac will need help with, until ya get back."

"Thanks Applebloom. If they ask, just tell them Ah'll be back in a little bit, ah'rght?"

"Ah' will Applejack, don't worry. The little guy is just going to love the farm sis."

"Ah' know. Now ya get ready for the day, and Ah'll see you soon." Applejack tipped her hat to the filly, and trotted out of her room down the hallway, and down the staircase.

*woof..woof* Winona came running from the kitchen up to her owner jumping up on her hindlegs, and licking at Applejack's face playfully. "Haha..howdy Winona." She rubbed at the top of the dog's head with a forehoof. Winona yipped happily, and sat down on her haunches. "Are ya hungry girl? Ah'll feed you before Ah' go out, ah'right?" Winona nodded, and yipped following her caretaker into the kitchen.

Applejack filled her food bowl up, and her water dish. She gently stroked along the top of her head down her back with a forehoof. "Now ya be a good girl while Ah'm gone, ah'right Winona?" She leaned her down, and nuzzled at her cheek. Winona yipped, and went to eating at her food. Applejack smiled at her pet then trotted outside of the kitchen door.

She took a deep breath of the morning air. "Ah' reckon it is gunna be a wonderful day today. The little feller is going to enjoy his day here at Sweet Apple Acres." She thought to herself as she trotted along the dirt path starting her trek to Fluttershy's cottage.

Toby was starting to stir in Fluttershy's big soft bed as he let out a soft yawn, stretched his arms, and legs, and slowly opened his eyes. He reached up with his hands to rub his eyes, and reached over to the nightstand table to get his glasses, and put them on. He carefully climbed out of the bed putting his bedroom slippers on, and walked toward the stairs to descend them.

He saw all of the animals waiting down in the den as he looked over to see Fluttershy just starting to wake up. She let out a yawn as she blinked her eyes opened to watch her little colt coming down the stairs into the den. She smiled softly, and carefully climbed off her sofa. She stood up on all four legs as the small child walked up to her wrapping his little arms around her neck, and laying his head against her chest.

"Good morning Momma." He sighed happily as he titled his head back to look up at her.

She smiled down at him, and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead. "Good morning sweetie. My, you are up early this morning." She giggled as she softly nuzzled at his cheek.

He giggled, and blushed at the nuzzle. "I know Momma." He looked up at her with a curious expression. "Could I maybe help you feed the animals this morning?" He asked with a hopeful smile. "I know I am young, but I would like to help you more, and not let you do all of the work." He lowered his head again, and laid against her chest sighing softly.

She felt her heart melt as she leaned her head down, and nuzzled at the top of his head giving it a tender kiss. "Aww..that is sweet of you Toby. Of course you can help me feed the animals." She reached up to rub up, and down his back gently with a foreleg.

He sighed happily as she rubbed his back, and he very gently broke the hug looking up at her with a bright smile. "Thank you Momma." As he turned to his attention to all the animals. "Is it okay if I help Momma feed you all?" They all smiled giving him chirps, and chitters of happiness.

Fluttershy squeed as her animal friends decided to let Toby help her feed them. "Let's go into the kitchen first sweetie and I will show you how to fix Angel's special salad that I sometimes fix him on occassion.." She trotted carefully into the kitchen with the little colt following behind her.

She looked down at her litlte colt as she hovered in the air to get a bowl out of the top cabinet. It was a light blue porcelain bowl with a yellow rim. She lowered back down to the floor, and set the bowl on the counter while she trotted over to the refrigerator to get the ingredients which consisted of fresh lettuce leaves, whipped cream, a single slice of pineapple, orange slices, nuts, slices of fresh cucumber, and a cherry.

She set all of the ingredients out on the counter, and looked down at Toby. She frowned a little as he barely came up to the edge of the counter, so she hovered over to get a chair for him to stand on. "Here you go sweetheart, this ought to be better for you." She gave him a soft smile as he looked up returning it as he climbed up in the chair.

He smiled brightly as he looked at all the fresh vegetables, and fruits. "That all looks good Momma. What do we do first?" Asking curiously as he looked over at her as he came eye level to her standing on the chair.

She smiled at his anxiousness. "Well, sweetie, first we place a layer of lettuce leaves in the bottom of the bowl." She reached for a couple of lush leaves with her forehooves, and placed them in the bowl one on top of the other creating a thin bottom layer. "Just like that. Now, you just add a layer of orange slices. Would you like to do that sweeite?" He nodded, and Fluttershy took a step back to let him.

He reached for three orange slices with his hands, and placed them side by side on the layer of lettuce. He turned to look at Fluttershy with a hopeful smile. "Did I do it right Momma?"

She nodded letting out a soft giggle, and bright smile. "Yes you did my precious little one, very good job." She leaned her head over to him, and gave him a nuzzle on the cheek. Next she reached over to the cucumber slices. "Next we will place the cucumber on top of the orange slices." She placed the slices on top of the first layer of orange slices.

He giggled. "No wonder why this is a special salad to Angel Momma, it looks so good. Also, these are all my favorite fruits, and vegetables." He smiled happily at her, and looked on the counter at the other lettuce leaves that were left out. "Do those go on next Momma?" Pointing at them with a finger.

She looked at the direction of his finger to see the other lettuce leaves. She nodded with a big smile. "That is right sweetheart. Would you like to put the other layer of lettuce leave on?" He nodded as she gave him a tender kiss on the forehead.

He reached over to grab at the remaining lettuce leaves, and carefully placed them on top of the cucumber slices, creating a second, and final thin layer of lettuce. "Is that good Momma?" He looked over at her with a hopeful smile.

She nodded, and smiled brightly. "Yes sweetie, that is very good." She gave him a playful nuzzle on the nose. "Now, can you guess what goes next Toby?" Asking sweetly as she watched him look at the rest of the ingredients.

He carefully reached out for a single orange slice and picked it up in his hand and looked over at Fluttershy. "Is this it Momma?" He giggled and smiled hopefully.

She squealed, and nodded. "Yes my sweet little colt, that goes on next." She smiled brightly as she watched him carefully place it on to the second layer of lettuce leaves. She sat down on her haunches, and clapped her forehooves together proudly. "Very good sweetie." She gave him a nuzzle.

He blushed at the nuzzle, and looked back at the remaining ingredients. He reached for the single pineapple slice, and looked over at her. "Does this go on top of the orange slice Momma?"

She nodded. "Yes sweetie, the pineapple goes on next." She gave him a bright smile as he carefully placed the slice of pineapple on top of the orange slice. "Now, we just add the whipped cream, nuts, and cherry on top, and Angel's salad will be done, okay Toby?" Asking with her soft voice.

He nodded. "Okay Momma." He reached for the whipped cream which was in a small bowl, and scooped some out with a spoon. He placed it on top of the pineapple slice, and then reached for the nuts to sprinkle over the whipped cream. "And the last thing is the cherry." He said happily as he reached for the cherry, and carefully placed it on top.

Fluttershy beamed with pride as Toby made Angel his special salad. "Oh sweetheart, you did a wonderful job. I know Angel is going to love it." She nuzzled at his cheek, and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead.

She watched him carefully climb off the chair, and she reached up to grab the bowl with her forehooves to give it to Toby to take into the den to Angel. She placed the chair back under the kitchen table as she followed behind him.

They walked into the den, and Toby walked up to Angel placing the bowl down on the floor in front of him. "Here you go Angel. I hope I did a good job helping Momma make it." He put his hands together, and looked at the bunny with a hopeful smile.

Angel looked intently at the salad as he let his tongue slide out of his maw dripping with saliva and licked his lips. He looked up at the child, and nodded vigorously as he stuck out a paw gently grabbing at one of Toby's hands, and shaking it. He let the hand, pulled out his little white big, a fork, and started to chow down on the salad.

Fluttershy, and Toby giggled. She looked down at her little colt gently placing a forehoof on his shoulder. "I think Angel loves it sweetheart. Momma is very proud of you." She leaned her head down, and kissed him on the top of his head. "Now let me show you what I feed all my other animal friends, okay Toby?" He nodded as she took him around inside feeding all the other critters their favorite foods before taking him outside.

Applejack was trotting along the dirt path, and over the bridge just before going up the hill to Fluttershy's cottage. "Ah' hope Ah'm not too early. Ah' wouldn't want to wake the little feller up if he is still asleep." She thought as she trotted up to the cottage. As she was about to knock on the door she could hear some laughter out in the back.

Being curious of what was going on she trotted around to the side of the cottage to the backyard which was also Fluttershy's animal sanctuary. When she got back there she saw a very cute sight. Fluttershy's animal friend Mr. Bear had Toby in a gentle bearhug as he was rubbing the top of his head between the ears.

"See sweetheart, I told you Mr. Bear was as gentle, and loving as all the other animals." Fluttershy hovered in the air giggling at the two as she rubbed at the bear's head with a forehoof. "You are just a sweet, and cuddly bear aren't you?" The bear nodded, and made a happy murring sound. "Now time to put Toby down so you can eat Mr. Bear." The bear obliged as he put Toby back down on the ground as Fluttershy handed him a bowl of berries, and oats drenched with honey.

Applejack smiled at herself as she trotted up to the two. "Howdy yall. Ah' see that Ah' haven't come too early." They turned to see her, and gave her a smile in return.

Toby ran up to her, and gave her a big hug around her neck with his little arms. He looked up happily into her green eyes. "Good morning Auntie Applejack." He laid his head against her soft chest fur, and sighed warmly.

She reached a foreleg up, and rubbed at his back with a hoof nuzzling at the top of his head. "Well, good morning to ya too sugarcube." She looked up at the yellow pegasus. "I see he met your bear friend over there Fluttershy."

She nodded. "Yes. He wanted to help mefeed all the animals this morning, and he has done a very good job." She smiled down at the little colt, and gave him a kiss on the top of head. "Would you like to come in for a little bit Applejack?"

The cowpony kindly tipped her hat. "Well, Ah' thank ya for the offer Fluttershy, but Ah' wanted to come by, and see if it was okay if Ah' could bring the little feller to Sweet Apple Acres, and show him around?" She looked down at the small child as he looked up at her with a bright smile.

"Really Auntie Applejack? I can come, and visit your farm?" He asked excitedly with a hopeful smile.

The two mares giggled at his anxiousness, and Applejack nodded. "Of course sugarcube. It is up to your mom though." She looked at Fluttershy. "What do ya say Fluttershy? Ah' promise Ah' will bring him back before evening comes."

Toby turned around to look up at Fluttershy. "Please Momma, can I go to Auntie Applejack's farm?"

Fluttershy smiled down at him, and nodded. "Of course sweetie, you can go to Sweet Apple Acres." She gave him a kiss on the top of the head. "How about you go get dressed, while we wait outside, okay sweetheart?" He nodded, and carefully ran into the cottage to go get dressed.

Fluttershy returned her attention to Applejack. "He will love it at Sweet Apple Acres Applejack, I just know it." She squealed.

Applejack tipped her hat, and nodded. "Ah' know he will too, but also Ah' want to introduce him to Big Macintosh." She looked at Fluttershy with a smile.

"Oh... my. Well, I am sure he will enjoy meeting Big Macintosh, but I just hope he won't be afraid like he has been in the past." Giving a little frown, and lowering her head.

Applejack trotted up to her, and reached a foreleg up to gently rub at her back. "Don't worry Fluttershy, Ah' know Big Mac will be okay around him. He might be big, but he is like big ol' cuddly Mr. Bear just as long as ya don't mess with his family." She playfully nudged at Fluttershy.

"Besides, Ah' think Toby needs a stallion role-model in his life. The poor critter's father treated him darn badly that it's as if he didn't have a father. Ah' believe Big Mac could be that for him in a way."

"You are right Applejack. The poor little dear only had his mother, who really loved him, and now he has all of us girls, but not really a stallion to look up to." She gave Applejack a warm smile, and hugged her wrapping her forelegs lightly around the cowpony's neck. "Thank you Applejack. Toby is going to love being on the farm, and I know he will love meeting Big Macintosh."

Applejack reached up, and patted her on the back with a forehoof. "Nah, don't worry about it Shy. Ah' love the little feller, and Ah' think he deserves to have a father figure in his life." She gave her friend a sincere smile.

After a couple of minutes, Toby returned outside the cottage dressed in his all chocolate brown outfit with the green, orange, and red plaid shirt. He smiled up brightly at the two mares. "Okay Auntie Applejack, I am ready to go to your farm, if you are ready." He walked up to Fluttershy, and gave her a big hug around her neck with his little arms, and laid his head against her chest fur sighing softly. "I love you Momma, and I will be back later." He looked up happily.

She smiled down at him, and gave him a kiss on the forehead. "Momma loves you too sweetie. You have fun on your Auntie Applejack's farm, and I will have dinner ready for you when you get back, okay sweetheart?" He nodded as he turned to see Applejack bent on her forelegs.

"Hop on sugarcube, and hold on." She giggled as the small child climbed on. She stood back up on her forelegs, and tipped her hat to Fluttershy. "See ya later Shy, Ah'll bring him back in time for dinner." She turned to face the dirt road, and started trotting.

Fluttershy waved a foreleg at the two. "Bye Applejack, bye sweetheart."

Toby turned, and waved a hand back at her. "Bye Momma." Giving her a big smile as he turned to the path again as him, and Applejack made their journey toward Sweet Apple Acres.

Author's Note

Well, it looks like that Toby is about to finally receive a real father figure you could say in his life when he meets Big Macintosh. Also, I have updated Chapter Twenty: Saying Goodbye, so if you get the chance go check it out. Let me just give this spoil out if you haven't read it yet, two of the CMC gets their cutie marks. :)

Chapter Twenty-Two: A Day On The Farm (Edited)

Applejack arrived at Sweet Apple Acres after a few minutes of trotting through Ponyville with Toby riding happily on her back. As she was trotting along the dirt road surrounded by rolls of apple trees on each side, the small child looked at them all in wonder. He looked over Applejack's shoulder to see they were approaching her farm.

There was rolls of corn, a chicken coup, a watering well, and in the center was a big barn painted red, with black-vine like designs with red painted apples intertwined in them, five windows with two on each side, and one in the center above the barn door. At the top sat an arrow with a big red apple sitting on top.

"WOW! Auntie Applejack, I never been on a farm before, and never seen, so many apple trees before. Is this all of yours, and your family's?" He softly asked as they entered through the welcoming arch of the farm.

She nodded her head. "Yah it is sugarcube. Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres, my home." She smiled back at him while she trotted up onto the front porch of her house, and trotted inside. "Apple family, Ah'm home!"

*Woof..woof* Winona came running to greet her owner when she saw the small child on her back. She sat down on her haunches, and looked curiously at him.

"Howdy Winona. Ah' would like for ya to meet Toby." She turned her head back to look at Toby. "Sugarcube, Ah' would like for you to meet my loyal friend, and pet dog, Winona." She bent on her forelegs to let the little colt climb off.

He smiled at the dog. "Hi there Winona." He lifted up a hand, and waved at her. The dog smiled, and yipped at the child as she ran up to him. She reached up with her forelegs, and placed her paws on his shoulders licking at his face making him giggle. "Hahaha..it is good to meet you too Winona." He reached up a hand, and gently stroked from the top of her head down her back.

Applejack smiled at the two, and giggled. "Well, would ya look at that. Winona usually doesn't warm up to strangers that fast, but Ah' knew she probably would with you sugarcube." She gently rubbed the top of Winona's head with her forehoof. "That's a good girl Winona."

The collie looked up at her caretaker yipping happily. She gave Toby a little lick before taking her paws off his shoulders, and went back into the kitchen.

He looked up at the country pony. "She is a pretty, and nice dog, Auntie Applejack." Giving her a smile.

'Well, thank ya Toby. Ah' had her ever since she was a pup, and she has been my best friend during the hardest of times. She is a good pet, and Ah' love her." She tipped her hat down at the child, and gave him a little rub on the head with a forehoof.

"Hiya Toby." Applebloom came trotting into the living room giving the little colt a big soft hug reaching up to rub at his back with a forehoof.

Toby wrapped his arms gently around her neck, and sighed softly laying his head on her shoulder. "Hi Applebloom. How are you doing today?" They gently broke the hug as he looked up at her.

"Ah'm doing good. Just helping Granny fix breakfast. Come on, we have plenty." She smiled, and trotted around him as she lifted him up on her back. "Haha..there ya go."

Applejack smiled at the two as she trotted behind. She heard the screen door open, and turned to see Big Mac. She then turned back to Applebloom. "Hey Applebloom, bring Toby in here for a minute."

She turned around, and nodded "Ah'righty sis." She trotted back into the living room with the little colt on her back. She saw Big Mac, and smiled as she leaned down on her forelegs for Toby to climb off.

Applejack watched as the child looked a bit nervous. "Now now sugarcube, there ain't no reason to be nervous." She gave him a reassuring smile as she motioned for him to come forward. He nodded as he carefully walked toward her with Applebloom following closely behind to comfort him. "Toby, Ah' would like for you to meet Big Mac. Me, and Applebloom's big brother. Big Mac, Ah' would like for you to meet Toby."

Toby swallowed deeply, and looked up at the big red stallion as he spoke softly. "Hi Mister Big Mac."

Big Mac smiled down at him, and knelt down on all four legs, so not to look threatening to him. "Well, howdy there big guy." He reached out a large forehoof in Toby's eyes toward the little colt, and very gently patted at his shoulder. "Now ya don't have to be formal with me Toby. Ya can just call me Big Mac, everypony else does." Giving him a wink and smile. "It is great to meet ya."

Toby smiled softly at the stallion. "It is good to meet you too Big Mac." He carefully walked closer to him, and gave him a hug around his neck with his little arms. Big Mac was taken aback, but smiled warmly as he lifted a foreleg up, and hugged the little colt back.

"Nyah...what is taking y'all, so long?" Granny Smith came trotting into the living room slowly. "Oh. Well, hello there little fella. It is good to see ya again."

Toby heard her voice, and gently broke the hug from Big Mac turning around to wave at her. "Good morning Granny Smith." He smiled at her as he felt a force lift him up with Big Mac carefully lifted him up onto his back.

"Let's go eat some breakfast y'all." The stallion said as Toby smiled, and sat on his back as they all went into the kitchen. When the arrived at a nice big wooden table, Big Mac leant on his forelegs to allow Toby to climb off, and take a seat. The two sat beside each other as Applebloom, and Applejack sat beside each other across from them with Granny Smith sitting at the head of the table.

He looked up at Big Mac. "Thank you Big Mac."

"Ya are very welcome big guy." He smiled at the child, and gently rubbed at his head.

Toby turned his attention to the table which was covered with a white cloth with apple-like designs sewed into it. There was plates set in front of each of them, and each plates had a stack of two pancakes with the ponies having haycakes, and him having regular pancakes, scrambled eggs, toast, and there was a glass of fresh apple cider for everyone.

"Ah'right everypony, let's dig in." Applejack said proudly as the ponies started to eat.

Toby reached for the silverware provided, and started eating at his plate starting with the pancakes. As he bit into the fluffy pillows of food, he could taste sweet syrup blended with melted butter, and the texture was, so soft that it melted in his mouth. He swallowed his first bite, and smiled softly as he took a bite of the eggs.

After she finished her bite of food, Granny Smith looked at the little colt, and asked. "Well, how do ya like your breakfast little fella?" Giggling softly.

Toby looked up from his plate, and smiled softly taking a swallow of his food. "It is very good Granny Smith. Thank you for letting me eat breakfast with you all." He looked around at the table at the four ponies.

"Ya are very welcome sugarcube. Ya'll are always welcomed here on Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack tipped her hat at the child as Applebloom nodded in agreement with a big bright smile. Toby smiled at the two, and went back to eating his breakfast.

After their big breakfast Applejack rubbed at her belly. "Woo doggy! Boy Ah'm stuffed." She reached over to rub at the top of her sister's head. "Ya did a mighty fine job with breakfast there Applebloom." She winked at her, and then looked up at Granny. "And of course my thanks to master chef, Granny Smith." She said giggling softly.

Applebloom smiled brightly. "Thank ya sis. Ah' believe Ah' will get my cutie mark in cooking. Ah' just have to keep on working with Granny." She turned to Granny Smith. "Ya are indeed a great cook Granny, and a great teacher."

"Nyah..well, Ah' learned from my ma, and Ah' am proud to be pass it onto ya, you young whippersnapper." She added giggling happily.

Applejack looked over at Toby with a smile. "Well sugarcube, are ya ready to go outside, and take a tour of the farm?"

He nodded happily. "Yes Auntie Applejack." Big Mac stood up on all four legs, and scooted close to the child, so he could climb up on his back. Toby obliged, and carefully climbed on Big Mac as he reached for his plate, so they could go take their empty dishes into the kitchen.

After putting their dishes in the sink to be washed the four went outside while Granny Smith went to work on cleaning the dishes. "Nyah..that little fella sure is cute, and a very polite gentlecolt." She thought to herself.

Big Mac turned to look at the child on his back as the four walked outside. "Ah'right big guy, it is time for ya to see how all of our fresh apple products are started." Giving him a big smile as they trotted along the dirt path to the vast land of apple trees.

When they arrived at the orchard stopping at one of the many apple trees, Big Mac leaned down on his forelegs to let Toby climb off. He climbed off, and looked up at the tree to see bright red, and green apples on the branches. At the base of the tree there were two bushels on each side.

Applejack looked down at the little colt with a smile. "Ah'right sugarcube, are ya ready to see some applebucking?" Tipping her hat.

"What is applebucking Auntie Applejack?" He looked up at her curiously.

Applebloom looked over at him with a soft smile. "Well, instead of us telling ya buddy, we will show ya." She trotted up to the tree, and turned around to face her flank toward it. "All ya do is bend your forelegs." She leaned foreward on her forelegs. "Then you..." She then lifted her hind legs, reared them back, and threw them forward with force knocking them against the tree. Suddenly every single apple came tumbling down into the bushels.

"WOW! That was neat Applebloom." He looked at her in wonder, and then turned his attention to all of the apple trees. "Did you applebuck all of these trees?"

Big Mac nodded, and looked down at him. "Eeyup." He gently rubbed at the top of Toby's head. "Ya see Toby, it is worth it in the end when all ponies come by to taste our freshly squeezed apple cider, or taste our freshly homemade apple treats."

Toby giggled, and nodded as the other joined in with giggling.

Applejack raised a corner of her mouth in a thinking manner. "Hmm..Ah' know sugarcube, how about ya help us sort out the bad apples from the good apples?"

He looked up with a hopeful smile. "Really Auntie Applejack, you don't mind me helping?"

"Of course Ah' don't mind little feller." She trotted up to him, and reached a foreleg behind him to rub his back with a forehoof. "The more help, the better Ah' think." Giving him a wink as she along with Big Mac went to the buckets to push them to the side away from the tree.

They sat on each side of one bucket, while Applebloom, and Toby sat down on each side of the other bucket. Applebloom looked over at him. "Now all ya do is keep the clean apples in the bushel, and just throw the bruised apple, or ones that have holes in them into a pile to mix with the feed we give to the pigs."

"Oh, okay." He smiled at the filly as he reached into the bushel to look through the pile of apples. While they were sorting out the pile Toby thought of a memory with him and his mother. "Me, and Mommy used to do something like this with my candy when she took me trick, or treating on Halloween."

The three looked up curiously. "Halloween?" They asked in unison as the continued to sort through the apples.

"Yes. It is where me, and other kids around my age dress up in costumes, and go around collect candy. Mommy started taking me when I was two, and it was, so much fun." He had a warm smile on his face as he gently closed his eyes taking a deep breath then opening them back up. "It was one of our special things to do together." He looked carefully at the apples as he went through them.

"Well, that sounds sweet sugarcube." Applejack looked over at him with a soft smile. "We have a celebration here in Ponyville just like this Halloween you speak of. It is called Nightmare Night, and we all dress up in festive costumes. The young'uns and for some darn reason Pinkie Pie go trick or treating as well." They all giggled at the thought of Pinkie Pie.

"Yah, it is always fun on Nightmare Night. Ya get to eat all the free candy ya want, but just make sure ya don't eat too much, or ya will get a tummy ache." Applebloom gently nudged Toby as they both giggled. "Ya also get to play fun games like bobbing for apples, pumpkin launching, and all sorts of fun."

"Eeyup. Ah' usually take the little ones on a ride on a cart around Ponyville. They always enjoy that." Big Mac chuckled.

"Ah' host the bobbing for apples event." She sighed. "Maybe ya can join Applebloom, and the others this year. Just will be difficult to try, and get Fluttershy out, because she tends to get real scared on Nightmare Night." She gave the little colt a little smile. "She might get out though for you Toby. Ah' am sure she will be okay taking you out trick, or treating, and we'll have fun."

"That does sound fun, but I don't want to make Momma do something she really doesn't want to." He sighed softly. "I will ask her though, if she would like to do that when Nightmare Night comes." Giving a hopeful smile. He continued to sort through the apples with Applebloom.

After separating the bad apples from the good apples, and collecting them in another bushel, Applejack lifted the child on her back. Big Mac got the bushel of good apples while Applebloom got the bushel of bad apples, and Applejack trotted with Toby toward the barn with Applebloom in tow while Big Mac went to take the good apples to the house to get washed.

While in the barn Applejack let Toby climb off her back and Applebloom set down her bushel. Applejack rubbed at the top of Toby's head gently with a forehoof. "Now sugarcube, would ya like to help feed the pigs?"

He nodded. "Yes Auntie Applejack." Looking up with a bright smile.

"Well, ah'righty." She looked at Applebloom. "Sis, go get the grain and corn." Applebloom raised a forehoof up in a salute, and galloped out of the barn to retrieve the sacs of grain, and corn which was in the house. "While we wait for her, what do ya say Toby in helping me mash up these apples. We can always wash our hands off with the house here in the barn, so don't worry about getting messy." She giggled, and Toby nodded.

Applejack sat on her haunches near the bushel, and placed her forehooves into the pile of bad apples. "Now, what ya got to do sugarcube is just press the apples as hard as you can. Like this." She started pressing her forehooves down against the apples starting to crush them underneath the pressure, soon becoming mush. "There, now ya try it Toby while Ah' do this side." He nodded, and placed his hands into the bushel.

He giggled at the mushiness of the apples as he was pressing and pushing his hands into them. "Hehehe..it tickles Auntie Applejack, but this is fun." As he started to mash the apples in a steady motion pushing his palms into them hard.

"Haha..Ah' knew ya would like it sugarcube." The country mare smiled at the child as they continued to mash the apples.

Applebloom returned with the sacs of grain, and corn with one in her mouth, and the other one on her back. She watched the two mashing up the apples, and giggled. She placed the two sacs by Applejack. "Here ya go sis. Haha..well, it looks like y'all are having a good ol' time." She smiled at both of them as she opened the top of the sacs with her teeth.

"Ah'right Applebloom, pour the grain, and corn in, and ya can join in as we all mix it up." Applebloom nodded as she poured in the grain first, then the corn, throwing the empty sacs to the side. She sat down on her haunches, and placed her forehooves into the bushel, and all three started mixing up the grain, corn, and mushed apples.

After mixing all of the ingredients together Applejack looked up at the two. "Ah'right y'all, let's go get our hands, and hooves washed before we let the pigs out." She stood up on all four legs as the two followed suit and they went over to a side of the barn where a hose sat. She grabbed at the nozzle with her teeth, and reached up with a foreleg to turn the hose on.

The water came out in a steady stream as Applejack washed her forelegs, and forehooves off first. "Ah'right sugarcubes, just hold out your hands, and hooves, and Ah'll get them taken care of." She winked at the child, and Applebloom. The two nodded, and held out their arms, and forelegs. Applejack pointed the nozzle at them, and washed all of the mushy mess off. Making sure they were nice and clean, she reached up to turn off the hose, and placed the nozzle back on it's nozzle rest.

She looked down at the little colt, and gave a smirk. She trotted behind him, and lifted him up onto her back. "How would ya like to ring the dinner bell for the pigs Toby?"

"I would like that Auntie Applejack." He said excitedly as she chuckled, and trotted over to the dinner bell. Applebloom followed behind the two, and stood underneath the handle to open the gate for the pigs to come out. "Just stand up on my back sugarcube, and on the count of three ring it." He nodded, and carefully stood up on her back. "Ah'right, ready? One....two.....three!"

Toby reached up, and pulled at the string which was attached to a gold bell. Applejack poured the mixture into the troth as Applebloom leaped up, and pulled down the handle to lift the wooden gate. The pigs came rushing out, and started scarfing down their meal.

"Woo doggy! Ya did a very fine job helping sugarcube, Ah'm proud of ya." She looked up at him on her back, and chuckled softly.

He blushed. "Thank you Auntie Applejack. That was very fun, but messy." He giggled with a bright smile.

Applebloom looked up at him as they was walking out the barn. "That was a mighty fine job indeed buddy. Ah' am proud of ya too." She smiled brightly up at him.

Big Mac came trotting back out of the house as he watched the three exit the barn with smiles on the face, and chuckling. He trotted toward them. "Well, now, it looks like y'all had a fun time feeding the pigs." He smiled at the three.

"We sure did Big Mac It was messy, but very fun." Toby giggled as Applejack bent on her forelegs to let him climb off.

Big Mac rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof. "Well, that is good to hear big guy. Ah' know, how would ya like to help me plow the field? Ya can plant the seeds into the soil while Ah' plow. It is suppose to rain tomorrow, so we should have a good field of corn." He looked down at the child with a smile. "What do ya say Toby, would ya like to help?"

Toby looked up at him, and nodded as he looked up at Applejack. "Can I Auntie Applejack?"

"Of course sugarcube. Me, and Applebloom will be in the house helping Granny Smith bake some apple pies when y'all get done, ah'right." She gave him a gentle rub on his head as he nodded. Her, and Applebloom trotted toward the house.

"Hop on big guy." Big Mac leant down on his forelegs, and Toby climbed off onto his back. Big Mac turned, and trotted toward the piece of farmland that was bare. As he was trotting he turned to look up at the child. "Heya big guy, Applejack told me about what happened with your mom, and Ah' sure am sorry that ya lost her." He sighed deeply. "Ah' would like to tell ya though, that ya made her proud last night at the talent show. Ah' was there, and ya filled my heart up with your piano playing."

Toby smiled softly. "Thank you Big Mac. It is okay though, because I know she still lives in my heart, and she watches over me." He said as he sat on the stallion's back.

"Also, Ah' heard that your dad blamed ya for the loss of your mom Toby." He stopped trotting, and leant on his forelegs to let him climb off. As he climbed of, Big Mac gently moved him in front of him, and placed his forehooves on his shoulders gently looking into his eyes. "Ya listen to me big guy, it was not your fault at all for what happened to your mom. It was a bad accident, and ya didn't deserve any of the blame your dad put on you, do ya understand me?" Asking in a serious yet gentle tone.

Toby looked up at him, and nodded with small tears stinging at his eyes. "Yes I understand Big Mac. Thank you for that." He wrapped his little arms around the stallion's big neck, and laid his head against his chest sighing softly.

Big Mac reached up with a foreleg, and rubbed at his back. "Now, there ain't no need to thank me Toby, Ah'm just telling ya the truth." He smiled down at the small child, and gently pulled him away to look back into his eyes. "If ya would like Toby, ya can call me either Uncle Big Mac, or if it is okay, ya can call me Papa Big Mac. Ah' won't mind with whatever ya choose to call me." Giving him a warm smile, and wink.

Toby looked up and smiled happily. "I think I will like to call you Papa Big Mac." He giggled as Big Mac reached up to rub at his head gently.

"Well, that sounds mighty fine with me big guy." He chuckled. "Now how about we go do some plowing." He lifted the little colt back up, and made his way toward the empty area of the farm.

As Celestia's sun was slowly descending, now casting a warm deep golden hue over Equestria, Big Mac, and Toby were just finishing up with the plowing. Big Mac took big collar attached to the plow, and turned to look at the rows that would soon be many stalks of corn.

"Well Toby, Ah' would have to say we did a mighty fine job." He stood on his legs looking proudly as he smiled down at the little colt.

Toby looked up at him with a bright smile, and nodded. "Yes we did Papa Big Mac. Thank you for letting me help you with the plowing."

"Ya are very welcome big guy. Like Applejack said, the more help the better." He chuckled, and gently rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof. He then lifted the child up onto his back, and turned to make the way to the house.

Applejack, Applebloom, and Granny Smith were outside sitting on the porch enjoying the view of Celestia's sun as the two came trotting up to them. "Well, now, did ya have a good time with Big Mac sugarcube?" She smiled at Toby on Big Mac's back.

"Yes Auntie Applejack. Papa Big Mac told me when the seeds begin to grow then you will have bunches of corn and I could come pick some for me and Momma if I want to." He smiled at her.

"That would be ah'right with me sugarcube. Ya will love our corn as much as ya love our apples." She chuckled as she tipped her hat. "Well, Ah' guess it is time to get ya back home, so you can eat dinner with Fluttershy."

He nodded. "Okay Auntie Applejack." Big Mac leant down to let him climb off. After he got on the ground he turned, and gave Big Mac a hug. "Bye Papa Big Mac, I had a good time today, and I learned a lot of what it takes to work here on your farm." He sighed softly. "I love you Papa Big Mac."

Big Mac felt his eyes on the verge of tears, but closed them to prevent himself from crying. "Aww..well, Ah' love you too big guy. Ya can come by Sweet Apple Acres anytime ya want, ah'right?" He rubbed at the child's back with a forehoof.

Toby tilted his head back to look up at him. "I would like that Papa Big Mac." Giving him a big smile as he gently broke away, and turned to walk toward the other three. He walked to Granny Smith first, and lightly wrapped his arms around her neck, and laid his head against her chest fur. "Bye Granny, thank you for the breakfast this morning. I really liked it, and it was very good."

Granny Smith smiled warmly, and hugged him back with a wrinkled foreleg. "Nyah..ya are very welcome little fella, Ah'm glad ya enjoyed it, but there ain't no need to thank me. Ah' was honored to fix it for ya. Ah' can't wait to see you again, ya are a very sweet little colt, and don't ya forget that. Ya understand?" He looked up, and nodded as she leaned her head down to give him a gentle kiss on the forehead.

He gently broke his hug from Granny, and walked up to Applebloom who patted him on the shoulder looking at him. "Bye Toby, Ah' enjoyed you coming to visit today. Ah' knew ya would love here at Sweet Apple Acres." Giving him a little nuzzle on the top of his head.

He blushed. "I enjoyed being here Applebloom. Hehe.. I had fun mashing up those apples with you, and Auntie Applejack." They all chuckled in unison as Toby turned to see Applejack leaned on her forelegs for him to climb on.

"Hop on sugarcube, and let's get ya home." She said softly as he climbed up onto her back. "Ah'll be back in a little bit Apples." She waved a forehoof at them.

"Bye everyone, thank you for letting me come visit the farm." Toby waved a hand at them.

"Ya are welcome big guy. See ya next time." Big Mac smiled warmly, and waved a forehoof along with the other two as they watched Applejack trotting off toward Ponyville, and Fluttershy's cottage.

*Woof..woof* The bark of Winona could be heard as she came running out of the house, and caught up to Applejack and Toby. "Ya want to join us girl, hop on." She yipped, and hopped on her back sitting beside Toby.

Toby reached a hand up and started to gently stroke from her head down her back. "Hi Winona." He smiled at the dog, and she licked at his face yipping as he giggled happily. Applejack followed suit in chuckling herself.

Applebloom, and Granny Smith drew their attention to Big Mac, and asked curiously in unison. "Papa Big Mac?"

"Hey, what can Ah' say, Toby needs a father figure in his life, and Ah' volunteered to be that for him." The two mares d'awwed at him, and he just shook his head. "Ah'right, ah'right, let's get in the house, and get supper ready." They giggled as they trotted in. Before Big Mac entered into the house he turned to look out to see the three just going over the last hill before disappearing. "Ah' love you big guy, and Ah'll always be here for ya." He thought to himself as he trotted in, and shut the door behind him.

Author's Note

Alright everyone. This is what I want to do before I get to the final three chapters, I want Toby to spend the day with each of the Mane Six, well, except maybe Fluttershy since he lives with her. First one off the list is Applejack. Now this is when I need your help again. Who should be next on the list? Remember, I am going to let it rain in the next chapter, so Rainbow Dash will have to be later since she will be on Weather Patrol.

Chapter Twenty-Three: Baking with Pinkie (Edited)

As all of the residents of Ponyville were still comfortably asleep in their homes, inside the Sugarcube Corner Pinkie Pie was wide awake in her room at the top of the bakery, getting ready for the day. She hopped out of her bed startling Gummy awake. The toothless alligator just blinked it's purple eyes as he looked at his owner's giddiness.

She scooped him up in her forehooves, and hugged him tightly against her chest squeezing him to the brink of his eyes popping in, and out. "Good morning Gummy. Today is going to be a super duper fun day today. I am going to bring little wittle Toby to Sugarcube Corner, and teach him how to bake some super sweet yummy in the tummy treats." She pulled Gummy away from her chest looking into his eyes with a beaming smile.

Suddenly there was a flash outside of Pinkie's bedroom window followed by the rumbling of thunder that caused Pinkie to toss Gummy up in the air and landing on Pinkie's bed. She trotted over to her window, and looked out to see it pouring rain. She looked up to see the sky covered with light grey clouds preventing Celestia's sun from peeking through.

"Gosh, it looks like Rainbow, and the other pegasi are on heavy duty weather patrol today." She closed her eyes for a second, and shook her head opening them up again. "No matter, me, and little wittle Toby are still going to have bushel loads of super duper funny fun today." She trotted over to her closet, and dug out her raincoat which was baby blue all over, the same design of balloons as her cutie mark on the back, and pink, and poofy around the hood, and along the zipper.

She trotted over to Gummy laying on her bed. "I shall be back Gummy. Keep your eyes on everything til' I get back, okie dokie lokie?" Gummy just blinked as she scooped him up in her forelegs, and kissed on the top of his scaly head. "Be good Gummy." She put him back down on her bed, and trotted out of her room.

She was trotting down the hallway when she heard the small cries of the two smallest residents of Sugarcube Corner, Pound and Pumpkin Cake, the twin foals of Mr. and Mrs. Cake. They were standing up in their cribs with their forelegs reaching up on top of the rails. Pinkie smiled warmly at the two, and trotted into their room.

Pound Cake is a pegasus colt with a pale yellow coat, brown mane and tail, and deep brown eyes. His sister Pumpkin Cake is a unicorn filly with a light yellow coat, orange mane, and tail with the mane tied with a baby blue bow, and bright blue eyes. They giggled as the watched the bubbly pink pony come trotting in.

"Heey there you two!" She laughed as she walked up to them, and gave them each a nuzzle on their noses. "Guess what Pound, and Pumpkin? I am going to bring a special guest for you guys to meet. He is little wittle just like you, and he is very nice." She rubbed at the top of each of their heads with a forehoof. "His name is Toby, and you will love him just like I do. I can't wait for you both to meet him." She gave them each a kiss on their foreheads. "I will be back soon." She beamed at them, then trotted out of their room.

As she trotted downstairs to exit Sugarcube Corner she was greeted by Mrs. Cake who was cleaning the display case which displayed the cakes, cookies, and other sweets they bake. She had a bright cyan coat with a deep pink mane, and tail with a light pink stripe in each, and magenta eyes. As her cutie mark she had three cupcakes with pink frosting and a cherry on top in a triangular shape.

"Ah, good morning Pinkie dear. May I ask where are you headed off this morning in the rain?" She said asking with a curious look.

"Oh, I am just going by Fluttershy's, and seeing if Toby would like to come, and bake some super duper yummy in the tummy sweets with me." A beaming smile spreading across her face. "I am sure that you, and Mr. Cake will love him. He is little wittle, and just a cutie wutie." She replied giggling happily.

"Aw.. well I would like to meet the little one. You have been talking about him for a while now, and me and Carrot Cake haven't even met him yet." Ms. Cake gave her a soft smile.

"Don't worry, you will." She put her hood over her head. "Well, I shall be back." She trotted out of the bakery, and made her way toward Fluttershy's.

Fluttershy was up feeding all of her animals, and allowed the critters outdoors to come inside, due to the rain. "I am glad I brought you in my precious ones. I couldn't let you have your breakfasts outside in this weather." The chittered, and chirped as the smiled at her while eating. "I will be back my friends, I am going to go wake up my precious little Toby."

She turned to trot upstairs to her bedroom. Reaching the top she looked over to see the child sleeping peacefully underneath the big warm bed sheets, and smiled warmly at the sight. "He is so adorable when he is sleeping." She quietly trotted over to the bed.

Her heart melted as she saw him curled up under the covers with his head laid comfortably on the pillow. Instead of nuzzling him the cheek to wake him up she very quietly pulled back the covers, sat on her haunches close to the bed, and lifted her forelegs up on the bed very carefully putting them underneath his small frame, and lifting him up. She brought him toward her chest, and cradled him in her forelegs.

"My precious little Toby." She thought to herself as she gently leaned down to give him a soft kiss on his forehead, and started to rock him gently. She reached over to the table by her bed, and carefully lifted the brim of his glasses with her teeth, gently placing them on for him.

He let out a soft yawn as he blinked his eyes open. He looked up to see her beautiful blue eyes looking down at him, with a warm smile on her face. He smiled up at her, and looked to see he was cradled in her forelegs as he sighed softly. "Good morning Momma." He reached up to hug her around her neck, and laid his head against her warm, and soft chest fur. He sighed softly as he could her heartbeat soothing his ears.

She repositioned her forelegs to hold him properly. She placed one underneath his legs, and flank while wrapping the other one lightly around his back. "Good morning sweetheart." She kissed the top of his head, and laid her cheek on it, letting her flowing pink mane fall over him like a blanket.

She held him in that position for several minutes before lifting her head up to look down at him. A flash of lightning attracted their attention, and the loud rumble of thunder could be heard. This startled Toby causing him to hug her neck a little tighter, and turning his head to bury it in her chest as he started to shake. She frowned down at the little colt, and immediately started to rub up, and down his back gently, and nuzzling the top of his head to try calming him down.

"Shh..it's okay sweetheart. It is just the pegasi doing weather patrol, nothing to be worried about." She rubbed at his back as he looked up at her with a little smile. "They are just making sure all the flowers, vegetables, and other plants get water, so they can grow." She said nuzzling gently at his cheek as he blushed, and his smile grew. "That's better sweetie. Now what do you say we go downstairs, and find you something to eat. Okay Toby?" He nodded as she carefully hovered in the air, and carried him in her forelegs downstairs.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs she gently lowered him onto the floor. He smiled up at her softly, and turned toward all of the animals that were all enjoying their breakfasts, even Mr. Bear. "Hi everyone." He waved as they returned the wave with their paws, and talons giving him chitters, and chirps all around. He walked over to sit on the rug beside Mr. Bear while Fluttershy trotted into the kitchen to prepare Toby's breakfast.

He looked up at the bear with a big smile. "Good morning to you Mr. Bear." Mr. Bear let out a happy rumble, and scooped the child up in a big, yet gentle bearhug. Toby giggled, and rubbed at him on the top of his head between his ears. There was a knock at the door. "Haha..you can put me down now Mr. Bear, so I can go see who it is." He put Toby down, and the little colt went to the door.

He opened the door, and looked up to see the pink party pony. "Hi Auntie Pinkie." Stepping aside to let her trot inside the cottage.

She scooped the child up in her forelegs, and gave him a big hug nuzzling her cheek against his. "Hi there little wittle Toby." She shut the door, and set him down onto the floor taking her hood off. "How is my cutie wutie of a nephew doing today?" She leaned down on her forelegs to give him a nuzzle on the nose.

He blushed. "I am doing good Auntie Pinkie, just woke up. Momma is in the kitchen making me some breakfast." He give her a hug of his own around her neck as she reached up to rub at his back with a foreleg, and gave him a kiss on the top of the head.

Fluttershy came hovering into the den with a plate, and what appeared to be some kind of sandwich. She saw Pinkie, and gave her a soft smile. "Oh, um.. hi Pinkie. What are you doing here.. um.. if it is okay for me to ask, especially in this kind of weather?" She lowered to the floor handing Toby his plate. "Here you go sweetie, it is a lettuce, and tomato sandwich with fresh lettuce leaves, and slices of tomato. I hope you like it sweetheart."

He looked up at her as he gently accepted the plate. "Thank you Momma." He gave her, and Pinkie a soft smile as he went over to sit on the rug with the animals. The two mares smiled brightly at the sight as Pinkie turned to Fluttershy.

"Whew wee it is raining like fillies, and colts out there." Her, and Fluttershy trotted over to sofa to take a seat. "Anyway there, I was wondering if the little wittle cutie wutie would like to come to the Sugarcube Corner with me, and bake some super duper yummy sweet treats?" A pleading and beaming smile formed across her face.

"Um.. it is okay with me.. um.. if Toby would like to go." She gave Pinkie a warm smile. She turned to Toby who was eating his sandwich. "Sweetheart, would you like to go to the Sugarcube Corner with your Auntie Pinkie Pie?"

He made sure to finish the bite he was chewing on before responding with a big smile. "Yes Momma, that sounds like fun." He turned toward Pinkie with the same big smile. "Really Auntie Pinkie, I can come, and help you bake?"

"Of course you can silly willy. You will get to officially meet Mr. and Mrs. Cake, and their foals Pumpkin, and Pound Cake." She giggled excitedly as Toby giggled in return, and went back to eating his sandwich. She turned to Fluttershy. "Would you like to come too Fluttershy? It will be loads of funny fun fun with both of you."

Fluttershy smiled softly. "Well.. um.. I.." She was gently cut off as the little colt spoke up after finishing another bite of his sandwich.

"Please Momma? I would like for you to come with us. It will real fun with all three of us." He looked up at her with a pleading smile.

She couldn't refuse. "Okay sweetie, I will come with you, and Pinkie." She gave him a warm smile as he started on the second half of his sandwich. "I would like to see how Pound, and Pumpkin have been doing. Are they still a hoofful since your first foalsitting for them Pinkie?"

"They are two hooffuls to be exact, but nothing that Pinkie Pie can't handle." She smirked, crossed her forelegs, and nodded proudly. Fluttershy giggled softly at her pink friend with a smile.

Toby finished the second half of his sandwich, and carefully got up. "I am going to go throw my plate away Momma, and wash my hands, so I can go get dressed." He smiled at her, and Pinkie as he went into the kitchen. He came back out after a minute, and started up the stairs.

"Sweetie, after you get changed... um... could you maybe get my raincoat in my closet... um.. if that is okay?" Fluttershy asked the child gently.

"Yes Momma." He gave her a soft smile then ascended the stairs.

"He is such a cutie wutie Fluttershy. He has come a long way since you found him, and we first met him." Pinkie smiled brightly.

Fluttershy nodded in agreement. "I know Pinkie, I am so proud of him. He isn't timid anymore like he was to begin with, his stuttering is gone, and he haven't had any nightmares anymore." She looked at her pink friend with tears stinging her eyes. "I believe him saying goodbye to his mommy in the talent show on Saturday relieved him of some of that pain he has endured." She sighed deeply.

Pinkie nodded happily. "I agree with you my flying friend. He has suffered so much from the loss of his mommy to him being treated badly by that super duper mean meanie pants of a daddy, and he is as sweet as a million cupcakes." They both giggled, and nodded in agreement.

Toby came downstairs dressed in his all red outfit with royal blue jacket with hood. He carefully carried Fluttershy's coat in his outstretched arms. It was the same creamy yellow as her coat all over, with pink cuffs on all of the legs, pink around the hood, and three pink butterflies on the back same as her cutie mark. He walked up to her with his arms outstretched. "Here you go Momma."

She gently took it from him with her forelegs. "Thank you sweetheart." Giving him a warm smile as she put it on. After zipping it up she turned toward her animal friends with Angel hopping up to her. She leaned down to kiss the top of his head between his ears. "You are in charge my Angel baby while we are gone." He chittered, and saluted her, and Toby.

She leant forward on her forelegs to allow Toby to climb up on her back as he pulled his hood over his head. He looked at all of the animals, and Angel waving at them. "Bye everyone, I will see you all later." They chittered, and chirped waving back at him.

The three exited the cottage, and Fluttershy carefully shut her door. They trotted onto the dirt path, and headed toward the Sugarcube Corner, with Pinkie hopping happily.

Arriving at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Toby entered to see Mr. and Mrs. Cake tending to the two foals. Pinkie Pie smiled brightly at the two. "Hey there Mr. and Mrs. Cake." She said giddily as Fluttershy followed behind with the little colt on her back.

"Hello dears." Mrs. Cake responded while cradling Pound Cake in one foreleg, and trying to feed him from a bottle of milk with the other foreleg as she sat on her haunches.

"Hey there girls." Mr. Cake responded next while tending to Pumpkin Cake. Mr. Cake whose full name is Carrot Cake, he has a sunflower yellow coat with a bright orange, and a dark orange mane a, green eyes, and as his cutie mark has three slices of carrot cake in a triangular shape.

Mrs. Cake smiled at the two. "Finally was able to get Pound here to drink his milk." She looked past Fluttershy to see the small child on her back. "Aww..is that the little one." She asked giving him a big warm smile.

Pinkie nodded vigorously with a big bright smile, and turned to reach up, and lift Toby off Fluttershy's back. "Mr. and Mrs. Cake I would like for you both to meet Toby." She placed him on the ground as she sat on her haunches behind him gently placing her forehooves on his shoulders. "Toby, I would like for you to meet Mr. and Mrs. Cake, the owners of Sugarcube Corner."

He stood, and looked up at the couple while they were holding the foals. "Hi Mr. and Mrs. Cake." He watched the two foals with a warm smile, and gave a little wave. The two foals turned their eyes from their parents then back at the child, and released their mouths from the bottles. They were struggling in the forelegs of the two adults until they finally climbed out, and crawled out towards Toby.

He watched the two as they crawled up to him. Pinkie pointed at each of the foals. "Toby, this is Pumpkin, and Pound Cake." Giving him a bright smile. "Hi there Pound, and Pumpkin. Aren't you two very cute babies." He carefully reached out a hand to them.

The foals looked curiously at the creature before them, but ended up giggling, and tapped at his hand with their forehooves. He looked up at the adult Cakes as the trotted up. "They are very cute Mr. and Mrs. Cake."

Mrs. Cake smiled down at the child with a big grin. "Well, thank you dear. It is a pleasure to meet you Toby." She reached a foreleg up, and pulled him to her in a warm hug. "You are as adorable as Pinkie Pie has been telling us."

Mr. Cake reached a forehoof up, and gently rubbed at his shoulder. "It is great to meet you young fella. Yes, Pinkie has been telling us all about you, and she was right about you being a very sweet gentlecoat. I would say that even the little ones like you." The foals were giggling, and smiling giddily at the child.

Mrs. Cake gently broke her hug with Toby as the two adult Cakes picked up the foals. "You go back to the kitchen, and enjoy the day with your Auntie Pinkie, Toby dear. We are going to go put the little ones to bed after we get done changing them." She gave the little colt a little nuzzle on the top of his head, and Mr. Cake gave him a rub on the head with a forehoof before the two went upstairs.

"Okie dokie lokie, what do you both say we go bake some super yummy yummy in the tummy sweets?" Pinkie asked with a ear splitting grin as she hopped toward the kitchen. Fluttershy, and the little colt giggled at her excitement as the followed behind her.

Upon entering the kitchen Toby looked around in wonder at the spacious room. The cabinets, and counters were a forest green with flower silhouettes on the cabinet doors, and cupcake wooden cutouts that had a white color as the bottom, light pink icing for the middle, and a deep pink round top.

There was a mixer, and recipe book set out on the center counter. Pinkie Pie hopped in front of the counter, and turned toward the two. She leaned down to eye level with Toby nuzzling at his nose with hers. "What would my cutie wutie nephew like to bake today? We can bake cupcakes, cookies, a cake, or maybe cupcake cookies. Whatever you want little wittle Toby." She rubbed at his cheek with a forehoof giving him a bright smile.

He blushed, and thought. "Could we bake some cookies Auntie Pinkie?"

She nodded happily, and hopped up and down. "Of course silly willy." She rubbed at the top of his, and turned to look at the cookbook. She turned to the section of cookie recipes, and carefully looked through them. "Ah, ha here we go. We can bake super duper sweet sugar cookies." Beaming with excitement.

Toby smiled happily, and nodded. "Oh, I love sugar cookies. My Mommy, and I baked sugar cookies once, and it was, so much fun. It was another thing we enjoyed doing together." As he walked over to Pinkie to look at the cookbook as Fluttershy carefully followed behind.

"First, we must gather the ingredients." She placed a hoof on the recipe page. "Let's see... hmm... we need one cup flour. Now where did I put that flour last time I used it." She scanned the room, and looked up to find a sack of flour at the top of a shelf. "Oh, silly willy me, I forgot putting it up there after I baked that cake for you at the Canterlot Celebration." She turned to Fluttershy with a awkward smile. "Fluttershy, my shy friend could you.."

She was gently cut off by the pegasus. "Of course Pinkie." She hovered up in the air, and retrieved the flour, and a cup from one of the cabinet's shelves. She placed the sack on the floor, and the cup on the counter. "There you go." She hovered over, and stood next to Toby who giggled, and gave her a big smile.

"Thank you Fluttershy." She leaned her head down to the removed a clip that she used to close it, and reached up to grab at the cup to scoop the flower into. She poured the flour into the mixture, and as she was about to put the clip back on the sack of flour she let out a sneeze causing a cloud of flour to shower the kitchen, and all three of it's occupants.

"Bless you Auntie Pinkie." Toby giggled as he took his glasses off for a second to wipe the flour off, and shake the flour off himself. Fluttershy giggled as well, and shook the flour off herself.

Pinkie blinked, and giggled as she shook the flour off herself. "Thanks my cutie wutie nephew. I will clean this up after we get the sweet yummy cookies in the oven." She looked at the next ingredient on the list. "Next, we need two cups of sugar." She trotted over to the cabinets, and retrieved the sugar to put it on the counter.

She turned to Toby, and gently lifted him up on her back, so he can reach the counter. "How would you like to add the sugar Toby?" She tilted her head back giving him a big smile.

He nodded. "Yes Auntie Pinkie." He replied happily as he reached for the cup, and scooped one out to pour into the mixer, then scooped another cup to make two. "There, two cups of sugar." He put the cup back down on the counter.

Pinkie smiled, and let him climb off her back. She then turned to the book. "Okie dokie lokie, now we need two eggs." She trotted over to the refrigerator, and retrieved two eggs, and a glass of milk. She set the glass on the counter, and proceeded to crack the eggs one at a time putting them in the mixer. She threw the eggshells in to the trash.

"Final ingredient is two cups of milk." She poured one cup of milk adding it to the mix, and then poured a second cup. With just a little bit of milk in the glass she gulped down the rest receiving a giggle from the other two. "Alright, stand back. This could get messy." She licked her lips as she started the mixer, and the little colt stood back next to Fluttershy as she smiled softly down at him.

After the sugar cookie dough was nicely mixed Pinkie set the oven on it's required temperature, retrieved a flat metal rectangular pan, and laid a non-stick plastic type of paper on top. She grabbed the mixing bowl, and poured the dough onto the pan. "Haha.. perfection. Okie dokie lokie you two, let's start turning this doughy dough dough into some scrumptiously sweet cookies." She clapped her forehooves excitedly as the two approached the counter with Pinkie lifting the child up, and letting him sit on the counter to help.

Pinkie broke the dough into three different sections for each of them, and enough dough to make two cookies each. Pinkie decided to make one cookie in the shape of a cupcake and the other in the shape of her pet alligator, Gummy. Fluttershy made her cookies into the shape of a butterfly, and Angel Bunny. Toby was carefully forming his dough into a heart, and just a regular round cookie.

The three placed their cookies on the pan, and Pinkie smiled brightly at their creations. "Ooh, they look wonderful you two. Now let's put them in the oven, and wait until they get done." She retrieved an oven mitten, and grabbed the pan to put it in the oven shutting the door.

Fluttershy, and Toby looked around at the still flour covered kitchen. "Um.. Pinkie.. do you need us to help you with cleaning the kitchen?"

Pinkie placed one forehoof on the pegasus' shoulder and one on Toby's shoulder shaking her head. "Nope, don't worry your pretty little heads about it. Your Auntie Pinkie has it all under control." Giving them a big bright smile.

Fluttershy furrowed her brows in a bit of annoyed manner. "I am a year older than you though Pinkie." She sighed softly shaking her head giggling at her pink friend. She couldn't stay annoyed at Pinkie for too long.

"Watch this little wittle Toby." Suddenly Pinkie retrieved a white apron. Fluttershy felt what was coming, and gently placed her foorehooves on the little colts shoulders, and sat on her haunches. The pink party pony started to immediately clean the kitchen speeding around the room in a pink blur. In a few seconds the kitchen was sparkling clean. "Whew, that was a doozy." Pinkie panted as she put the apron back up in the pantry.

Fluttershy, and Toby laughed at Pinkie's randomness. "Haha..that was very fast Auntie Pinkie."

She patted the top of his head with a forehoof. "Oh, your Auntie Pinkie Pie is just awesome you little wittle cutie wutie." She gave him a bright smile then look at Fluttershy. "Just don't tell Rainbow, if I said that she'd be pranking me for the rest of my life."

"Um.. I won't tell.. um.. I promise." She gave a shy smile.

Pinkie eyed her intently. "Well, to make sure you mean it, you know what you got to do." Fluttershy sighed softly. Pinkie put a forehoof up to stop her for a second. She looked down at Toby. "Now my nephew, this is my patented Pinkie Pie promise. If you ever make a Pinkie promise, you have to keep it, okay Toby?"

He nodded. "Yes Auntie Pinkie." He looked up at her then looked at Fluttershy to watch her make it.

"She is right sweetheart, if you don't keep a Pinkie Pie promise.. um.. well, let's just say she gets real mad, and will do everything she can to make sure you keep it. Just watch what I do sweetie, and you can do it when you make a Pinkie promise." She took a deep breath.

"Cross my heart." She placed her forehoof on her chest and made a cross. "Hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." She then carefully lifted her forehoof up, and placed it against her eye to act like she was sticking a cupcake in her eye. Toby couldn't help, but giggle.

"That's much better Fluttershy." Pinkie giggled, and patted her on the top of her head. Then the oven bell went off. "Ooh, yes the yummy yummy sweet cookies are done." She placed the oven mitten back on, and opened the oven door to retrieve the pan. She licked her lips as the scent of freshly baked sugar cookies wafted through the kitchen. Toby, and Fluttershy sniffed the air, and sighed warmly.

"Mmm.. they smell very good Auntie Pinkie. Don't they Momma?" He looked up at her happily.

She nodded, and gave him a kiss on the top of his head. "Oh, yes they do sweetheart."

Pinkie trotted over to the pantry, and pulled out icing dispenser bags of an array of colors. "When they cool down, it will be time to decorate them." A beaming smile formed across her face.

After the cookies cooled, and the three applied the icing to them they all revealed their finished cookie creations. Fluttershy's butterfly cookie had yellow frosting as it's foundation, pink around the edges of the wings, and three pink lines on the top, and bottom of both sides on the inside of the wings. Her Angel Bunny cookie had all white frosting, pink on the inside of the ears, and black gumdrops for the eyes.

For Pinkie's two cookies, her Gummy shaped cookie had all green frosting with two purple gumdrops for the eyes. Her cupcake shaped cookie had brown icing for the bottom, pink for the middle, and a red gumdrop to resemble a cherry.

Toby smiled at his two cookies. His heart shaped cookie had all red frosting with pink as the outline, and he had pink icing inside the heart spelling out the word "MOM" in the middle. He used yellow frosting for the base on his round cookie and red icing to make a smiley face.

Fluttershy smiled at all of the beautifully decorated cookies, but her heart melted when she saw the heart shaped one of Toby's with "MOM" on it. "Toby sweetie, that one is beautiful." She pointed at it with her hoof.

Toby smiled happily at her. "Thank you Momma. I made it for you." He grabbed it, and gently handed it to her. "I couldn't fit Momma on it."

Fluttershy felt tears sting her eyes as she gently accepted the cookie. "Aw.. sweetheart is this really for me?" He nodded giving her a big smile. She gently placed the cookie down on the pan, and gave him a warm hug and nuzzled at the top of his head. "Thank you my precious little one. I love you Toby." Giving the top of his head a tender kiss.

Pinkie felt tears sting at her own eyes. She thought for a second, and trotted over to a cabinet. She pulled out a roll of clear plastic wrap tearing a piece off with her teeth, and trotted back over to the two. "Here Fluttershy, you can wrap it in this, and keep it as long as you want if you don't want to eat it." Giving her a big warm smile.

Fluttershy gently took the plastic wrap. "Thank you Pinkie. I know I don't want to eat this special cookie, because my precious little Toby made it for me." She very gently broke the hug, so she can wrap the cookie up in the plastic wrap.

Pinkie hopped in place giddily. "Now let's munch down on these other yummy yummy in the tummy sweet cookies." The other two giggled, and nodded in agreement as they started to eat at their cookies. Pinkie hopped over to the refrigerator to retrieve another glass of milk for the three to share.

After enjoying their cookies, and milk Fluttershy, and Toby decided to help Pinkie clean up the mixer, and make sure everything was put in it's place. They returned into the lobby of the bakery while Mr. and Mrs. Cake were both coming downstairs. "Well, it looks like you three had a good time." Carrot Cake spoke up.

"Oh Fluttershy dear, that is a nice looking cookie, but how come you didn't eat it?" Cup Cake asked as she pointed at the heart shaped cookie.

"Oh, Toby made it for me, and it is, so nice that I didn't want to eat it." She blushed, and looked down at the little colt who was standing beside her.

Cup Cake knelt down giving Toby a warm smile. "Well, that was very sweet of you Toby." She reached up, and rubbed along his arm very gently. "It was a pleasure meeting you sweetie. I do apologize though that we didn't spend too much time getting to know each other. Sometimes, it is difficult to get our little ones to go to sleep."

"That is okay Mrs. Cake, you don't have to be sorry for anything. They are cute little babies." He looked up at her.

"Well, thank you dear, me, and Carrot truly appreciate that." She gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Now you can come back anytime sweetie, and spend time with Pinkie Pie." She carefully pulled him with a foreleg to her giving her a soft hug.

He returned the hug with his arms gently around her neck laying his head against her chest. "Thank you Mrs. Cake, I would like to come back again. I had fun baking with Auntie Pinkie." They gently broke the hug as Mr. Cake gently placed a hoof on his shoulder, and looked down at him.

"Yea little guy, you are welcome here anytime. It was great meeting you Toby, and maybe next time we can talk to you more. You are a great gentle little colt Toby, never change who you are." Mrs. Cake nodded in agreement.

"Thank you Mr. Cake, and don't worry, I won't change." He smiled up softly at Mr. Cake, and turned toward Pinkie. He walked up to her, and gave her a hug around her neck sighing softly as he laid his head on her chest. "Thank you Auntie Pinkie for letting me come today bake cookies with you. It was very fun."

Pinkie nuzzled at the top of his head, and hugged him back with a foreleg wrapped around his back. "You are very welcome my cutie wutie nephew. I enjoyed it with you, and Fluttershy. Remember, anytime you want to come, and help bake, I am always available, okie dokie lokie?" She gently pulled him away, and looked down at him.

He nodded. "Yes Auntie Pinkie." He smiled up at her, and saw Fluttershy knelt on her forelegs for him to climb onto her. He obliged, and waved at Pinkie, and The Cakes. "Bye Auntie Pinkie, and bye Mr. and Mrs. Cake."

"Bye dear." Mrs. Cake waved a forehoof. "Bye little guy." Mr. Cake replied as the two then waved at Fluttershy before trotting into the kitchen.

"Bye Fluttershy, and little wittle Toby." Pinkie smiled brightly as she waved a forehoof.

"Bye Pinkie." Fluttershy spoke softly as she waved a forehoof back, and trotted out of the Sugarcube Corner and headed back toward her cottage with the rain coming down lightly.

Pinkie stood at the door of the bakery, and watched as the two headed off. However, she gave a frown as she felt her pinkie senses acting up. "Oh, gosh, that isn't good. Nothing appears to be wrong though, but something doesn't feel right." She thought to herself as she carefully walked back into the Sugarcube Corner.

Author's Note

I wanted to do something. With Pinkie's senses acting up, this is going to be a pre-cursor to what will happen leading into the final three chapters of this story. Not yet though, but I guess this can leave you all thinking.

Next, Toby spends the day with Rainbow Dash, but I need all of your help once again, if that is okay. After Rainbow, it will be the day to spend with Rarity, but I have no idea what Toby can do with Rarity. One of my many good friends here on here, ShutterGuy gave me the idea of him going on a picnic with her and Sweetie Belle. I love that idea, and I would like to have a couple more ideas to choose from.

Thank you all again for your continuous support. I truly appreciate it all. :)

Chapter Twenty-Four: City in the Sky (Edited)

Soaring high above the clouds enjoying the warm light of Celestia's sun, Rainbow Dash looked over Ponyville with a big smile. She was performing all sorts of tricks from back flips to somersaults in the air as she was enjoying the morning wind brushing against her fur, and wings. She watched as some of the ponies were outside watering their gardens, and opening up the shops.

"Hey Rainbow Dash!" Somepony yelled out to her. She looked down below her to find the pegasus filly Scootaloo looking up at her with a cheerful grin standing on her scooter. 'What are you up to?"

Rainbow flew down to the ground, and landed next to her rubbing at her mane with a forehoof. "Nothing much, just showing off my awesomeness." Giving the filly a smirk. "How about you squirt, how come you aren't at school?"

"It's Spring break Dash. A whole week off school to have fun, hang out with my friends, and work on new, and cool stunts since I finally have my cutie mark." Motioning her gaze toward her flank.

Rainbow Dash smirked at her, and patted her on the back. "I knew you would do it Scoots. I was going to go ask Toby if he would like to go take a tour of Cloudsdale, would you like to come with us squirt?"

Scootaloo beamed with excitement. "Awesome. Of course I would like to come Rainbow, and I know the kid will love it in Cloudsdale." She kicked off on her scooter as they made their way toward Fluttershy's cottage. She looked up at Rainbow hovering above. "Wait though Rainbow, Toby isn't a pegasus, and he won't be able to walk on the clouds." A look of worry came across her face.

"Don't worry Scoots, Twilight knows a spell that can let anypony walk on clouds, and I am sure it will work on the little guy although he isn't a pony." Giving the filly a reassuring smirk as Scootaloo nodded.

Rainbow lowered onto the ground as the two reached the cottage. Scootaloo placed her scooter up against the wooden fence in front of the cottage, and placed her helmet on the handlebars. Rainbow reached a forehoof up to knock on the door. "Flutters, it's me, and Scootaloo." She spoke up from behind the door.

The door opened to reveal the timid yellow pegasus as she gave a soft smile. "Um.. hi Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo. Please, please come in." The two nodded, and trotted inside as they saw Toby helping feed the animals.

He turned to see who it was, and smiled brightly waving a hand. "Hi Auntie Rainbow and Scootaloo." He was passing out acorns, and nuts to the squirrels, and badgers.

"Heya there little buddy." Rainbow trotted over to him, and rubbed at the top of his head. "Well, well, well, it looks like Flutters not only has a colt of her own, but a young student in the art of taking care of animals." She chuckled.

Toby giggled, and nodded up at her. "Oh, yes Auntie Rainbow. I love helping Momma feed the animals. It is fun." He said as he finished giving out the rest of the acorns, and nuts.

"He has been such a good littler helper with all the critters. They enjoy him feeding them too. I am very proud of all my precious little ones." Fluttershy gave a blushing smile at the little colt as she gave him a kiss on the top of his head.

Scootaloo trotted up and patted Toby on the back. "Well, it looks like you have another special talent buddy, and that is taking care of animals." She gave him a soft smirk, and rubbed his head with a forehoof.

He giggled, and blushed.

The two adult mares smiled at the two young ones. Rainbow looked down at Toby, and asked. "Hey little buddy, how would you like to go with Scoots, and me to Cloudsdale, and take a look around at where all the pegasi live?" She turned toward Fluttershy. "If that is okay with you though Flutters. We will make sure he is safe and taken care of."

"Um.. of course Rainbow Dash, you know it is okay with me if Toby wants to go with you, and Scootaloo to Cloudsdale." She smiled down at the little colt, then back at Rainbow. "Wait though, he won't be able to walk on the clouds." A look of worry spread across her face.

Rainbow rolled her eyes. "Don't worry Shy, we are going to Twilight's first, and see if she can cast that spell on him that will allow him to walk on clouds. You know, the one she casted on Applejack, and Pinkie Pie when you all came to see me at the young fliers competition."

Fluttershy nodded. "Um.. oh, yes I remember." She looked at Rainbow still with a little concern. "You don't think it will hurt him though for Twilight to cast the spell on him, do you Rainbow?" As she looked down at the little colt, and stroked at his arm with a forehoof.

"Don't worry Flutters, you know Twilight is great with magic." She smirked proudly, and patted the back of her fellow pegasus. "She is the element of magic after all." She gave an awkward chuckle. "Twilight will make sure to be careful with the little guy, okay? Don't you trust me?"

Fluttershy nodded softly. "Yes Rainbow Dash I trust. Um.. it is just I don't want nothing bad to happen to my precious little one." She felt a little hand on her foreleg as she looked down into the eyes of Toby.

"It is okay Momma, I will be okay." He turned to Rainbow Dash. "I would like to come with you, and Scootaloo to Cloudsdale Auntie Rainbow." Giving her, and Scootaloo both a big happy smile.

Scootaloo, and Rainbow chuckled as Rainbow rubbed at the top of his head. "I knew you would little buddy." She turned to Fluttershy. "I will have him back before dinner Flutters, I promise."

Fluttershy smiled at Rainbow, then looked down at Toby and gave him a kiss on his forehead. "Go get changed sweetheart." He nodded, and went upstairs as Scootaloo followed behind him. Fluttershy turned toward Rainbow. "Um.. Rainbow.. um.. what are you planning to do when you three get up to Cloudsdale?"

"First, I am going to take him on a tour for the weather factory, so he can learn how the clouds, rainbows, and all the weather is created. Then I am going to take him by the Cloudsdale stadium. I have plenty of fun for the little guy." She smiled warmly. "Don't you worry Fluttershy, we will keep him safe."

"I know you will Rainbow." She gave her a soft smile.

After a few minutes Toby, and Scootaloo returned downstairs. Toby was wearing his all red outfit with royal blue hoodie with his locked sewn into it. He walked up to Fluttershy to give her a warm hug around her neck, and laid his head against her soft chest fur. He sighed comfortably, and looked up. "Do you want to come with us Momma?"

She leaned down, and gave him a tender kiss on the forehead. "Aw.. sweetie I would love to, but I am going to stay here for today, and do some cleaning around the cottage." She hugged him with a foreleg, and nuzzled the top of his head. "Don't worry though, I will be here when you get back, and we will have a good dinner, okay sweetheart?"

He smiled up at her softly. "Okay Momma. I will be okay, don't worry. Auntie Rainbow, and Scootaloo to look after me." He gently broke the hug.

"You just listen to your Auntie Rainbow, okay sweetie?" She rubbed at his back with a forehoof as she looked down at him with a soft smile. He nodded as he walked over to the two other pegasi.

The four made their way out of the cottage as Scootaloo got her helmet, and placed it on her head, and got on her scooter. Rainbow Dash bent on her forelegs. "Hop on little buddy." Smiling at the child as he walked up to her, and carefully climbed up.

Fluttershy stood at the door way with a warm smile. "Have fun sweetie, and just be careful. Momma loves you." Waving forehoof at him.

He waved a hand in return. "I love you too Momma." He turned, and wrapped his arms lightly around Rainbow's neck.

Rainbow smirked, and turned to Fluttershy. "See you later Shy. He will be okay with us, I promise." She then looked at Scootaloo. "Are you ready Scoots?"

The orange filly nodded. "You bet Rainbow."

Rainbow smiled at the filly then reached up to pat at one of the colt's little arms around her neck. "Alright, hold on Toby. We're going up." Chuckling softly. She bent on all four legs, and carefully hovered up the air. She turned, and looked down at Fluttershy waving a forehoof as she flew toward the Golden Oaks Library with the child on her back, and Scootaloo following behind on her scooter. Fluttershy watched the three as they headed towards Twilight's, and smiled softly before trotting back inside the cottage, and shutting the door behind her.

Toby laughed, and smiled happily as the wind blew against his face as he rode on Rainbow Dash's back. "Haha.. this is so much fun Auntie Rainbow." Scootaloo watched from below giggling as well with a big smile on her face.

Rainbow smirked at the little colt's excitement, and chuckle. "Haha.. that's my little nephew. Hold on tight Toby, I will show you something real cool." Toby tightened his hug around her neck, but making sure not to hurt her. Before they approached the library, she decided to do a couple of loopy loops, and slowly descended to the ground in front of the library.

Scootaloo came up behind them. "Awesome as always Rainbow Dash." She looked up the two with a beaming smile.

She rubbed at the top of the filly's head, and nodded. "You know it squirt." She knocked on the door of the library. "Did you enjoy that little buddy?" Looking back at the little colt on her back.

He nodded happily. "Yes I did Auntie Rainbow. It was a little scary, but fun." Rainbow smiled, and patted at the child's arms around her neck as Twilight opened the door with your magic.

"Well, hello there you three. Please come in." She gave the three a warm smile stepping to the side to let them in.

"Heya Twilight, what are you up to?" Rainbow asked as they entered.

"Just straightening up the library while Spike is away in Canterlot. He was requested by Princess Celestia to come, and join her, and also catch up with some old friends of his." She sighed softly as looked at the three, and waved a wing at Toby. "Hello there sweetheart, how are you doing on this fine morning?"

"Hi Auntie Twilight." Rainbow knelt on her forelegs to let him climb off onto the floor. "I am doing good. Auntie Rainbow, and Scootaloo want to take me to Cloudsdale." He smiled up brightly at the lavender alicorn.

Rainbow nodded. "Yes, I thought it would be fun for the little guy to explore Cloudsdale, and watch how pegasi live." She reached a forehoof to rub at the back of her neck. "But of course, since he isn't a pegasus, he can't walk on clouds." She frowned a little down at the child then looked at Twilight. "Do you think you could maybe cast that cloud walking spell on him? You know, the one you casted on Pinkie Pie, and Applejack when you all came to watch me at the young fliers competition?" She gave Twilight a hopeful smile.

"Well, I never tried it on any other species, but I am positive I can." She trotted up to the child, and placed a forehoof on his shoulder looking down at him with a soft smile. "Toby, I just want you relax, and stay calm while I perform this spell, okay? I promise I won't hurt you."

He looked up at her, and nodded. "Okay Auntie Twilight, I trust you." He took a slow deep breath.

"That's right sweetheart. Now, just close your eyes Toby, and relax. It won't take long." She stepped back motioning for the other two to do as well. Twilight took a deep breath, and focused her attention on the little colt with his eyes closed. Her horn lit up. "Alright Toby, don't be scared, okay sweetheart?" He nodded as he kept his eyes closed slowly breathing in, and out.

A purple aura surrounded the little colt as Twilight started to perform the spell. He could feel the warmth of her magic around him. He continued to slowly breathe in, and out with his eyes closed as now a white light started to envelope him.He could feel himself being lifted off the ground as Twilight focused all of her magic on him.

After a minute Twilight slowly lowered Toby back down to the floor. "Alright Toby, you can open your eyes."

He opened his eyes blinking them to see that everything was okay, and he couldn't feel any pain. He looked up to see the smiles of the three ponies.

"Are you alright sweetheart, I didn't hurt you, did I?" She asked with concern as she gently stroked at his arm with a forehoof.

He shook his head softly. "No Auntie Twilight, I am okay. It felt nice, and warm like how you, Auntie Rainbow, Momma, and all of my family hugs me."

Twilight sighed with relief. "That is good. I would feel terrible if I hurt you sweetheart." Giving him a soft kiss on the forehead. "Now you can walk on the clouds Toby."

He hugged her around her neck. "Thank you Auntie Twilight." Sighing softly.

She rubbed at his back with a foreleg. "You are very welcome dear." She gently released the hug as he went back over to climb up on Rainbow Dash's back.

"See you later Twilight. Don't clean too hard now." Rainbow chuckled as the three waved bye to the princess, and exited the library. As they got outside Rainbow looked at Scootaloo. "Heya squirt, would you like to go put your scooter up before we leave."

"Sure Rainbow Dash. Follow me." She kicked off on her scooter as Rainbow Dash carefully hovered into the air, so not to scare Toby, and flown behind the filly. She was heading toward the Cutie Mark Crusaders clubhouse.

As they arrived at the clubhouse, Rainbow lowered to the ground as Scootaloo went up ahead, and went inside to put her scooter up. Rainbow sighed softly as she looked up at the sky as Toby did the same. "It sure is pretty Auntie Rainbow. I remember mommy, and me used to go to the park when it was sunny, and nice like today."

Rainbow smiled softly, and rubbed at his arms around her neck. She thought to herself. "The little guy sure has a lot of good memories with his mommy. Makes me wonder if that jerk of a father ever spent time with him at all."

Scootaloo returned after a couple of minutes. "Alright, I am ready if you two are." She flapped her wings excitedly with a beaming smile.

Rainbow nodded. "Right on. Do you want to practice your flying Scoots?" Smirking proudly at the filly.

Scootaloo nodded. "You bet." Rainbow reached down and lifted the filly up onto a forehoof, and hovered into the air. "Alright squirt, start flapping those wings. Little buddy, hold on, because here we go." Rainbow looked upwards, and started flying upwards with Scootaloo flapping her wings fast, and strong while Toby held onto Rainbow's neck.

As they reached above the clouds Rainbow straightened out to face toward Cloudsdale. She chuckled as she carefully lowered her forehoof to see Scootaloo hovering . "Look kid, you are doing it."

Scootaloo looked around, and below herself seeing that she wasn't falling. She looked side to side to see that she was keeping herself in the air by her wings. "Yes! I'm flying. This is so awesome!" She beamed with excitement as she tried out her by doing a loop in mid air. "Oh, yea."

Toby smiled, and clapped his hands. "Good job Scootaloo. Congratulations." Scootaloo smiled at the child, and did another loop. "Thanks buddy."

Rainbow smiled proudly at the filly, then looked toward the sky city. "Next stop, Cloudsdale." With the little colt on her back, and Scootaloo hovering beside her the three headed toward Cloudsdale.

Meanwhile down in Ponyville Pinkie Pie was just leaving Sugarcube Corner, and hopped toward Sweet Apple Acres. "I wonder if Applejack will know if anything was wrong with Toby." She thought to herself.

Applejack was outside working hard applebucking when Pinkie came hopping up the dirt path. Applejack looked to see her coming toward her. "Well, howdy there Pinkie. What are ya doing here on this fine day?"

Pinkie gave the country mare a big smile. "Ooh, nothing just coming by to say hello." Applejack could tell she was hiding something.

"Now sugarcube, do ya think ya can get away without telling me the truth? Ah' am the element of honesty of course." She looked at Pinkie with a stern yet concerned. "Now tell me what is on your mind."

Pinkie sighed deeply lowering her head before looking at Applejack in her eyes. "Applejack, when our little wittle Toby spent the day with you the other day, did he seem sad or anything?"

Applejack shook her head looking at her friend worriedly. "Well, nah, he enjoyed spending the day here on the farm. Why do ya ask Pinkie?" She reached up to rub at Pinkie's shoulder.

"Well, yesterday the cutie wutie and Fluttershy spent the day helping me bake some yummy sugar cookies. When they left, my pinkie sense was acting up, but it was different than usual. Something just didn't feel right." She looked at Applejack with a concerned look.

Applejack sighed deeply. "Well sugarcube, Ah' don't think it is anything to worry about. Maybe ya just didn't feel right because it was raining heavily yesterday." She patted Pinkie on the shoulder. "Anyway, if something was wrong, Ah' am sure Princess Celestia would warn Twilight, and she would tell us."

Pinkie nodded, and sighed softly. "I guess you are right Applejack. Maybe I am just being a worry wart. Thank you." She giggled softly.

"Not a problem sugarcube. Do ya need anything else before Ah' get back to applebucking?"

"No, not that I know of. Thanks again Applejack, and have a super duper terrific day." She saluted Applejack, and turned toward Ponyville, and hopped along the dirt path.

Applejack just shook her head, and thought to herself. "That Pinkie, she sure can be a handful. Ah' hope Ah' am right though, and nothing is wrong with the little feller." She sighed deeply as she went back to applebucking.

High above Equestria Rainbow Dash was soaring with Toby riding happily on her back as Scootaloo was gliding along beside them. Rainbow saw a cloud that overlooked the entirety of Cloudsdale, and decided to land on it. "Well, here we are little buddy. Welcome to Cloudsdale." She looked back to smile at the little colt.

"WOW!" Toby looked at the cloud city in awe and his mouth agape.

Scootaloo, and Rainbow both shared a chuckle. "Haha..that was my first reaction when I first came here buddy." The filly smiled at the child as she stayed hovering in the air loving the feeling of flying.

Rainbow Dash chuckled at the two. "Alright little buddy, I am going to let you down, but just take one step at a time of my back. Let's test Twilight's spell to see if it worked on you." She bent down on her forelegs.

Toby very lightly held onto Rainbow's left wing as he reached his right leg over her to carefully climb of her back. When his foot touched the cloud it sunk in, but he didn't fall through. He placed his other foot on the cloud as it sunk in as well. He gently let go of Rainbow's wing as he felt himself standing safely, and freely on the cloud.

"It works Auntie Rainbow." He softly pushed his feet down into the cloud as it felt soft, and a little bouncy. "Haha..feels like standing on a big pillow." He giggled as he looked at her with a bright smile, then looked toward Cloudsdale.

Rainbow Dash rubbed at the top of his head with a forehoof. "Oh, yea that is right little buddy. Clouds are great to walk on, but most of all great to take a nap on." She chuckled. "Now, what do you say about going to the weather factory first, and see how all the weather is made?"

He nodded up at her as she lifted him up on her back, and seeing if Scootaloo was ready hovered off the cloud, and flew toward the factory.

*Down in Ponyville*

Before returning back to Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie decided to go to Fluttershy's cottage. She hopped along the road toward her shy friend's home. "I trust Applejack, but my pinkie sense never steered me wrong before." She thought to herself.

When she arrived at the cottage, she knocked on the door. The door opened to reveal the timid pegasus. "Oh.. um.. hi Pinkie. Please come in." She stepped aside to let her pink friend in.

"Hey Fluttershy." She looked around the cottage. "Hey, where is the cutie wutie little wittle Toby at?"

"Oh, he went with Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo to Cloudsdale. Rainbow Dash wanted to show him around and let him see how the weather is made." She gave Pinkie a soft smile.

"Aww... Rainbow Dash being a good auntie to the little wittle cutie wutie." Pinkie beamed brightly.

"Would you like some tea Pinkie Pie?" Fluttershy asked kindly.

The pink mare nodded. "That sounds yummy to me Fluttershy." Fluttershy trotted into the kitchen to prepare the tea. "I hope she doesn't get too upset." Pinkie thought to herself.

Fluttershy hovered back into the den with two cups of freshly brewed mint tea in her forehooves. She reached out a forehoof to hand Pinkie her cup. "Here you go Pinkie.. um... it's mint.. um.. I hope you like it."

Pinkie nodded, and took a sip. "Whew wee, now that is yummy!" She gulped the rest of the tea in one swallow. "There, minty fresh." She giggled happily.

Fluttershy giggled at her friend's antics. She took a sip of her tea, and looked at Pinkie curiously. "Um.. if I can ask Pinkie.. um.. is there something you would like to talk about.. um.. if that is if you don't mind?"

Pinkie swallowed deeply, and placed a forehoof on Fluttershy's shoulder. "Fluttershy, when you, and Toby came home after baking those yummy yummy in the tummy delicious sugar cookies, my pinkie sense was acting weird." She sighed deeply.

"Oh... my. Was it something bad Pinkie?" The pegasus asked with a concerned look on her face.

"Well, nothing bad happened, but I just felt weird." She looked Fluttershy in the eyes, and asked. "Did Toby seem sad or hurt in any way yesterday when you two left Sugarcube Corner?"

Fluttershy shook her head. "No. He acted perfectly fine. We ate dinner together, and when it was time for bed he asked me to sing to him, then I tucked him in." She looked at Pinkie. "Maybe it was because of the weather yesterday you felt strange." Giving her a light smile.

Pinkie nodded, and sighed. "Applejack said the same thing. You both are right, maybe I just overreacted to my pinkie sense this time. I am super duper sorry if I worried you Fluttershy."

Fluttershy placed her cup on the floor, and gave Pinkie a hug wrapping her forelegs around her. "Shh. Now Pinkie, there is no need to be sorry. You were thinking of Toby, and worried about him, that is a sweet gesture for anypony to do. So no more apologizing okay?" Giving her a reassuring smile.

Pinkie nodded, and smiled brightly herself. "Okie dokie lokie Fluttershy." They broke the hug as Pinkie hopped toward the door. "I guess I will be going back to Sugarcube Corner. Take care Fluttershy." She waved a foreleg with Fluttershy did the same. She hopped out of the cottage, and headed toward the bakery.

*Back up in Cloudsdale*

"That is how all the weather is made little buddy. From the rainbows in Spring to the snowflakes in Winter." Rainbow said to the little colt who was walking beside her, and Scootaloo on the other side as they exited the weather factory.

"Auntie Rainbow, you, and the other pegasi work very hard like with the weather like Auntie Applejack works very hard on her farm." Toby smiled up at her.

"That is right kid, and soon I will be doing the same job." Scootaloo said proudly as she rubbed the top of the child's head with a forehoof. "I will be as awesome as Rainbow Dash when it comes to controlling the weather." Giving a smirk.

Rainbow chuckled. "That's right squirt."

As they were walking along the clouds Toby accidentally bumped into somepony. He looked up to see a pegasus with a grey coat, a blonde mane and tail, a trail of bubbles for her cutie mark, and her eyes had a yellowish orange hue. "I am so sorry Ma'am. Are you okay?" The little colt frowned as he looked up at her noticing that her eyes was crossed.

The pegasus looked down at the child, and smiled softly. "Hey now little guy, don't be sad. I am okay." She patted him on the shoulder. She looked up to see Rainbow, and Scootaloo. "Hey there guys. Who is this little one?" Giving them both a smile as she looked back down at the child.

"Heya Derpy." Rainbow cleared her throat, and placed a forehoof on Toby's shoulder. "Derpy, I would like for you to meet my nephew, Toby." She looked down at the little colt. "Toby, I would like for you to meet a good friend of mine, and the delivery pony of Cloudsdale, Derpy."

Toby reached up a small hand, and looked up at Derpy. "It is nice to meet you Miss Derpy. I am sorry for bumping into you."

Derpy sat down on her haunches, and reached out a forehoof missing at his hand a couple of times, but finally touching it. She gently reached with the other forehoof to shake his hand. "Well, it is nice to meet you too Toby. That is sweet of you to call me Miss, but you can just call me Derpy." Giving him a soft smile.

Rainbow, and Scootaloo smiled at the two.

"Well, I will see you later little guy. I got to get going, and deliver some mail." She reached up, and rubbed at his shoulder. "See you guys later." She said to the other two as she hovered into the air waving at the three. They returned the wave as she flew away.

"She is a real good friend as well little buddy." Rainbow said proudly as she scooped the child onto her back. "Now let's go to the Cloudosseum."

Scootaloo smirked, and raised a forehoof. "Oh, yea. Hey buddy, if you thought the weather factory was cool, you haven't seen nothing yet." She cut a black flip in mid air flapping her wings excitedly.

Rainbow, and Toby chuckled at the filly as the three head toward the arena.

Toby felt the wind brush against his face as he looked over Cloudsdale. As they were approaching the Cloudosseum he could see it was a big spherical structure with rolls of columns supporting the roof, and bottom, and at the top sat six flags that were gracefully blowing in the wind.

Rainbow flew to the top of the Cloudosseum, and carefully landed as Scootaloo landed beside her. Toby looked over to see inside of the arena. There were rows of clouds that Toby thought was used as seats, and the centerpiece of the Cloudosseum was an entrance way, and above was a heart-shaped sculpture with a blue background, the sun as it's center, and above that was a statue of an alicorn.

"This is where all of the flying competitions, and events take place Toby, especially when the Wonderbolts perform." Rainbow smirked proudly as she looked behind her at the child.

"Hey you three, what are you doing?" A voice said behind the three as they turned to see a light golden furred Pegasus with a deep orange mane and tail with a light orange streak, deep orange eyes, and for her cutie mark she had a flame in the shape of a bird. She noticed Rainbow, and trotted up to them. "Oh, hey Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow smiled brightly. "Heya Spitfire. What's happening?"

"Nothing, just fixing to go get the crew to practice four our show in a month." She smirked at the cyan pegasus, and noticed the filly. "Well, hey there Scootaloo. It has been a while since I last seen you here in Cloudsdale."

Scootaloo beamed up at Spitfire. "It is awesome to see you again Spitfire." She turned her flank toward Spitfire. "Look what I finally got." She said, smirking proudly.

"Well, would you like at that, you got your cutie mark." The pegasus smiled with a impressed look on her face. "Congratulations. Also, I can see that you can finally fly." Noticing that the filly hovered into the air with a big nod. She then looked at child on Rainbow's back. "Oh, who is this little guy Rainbow?"

Rainbow leaned down on her forelegs to let Toby carefully climb off her back. She sat on her haunches, and placed her forehooves on his shoulders. "Spitfire, I would like for you to meet Toby, my nephew, and the greatest little guy you will ever meet." Scootaloo nodded in agreement as Toby blushed at the comment. Rainbow looked down at the little colt. "Toby, I would like for you to meet Spitfire, the captain of The Wonderbolts, and besides me, the greatest flyer in all of Cloudsdale."

Spitfire rolled her eyes, but just chuckled. She leaned down all four legs to look in Toby's eyes. "Well, it is an honor to meet you little dude. Welcome to Cloudsdale, and like your Aunt Rainbow just said I am the captain of the Wonderbolts, a team of the most elite flyers in all Equestria." She reached a forehoof, and rubbed at the child's arm.

Toby smiled softly, and nodded. "Oh, that is cool Miss Spitfire. It is good to meet you too."

Spitfire looked at him smirking. "Now, little dude, you don't need to call me Miss. That is a very respectful gesture, but you can just call me Spitfire, okay?" Giving him a wink as he nodded.

She stood back up on all four legs, and saluted the three. "Well, I will catch ya later. Got to get back and make sure the others aren't slacking off, especially Soarin."

Rainbow laughed. "Haha..that is true. Make sure he isn't laying on the job, and eating pie." The four all laughed in unison as Spitfire hovered in the air waving a forehoof before flying off.

The sky city of Cloudsdale was soon showered in a warm golden glow signaling that Celestia's sun was slowly beginning to set. Rainbow looked, and sighed softly as the glow shined upon the three. "Well little buddy, I guess it is time to get you back home, so Fluttershy won't be too worried." She leaned on her forelegs as Toby climbed onto her back.

She allowed him to take one more look over Cloudsdale as Scootaloo hovered beside them. "It sure is a very pretty place Auntie Rainbow. Thank you, and thank you Scootaloo for bringing me." Scootaloo smiled at him, and rubbed at the top of his head.

"No problem buddy, we had fun with you spending the day with us." She gave the little colt a wink, and smile.

"That is right kid. Anytime you would like to come visit Cloudsdale again, you just let your Auntie Rainbow know, okay?" He nodded. "That's my little guy. Now hang on tight Toby, because here we go." He nodded, and hugged her neck tightly as Rainbow hovered up in the air, and looked at Scootaloo to see if she was ready, which she nodded. They faced downward, and flew toward Ponyville.

*In Canterlot*

Princess Luna was standing out on the balcony of Canterlot Castle with her sister as they was watching over all of Equestria. "Well, little sister, it looks like I will be letting you take your place as I shall retreat to my chambers." Princess Celestia gave Luna a gentle nuzzle against her cheek.

"Alright Tia'. Goodnight, and sweet dreams my sister." Celestia bowed her head, and trotted into the castle as Luna stayed to let her moon rise majestically against the dark blue canvas. She looked through the telescope that sat against the rail, and decided to gaze upon Ponyville.

She slowly turned to the telescope as she landed on the cottage of Fluttershy to see Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, and Toby arrive. "Well, it looks like our young friend Toby had a fun time with loyal Rainbow Dash. That is... Gah!" A sharp pain shot through Luna's head.

"What was that?" She thought as she shook her head.

"Wait, I hear somepony's mind." She closed her eyes, and deeply concentrated to listen.

After a few minutes of listening to the thought. "Oh, no. No, no, no this can't be true." A frown formed on the Princess' face and a tear cascaded down her cheek. "The poor child will be devastated with this news. I must tell Tia', but I will tell her first thing in the morning." She took a deep breath, and raised her head to look at her moon with a look of sorrow.

Author's Note

I know, I know, the dreaded cliffhanger again. Slowly building up to the final three chapters. Don't worry though, I have some more planned, about two or three more chapters planned before the final three. :)

Chapter Twenty-Five: Gems Galore & Spa Treatments (Edited)

Princess Celestia started to awakem from her peaceful slumber when Princess Luna trotted softly into her bedroom. She blinked her eyes opened, and greeted her younger sister as she carefully climbed out of her bed. "Ah.. good morning Luna, how are.." She cut herself off when she noticed Luna wearing a frown upon her face. "Sister, what is wrong?" Luna trotted up to her, and laid her head against the sun Princess' chest as she released a flood of tears. Celestia reached up a foreleg, and rubbed along Luna's back soothingly attempting to calm her tears.

After a couple of minutes Luna calmed down. Celestia reached her head down to nuzzle at the top of Luna's gently. "Now that's better." She rubbed at her back a little more before gently pulling back to look into her eyes which were glossy with tears. "Now Luna, please tell me what has upset you so." Giving her a soft reassuring smile.

Luna sighed deeply. "Tia, last night I was watching over the land when I heard somepony's mind, but it was not anypony of Equestria. It was the mind of who I believe is our young friend, Toby's father." She lowered her head, and allowed one last tear to shed from her eyes. "Oh, sister what I heard was horrible, and it will shatter the little child's heart if he were to find out."

Celestia laid a wing over Luna's back, and cooed. "Shh.. try to calm yourself sister." She reached down, and nuzzled at her cheek. She placed a forehoof under her chin to let her look up at her. "Luna, will you please tell me what you heard?" She asked with a concerned tone.

Luna let out another deep sigh swallowing deeply, and started to explain what she heard.

*A couple minutes later*

Celestia's looked at her sister with a saddened expression on her face with a single tear streaming from the corner of both eyes. "Oh, dear. This would definitely shatter young Toby's heart, but he must know Luna." She lifted her wing up over Luna, and turned toward the balcony.

Luna reached a forehoof up to wipe away her last remaining tears, and looked at her sister. "Tia, I trust in you. What would you like for me to do?"

Celestia's brows furrowed with anger as she looked outside over Equestria. "Sister, do you think you will be able to bring the young one's father here the same way you brought Toby?"

"Yes Tia, I can do that, but why would you want to bring that monster here to Equestria where he could bring harm upon not only our home, but more pain upon our young friend?" Luna showing a confused, and concerned look on her face.

Celestia closed her eyes relaxing her brows. "When you bring him here Luna, make sure to put him in the palace dungeon, until it is time for us to allow our dear Toby to see him. Twilight informed me that her, and her friends were going to make this week special for the child by each of them spending a day with him. After that, then we shall bring them all to the castle."

Luna bowed her head. "I understand Tia, I will wait for tonight when his father is asleep." She trotted up to Celestia looking up at her with a look of worry. "I am scared sister that the poor child wouldn't be able to handle it. He has endured so much, and this will just shatter him." She lowered her head.

Celestia turned her head toward her sister, and lowered it touching their horns together to comfort her. "I know Luna. That is why he will need all of his new friends, and family to be here for him. That is why he will need us to be here for him sister." Celestia sighed deeply, and turned to look back out over Equestria as her sun was rising against the aqua blue sky. "I just hope he will be able to handle this one last bit of tragic news."

Luna nodded her head slowly in agreement. "I do as well Tia. I shall take my leave, so I may prepare myself for tonight. Is there anything you would like for me to do before I depart sister?"

Celestia turned her head, and gave her a warm smile. "No Luna, I will be alright for now." Luna bowed her head, and turned to trot out of Celestia's bedroom. Celestia kept her gaze outside over the land. She looked up at her sun, and closed her eyes. "Please let this small child's heart have the strength to withstand this dark secret." She opened her eyes, and let out a deep sigh before turning back toward her bedroom.

In Ponyville, Rarity was stirring lightly in her bed as she let out a soft yawn. She reached up with her forelegs to take off her yellow sleeping mask with pink frill around the edges, and pink bows on each of the eyes. "Oh, my what a good night's rest." She stretched both her hindlegs, and forelegs as she climbed out of her bed.

Opalescence who was sleeping on a bare mannequin let out a big yawn, and stretched out her legs, flexing her claws as she hopped down, and padded over to her owner. She rubbed her fluffy, and furry form against Rarity's forelegs purring deeply.

Rarity smiled warmly down at her pet Persian cat, and stroked along her back with a forehoof. "Good morning my precious Opal. Are you hungry?" Opal just kept purring, and let out a meow. "Okay darling, come with mommy, and I will fix you something good for breakfast."

She trotted out of her room and descended the stairs with Opal padding closely behind. "Ah.. what a beautiful morning it is." She trotted into the kitchen to prepare a meal for Opal. After getting her food ready, Rarity gave it to Opal in her food bowl along with a water bowl. She stroked at the top of her head. She smiled down at her, and decided to prepare herself a cup of tea, and a couple slices of toast for breakfast with apple butter spread.

While enjoying her breakfast a thought occurred to her. "Oh, today is my day to spend with my little darling of a nephew." She looked over into the main room of the boutique over at the lavender chest she kept all of her gems for her designs. "Also, I got to go gem hunting today as well."

She placed a forehoof against her chin in a thinking manner. "My Spikey-Wikey hasn't returned from Canterlot yet. Hmm.. I wonder if the precious little child would like to accompany his Auntie Rarity today?" She smiled to herself, and clapped her forehooves together happily. "Oh, that is a wonderful idea. Then after we go gem hunting, I will take the little one, and Fluttershy to the spa. He deserves to have a relaxing, and comfortable time after collecting gems."

She finished with her tea, and toast wiping her mouth clean with a napkin. "Before I leave, I must make Toby something special." A beaming smile spreading across her face as she trotted through the kitchen, and ascended the stairs to her bedroom to get started working. "Oh, I just know the little darling is going to love what I have in store for him." She blushed gleefully.

Rarity made sure she had everything she need for the day. She had her saddlebags strapped to her back which contained the surprise she had for Toby, and levitated a shovel, and pail. "The little colt could collect some gems of his own, and maybe make something." She smiled happily as she exited the boutique, and locked the door. She gathered a red wagon outside by her boutique that she uses to collect gems in, and placed the shovel, and pail in it.

She took a deep breath of the fresh morning air as she trotted along the road of Ponyville. She waved a forehoof at the townsponies who would greet her. As she was trotting through town she noticed Pinkie Pie laying down on all four legs with her forelegs crossed in front of her, and she had her head laying on them. Concerned for her pink friend, Rarity trotted over to her.

She looked down at Pinkie with a warm smile. "Hello Pinkie darling, how are you doing on this fine morning?" She asked softly although she could tell something was wrong.

Pinkie let out a heavy sigh. "I am doing okay I guess." She looked up at Rarity with glossy eyes. "Oh, Rarity my pinkie sense is acting up again this morning."

Rarity sat down on her haunches beside her, and reached up to rub at her back gently with a forehoof. "Pinkie dear, are you sure you just aren't feeling well? Sometimes your pinkie sense can cause you to overreact over the smallest of things." She gave a small awkward smile.

Pinkie nodded, and sighed. "I know Rarity, but today I feel sad. I feel like there is somepony saddened by something, but I can't tell who." She gasped, and looked at Rarity with wide eyes. "What if our little wittle nephew Toby is sad?"

Rarity took a deep breath, and shook her head slowly. "Pinkie, why would the little darling be sad for? If something was bothering him, I know he would tell us." Giving Pinkie a reassuring smile, and patted her back. "Now like you always tell us, turn that frown upside down dear, and have fun today."

Pinkie gave a soft smile, and nodded. "You are right Rarity, the little wittle cutie wutie would definitely tell us if something was wrong with him. Maybe I am just overreacting." She sat up on her haunches, and pulled Rarity into a big strong hug. "Thank you Rarity."

Rarity nodded, and hugged Pinkie back patting her on the back. "You are welcome dear." They gently broke the hug, and she gave Pinkie a warm smile. "Now, do you feel better darling?"

Pinkie nodded vigorously. "Oh, yes I feel much better." Giving Rarity a beaming smile. "So, what are you going to do today Rarity?" She asked curiously.

"Well, I am planning to take our precious little nephew gem hunting with me since my Spikey-Wikey isn't back from Canterlot yet. After, I am going to take him and Fluttershy to the spa for a relaxing, and comfortable time. He certainly will deserve it after collecting gems." Smiling happily.

"Ooh, that sound like super duper fun for the little wittle cutie wutie." Pinkie clapped her forehooves excitedly. "Since I feel much better, I am going to get back to the bakery, so I can help Mr. and Mrs. Cake." She gave Rarity one more big hug. "You guys have fun, okie dokie lokie?"

Rarity laughed, and nodded. "We will Pinkie. You take care too my friend." Giving her a warm smile, and gathered the wagon with her magic, and waved a forehoof at Pinkie as she trotted toward Fluttershy's cottage.

When Rarity arrived at the cottage she could see that Fluttershy, and Toby was outside enjoying their morning breakfast at the table. She smiled softly at the sight, and trotted toward pulling the wagon along with her magic. "Good morning you two." Speaking up softly.

Fluttershy sipped at her tea before putting it down. "Oh.. um.. good morning Rarity. How are you doing?" She asked shyly.

"Oh, I am doing wonderfully darling." She gave the pegasus a warm smile. "How are you doing Fluttershy dear?"

"I am doing good. Just enjoying being outside with all my animal friends, and my precious little one." Looking at Toby with a warm smile causing the child to blush as he ate at his oatmeal.

Rarity giggled at the little colt's blushing, and trotted over to him. "And how is my darling little nephew doing today?" Giving him a blushing smile.

He finished his bite of oatmeal before speaking. "I am doing good Auntie Rarity, thank you." Giving her a soft smile as he put his empty bowl on the table, and wiped his mouth clean with a napkin.

She leaned forward, and gave him a kiss on the forehead. "You are quite welcome dear." She reached up with a foreleg to gently rub at his arm. "Toby, if it is okay with your momma, how would you like to accompany your Auntie Rarity to do some hunting for gems?"

He smiled happily, and nodded. "That sounds like fun Auntie Rarity." Then he turned toward Fluttershy with a hopeful look. "Is it okay Momma if I go with Auntie Rarity?"

Fluttershy smiled warmly at the little colt, and nodded. "Of course sweetheart, it is okay with me." She got off her pillow, and gathered her cup along with Toby's bowl. She gave him a kiss on top of his head. "Go get dressed sweetie." He nodded, and walked into the cottage to go get ready. Fluttershy smiled at him as she, and Rarity trotted behind to go in.

"I promise Fluttershy that I will make sure he doesn't get hurt, and keep him safe." Rarity reassured her friend as she took the dishes into the kitchen.

Fluttershy returned a kind smile to Rarity. "Oh, I know you will Rarity." Her eyes became a little moist as she looked at Rarity. "Thank you Rarity. You, and the girls have been, so caring, and loving toward Toby since I introduced you all to him." She gave her a hug, and laid her head against Rarity's shoulder.

Rarity reached up, and rubbed at her back, and wings soothingly. "Oh, darling you know we all love the precious little child." She very gently pulled Fluttershy in front of her, and looked sincerely into her eyes. "Listen dear, you are the main one out of all us who really helped in healing his broken heart. If you wouldn't have taken him in, I don't what would happen to the little darling." She rubbed at Fluttershy's shoulder.

Rarity cleared her throat. "Now, I was thinking after we get done collecting gems, all three of us could take a trip to the spa. I think he deserves a relaxing, and comfortable spa treatment after helping his Auntie Rarity gem hunting. What do you think of that Fluttershy?"

"Oh.. um.. well, that sounds like a good idea. Do you think Lotus and Aloe won't mind tending to Toby even though he isn't a pony?" Asking with a little concern in her voice.

"Oh, my dear Fluttershy, of course they won't mind. Remember, they gave their spa treatments to Spike on numerous times, and he is a dragon. I am sure they will welcome him with open arms like everypony else." She gave the pegasus a reassuring smile. "Don't your worry your pretty pink head about it darling." Fluttershy blushed, and nodded.

"Before I forget, it would be best if I leave this with you." She took her saddlebags off with her magic, and placed the on the floor next to Fluttershy's sofa. She opened up a flap, and levitated a pair of black swim trunks with outlining the bottoms of the legs. "I decided to make these for the little darling to wear in the Jacuzzi at the spa."

"Oh, he will love them Rarity, just like all of your outfits you have given him." Fluttershy gave a squeal of joy, and smiled happily.

Rarity levitated the trunks back into her saddlebags. "I do hope, so dear. For now though, let's keep it a surprise for the little darling. I will present them to him when we return from gem hunting." Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

Toby descended the stairs wearing his royal blue outfit with red jacket. He looked up at the two mares with a big smile. "I am ready Auntie Rarity." He walked over to Fluttershy, and gave her a warm hug around her neck. "I love you Momma. I will be back before dinner, don't worry."

She smiled warmly down at him, and nuzzled at his cheek. "I know sweetheart." She looked up at Rarity who gave her a wink. "You just be good for your Auntie Rarity, and have fun, okay sweetie?" She gave him a kiss on the fore head. "Momma loves you too Toby." Rarity smiled at the two as she carefully trotted toward the door.

They gently broke the embrace as Toby turned to follow behind Rarity out of the cottage. Rarity looked down at the little colt, and softly asked. "Toby, would you like to pull the wagon, or would you like to ride on your Auntie Rarity's back?"

He smiled up softly. "I can pull the wagon Auntie Rarity." She returned the smile, and levitated the wagon over to them levitating the handle toward Toby which he gently grasped. He turned to look up at Fluttershy. "Bye Momma, I will be back soon." Giving her a warm smile.

Fluttershy placed a forehoof on his shoulder, and gently rubbed it. She gave him a kiss on the top of his head. "Okay sweetheart. Goodbye for now, and have fun." She waved a forehoof as the two headed toward the rock quarry.

Rarity looked down at the small child as with a warm smile as they were walk toward the quarry. "Toby darling, if a lady may ask, did you, and your mommy do stuff like this too?"

He looked up, and nodded. "Yes Auntie Rarity. I remember we went to the beach when I was four, and we collected some sea shells." He gave a little smile. "Mommy made me a necklace out of small seashells, but daddy broke it, and threw it away after she passed away."

Rarity gasped, and frowned down at him. "Oh, darling I am truly sorry. Your father certainly was a ruffian for doing that."

He smiled up softly at her, and nodded as they arrived at the rock quarry. He looked out at it then up at Rarity. "Auntie Rarity, how will we be able to find gems in this big place?"

Rarity giggled lightly, and smiled down at the little colt. "Ah.. well, that is very simple my precious nephew. You see Toby, my horn comes in handy other than helping me create my designs. It also can detect a group of gems that are buried in the ground."

Toby nodded, and looked up at her with a bright smile. "Oh, that is neat Auntie Rarity." He giggled as he watched her horn light up.

Rarity glanced up as it glowed. "Oh, speaking of which. Just follow me darling." She carefully trotted ahead as Toby followed behind with the wagon. After a short walk they came upon a spot, and Rarity leaned her head down to illuminate the spot to reveal a hole filled with colorful glimmering gems. "Aha.. there we are. Come here precious, take a look." Toby nodded placing the handle down, and walking over to Rarity.

Toby looked at them in wonder. "Oh, they are very pretty Auntie Rarity." He could see they were all different shapes, sizes, and colors twinkling like stars in the evening sky. He went over to the wagon and retrieved the shovel. "Can I help dig?"

She gave him a soft smile, and reached up to pat at his back gently. "Of course darling. Just be careful, okay?" He nodded, and started digging. She stayed close to him to make sure nothing bad happens.

After a few minutes Toby finished digging the hole, and looked in awe at the gems. "They are very pretty close up Auntie Rarity." He saw a light blue glow appear around them as Rarity levitated them out of the hole, and over to the wagon. She placed half in the wagon, and the other half in his bucket. He saw this, and looked up at her. "Are those for me Auntie Rarity?"

She gave him a bright smile, and nodded rubbing at his shoulder. "Of course they are for you precious. Maybe you could use them to make something special for your momma." Blushing as her horn lit up again. "Oh, my would you look at that. Looks like there some more around here." She used her magic to grab at the handle, and carefully levitated the shovel out of the little colt's hands to put it back in the wagon.

"Toby darling, how about you ride on my back for the rest, and let me use my magic to dig the holes? I know you have to be tired although it was just one little hole." She said giving him a worried look, and rubbing up, and down his arm gently.

Toby looked up with a little smile. "Are you sure Auntie Rarity? I am okay, and I don't want you to hurt by using all of your magic."

Rarity gave a light chuckle. "Aw..haha.. don't worry precious, I will be more than alright. I can do an array with things with my magic, and it takes much to make me tired." Giving him a light rub on the cheek. She leaned down on her forelegs. "Climb up now darling." He nodded, and carefully climbed onto her back and she used her magic to pull the wagon along with them as the went to the next spot.

However, the two were unaware of the three pairs of eyes that were watching them through some bushes that were a part of the quarry.

"Eh.. it's that pony who wines all the time." Came a high raspy voice from behind the bushes. "I know she can find gems with her magic, but I don't think I can handle her constant blabbering, and complaining."

"Be quiet. Do you want them to hear us?" Another yet smaller high voice followed. "Look at that thing on her back guys. It isn't that little lizard, but he could be valuable in our plans."

"Uh, what do you mean Spot? How could that little creature get us gems?" A deep voice spoke up last.

"Gah.. do I have to explain every thing to you boneheads? I saw we nab that little runt from the whiny pony, and make her give us the gems, or we take it hostage." The other two voices laughed evilly in agreement. They became silent as the continued to watch the two.

After collecting a final group of gems Rarity looked at the wagon which was filled up with a big mound of multi-color jewels She looked back, and smiled warmly at the child on her back. "Well Toby darling, I believe that should be enough. Let's get back to your Momma's shall we?"

As she turned to trot onward when suddenly a dog-like creature jumped out of the bushes. "Not so fast whiny pony." The creature spoke with a high raspy voice. It stood tall about a foot taller than Rarity, and it had charcoal gray fur, lime green squinted eyes, ridiculously large paws with black claws, large forearms which ended with small upper arms. His face and ears was that of a bat, and he wore a red vest like top with pockets on each side, and a black collar with diamonds encrusted into it. Finally he had a pink nose.

"You won't be going anywhere until you give us your gems."

"Oh, dear not you flea ridden ruffians again." She felt the little colt on her back shaking, and looked back at him giving him a nuzzle. "Don't worry precious, I won't let this mutt hurt one single hair on your head." She turned around, and cleared her throat. "Now if you would be so kind to remove yourself from in front of us, then I won't have to become violent." Flicking her mane.

"Well, isn't that precious.. bleh. I don't think you will be going anywhere." Suddenly a much bigger dog who stood taller than the first one jumped down from the tree they were near, and held onto Rarity. He had all pale grey fur with the same ridiculously large paws, and also arms, deep grey claws, and he hunched over as he stood. He wore a charcoal vest with pockets on each side as well, and a larger black collar encrusted with diamonds. He had sun yellow eyes, black nose, and had a head and face like that of a gargoyle.

"Now Spot." The first one yelled as a third dog came down form the tree. He was the smallest of the three and had pale brown fur, also large paws with shorter arms, and small black claws. He wore alight grey vest the same as the other two with a pocket on each side, and also a black collar with diamonds embedded in it. He had pale yellow eyes, black nose, and his face resembled a bulldog. He reached up and grabbed the small child putting him over the shoulder, and ran over to the first dog.

"Ahh. Let me go you bad doggie." Toby struggled in the dog's grasp, but he wasn't big enough to get loose.

"Be quiet you little runt." The smaller dog said he giggled evilly.

The first one eyed Rarity. "Now it is simple whiny pony. You give us all of your gems, and we will let this little one go." Chuckling. "If not, we shall take him down into the ground, and make him work for us."

Rarity swallowed deeply, but looked at the lead dog with anger. "You let my nephew go you fleabag." She yelled as she bit the large dog's paws that held her. He yelped and she ran toward the smaller dog turning to ram her shoulder into him which caused him to drop Toby.

Toby fell on the ground, and quickly stood back up to see the lead dog standing above him. "Not so fast you little...OW!" Toby stomped on the dog's hind paw, and ran toward Rarity. Rarity leaned down to scoop the child on her back.

Rarity was panting some as she looked behind her at the little colt. "Are you okay darling?"

He nodded. "I am okay Auntie Rarity." He looked at the three dogs who were joined together again. "What are those three bad doggies?" He asked with a deep swallow.

"We are known as the Diamond Dogs, and quit calling us doggies." The lead dog stomped his right hindpaw which Toby stomped, and yelped holding it up. "OW!"

"Haha..and there is more where that came from you ruffians." Rarity stood proudly as she lit her horn up. "Watch this Toby." She whispered behind her to the child on her back.

"Uh, hey what is she doing you guys." The larger dog said in his low tone.

Suddenly a branch above the three diamond dogs snapped, and came falling down. "AAH!" The three dogs screamed as it fell on top of them pinning them to the ground.

Toby laughed. "Haha..that was good Auntie Rarity." As she pulled the wagon over to her with her magic with the gems still intact, and the gems in Toby's bucket.

"Thank you precious." She eyed the three dogs whose eyes were turning in a spherical motion. "That will teach you never to mess with Rarity again you mutts." She flicked her mane, and turn to trot away.

While they left Spot shook his head. "Guh.. Rover, why can't we just collect bones from now on? We are dogs after all, and they are much easier to get than gems."

"Yeah boss." The larger dog agreed.

Rover reached both of his large paws up forming them into fists, and pounded the two on the top of their head. "Eh, will you both be quiet, and let's get out from under this tree branch." They grunted, and struggled to get out from underneath the branch. "Bones do sound tastier than diamonds though." The other two just grunted, and smacked themselves in the face with their paws.

As they were head back toward the cottage Rarity gently let Toby down from her back for a moment. She checked over him, and patted at his clothes to get rid of the little dirt he gathered after falling to the ground. "Oh, you poor dear, are you sure you are alright Toby?" Looking down with a worried look.

He carefully took his glasses off, and wiped them with his shirt. He put them back on, and looked up at her nodding. "Yes Auntie Rarity, I am okay." He gave her a big warm hug around her neck, and laid his head against her soft chest fur. "Thank you for saving me from those mean doggies." He sighed warmly.

Rarity hugged him close with a foreleg, and gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "Of course darling, I would never let those brutes or anypony hurt my precious little nephew." She rubbed along his back soothingly. After a minute she gently pulled him back to look him in his eyes. "I want you to listen to me Toby. When those ruffians called you a little runt, don't listen to them. You may be small, but you have such a big heart, do you understand me?"

"Yes Auntie Rarity." He smiled up softly at her as she gave him a kiss on the forehead.

"Good. Now let's just keep this rendezvous with those nasty dogs a secret, okay? We don't want your momma to be worried too much." He nodded in agreement as she leaned down on her forelegs. "Hop on precious." He climbed atop Rarity's back, and she used her magic to once again pull the wagon as they continued on their way back to the cottage.

Fluttershy was outside watering the flowers around her cottage when she spotted the two coming up over the bridge. Rarity leaned down to let Toby climb off and he ran up the hill with his bucket of gems. "Momma, Momma, look at what Auntie Rarity let me have." As he showed his bucket of gems.

Rarity giggled, and smiled at the small child's excitement as Fluttershy done the same. She looked down at Toby, and gave him a kiss on the top of his head. "They are very beautiful sweetheart." She smiled softly and give him a nuzzle on the cheek. "How about you go take them upstairs, and put them somewhere safe, okay sweetie?" He nodded, and ran inside, and ascended the stairs.

The two mares followed behind. They smiled at the little colt as he was walking upstairs. Rarity trotted over to her saddlebags, and opened the flap containing Toby's swim trunks with her magic, and levitated them out. She blushed happily, and clapped her forehooves. "Oh, I can't wait for the little darling to see these, and try them on." Fluttershy giggled, and nodded in agreement.

Toby returned downstairs smiling softly. "Okay Momma, I got them put up safely in the chest with my clothes."

Fluttershy smiled down at him. "That is a good place to put them sweetheart." She embraced him with a foreleg bring him to her, and gave him a kiss on the top of his head. She looked down at him. "Toby... um.. if it is okay with you.. um.. could you maybe close your eyes for a little bit? Your Auntie Rarity has something special to give you." Toby looked up with a soft smile as he closed his eyes. She giggled lightly as she gently placed both forehooves on his shoulders, and carefully turned him to face Rarity.

Rarity smiled with glee as she levitated the swim trunks in front of Toby. "Okay darling, open your eyes." She beamed with anticipation.

Toby carefully opened his to see the pair of swim trunks. He tilted his head back to look up at Fluttershy then looked up at Rarity. "Are these for me Auntie Rarity?" As he looked at the trunks with a big bright smile.

Rarity giggled at his happiness, and nodded. "Of course they are for you darling." She decided to lay down on all four legs, and look at him with a warm smile. "I was thinking you could wear them in the tub at the spa, if that is okay with you though."

Toby swallowed shyly. "I would like to come Auntie Rarity, but I never really been to a spa before." He lowered his head a little bit as Fluttershy rubbed at his shoulders with her forehooves, and leaned her head down to nuzzle at his cheek.

"It is okay sweetheart, me and your Auntie Rarity will be there with you. I promise you will like it, and the spa ponies who work there will be very gentle with you, okay sweetie?" Giving him a reassuring smile.

He blushed, and nodded as he looked up at the two mares. "Okay Momma and Auntie Rarity, I will come." Speaking softly as Fluttershy gently scooped him up on her back as Rarity levitated the swim trunks back into her saddlebags, and placed them on her back. The three exited the cottage as Angel Bunny saluted them off, and closed the door. They made their way toward the spa.

As they arrived at the Ponyville Spa, Toby could see it was a castle-like, and tent-like structure. It had a sign with a pale green background with a white pony with a golden mane, and tail above the door. The three carefully entered as Toby was getting a little nervous never being to a spa before.

"Hello, and welcome to the Ponyville Day Spa where we make your welcome as relaxing, and comfortable as possible." A cyan furred pony with a bright pink mane, and tail greeted the three visitors with an Eastern European accent. She had deep royal blue eyes, and for her cutie mark she had a lotus flower. She spotted Rarity who was a regular customer. "Oh, good afternoon Miss Rarity." Giving her a nod of her head.

"Hello Lotus Blossom darling. I would like to have my usual, but first may I introduce you to my little nephew." She turned to look at Toby, but he was under Fluttershy's mane. Rarity frowned a little, and trotted beside Fluttershy, and spoke softly. "Come on precious, there is no need to be nervous. Please come, and meet my good friends who work here at the spa."

Toby peeked out from under Fluttershy's mane as he saw Rarity had a foreleg reached out for him to take. He swallowed deeply, and gently took her hoof, and Fluttershy leaned down on her forelegs for him to climb off. Rarity smiled down at the child, and patted him on the back gently as she lead him to Lotus Blossom.

Rarity gave her a soft smile. "Lotus Blossom, I would like for you to meet Toby." She leaned her head down to speak to Toby. "Toby darling, I would like for you to meet Lotus Blossom she is one of the wonderful beauticians who work here."

Lotus smiled down at the small child and knelt down all four legs. "Well, hello there Toby. My, you sure are a cute little guy." She giggled, and reached up a foreleg to rub at his arm. "You don't have to be nervous around me. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Toby blushed, and smiled softly. "Thank you Miss Lotus Blossom. It is good to meet you too." He bowed his head respectfully.

Lotus Blossom smiled softly at the little colts politeness. "Well, aren't you just a very sweet, and polite gentlecolt as well. You don't have to call me Miss though little guy." She replied giving him a wink. She turned her head. "Hey Aloe, come meet Miss Rarity's, and Miss Fluttershy's new little friend." She turned back to Toby. "Don't worry little guy, Aloe is gentle just like me, so you don't have to be nervous around her either." He nodded.

Suddenly another earth pony came trotting into the lobby. She had a light pink coat, a sky blue mane and tail, the same deep royal blue eyes as Lotus, and an aloe plant as her cutie mark. "Yes Lotus." She looked at the two mares, and waved. "Oh, hello Miss Rarity, and Miss Fluttershy." She then looked down at the small child in front of Lotus. She knelt down on all fours.

"Aww.. and who is this little cutie pie?" She asked causing Toby to blush. She reached up with a foreleg to rub at the other arm of Toby's.

"Aloe, this is Toby, he is Miss Rarity's nephew, and." She looked up at Fluttershy.

"Oh, he is my son. My precious little one." She smiled along with Rarity at the two spa ponies giving caring attention to the little colt.

"Aww.. well it is nice to meet you Toby. My name is Aloe, and welcome to the Ponyville Spa." Giving him a wink, and warm smile.

Toby smiled softly, and nodded. "It is good to meet you too Miss Aloe."

Aloe blushed and smiled at the little colt. "Aww.. there is no need to call me Miss, you little cutie. Just call me Aloe." Giving him a wink.

The two spa ponies then stood up carefully as the looked at the two mares. "So the regular for you Miss Rarity?"

Rarity nodded. "Yes darlings." She smiled at the two as they lead the way as Fluttershy came, and gently scooped Toby up onto her back. Rarity smiled at the little colt. "Don't worry Toby, you will enjoy it here, I promise." She reached up, and rubbed at his back with a forehoof as the three followed the two spa ponies.

As the entered into the spa from the lobby Toby looked around with his mouth agape. He saw that it was much bigger inside that it appeared outside, at least to him. To is right he saw two sets of bath one being tubs with water, and the other two which appeared to be mud baths. To his left was three lounge chairs where ponies laid to get massages, and hooficures. Mirrors lined the walls on the left of the spa, and in the center of the inside was a big round tub.

Toby looked up at the two spa ponies, and gently asked. "Lotus Blossom, and Aloe, is there somewhere I can maybe change into my swim trunks?"

They turned, and smiled down at him. Aloe spoke up. "Of course little cutie. Please follow me." Rarity levitated his swim trunks out of her saddlebags, and gave them to him. He gently took them, and followed Aloe.

"The Jacuzzi is already nice, and warm for you Miss Rarity, and Miss Fluttershy." Lotus Blossom said as she gently spread a couple of lavender, and aloe beads into the tub for the water to become more relaxing.

"Thank you kindly Lotus Blossom." Rarity bowed her head as she, and Fluttershy climbed up onto the deck, and climbed into the tub. "Mmm..that feels oh, so nice." She turned to Fluttershy. "What do you think Fluttershy dear?"

"Mm.. um.. that does feel nice Rarity." The pegasus smiled softly as both mares laid back against the inner walls of the Jacuzzi.

Toby came out of the bathroom dressed in his swim trunks, and he looked to see the manes of Rarity, and Fluttershy at the top of the tub. He walked around to ascend the deck. The two mares smiled warmly at him.

"Well, you look absolutely adorable darling."

"Do you need help getting in sweetheart?' Fluttershy asked, and Toby nodded. She turned, and reached up with her forelegs, and gently grab Toby from underneath his arms, and very slowly lowered him into the Jacuzzi. Toby stood just tall enough above the water as he came up to his mid-chest.

"Oh, that feels nice Momma, and Auntie Rarity." As he stood on the bottom of the tub letting the warm wash over him. He gently walked to the edge of the tub to stand up against. "Mm.. it feels like the warm baths Mommy used to give me." He sighed softly as he closed his eyes at the relaxing water.

Rarity and Fluttershy smiled at the little colt. "I knew you would like it precious. Lotus Blossom, and Aloe always makes sure their customers have a relaxing time here." Rarity giggled lightly.

The three sighed softly as they sat in the Jacuzzi for a while.

After several minutes of relaxing in the tub the three carefully climbed out with Fluttershy gently lifting Toby out, and helping wrap around his small form. The mares wrapped a towel over their manes, and robes around their forms. He smiled up at her as the three descended down the stairs of the deck, and Rarity led them to the lounge chairs.

Rarity smiled at the little colt. "Now Toby, Aloe, and Lotus Blossom are just going to tend to your hands and feet. They are going to give us a hooficure. Don't worry though darling, they are very gentle when they do it." Giving him a reassuring smile as she trotted to a lounge chair.

Aloe volunteered to help with Toby. She trotted toward him as he laid down on the lounge chair of his choosing. Aloe gave him a warm smile. "Don't worry little cutie, I will be as gentle as possible." She reached up and rubbed at his arm to comfort him. He nodded, and gave her a soft smile. She trotted to his feet. "Oh my, now don't you have the cutest little hooves I ever did see." She giggled, and very lightly tickled at the soles of his feet with a forehoof.

He laughed happily as the two mares, and Lotus Blossom smiled at him while Lotus Blossom was tending to Rarity, and another spa pony tending to Fluttershy.

Aloe got her hoof filer, and noticed a nervous look on Toby's face. "Oh, it's okay sweetie, this isn't going to hurt. I am just going to make your hooves smooth, okay?" Giving him a little nod, and he gave a little smile. She very gently held the filer between her teeth, and carefully started to file at Toby's nails. He swallowed shyly, but kept still as she was very gentle with him. She finished the first foot then moved onto the other one.

"There cutie all done. Now that didn't hurt, did it?" Asking sweetly as she gave him a soft smile, and wink.

He shook his head lightly. "No it didn't Aloe, thank you. It was nice, and gentle." She patted at his feet with her forehoof, and carefully trotted up to his hands.

She carefully lifted one hand, and looked at it. "Aw.. you even have cute little forehooves Toby." Holding it in her forehoof, and giving it a little nuzzle. She carefully moved the hand on her hoof where his wrist would sit, so she could file at his finger nails. He smiled at the carefulness she showed while tending to him.

After she got done filing the finger nails of the other hand she gave him a gentle pat on the shoulder. "All done with your forehooves now little cutie. Now, would you like for me to rub some lotion on your forehooves, and hindhooves to keep them soft?" He nodded as she gave him a soft smile, and went to retrieve the lotion.

When Aloe returned with the lotion, and started rubbing it on Toby's feet, and hands gently Rarity looked over as she was just getting her hooficure done. She eyed at Toby's little hands, and fingers. "Toby darling, if a lady may ask, how would you like to maybe give your Auntie Rarity a little massage? I bet those little fingers of your feels can give a good massage."

Toby looked over at Rarity, and blushed. He swallowed shyly. "I don't know Auntie Rarity. I am scared I might hurt you." He frowned.

Rarity sigh softly, and gave him a reassuring smile. "Aw.. don't worry precious, you won't hurt me. I know, how about Aloe shows you how she gives me, and Fluttershy a massage, and you can try. Does that sound like a good idea darling?" He nodded softly.

Aloe smiled happily at the little colt. "Okay little cutie just come over with me and I will show you." She helped him off the lounge chair, and he followed behind her over to Rarity who flipped over on her tummy onto the lounge chair. Lotus stood up on her hindlegs, and places her forehooves on Rarity's back. "Now just watch me Toby, and then I will let you try it." He nodded as he carefully watched.

Lotus Blossom was helping massage Fluttershy as well. Toby watched both of the spa ponies do their massages. They were gently pressing their forehooves into the mares' backs, and rubbing.

Aloe finished showing her massage technique with Rarity, and motioned Toby over. "Don't be shy little cutie, you can do it, I know you can." Giving him a wink as he carefully walked over to her, and Rarity.

Rarity smiled at the little colt as he stood beside her lounge chair. "It's okay precious, I know you will do a good job. Just relax, and try your best." Giving him a reassuring smile.

"Okay Auntie Rarity." He swallowed deeply, and placed his little hands on the soft and warm fur of Rarity's back. He started to gently rub at her back with his hands, and gently used his fingers to do like a kneading motion.

Rarity sighed deeply. "Mmm.. see there darling, I told you would do a good job. Mmm.. that feels nice Toby." He blushed, and carefully continued to rub at her back.

Aloe smiled warmly at the child, and rubbed at his back with a forehoof comfortably. "There you go cutie, you are doing a great job." He smiled, and nodded as he moved his little hands between Rarity's shoulder blades, and started to rub.

After a few minutes he finished rubbing Rarity's back. She turned to her side, and gently rubbed at his cheek giving him a gentle kiss on the forehead. "You did a wonderful job precious, thank you for that."

"You are welcome Auntie Rarity." He then looked over at Fluttershy. "Would you like for me to give you a massage Momma?"

Fluttershy smiled warmly and gently shook her head. "Oh, thank you very much sweetheart, but Lotus Blossom already did." He nodded, and gave a soft smile.

After spend a good while at the spa Rarity, Fluttershy, and Toby said goodbye to the two spa ponies. Rarity gave Toby a warm hug, and nuzzled the top of his head. "I had a wonderful day with you precious, thank you again for the massage. That felt nice, and I hope you enjoyed your time at the spa." Rubbing along his back.

He looked up with a bright smile. "I did Auntie Rarity. Lotus Blossom, and Aloe were very nice, and Aloe was very gentle with me when she tending to my hands, and feet. Thank you for a great day."

"You are certainly welcome darling. Anytime you want to spend the day with your Auntie Rarity, all you have to do is let me know, okay?" He nodded as she gave him one more kiss on the forehead. She looked at Fluttershy, and gave her a hug with a foreleg around her neck. "I had a wonderful time at the spa with you as always Fluttershy."

"Yes, it was good and relaxing. It was especially good to spend the day at the spa with my precious little one." As she looked down at the child, and lifted him up on her back.

Rarity smiled at the two. "Well, until tomorrow darlings, I shall return to the boutique." She waved a forehoof as she trotted away pulling the wagon of gems with her magic. Fluttershy, and Toby returned the wave as she turned to trot toward their home.

*At Canterlot Castle*

Celestia was watching her sun slowly set as Luna came galloping into her bedroom. Tears was streaming down her face. She saw her sister out on the balcony, and trotted out to her. "Oh, Tia I just got done collecting the memories of Toby's father, who is now locked up in the dungeon, and they are horrible."

Celestia laid a wing over Luna, and leaned her head down to nuzzle at her cheek. "Shh.. calm yourself dear sister.. Shh." She stroked along Luna's back feeling her calm down. "Shh.. that's better. Now show me what you saw in his memories." Giving her a soft smile.

Luna nodded. "As you wish Tia, but I warn you it is heartbreaking." Celestia touched her horn with Luna's and a white light started to glow around them.

*Several minutes later*

Celestia had tears streaming down her own cheeks. "Oh dear." She clenched her eyes tightly, and opened them again in an angry expression. "Luna, I shall write our fellow princess, Twilight Sparkle to inform her, and her friends to come tomorrow. This child deserves to know the truth, and deserves to hear the truth from this monster." She gave Luna a warm hug. "Thank you for showing me dear sister, I know it was hard for you to."

Luna allowed the last of tears to fall. "Yes it was Tia, but I understand. Our young friend does deserves the truth, but I just hope it won't be too much for his little heart to take." Giving her older sister a sad smile.

Celestia nodded in agreement. "I know Luna, but with all of us being there for him, I believe he can withstand this horrifying truth." Bowing her head respectfully. "Now I shall take my leave sister, and go to bed. Before I do, I shall write Princess Twilight. Spike should be back in Ponyville right now, so she should get it by morning."

Luna nodded as she took her place on the balcony as Celestia trotted into the castle. "Goodnight Tia." Luna spoke softly as she turned to let her moon rise.

"Good night dear sister." Celestia replied as she trotted to her sofa, and started to write her letter to Twilight.

Author's Note

Well, my dear readers, the final three chapters are on their way. A truth, a dark secret, and a tragic memory from James shall be known in the next chapter.

Chapter Twenty-Six: A Father's Betrayal (Mature) (Edited)

The light of Celestia's sun shined through the treetop window of the Golden Oaks Library upon the sleeping form of Twilight. She let out a big yawn as she stretched her forelegs, and hindlegs in the bed before climbing onto the floor to stretch out her wings. She looked toward Spike's basket to see that he wasn't resting in it.

"Hmm.. I wonder where that little dragon could..." She was cut off by the aroma of a freshly made breakfast. "Mm.. nevermind." She thought to herself as she giggled lightly. She carefully trotted over to the mirror to brush her mane before going downstairs.

Spike was in the kitchen preparing pancakes with some blueberries mixed in with the batter. He looked to see Twilight descending the stairs. "Good morning Twilight. Just take a seat at the table, and your breakfast shall be served shortly." Smiling proudly, and giving her a wink.

Twilight smiled, and giggled at her assistant. "Well, thank you Spike. It smells good as always." She sat down on a red velvet pillow on her haunches, and waited for Spike to bring the food.

Spike came in with two plates. One had the blueberry pancakes on them with toast, and his had pancakes on it sprinkled with gem chips, and toast, and he served both a glass of milk. "Bon appetite Twilight." He gave Twilight her plate, and he sat down on the other red velvet pillow that was available.

Twilight took a whiff of the freshly made pancakes, and used her magic to use her knife and fork to cut them. She levitated the fork toward her mouth and took a bite. "Mm.. mm.. mm.. that is delicious Spike. You did a great job adding the blueberries." Giving her assistant a blushing smile.

Spike smirked, and acted like he was dusting off his shoulder with a claw. "Something new I wanted to whip up. Glad that it was a success." He smiled at her as he took a bite out of his pancakes making a crunching sound the gem chips being grinded with his sharp teeth. "Mm.. gems are the best on pancakes though Twi." He smiled, chuckling.

"Well, you can keep them as a topping all you want Spike." She giggled as they continued to enjoy their breakfast.

After finishing up their morning meals, Spike took Twilight's empty dishes, and his into the kitchen to wash them. While he was washing them, he felt his stomach start to rumble, and he belched out emerald flame that quickly formed into a scroll. He stopped washing the dishes, and went to Twilight. "Twilight, I got a letter from Princess Celestia."

Twilight gave a curious look. "Hmm.. I wonder why the princess would be sending a letter on such a beautiful day like today. I guess she just wants to check up on how Ponyville is going." She gave Spike a soft smile. "You can read it Spike." She laid down on her pillow crossing her forelegs.as she listened closely to the baby dragon.

Spike cleared his throat. "Hm. hm.hm. alright Twi. Here I go." He unfolded the scroll, and started to read.

"Dear Twilight Sparkle,

An urgent matter has arisen and myself along with my sister Princess Luna require the presence of all of you who have become the family, and friends of the young child Toby. Two nights ago my sister heard the mind of the little one's father, and what she told me shocked me to the core. So I asked Luna to bring Toby's father here to Equestria to see his son, but another tragic bit of news has fallen upon mine, and Luna's hearts.

Luna was willing to collect the memories of the small child's father, and it brought tears to our eyes when watching them. It hurts me to speak of it in this letter, but please come to Canterlot by the Friendship Express. I have included sixteen tickets. I have discovered that Toby have become friends with the little fillies Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon, and also the spa ponies of the Ponyville Spa, Lotus Blossom, and Aloe.

I ask for all of you to come, because the little one is going to need all of you with him when he finds out the dark secret his father has been keeping from him. We will be waiting for your arrival, and to make sure young Toby's father cannot harm anypony or Toby, we have him locked up in the Canterlot dungeons.

Sincerely your fellow princess,

Princess Celestia."

Spike felt tears stinging his eyes as a bundle of tickets tied together by a red ribbon appeared. "Gosh Twilight, what do you think that beast of a father has hidden from the poor little guy?" Giving Twilight a saddened look.

Twilight frowned deeply. "I don't know Spike. Whatever it is, we need to be there for Toby." Giving the baby dragon a tear-filled smile. Spike nodded in agreement. There was a knock at the door, and Twilight opened it with her magic to reveal her friends, the CMC, Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara, Big Mac, and the two spa ponies Lotus Blossom, and Aloe.

Fluttershy had the small child on her back sleeping peacefully wrapped up in a couple of blankets. "Um.. I didn't have the heart to wake him up, so I gently tucked the blankets around him, and carried him here." She looked at Twilight with a saddened expression. "Twilight, I am scared for Toby knowing that his father is here." She turned her head back at the sleeping child with a frown. She carefully trotted in along with the others into the library.

"I know Fluttershy. I don't know what this dark truth is, but whatever it is I promise we will all be there for Toby." Twilight gave Fluttershy a soft, and reassuring smile looking back at the little colt.

"That jerk!" Rainbow yelled. Everpony shushed her so not to wake Toby up. Rainbow smiled awkwardly. "Sorry." She hovered in the air as she pounded her forehooves together. "Oh, I hope Princess Celestia will let me give him one real good buck to the face."

"Simmer down some Rainbow." Applejack spoke up. "Ah' agree with ya, the no good varmint deserves a good buck or two, but we got to consider the little feller's feelings. Ah' mean he is still Toby's father." The others nodded in unison.

"I would have to agree with Applejack darling." Rarity looked up at Rainbow. "Although the ruffian does deserve a good thrashing, I wouldn't want to frighten the poor little colt with us hurting his father." She carefully trotted close to Fluttershy, and nuzzled at the sleeping child carefully, so not to wake him. "I believe it will be best when we do go see the young one's father, that we let him speak to him first before we get our turn."

"My sister is right everypony. It would be best for Toby to talk with his father first, and maybe we can all have a word with him." Sweetie Belle gave a light smile as she looked at the little colt.

"Yah, that varmint will be sorry that he ever laid a hoof on our sweet little buddy." Applebloom stated proudly with her brows furrowed.

"Yea, that's right. If you mess with one member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, you mess with all of us." Scootaloo raised her foreleg in the air.

Rainbow chuckled. "Haha.. you learned from the best squirt." She wiped at her shoulder with a forehoof.

Pinkie Pie looked at the small child with a frown. "I knew my pinkie sense were trying to tell me something, but I just didn't know what. I could sense somepony was sad, and it was Princess Luna." She lowered her head sadly.

Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy all looked at each other awkwardly.

Applejack was the first of the three to speak. "Ah' sure am sorry sugarcube. Ah' told ya that it was probably because of the storm that your pinkie sense acted like the way it did. Ah' shouldn't have judged ya for overreacting like Ah' did. Can ya ever forgive me Pink?"

"Yes darling, I also thought you was overreacting yesterday when I saw you sitting underneath that tree." Rarity gave Pinkie a sad smile. "Can a lady ask for your forgiveness as well?"

Fluttershy was the last to speak. "Um.. yes Pinkie I was wrong in thinking you were kind of jumping to conclusions with something was wrong with my precious little Toby." She turned her head to nuzzle at the sleeping colt, then turned back to Pinkie. "Can you please forgive me too?"

Pinkie laughed softly. "Of course you silly willies. Sometimes I know my pinkie sense can get the better of me, so I understood where you three were coming from." Giving them a big bright smile "Now I am just worried what this scary super duper dark secret is that little wittle Toby's father is keeping from him." She gave a frown as she looked a the little colt.

Diamond Tiara who was standing in the back carefully trotted up to Fluttershy as Silver Spoon followed behind her. She looked up at her with a saddened expression. "Miss Fluttershy, I am Diamond Tiara, and I was the filly who was mean to Toby on his first day of school, and continued to be mean to him." She lowered her head as she felt tears sting her eyes. "I just wanted to apologize to you Miss Fluttershy for treating your son rudely, and saying that he didn't belong here."

Fluttershy gave a warm, yet sad smile at the filly, and gently laid a forehoof on her shoulder. "Diamond sweetie, please look at me." Diamond lifted her head with a tearful look. "I admit, I was disappointed, and mad at you for hurting my precious little Toby's feelings on his first day of school." She took her forehoof, and carefully wiped away Diamond's tears. "But Toby told me that he forgave you, and I forgive you too. Now dry those tears, okay?" Diamond nodded sadly as she looked at the sleeping child on Fluttershy's back.

Fluttershy looked at her, Silver Spoon, then all around at her friends. "Thank you all for being here for Toby. Whatever this dark secret may be, we need to let this precious child know that he is not alone, and that he is truly loved, and cared for." Everypony nodded in agreement as the smiled warmly at the sleeping little colt.

Twilight wiped away a stray tear, and sighed deeply. "Well, everypony, I have all the tickets for the Friendship Express. Shall we get ready to leave for Canterlot?' They all nodded. "Okay then. Let's be strong for our precious little Toby." Twilight opened the door to the library with her magic, and everypony exited one at a time. Twilight shut the door, and locked as the group headed toward the Ponyville train station.

After they arrived at the train station and waited for the Friendship Express to arrive, Fluttershy smiled warmly at the sleeping child on her back. She sighed deeply knowing that she had to wake him up. She leaned her head close to his, and nuzzled at his cheek. "Sweetheart, it is time to wake up."

He let out a soft yawn blinking his eyes open to discover he already had his glasses on, and that he was outside. He carefully stretched as he noticed he was on Fluttershy's back, and that everypony watched him as he woke up. "Good morning Momma, and good morning everyone." He spoke softly giving them a light smile.

"Good morning Toby." They all replied in unison as the returned a warm smile of their own.

"Good morning my precious little one. We are all going to go visit your Auntie Luna, and Auntie Celestia, okay sweetie?" Fluttershy smiled softly as she gave him a kiss on the forehead.

He smiled, and rubbed at his eyes. "Okay Momma."

The train came pulling up to the waiting dock as Twilight trotted up to the front levitating the bundle of tickets. The conductor trotted out onto the waiting dock. "Welcome aboard the Friendship Express, do you have your tickets Miss?"

Twilight nodded. "Yes Sir." She levitated the bundle over to him. "There is a total of sixteen in all."

The conductor gasped a little. "Sixteen?" He looked behind her, and saw all the other ponies. "Oh, I see now. Well, please come aboard one, and all." He stepped aside to let everypony and Toby onto the train.

With everypony aboard, Fluttershy leaned down to let Toby climb off. She gave him a warm smile. "Toby sweetie, how about you go join the other young ones, okay? Momma, and the others will all be a few seats behind you if you need me." He nodded as he gave her a big smile then turned to walk over to the fillies, and baby dragon.

Fluttershy gave a sad smile, and thought to herself. "C'mon Fluttershy, you have to be strong for him." She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and walked over to the other mares, and stallion.

The train started to move to start it's trek to Canterlot.

*Underneath Canterlot Castle*

James was slowly stirring from a deep intoxicated sleep. "Aw.. my head. I've got to lay off the whiskey from now on, and just drink plain beer." He thought to himself as he reached a hand up to rub at his forehead, and eyes. He slowly blinked his eyes open. With his vision blurry, he clenched his eyes shut tight, and rubbed them with his forefinger and thumb.

He shook his head as his vision became clear now. He looked to find himself in a dark cavern, and his face reflecting off crystals that made up most of the cave except for the ground. He blinked harder thinking it was a dream to realize it wasn't. "Where the hell am I?" He asked himself aloud.

He shook his head harder, and felt something cold and metal around his right ankle. He looked down to see there was like a metal cuff around his ankle, and he traced he gaze down a chain to see the end wrapped around a metal stake that was placed deeply into the ground. He reached down to pull at the chain to see if he can break it loose, but was unable to. He frantically looked around the cave which gave off a royal purple hue due to the crystals.

"What the hell is this place, and why am I shackled like a common criminal?" He thought as he could hear hoofsteps approaching. He looked up to see a royal blue, and a golden yellow glow. "Hey, whose there? Get me out of here."

"Calm yourself Mr. Mason, we are not here to harm you, but just to talk." Celestia spoke first as she, and Luna came into view of James.

His face contorted in confusion, and shock. "How the hell do you know my name, and how are you able to talk?" He demanded as he stood up. He stood tall coming just above the tip of Celestia's horn.

Luna stomped her hoof. "Thou will not talk to thy sister in that manner thou foul beast!"

"Shh.. calm yourself Luna." Celestia spoke softly to her sister, then turned back to James. "First Sir, you are in the land of Equestria, home of all ponykind, and creatures alike. For the reason we are able to talk is simple, we talk the same language you do on your planet." She sighed deeply. "For me knowing your name Mr. Mason is because your young son, Toby lives with us now."

James looked at the two royal sisters with his mouth agape. "Wait, my son is here? Where is that little brat at, did he put you up to this in taking me hostage, and putting me here?" He yanked at the chain tied to his ankle.

Celestia took a deep breath. "No Sir, I promise you, that precious child haven't had anything to do with you being locked up here under our castle. In fact, your son doesn't even know you are here, but he is on his way to see you."

James just chuckled.

"What is so funny thou sorry excuse of a father?" Luna furrowed her brows in anger lighting up her horn, but Celestia laid a wing over to calm her.

"It is just I would have guessed that weakling would want to be friends with a bunch of talking horses. I mean it isn't like he can't get real friends." Shaking his head as he looked at the two.

Celestia lowered, and shook her head. "How can you say something so horrid about your own child like that Mr. Mason? Especially about such one as caring, and sweet as Toby?"

She looked at him intently. "Is it because you blamed him for the loss of your wife, and his mother instead of yourself?"

James' face suddenly went pale. "Wait, how.." He was cut off by a guard at the entrance of the cave.

"Your highnesses, your guests have arrived."

Celestia bowed her head at the guard. "Thank you." She turned back toward James. "Mr. Mason, I suggest you prepare yourself, because I will send my guard back down to retrieve you, and you will have to face your son, and tell him the truth." She, and Luna turned to leave the cavern.

James sat down on his rear shaking his head in disbelief. "How do they know?" He thought to himself.

Celestia and Luna trotted into the main hall of the palace to see everypony at the bottom of the staircase. "Greeting my little ponies, and young Toby." Celestia greeted the group which everypony bowed respectfully. The royal sisters descended the stairs.

Luna looked at the small child with a little smile. "Hello dear Toby, how are you doing this morning?"

He smiled up softly. "I am doing good Auntie Luna, and Auntie Celestia."

Celestia gave the same small smile to the little colt. "That is good to hear little one." She sighed deeply.

"Toby dear, my sister and I would like to tell you something." Luna looked at her with a saddened expression as all the others did the same.

Toby noticed the sad looks on everypony's face and swallowed deeply. "What's wrong Auntie Celestia? Why is everyone sad?"

Luna took a deep breath. "Two nights ago my young nephew, I heard the mind of your father."

Toby suddenly looked up at Luna with a concerned look. "My daddy? Is he okay?"

Luna gave him a light smile. "Yes Toby he is okay, but it is his thought that was bad." She sighed deeply, and looked at Fluttershy. "My kind friend Fluttershy, would it be okay if Toby comes to me for a little bit?"

Fluttershy nodded. "Um.. of course Princess Luna." She leaned down on her forelegs to let Toby climb off. He carefully walked to Luna.

"Now my friends please take a seat, and Toby you just stand, okay?" He nodded as all the others first sat down on their haunches then laid down on all four legs.

Toby started to become nervous, and looked up into Luna's eyes. "Auntie Luna did something bad happen to my daddy?"

Luna sighed deeply. "Precious one, I want to show you something. I was able to collect your father's memories." She took a deep breath, and laid a wing over his small form. "My dear Toby, just know that we are all here for you, okay? I am going to show you what I saw in your father's mind. Just close your eyes my young nephew, and relax." He nodded, and closed his eyes. She looked at everypony, and they nodded as they closed their eyes as well.

Her warm blue glow enveloped them all, and they were suddenly in a black void which rippled into another environment.

*James Memories : April 12, 2011*

"Alright everypony, open your eyes." They did as they found themselves in a living room area.

Toby gently spoke. "This is my home, and that is my Mommy." He smiled brightly as he watched a blonde woman kneeling down on one knee on the porch of the house they were in.

"Okay my baby boy, you have a good day at school, and I will be there to pick you up after work, okay?"

"Okay Mommy, I love you." He gave her a big warm hug around her neck as Ashley gave him a kiss on the forehead.

"Mommy loves you to sweetheart." She waved at him as he ran down the steps, and got onto the school bus that just pulled up in front of the house.

Ashley walked back in the house, and carefully shut the door. James was sitting on the living room sofa watching television drinking a bottle of beer. "You know, that is why he is weak like he is, because you coddle him, so much." He took a sip of the beer bottle. "I wish you would show me the half the love you show him."

Ashley crossed her arms, and shook her head. "You know what James, I will not let you talk about my son like that. He is not weak." She walked over to him, and grabbed the beer bottle. "And you know one thing, if you would quit drinking this for one damn day, then I would show you some love!" She threw beer bottle against the wall.

James stood up from the sofa, and smacked her across the face. "Listen to me you tramp. Maybe I wouldn't have to drink, so much if you would quit babying that brat of a son, and gave me a little attention." He walked by to go into the kitchen.

Ashley had tears pouring out of her eyes at the slap, but she had a mix of anger, and sadness in them. She stomped into the kitchen standing at the counter across from James. "Don't you ever dare call my son a brat, or anything like that ever again you bastard! You know what James, this past year has been hell for me, but you know what, everyday of hell was made up with everyday of peace with Toby in my life."

"Well, isn't that precious." He took another beer out of the refrigerator, and took a drink of it.

Ashley just shook her head. "What happened to you James? When Toby was first born you were happy to be his father. I remember you calling him your little man when he said "Dada". What happened to you?"

He slammed the beer bottle on the counter, and looked at her with disgust. "I will tell you what happened to me. Yea, I was, and still am proud to be his father, but ever since he was born you have been paying more attention to him, and less attention to me." He took a swallow of the beer looking down at the counter.

Ashley threw her arms up in the air. "So that's it, you are jealous of that precious child, aren't you? Well, you know what James, you can take your jealousy, and take that beer, and make your own life with all your verbal venom." She stomped out of the kitchen which James followed behind her.

"What are you talking about Ashley?"

She came back out carrying her purse brushing right past him. "What I am saying you no good lousy drunk is that after I leave work, and go pick up MY SON, then we are going to my mother's house, until you learn to give up drinking. If you don't, then I promise you James, you won't see Toby or me ever again!" She walked out of the house slamming the door hard.

James took a drink of his beer, and out of anger, threw it against the wall. "We will see about that you tramp. If I can't have you, neither will that little brat."

Toby looked on as the environment slowly started to blacken. The ponies all had a mix of angry, and saddened expressions on their face, and turned to look at the small child. He was on his knees with his head lowered, and tears pouring out of his eyes.

Fluttershy trotted up next to him, and laid a wing over him bringing him close to her. She felt him trembling against her, and she lowered her head down to lay it on top of his to comfort him.

Luna looked at the small child with a frown. "My dear Toby, would you like for me to stop?"

Toby tried to calm his shaking, and his tears as he looked up at Luna as he felt Fluttershy warm him against her. "N-no Auntie Luna. P-please show me more, so I can see what happened." Asking between sobs.

Luna nodded sadly as the environment rippled once again.

*On a desolate road*

The group found themselves in the air above an empty one lane road that was surrounded by trees on both sides. Suddenly they saw a pearl white Volkswagen traveling along the desolate strip of asphalt. "Th-that is my Mommy's car." Toby said still shaken up from the previous memory.

Then they looked to see a red pick up truck speeding up behind the car. Toby shook his head frantically. "No, no, no. That is my daddy's truck." Toby looked down in terror to see the truck speeding up as it went to the side, and caught up to the car. In one swift move the truck rammed into the car causing it to crash into a ditch flipping it onto it's top.

Toby's lower lip quivered, and he couldn't hold back his tears as he watched the truck stop a couple feet away from the car, and James stepped out. James walked over to the car to check to see if Ashley was moving. "You should have shown me some attention Ashley." Toby could hear as James got back into his truck, and drove off.

The environment changed back to black, and the group found themselves back in the castle. Toby shook with sobs, and cried heavily unable to speak. Everypony looked on sadly at the small child, and they all gathered around to give him a hug to try and comfort him.

"Oh, my precious little Toby." Fluttershy said as she hugged him close to her.

Celestia lowered her head in sadness allowing tears of her own to fall. Luna done the same. Celestia raised her head toward the door her, and Luna came in from. "Guards bring him in."

The ponies turned to see who Celestia spoke of, and they immediately gave glares of anger. Toby sobbed as he turned his head from laying against Fluttershy's chest fur. Choking back his sobs he looked at the person Celestia asked for, and said weakly. "Daddy?"

Author's Note

Sorry for the foul language, I hope that didn't ruin my story, but I wanted this first of the final three chapters to be real emotional.

Chapter Tweny-Seven: A Son's Forgiveness (Edited)

Daddy?" Toby choked back his sobs as he watched the man who he witnessed murder his mother being brought into the royal hall of Canterlot Castle. His wrists were now bound together by a strong silk black rope with a royal blue aura around it, and his ankles was now both shackled together. As he watched his father being brought forward to them, Toby held his hands on Fluttershy's chest to keep close to her.

"Guards you may leave him." Celestia commanded. They obeyed, and turned to trot out of the main hall leaving James standing up in his restraints as he looked forward at the group of adult ponies, fillies, baby dragon, and finally his son.

Giving Toby a forced smile of warmth he slowly lowered himself down onto his knees, and looked the small child. "Hey there son. How about you come, and give your daddy a hug?" Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and the others looked at him angrily, but with a curious look on their faces.

Toby swallowed deeply, and looked up at Fluttershy. She looked down at him giving him a real smile of warmth, and nodded. "Don't worry sweetie, it's okay." She leaned down to whisper in his ear. "We are all here for you." He looked up, and nodded. He turned to the man responsible for his mother's passing, and cautiously walked towards him.

The princesses, and everypony decided to stay back so Toby can talk with his father one on one first. Rainbow Dash who was hovering above the group with Scootaloo beside her whispered. "I don't like this you guys, I don't trust him." The others nodded in agreement, but watched intently.

Toby approached James, and gave him a big hug around the neck as tears of sadness cascaded down his face. "Daddy!" He laid his head on James' shoulder as he hugged him tightly. James closed his eyes sighing softly, but not a single tear was shed.

"Son, it is good to see you." He pulled him away as best as he could with his hands tied, and looked down in Toby's eyes. "How about you untie me son, and we can get out of this crazy place?" Giving him a smile.

Toby looked up at him, and stepped back. "No Daddy, I don't want to go with you." He shook with sobs.

"WHAT? Why you little.." He reached for Toby, but his hands were lifted by Luna's magic. "Son, c'mon. You know I love you, and I want you to come back home with me."

Toby shook his head furiously with tears falling. He looked up at his dad angrily. "No you don't Daddy! You are the reason why Mommy is gone!" He lowered his head clenching his eyes shut tight sobbing heavily. Luna let go of her magical hold on James' hands.

James lowered his head. "Yes son, you are right, I am the reason your mommy, my wife is gone."

Toby sighed deeply, and raised his head to look at James. He allowed his tears to flow freely as he carefully stepped forward to place his small hand under his father's chin to raise his head to look at him. James looked into his eyes. "Why Daddy? Why did you get rid of Mommy?" His voice choking with sobs.

James sneered ,and reached up grabbed at Toby's hand with a hard grip. "Because she put you before me ever since you was born!"

Toby struggled in James' grip. "O.Ow! Daddy let go." He tried to get free, but couldn't.

Without hesitation Rainbow Dash immediately flew towards James, and gave him one quick buck in the face forcing James to let go of Toby. "You jerk! How can you call yourself a dad after what you have done to that poor little colt?" She gave him another buck to the face.

Toby ran toward Fluttershy, and wrapped his arms tightly around her neck burying his face into her chest fur crying, and shaking with sobs. Fluttershy carefully wrapped both forelegs around him, and her wings warmly. She laid her head on top of his. "Shh.. it's okay sweetheart. Momma's got you.. shh." She felt him shake against her as she soothingly rubbed at his back with her forelegs.

James shook his head after being bucked by Rainbow as he looked up at Fluttershy. "Momma? So you have already replaced your old mom you little brat?" He yelled.

"Well, hold on there now ya big rotten varmint." A low pitched voice was heard as Big Mac trotted toward James. He stood eye to eye with James.

"And who are you suppose to be, his papa or something?" James chuckled.

Big Mac stood tall and nodded proudly. "In fact Mister, yah Ah' am. Ah' am proud to be the papa of that great little colt, and ya should be ashamed for what you have done to him." Big Mac looked James dead in his eyes, and got his face. "Now, Ah' suggest ya first apologize to Toby for breaking his little heart, and then ya spend the rest of your time in Tartarus for all Ah' care." Letting out an angered snort.

"Well, if I don't apologize, what are you going to.." He was cute off with a swift buck to the stomach. He doubled over with a grunt, and cough.

"There is more where that come from too." Big Mac lifted James head with a forehoof to look at him. "Now ya apologize or else."

James coughed, until he caught his breath. He looked over at Fluttershy who carefully lifted her wing off Toby who leaned against the crook of her foreleg as he looked at his father. "Toby, son. I know what I have done is beyond forgiveness, but I mean this, I am truly sorry son for blaming the passing of your mother on you, and I should have taken responsibility for what I done." For the first time ever since the death of his wife, James started to shed a tear.

Toby looked at his father with shock, and concern at the same time. He stayed close against Fluttershy trying to calm his tears as she gently stroked along his back with her foreleg and his arm with her forehoof.

Next to trot up to James was Applejack who had her Stetson hat tilted to one side, and had a scowl on her face. She stomped her hoof in front of James, and looked into his eyes. "Ya listen to me now ya yellow bellied coward. That little fellar might be small in size, but Ah' promise ya he has a heart as big as my home here in Equestria." She placed a hoof hard against his chest. "And that is something Ah' can't say about ya." She shook her head disapprovingly, and stepped aside.

Rainbow Dash lowered to the ground, and stood on her hindlegs. She took a forehoof and smacked it across his face. "How does that feel you jerk? It don't feel too good does it? Imagine how my little buddy felt when you hit him across his face. It hurt him, and broke his heart, but you know what? He is much stronger than you will ever be. After the pain you have caused him, he still is able to show us love, and show us kindness. That shows me that he is strong, not weak like you like to call him. The one that is weak around here is you." She used her other forehoof to smack him across his other side of his face before she trotted to the side.

James' face at this point was reddened by the three bucks from Rainbow Dash. The next one to trot up was Pinkie Pie whose mane, and tail were both flat. "You know Mister Mean Meanie Pants, I would blast you away with my party cannon, but I don't want to do that to the poor little wittle cutie Toby, and scare him. So I will do the next best thing." Out of nowhere she pulled out what appeared to be a chocolate cupcake. "Open wide." She placed a forehoof on his chin, and opened his mouth ramming the cupcake in his mouth.

As Pinkie forced him to chew it James face contorted in disgust. Pinkie let go of his mouth as James spat out what was left. "Bleh.. what the hell was in that cupcake?"

Pinkie giggled. "Hehe.. it was soap you silly willy mean meanie pants. Don't worry though, it won't hurt you as much as you hurt my cutie wutie nephew, and his mommy." Her mane, and tail poofed out once again as she bounced off to the side.

Rarity trotted up next. "Tsk.. tsk.. tsk.. you are a pitiful ruffian aren't you." Shaking her head in disappoint, and shame. "I am a refined, and proper lady, but this once I got to bend my own rules." She turned around, and leaned forward on her forelegs, and kicked her hind legs up to buck James in the chin. His head snap back, and rotated in a spherical motion becoming dizzy.

Rarity then turned bad to him flicking her mane clearing her throat. "Now, since I got that out, let me tell you something you foul beast. How dare you call yourself a father for the way you have treated that poor little darling." She pointed a forehoof at the small child finally calming down just a little bit as he was in Fluttershy's warm embrace. "He may be just a child, but he is more grown up than you could ever be. You ruffian." She flicked her mane, and trotted off to the side.

Fluttershy looked down at the small child who was still shaking with sobs. She looked over at the fillies. "Girls, could you come stand with Toby for a little bit?" They nodded as Fluttershy gave him a kiss on the top of his head. "Momma will be right back sweetheart."

Applebloom was the first one to trot up near Toby, and sat on her haunches motioning for him to come to her. "Come here buddy." Toby sniffled, and gave a light smile as he walked to her, and she wrapped her forelegs warmly around him as he laid his head on her shoulder.

"That's better now." The other fillies and Spike smiled softly, and gathered around the two. Applebloom gently rubbed her foreleg along Toby's arm.

Fluttershy hovered over to James, and lowered to the floor. She looked at him intently with her infamous stare. "How dare you treat a precious little child as Toby like a weak defenseless animal!" She yelled at him getting closer to his face. "He has done nothing, but try to show you the love from his heart, and all you have done was crush it. How can you feel good about yourself?"

She lowered her head, and let out a deep sigh. She begun to talk in a more calmer tone. "You know what Mr. Mason?" He looked up at her curiously with widened eyes. "A couple months ago I made a wish upon Princess Luna's *she motioned toward Luna with a forehoof* moon, because she is Princess of the night, and I wished for a young foal to call my own. I wanted to be a mom to somepony that I could raise, and call my son or daughter."

She looked back at Toby with a tearful smile which he returned as he stayed in the embrace of the fillies and baby dragon. She turned her attention back to James. "The same night, Luna heard the wish of your son. Do you know what he wished for?"

James looked at her, this time with his brows furrowed in curiosity, and he spoke in a unusual soft tone. "What?"

"He wished to live in a new home with a new family that would love him, and never be mean to him." She clenched her eyes shut to calm her tears. "Princess Luna brought him here, and the next morning I discovered him. From that day on me, and my friends have showed him what true, and unconditional love really means, and he has done nothing but show us the same." The other mares nodded, and turned to give the child a warm smile as he was calming down.

Fluttershy looked intently at James. "I can't speak for Toby, and I wish not to, but I hope you are served the right punishment for your cruel, and heartless actions against my precious little one, and his mother." She gave him a look of pity before turning back to trot to Toby. She gently stood beside the fillies, and Spike as they held him in their warm embrace.

Applebloom stroked Toby's arm softly as she laid the side of her head on top of his to keep him close and warm along with the others. Diamond Tiara had tears in her own eyes, and let out a deep sigh. "I will be right back." She turned, and trotted toward James. The group watched her curiously as she approached him.

She stopped in front of James and looked up at him with her brows furrowed in anger. "Now you listen to me now Mister." She sighed deeply. "When I first met Toby, I was, so cruel to him that my words caused him to run away." She turned head to look at the small child. "I told him that he didn't belong here, called him a mistake, and I continued to be mean to him after he was found."

She reached up to wipe a tear from her eye before turning back to James. "I continued to be mean to him, until his real good friends, his big sisters, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, and my good friend Silver Spoon told me about him losing his mommy, and how you blamed him for it." She shook her head in anger. "And you know, through all of the cruel things I said to him, and done to him, Toby was still able to forgive me, and call me his friend." She gave a sad smile.

She sighed deeply. "I will tell you this Mister. Your son is not weak, but the strongest little colt I have ever met, because he has the biggest heart I have ever seen. When I said that he didn't belong here, I was wrong. The one place, the one pony that he doesn't belong with is you mister." She flicked her mane back, and trotted back over to the group.

Princess Celestia trotted up to James with Twilight, and Luna on each side of her. "Well, Mr. Mason, it is now time for us to serve the punishment that you, so rightfully deserve." She looked down at him as he was on his knees with his head lowered. She looked at her sides at her fellow princesses then at the others. "What should his punishment be everypony?"

Applebloom gently stroked the side of Toby's arm as she held him against the crook of her foreleg. She lifted her head to give him a gentle nuzzle on his cheek. "Hey buddy, how about you go over to your momma just for a little bit, and me, and the girls will be right back." Giving him a warm smile.

He looked up, and nodded with a soft smile as his tears finally dried a little. "Okay Applebloom." He spoke so small as he carefully walked over to Fluttershy who gathered him in her forelegs, and cradled him next to her soft and warm chest. They both looked at the fillies who approached the group, and James.

"I say let me take him on my back, and do a Sonic Rainboom, so I can blow him away." Rainbow Dash said hovered in the air waving a forehoof at James with Scootaloo hovering up next to her nodding in agreement.

Pinkie waved a foreleg in the air. "Ooh, ooh, I know let me blow him out of my party cannon for real. I can blow the mean meanie pants straight into the Everfree Forest into the cave of a manticore." She giggled, and rubbed her forehooves together.

Toby heard their ideas, and tried to speak. "No, wait." He was unable to be heard though.

"Let us take him to our spa, and give him a makeover that he will never forget, but a real bad makeover." The two spa ponies giggled.

Rarity flicked her mane. "I could use a new pincushion." She blushed, and giggled to herself.

"Please, no. Wait I." Toby tried to speak with his voice cracking a bit with sobs again.

Fluttershy noticed this, and looked down at the poor child. She leaned down, and nuzzled at his cheek gently to try, and comfort him, and then looked up at the group with a concerned look. "Wait girls." She tried to speak up, but also unable to be heard.

"We could always use some extra hooves around on the farm." Applejack said next. "Ol' Big Mac can work him hard planting, and plowing the crops of corn." Tipping her hat.

"Girls wait." Fluttershy tried to speak to them. She looked down as she saw Toby turn his head, and bury it into her chest. She leaned her head down, and nuzzled at his cheek. "Shh.. it's okay sweetie, I will get their attention." She whispered tenderly into his ear.

Suddenly there was like a calm silence that swept over the two while the others were coming up with a proper punishment for James. The same silence swept over Princess Celestia as she turned her attention to Fluttershy, and Toby.

"Toby." A soft voice was heard among the silence.

"Mommy?" Toby asked as Fluttershy looked down at the child. She carefully let him down onto the floor as he kept a hold of a forehoof. "Mommy where are you?" He looked from side to side.

"Turn around my baby boy." The soft voice spoke as Fluttershy, and Toby carefully turned around to see Toby's mother standing before them. A bright white and warm glow surrounded her as she had the appearance of an angel with a white dress, pearl white feathery wings which was folded in, and a golden halo. This time though she appeared not as a transparent figure like at the talent show, but as her real self.

Toby smiled widely with tears stinging his eyes once again. "Mommy!" He cried as he ran toward her as she knelt down, and opened her arms to receive him. He wrapped her arms around her neck which this time he could feel her for real, and she wrapped him up in her arms.

"Yes baby, it's me." She felt him shake with sobs and cry into her shoulder. Fluttershy couldn't hold back her tears any longer as she gave a big smile, and closed her eyes to subdue them. Ashley rubbed along Toby's back soothingly with her hand, and turned her head to give him a kiss on his cheek. "It's okay sweetheart, Mommy's here." She reached up to stroke his head gently.

Ashley rubbed at his back a little more before very gently pulling him back. She reached up to wipe at his tears, and looked into his eyes giving him a kiss on his forehead.

Toby sniffled as he looked up into her eyes. "Mommy, I am scared. I don't know what to say. What should I let Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna do to daddy?" He swallowed deeply.

Ashley placed her hands gently on his shoulders, and gently rubbed down his arms until his hands was in hers. She held them warmly, and looked into his eyes. "Sweetheart, listen to me. I know you have a heart that is pure, and good that is filled with love for everyone around you." She gently placed her hand on his chest. "Just listen to your heart honey, and I know you will do the right thing." She leaned forward, and gave him a tender kiss on his forehead.

She gently turned him toward the group who was still arguing about the punishment for James. "You go talk to the princesses while I talk with Fluttershy." He nodded as he carefully walked toward the group. Ashley smiled at her son as she turned toward the yellow pegasus. "Hello Fluttershy dear."

Fluttershy sniffled, and looked at Ashley. "Um. hello Mrs. Mason. It is a pleasure to meet Toby's mommy." She carefully trotted up to her.

Ashley smiled warmly at Fluttershy. "It is a pleasure to meet you too Fluttershy, and you can just call me Ashley." She gave Fluttershy a warm hug around her neck. "Fluttershy, I just want to thank you, so much for taking such great care of my son, and becoming his other mother."

Fluttershy smiled warmly, and hugged her back with a foreleg. "You are welcome Ashley. He is such a precious little child, and me, and my friends love him dearly." They broke the hug as Fluttershy turned to watch with Ashley Toby approach the group.

Celestia smiled at the two, and then turned toward the others. "My little ponies, calm yourselves." They looked at Princess Celestia, and nodded. "I believe we should let our dear friend Toby decide what we should do with his father. Do you agree Luna?"

Luna looked at Celestia and then down at the child who was standing before his father. "Yes Tia, I certainly agree."

Celestia looked down at Toby with a soft smile. "Toby dear, it is up to you, okay?" He looked up at her and nodded.

He turned his attention to James looking up into his eyes, and swallowed deeply. "Daddy, I forgive you. Mommy always taught me to never be angry at someone for, so long, or it will change who I am, and I don't want to be mean like you. I just wish you would have loved me, and Mommy." He turned toward Celestia and Luna. "Auntie Celestia, and Auntie Luna, please don't be mad, but I wish to send Daddy back home."

Celestia, and Luna nodded. "Toby dear, we are not mad at you at all. That is your choice, and we shall abide by it." Celestia spoke as she turned to James. "Mr. Mason, you shall return home, but your truth shall be told." With that Celestia lowered her head down to James placing her horn against his forehead lighting it up. After a minute she stopped, and James opened shook his head.

"What did you do to me?" He asked angrily.

"Don't worry Mr. Mason. You will find out in due time." Celestia looked at him intently.

"Now Tia, may I call in somepony special to take him back home?" Luna gave a sly smile.

The others looked curiously at the princess. "Do you mean him sister?" Celestia asked as Luna nodded. "Well, I think that would be a good idea, I don't think a little bit of chaos would do him harm."

"Did somepony say chaos?" A sly and calm voice was heard as a flash of light appeared and a creature stood beside James.

The creature was made of an array of body parts of different animals. He had a deer antler on the right top of his head, a blue goat horn on the left, wide eyes of sun yellow and bright crimson, a face of a goat with white bushy brows, and a short white beard. He had a short black mane on the back of his head which was that of a pony. His head and face were all charcoal grey, his middle was a dark brown, and his end which was that of a dragon's tail was crimson red with a white tuft. A bat wing stuck out on the right side of his back while a pegasus wing stuck out on the left side. For his right arm it was that of a lion, his left was that of an eagle, his right leg was that of a lizard, and for his left leg was a goat. He had one long fang stick out from his upper lip on the right and had a snake-like tongue. His body was in the shape of a snake. A creature such as he known as a draconequus.

"Discord!" The ponies shouted, but with giggles as he just reappeared out of nowhere.

"Ah, my pony friends. It is good to see you all again." He smiled at them then looked up to see Fluttershy waving his lion paw. Fluttershy returned a wave as she was standing in the back with Ashley. He looked down to see the little colt. "Oh, well, well, well, and who might you be little one." He slithered his head down to look at Toby in the eyes.

Celestia gently placed a wing over the small child giving him a warm smile. "Toby dear, I would like to introduce you to Discord, formerly the master of chaos. Discord, I would like for you to meet Toby Mason, our new little member of the Equestrian family."

"Well, a pleasure to meet you Toby. And may I just say I am still the master of chaos." He leaned closer to whisper. "When nopony is watching." He giggled, and patted the top of Toby's head. He stood back up, and looked at Celestia. "So princesses, what would you like for me to do?"

"Well, this man here is Toby's father, and he has been, so cruel to this young child that he makes your reign of chaos once before seem pleasant." Luna spoke, and eyed James. "What we would like for you to do, if it would be alright with you is take him back home on Earth."

Discord crossed his arms. "And, what do I get for my willing to serve you, your majesty?"

Luna smirked. "Well, you can create a little bit of chaos for him before he reveals his deep dark truth to the authorities."

Discord placed a lion paw index finger to his chin in a thinking manner. He gave a smirk of his own. "Well, if I can create some chaos that is fine with me. Your wish is my command your majesties. Before I forget." He leaned back down to Toby. "Little one, it was a pleasure to meet. Maybe next time I can show you some fun chaos." He snapped his talons of his left arm, and a glass of chocolate milk appeared. "Haha.. such as this. Don't worry Toby, it is good and very tasty if I may say." Toby smiled softly, and gently accepted it.

He spoke softly to the draconequus. "Thank you Mister Discord. It was good to meet you too." Giving him a soft smile.

Discord stood back up, and looked down with a soft smile of his own. "Well, isn't that very respectful to call me Mister Discord. I like the ring of that, but you can just call me Discord." He reached down, and patted the little colt on the head. He looked at the princesses, the group of ponies, and at Fluttershy. "Until next time everypony, the Master of Chaos shall take his leave." He looked at James. "Time to have a little bit of fun with you." He cackled as he snapped his talons, and in a flash, both him, and James disappeared.

Toby drank at the chocolate milk that Discord gave him, and sighed softly. He felt Celestia rub at his back with her wing. "Are you alright little one?"

He looked up at her, and nodded. "Yes Auntie Celestia." He turned to see if his mother was still standing with Fluttershy, which she was. He carefully turned to the group. "Everyone, I want you all to meet my Mommy."

Rainbow looked at the small child curiously. "What do you mean little.." She cut herself off as she watched the child carefully walk past them, and she traced her eyes along with his movement. She looked up to see a mare, but not a pony mare standing beside Fluttershy. "Oh." She said. The others looked in awe as they carefully followed behind Toby.

Toby finished the chocolate milk, and the glass vanished in a flash. Toby giggled softly as he walked up to his mother Ashley. Fluttershy gently trotted over to the group to let Toby introduce them to his mother.

Ashley knelt back down on one knee beside Toby, and wrapped an arm warmly around his shoulders. He smiled up into her eyes as he looked at the group. "Everyone, meet my Mommy. Mommy, I would like for you to meet my new family." He motioned to each of them with a hand starting with Rainbow Dash who trotted up. "Auntie Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow bowed her head, and gave Ashley a smile. "Heya there Ms. Mason. Your son has become a great little buddy, and a wonderful little nephew." She chuckled as she gave Toby a little rub on the top of his head then, looked back at Ashley. "It is good to finally meet you." She reached up a foreleg.

Ashley very gently placed her hand on Rainbow's forehoof and, very lightly shook it. "It is an honor to meet you Rainbow Dash. You seem like a great aunt and friend to my baby. Oh, and please just call me Ashley, I am fine with that." She s giving Toby a smile.

Rainbow reached behind her, and rubbed the back of her neck. "Aw. shucks thank you Ashley." She chuckled as Applejack was the next one to trot up along with Big Mac.

Toby giggled at Rainbow as she trotted to the side. Toby, then smiled up softly at Applejack and Big Mac. "Mommy, this is Auntie Applejack, and Papa Big Mac."

"Howdy there Ma'am. Mah brother, and Ah' would like to tell you how much of a darn pleasure it is to finally meet ya. " Applejack tipped her hat. "The little feller has told us, so much about ya, and we know he really loves ya with all of his heart."

"Eeyup." Big Mac replied.

Applejack rolled her eyes a bit at her brother. "Also, your son is a great, and hard little worker. He helped us on our farm a few days ago, and we enjoyed his company. Ah' know Big Mac, and myself are proud to call him family." She gently reached, and rubbed along Toby's arm gently.

Ashley smiled, and blushed. "Well, it is good to meet you Applejack, and Big Mac. My baby boy is always willing to lend a hand." She looked at Big Mac. "Big Mac, I just want to tell you thank you for filling the spot of a father figure for my baby. You are more of a man, well may I say stallion than that monster could ever be, so thank you for taking the role of father for him."

Big Mac blushed. "That ain't no problem at all Ma'am, it is mah honor to be Toby's papa." He gently rubbed the top of Toby's head. The two Apples bowed their head to Ashley, and trotted over to the side as Pinkie Pie bounced up next.

Toby giggled at the pink pony's giddiness. He looked up at Ashley. "Mommy, hehe.. this is Auntie Pinkie Pie."

Pinkie gave a beaming smile at Ashley, and reached out both forehooves to gently shake Ashley's hand. "Hey there it is nice to meet you Ashley. Like my cutie wutie little wittle nephew said, I am Pinkie Pie, and I am Equestria's party pony extraordinaire. I love parties, games, cakes, cookies, cupcakes, sweets.."

Pinkie kept on until Rainbow who hovered over to her placed a hoof on her shoulder. "Uh.. Pinkie Pie, I think Ashley gets the picture of how you like to party." Rainbow looked at Ashley with an awkward smile. "Eh.. sorry about that Ashley, she can get a little extreme."

Ashley giggled, and shook her head softly. "Don't worry about it Rainbow Dash." She looked at Pinkie. "Well, it is a pleasure to meet you as well Pinkie Pie. I can see that Toby has a lot of fun with you too."

Pinkie Pie nodded vigorously then stuck her tongue out at Rainbow Dash. "See Dashie, Ashley isn't a party pooper pony like you." She gave Ashley another beaming smile, and hopped off to the side. Rainbow just shook her head, and facehoofed herself.

Rarity was next in line. She crossed her forelegs, and bowed her head. Toby smiled up at her softly. "Mommy, this is Auntie Rarity. She makes real nice clothes. Like this one." He showed her the all red outfit with the royal blue jacket with Ashley's locket to Toby sewn into the heart.

Ashley looked at the outfit, and her eyes immediately started to water at the sight of her locket. She turned to Rarity. "Rarity, did you really make this? It is beautiful, and how wonderful you did by sewing my locket I gave to Toby on the heart of the jacket."

Rarity blushed, and smiled softly. "Thank you very much Ashley darling. May I introduce myself, my name is Rarity, and it is an absolute delight to finally meet you. I am glad I could incorporate something sentimental like that little gem into my darling little nephew's outfit." She smiled at him, and rubbed gently at his arm.

She looked back up at Ashley. "Also, he has inspired me, so much that I started a line of suits and dresses that include something sentimental to anypony sewn into their outfits. You have raised a wonderful, and precious little colt Ashley, and you should be proud of yourself."

Ashley looked at Rarity with a warm smile. "Thank you Rarity, I am truly proud of my baby boy." She gave him a kiss on the top of his head. She looked at Rarity again. "It is a pleasure meeting you too Rarity." Bowing her head gently toward the fashionista.

Rarity bowed her head again before trotting off to the side. The fillies, and baby dragon approached next. Toby smiled at the six. "Mommy, this is Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, and together they are known as the Cutie Mark Crusaders." He motioned a hand towards the three fillies, then motioned at Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon. "This is Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon." Then he motioned toward the baby dragon. "And this is Spike. He is a nice, and fun dragon."

Ashley smiled at them, all and bowed her head. "Well, it is nice to meet you, young ones."

"Howdy there Ms. Mason, it is great to meet ya. Toby is such a great little buddy to us, and we are proud to call him our friend." The other two nodded as Scootaloo smiled happily, and fluttered her wings.

Silver Spoon spoke up softly next. "He is a real sweetie pie Ma'am. He has such a caring heart, and I am honored as well to call him my friend." She smiled at Ashley, and gave Toby a wink.

Diamond Tiara had her head lowered a bit until she felt a hand on her chin which raised it to look up at Ashley. "You must be Diamond Tiara." She spoke to the filly with a soft voice. "I heard what you said to James, and that was real sweet of you Diamond." Giving her a warm smile then smiling at the other fillies, and baby dragon. "Thank you all young ones in being such good friends to my precious baby." They all nodded giving her, and the small child a soft smile.

They all moved to the side with the others as the three princesses trotted up last. Toby smiled up at them as Ashley kept her arm around his shoulders warmly. "Mommy, this is Auntie Twilight, Auntie Celestia, and Auntie Luna. They are the princesses of Equestria."

Twilight smiled softly, and bowed her head. "Hello Ashley, it is a pleasure to meet you like all of my friends have said. Toby has been such a precious gift to us here in Equestria, with his big heart, his politeness that he shows to all of us, and the love he has given us since arriving here in our home." She gave the little colt a blushing smile.

Luna, and Celestia both nodded in agreement.

Ashley sighed deeply, and happily. "Thank you all so much for becoming a loving, and caring family to my son, and welcoming him into your hearts." She gave them all a tearful smile. She turned to Toby as she reached up to stroke his head. "Well, honey, it is time for me to leave, but I want you to know that I love you, so much my baby boy." Pulling him into a big warm hug.

He wrapped his little arms around her neck with tears shedding onto her shoulder. The ponies just watched in silence with tearful smiles of their own. "I love you too Mommy."

She rubbed along his back as she gave him a kiss on his cheek. She rubbed at his cheek tenderly with her thumb as she stood up. "Bye my sweetheart." She waved at all of the ponies. "Bye everyone, and thank you all so much for being the family that Toby deserves away from that monster of a father." She gave them all a warm smile, and blew a tender kiss to Toby before turning her back and slowly vanishing into a bright light.

Toby stood there with a tearful smile, and softly spoke. "Goodbye Mommy, I love you."

Fluttershy gently trotted up to the small child, and rubbed a foreleg up, and down his back giving him a kiss on the top of his head. "Are you okay sweetie?"

He looked up at her, and nodded. "Yes Momma, thank you." He turned around, and gave her a big warm hug around her neck laying his head against her chest as she embraced him with a foreleg.

The others gave them a warm smile as Celestia spoke. "Well my little ponies, I say we had a long day. How about you all have a sleepover here at the castle?" They all nodded in agreement. She smiled at them all. "Well, then. You may all use the royal ballroom for your sleepover."

They all smiled happily as Celestia's sun was slowly beginning to set.

Author's Note

Well, that is the end of the second of the last four chapters. Yes, that is correct, I decided to do two more chapters. The next chapter will be the sleepover of course, but there will be a special moment with Toby and his Auntie Twilight, but I am not saying what it is.

Also, one of my many good friends and fellow readers on here Fireydude gave me the fun and cute idea of having the Cutie Mark Crusaders tickle Toby, since they discovered he is ticklish and they just want to put that to the test. I would like for you all if you don't mind that is to give me any ideas of how I can go about them tickling him? Like how can they tickle him in a fun, cute, and playful way?

Chapter Twenty-Eight: A Canterlot Sleepover (Edited)

As Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna exited the main hall, Pinkie started turning cartwheels all over. "WHEEE! A sleepover at the castle! This calls for a party!" She stopped, and out of nowhere pulled out her party cannon blasting it straight up in the air.

"Not in here Pinkie!" Twilight exclaimed as just like magic Pinkie retracted the blast back into the cannon. Twilight shook her head softly, and rolled her eyes.

The other ponies giggled along with Toby. Big Mac cleared his throat. "Well, Ah' guess Ah'll get going, because the farm needs a watchful eye with Granny Smith being there all alone." He chuckled a bit as he trotted up the small child gently rubbed the top of his head with a forehoof. "Ya have fun big guy. Also, Ah' meant every word too Toby, Ah' am darn proud to be your papa." He brought the small child into a big warm hug.

Toby sighed softly against his soft chest fur, and looked up with a big smile. "Thank you Papa Big Mac. I am happy that you are my papa. I love you." Reaching up to give him a big hug around his big neck.

Big Mac rubbed at the little colt's back with a foreleg. "Shucks big guy, Ah' love ya too." Patting his back, and very gently breaking the hug.

The spa ponies were next to trot up to Toby. They both leaned down on all four legs to speak with him. "Well you little cutie pie, me, and Lotus Blossom are going to leave as well, so we can get ready to open the spa up for tomorrow. We are very glad we met you Toby, and don't you ever let those mean things your dad spoke of you bother you, okay little guy?" Aloe gently reached out a foreleg to rub at the little colt's arm as Lotus Blossom rubbed at the other arm.

He smiled softly, and blushed. "Thank you Aloe, and Lotus Blossom for being my friends."

They d'awwed, and gently pulled the small child to them to give him a warm hug with a foreleg around his shoulders. They both gave him a gentle kiss on his cheeks as they stood back up on their legs. "You are very welcome little sweetie." Lotus Blossom said as they looked at the others waving a foreleg before turning to trot out of the palace doors.

Twilight carefully shut the doors behind the last two departing guests with her magic. "Well, everypony, shall we head to the ballroom, and start the fun?" They all nodded. Fluttershy gently lifted Toby up on her back as the group headed toward the ballroom.

*On Earth*

"Cough.. cough.. cough. Would you please stop?" James begged in an annoyed voice as Discord just pulled his head out a bucket of water while holding him upside down with his magic.

He chuckled at the human's pleas. "Haha..how come so soon? I am having too much fun." As he plunged James back into the bucket of water.

James screamed with his head underwater. "MMMMMPH!"

Discord snapped his fingers, and in a flash the bucket disappeared, and he placed James on his bed with his wrists still tied with the rope Luna had him tied with. "Fine, spoil sport." He said with an annoyed sigh. He got up from the chair he was sitting in the corner of the room, and walked over to the bed. "To show you there aren't any hard feelings for ruining my fun, here is some fresh punch." He snapped his fingers and in a flash a clear glass with a pink colored punch, and a bendy straw sticking out appeared. "It is a very special recipe by one of my pony friends." He levitated the glass over to James.

"Thanks I guess." He said in an aggravated tone a he took a sip of the punch through the straw. "Hmm.. that is pretty... HOT.. HOT... HOT!" He was panting heavily gasping for air to try, and cool his burning mouth.

"Oh, do you need some water there pal?" Discord asked with a chuckle. James nodded furiously as Discord snapped his talons making the glass of punch disappear in a flash, and replaced by a water bottle with a sprayer nozzle on it. He pinched his index finger, and thumb together to jet spray the water into James mouth.

"Aah.. *cough. cough..cough*.. al-alright that.. *cough.. cough*.. that's enough!" He yelled

Discord snapped his talons making the water bottle vanish in a flash. "Haha.. this is just too much fun." He chuckled as he smiled mischievously at James, and tapped his talons, and paw fingers together in a thinking manner.

*In The Canterlot Ballroom*

The group of mares, fillies, and Toby was all seated around in a big circle on satin pillows in the now fully decorated royal ballroom of Canterlot Castle thanks to Pinkie's party cannon. Spike decided to go on ahead, and see a couple of his Canterlot friends, so he won't be apart of the sleepover which he thought was too girly. Twilight had a small safe fire set up in the middle of the circle, so they could use to fix smores.

Twilight, and Rarity assembled the smores for everypony with the help of their magic. Rarity levitated one towards the little colt that sat between her, and Fluttershy. 'Here you go darling, I hope you enjoy." Giving him a warm smile as he politely accepted it.

He smiled up at her. "Thank you Auntie Rarity." He took a bite out of his smores, and made a muffled sigh of satisfaction. The blending of chocolate, melted marshmallow, and graham cracker felt warm, and soft in his mouth as he chewed his first bite. He swallowed his first bite before speaking as he smiled up at Fluttershy. "Mmm.. this is very good Momma, thank you for letting me have one."

Fluttershy leaned her head down, and nuzzled at his cheek, and gave him a bright smile. "Of course sweetheart, smores are always fun to have during a sleepover, especially now with my precious little one." He blushed as he went back to eating at his smores.

Applejack sat across from the small child gave him a warm smile, and asked. "Sugarcube, have ya ever had a sleepover before?"

Toby looked up at her and the others as he sighed deeply and shook his head. "No. I never really had any friends back home. Other kids would pick on me for being smaller than them." Giving Applejack a sad smile.

She frowned at the little colt tipping her Stetson hat to one side covering up an eye. "Aw.. geez, Ah' sure am sorry little feller. Ponies can be such mean varmints sometimes, but don't let them get to ya sugarcube, because ya have a big heart." Giving him a soft reassuring smile.

He smiled back, and nodded. "Thank you Auntie Applejack." He finished his smores as everypony else did.

Twilight swallowed her last bite as she sighed warmly. "Alright, smores are done. Now let's see, what is next?" She put a forehoof up to her chin in a thinking manner as she gave a soft smirk. "Hey, Rarity."

Rarity looked up as she was wiping her mouth is a napkin. "Yes darling... oomph." Twilight magically threw her satin pillow in Rarity's face.

Toby giggled a little. "Hehe.. Auntie Twilight got you good Auntie Rarity.. hehe."

Rarity giggled, and smiled sweetly at the small child. She gently laid a foreleg over his shoulders, and leaned her head down to whisper into his ear. "Oh, so you think that was good Toby? Just watch this darling." Giving him a wink as she levitated the pillow, and heaved it at Applejack.

Applejack scrunched her eyes, and shook her head. "Oh, haha.. ya want to play like that, huh Rarity?" Applejack licked her lips, and got off her pillow picking it up between her teeth, and turning her head to side heaving the pillow which hit Fluttershy.

"Eep!" Fluttershy squealed aft the pillow connected with her face. She shook her head giggling a little.

Toby looked up at her. "Are you okay Momma?" As he gently rubbed at her forehoof to make sure.

Fluttershy looked down at him with a warm smile. "Momma is okay sweetie, there is no need to worry." She gave him a kiss on the top of his head.

Toby blushed as he carefully got off his pillow, and picked up. He eyed Applejack. "Okay Auntie Applejack, this is for hitting my Momma with your pillow." He held the pillow by the two corners, leaned to the right with a little bend, and finally leaned forward to the left heaving the pillow toward Applejack which Applebloom jumped in front of.

"Uh. uh..uh... not, so fast there buddy." She chuckled as she grabbed the flying pillow in her forelegs. She gave the small child a soft, yet mischievous smile. "Let me show ya how to really toss a pillow Toby." Chuckling some more as she placed it in between her teeth, and eyed the little colt.

Toby swallowed deeply, and waved his hands in front of him. "N-no Applebloom, please... oomph." Applebloom heaved the pillow at Toby causing him to stagger back a bit, but Fluttershy, and Rarity made sure to catch him with their forelegs, so he won't fall. Toby shook his head, and laughed happily.

Rarity patted his back with her forehoof then looked all around. "Oh, it is, so on!" She grabbed the pillow with her magic, and got ready to heave it.

Rainbow threw her foreleg up in the air. "Awh.. yea, pillow fight!" She reached down to grab her pillow, and threw it toward Pinkie Pie hitting her on the side of the head.

Pinkie shook her head clear, and then looked up at Rainbow. "YAY! Pillow fight!" She picked up the pillow, but started to punch at it. "Come on pillow, fight me."

The others looked at the pink pony, and shook their head laughing.

Rainbow facehoofed herself, and rolled her eyes. "Uh. Pinkie, the idea of a pillow fight is not to fight the pillow itself, but to hit other ponies with the pillow." She said, chuckled softly.

"Ooh, okie dokie lokie then." Pinkie grabbed the pillow in between her forelegs, and began hitting Twilight with it. 'Haha..this is fun!"

Twilight levitated her pillow, and started using her magic to hit it at Pinkie as both mares laughed happily.

Scootaloo got off her pillow and threw it at Sweetie Belle hitting her face. "Yes, direct hit." She chuckled.

Sweetie Belle shook her head. "Oh, okay I see how you want to do Scootaloo. Take this." She picked up her pillow, and threw it at Scootaloo hitting her in the face. Suddenly the two trotted toward other as they started hitting each other with their pillows.

Applebloom decided to join in by getting her own pillow, and started playfully attacking the two with her pillow.

Silver Spoon, and Diamond Tiara looked at each other with sly grins. "Are you thinking what I'm think Silver?" Silver nodded as they each grabbed their pillows in between their teeth. "Charge!" As they galloped toward the three fillies to join in on the fun.

Toby giggled at the sight as he watched Rainbow suddenly throw her pillow at Applejack. "Oh, ah'right Rainbow, now ya want to take the bull by the horns don't ya?"

"You bet cowpony. Try and get me, nah. uh. uh. uh. uh." She stuck her tongue out at Applejack taunting her. She hovered back, and forth.

Toby laughed, and smiled at the two as he felt a pillow hit him in the back making him stagger forward a bit but keeping his balance.

Rarity giggled, and blushed. "Oopsie, sorry darling. I was trying to throw my pillow at Applejack."

Toby picked up the pillow. "Haha..that is okay Auntie Rarity." He giggled as he swung the pillow to hit Rarity in the face, but lightly. Fluttershy smiled with a bit of giggling of her own.

Rarity blinked and shook her head. "Oomph." She chuckled as she looked at the little colt with a mischievous grin. "Aw.. haha.. so you want to attack your Auntie Rarity with a pillow, don't you little darling?"

Toby gave a little smile as he looked at Rarity, who look at him mischievously. "Hehe.. Auntie Rarity what you.. whoa." He felt her levitate the pillow he was holding in the air making his arms raise in the air.

Fluttershy looked a little bit worried. "Um.. Rarity.. um.. what are you doing with him?"

Rarity giggled. "Oh, don't worry Fluttershy darling. I just want to see if my little nephew is ticklish in other places, besides his cute little hooves." She grinned at Toby, and reached out her forehooves to his sides, and started rubbing up, and down.

"Au.. hahah.. Auntie Rarity.. hehehe.. no.. hahaha." He couldn't hold his laughter in as Rarity gently rubbed along his sides with her forehooves.

Fluttershy blushed as she giggled. "Aww.. hehe it looks like my precious little one is ticklish."

Rarity continued to rub up, and down his sides gently in a fast motion. "Aww..you are just, so adorable darling." She gently kept his arms up with her magic as she tickled him.

"Hahaha.. p-please...hehehe.. Auntie Rarity.... hahaha......s-stop... hehehe." He felt tears of laughter, and happiness start to sting his eyes.

Rarity flicked her mane and tilted her head to the side. "What was that darling? I don't think I quite heard you." As she continued to rub at his sides up, and down. She gave him a blushing smile.

"Hehehe.. hahahaha.. p-please... stop.. hahahaha..hehehe.. Auntie Rarity." His tears started to shed as he giggled hysterically.

While Rarity was tickling Toby, Applebloom caught the sight while pillow fighting with the other four fillies as everypony else was having their own pillow fights. "Hey, hey y'all." Applebloom said as the others did too.

"Hey what Applebloom, getting tired already?" Scootaloo asked with a smirk.

"Nah, look at that." She pointed her forehoof over at Rarity tickling Toby. They d'awwed at the sight and Applebloom rubbed her forehooves together licking her lips. "Ya know y'all, Ah' have an idea. Come here." The other four huddled together around the country filly.

Rarity smiled softly at the giggling child, and gently let go of her magic, and stopped tickling him. "Hahaha.. I couldn't resist precious, you are just so cute." She leaned forward to give him a kiss on the forehead.

Toby panted softly after laughing. "Haha.. that is okay Auntie Rarity. That was fun." He smiled at her brightly as he felt Fluttershy gently rub up, and down his back.

Applebloom and the others stood beside each other as she called over to Toby. "Hey buddy, come here for a second." Giving him a grin.

He nodded as he carefully walked over to them. "Yes Applebloom?" He watched as the other four fillies carefully circled around him. He swallowed deeply as he gave a shy smile.

Applebloom reached up a forehoof, and rubbed at his arm. "Don't worry buddy, we just want to.. tickle ya." As she very gently grabbed him with her forehooves, and laid him down nuzzling at his tummy. He squirmed, and giggled under her as she moved her forelegs over to the side as she sat on her haunches, and held her forehoof on his tummy.

Scootaloo trotted over as she looked down at the little colt wiggling cutely under Applebloom's hoof. "Yea, it is always fun to be tickled." She smirked at him as she sat on her haunches on his other side, and brought one of her wings foreward to brush along his side.

"Hehehe..n-no.. hahaha..not there Scootaloo.. hehehe.." He grabbed at his side where Scootaloo was tickling, but Silver Spoon, and Diamond Tiara came up and gently took his hands into their forehooves.

"Nuh.. uh. sweetie pie, you can't get away that easy." Silver Spoon gave him a grin, and giggled softly.

"That is right little guy." Diamond Tiara gave him a grin as well, and both leaned down to nuzzle at his cheek.

Scootaloo went back to brushing his side with her feathers as Applebloom nuzzled at his tummy. Sweetie Belle smiled at the sight as she carefully trotted up beside Scootaloo, and plucked a feather from her wing.

"Now it is my turn to tickle him."

She trotted to his feet.

"Hehehe... o-oh.. hahaha.. please not there Sweetie Belle.. hehehehe.." He begged as he squirmed at the tickling, laughing harder.

"Sorry cutie, I didn't hear you. Did you say please tickle you here?" As she lowered the feather, and started brushing it up, and down on the sole of his feet.

He laughed hysterically unable to speak as he flailed his little legs, and tried to move his arms which was firmly, yet gently held by Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon.

"Hahahaha...hehehehe.. pl-please stop... hahahaha."

Applebloom lifted her head, and leaned her head toward Toby to listen. "What was that buddy?" Giggling softly as she smirked. Scootaloo continued to brush her feathers against his side, Sweetie Belle tickled his feet with a feather, and Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon nuzzled at his cheeks.

"Hehehehe..I said.. hahahahahaha....please....hehehehe.. stop." He smiled brightly as he laughed.

Applebloom looked up at the others with a soft smile as she rubbed at his tummy with her forehoof. "Ah'righty girls, I believe our little buddy has had enough." She gave him a big smile as she leaned her head down to his tummy, and blew a raspberry.

Toby panted softly as he reached up to wipe a tear of laughter from his eyes. "Haha.. that was more fun the second time." Applebloom helped him stand up as they all huddled around him in a group hug.

Fluttershy, and Rarity d'awwed at the six young ones as Fluttershy made her way over to the child. She smiled warmly down at him, and asked softly. "Toby sweetheart, would you like to go to the little colt's room before we get ready for bed?"

He nodded as he let out one last giggle. "Hehe.. yes Momma." He smiled up at her happily as she leaned down on her forelegs for him to climb up. Fluttershy giggled as she trotted out of the ballroom to head toward one of the palace bathrooms with the little colt.

After a few minutes of returning to the ballroom, Fluttershy, and Toby found that everpony was all together in a pillow fort. Toby looked at the carefully made structure as the walked into it. It was in the sphere with a hole in the front of it for the ponies to exit, and enter through. The fort was made out of all white plain fluffy pillows as the group was laying on their red satin pillows.

Fluttershy carefully laid down on an available pillow as Toby carefully slid onto the one beside her. Applejack, and Applebloom sat on the opposite side of the little colt with Rarity, and Sweetie Belle sitting on the opposite side of Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo was beside the Apple Sisters, Silver Spoon, and Diamond Tiara sat next to the Rarity, and Sweetie Belle, and Twilight was in the middle with Pinkie Pie between her, and Rainbow Dash.

Twilight looked at the small child across from her. "Toby dear, me, and everypony have been talking to each other while you, and your Momma was gone. After what we have seen the horrible acts of what your daddy has done against you, and your mommy, we would like to share a special song with you." Giving him a warm smile. "Would you like to hear it?"

Toby smile warmly at her and looked around at everypony. "Yes Auntie Twilight, I would like that."

Twilight nodded as she looked around at the group. "All of us, and even the fillies have been working on this for you Toby ever since you came here to Equestria, and became apart of our family. We want you to know that we all love you with all our hearts, and that we will always be here for you." She smiled softly at him as she looked around at the others. "Are you ready girls?" They all nodded as they all sighed deeply, and turned their attention to Toby.

Slowly they all started to sing.

(All rights of "Your Heart Will Lead You Home" belong to Disney and Kenny Loggins)

After they sung Toby's eyes were glazed with tears of joy. He smiled at everypony, and reached up to wipe at his tears with a sniffle. "Thank *sniff* you all. That was a very pretty song, and it made me feel happy. I love you all!"

Fluttershy laid a wing over his small form, and nuzzled at his cheeks as she, and everypony replied in unison.

"We all love you too Toby!" They all said with a soft yawn.

"Well, everypony I guess it is time to get some shuteye." Twilight said as she curled her legs up underneath her. The CMC snuggled up against their sisters, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon slept close to each other, Pinkie Pie flipped over on her back to sleep, and Fluttershy laid her wing over Toby as he curled up on his pillow.

"Goodnight everypony." Twilight whispered as they all slowly drifted off to sleep.

Luna's moon rose majestically against the darkened sky as it radiated it's beam of warmth through the ballroom, and showered the group with comfort.

Author's Note

I would like to apologize to everyone for a late update, I didn't want to take this long, so I apologize. Also, I have decided to make this chapter all about the sleepover, so there will be two more chapters left. Next chapter will be Twilight's special moment with Toby, so I hope you will enjoy. :)

Also, I would like to thank Commander Stelios for sharing the song/video "Your Heart Will Lead You Home", it is such a beautiful and touching song. I thought it would fit perfectly with the whole group singing it to Toby after what he experienced the dark truth of James, and also that they were all there with him.

Finally, I would like to thank you all for your continuous support and wonderful comments, and also for the great idea started by dargondarkfire for the way The CMC could tickle Toby. :)

Chapter Twenty-Nine: A Special Moment with Auntie Twilight (Edited)

During the night while everypony was sleeping peacefully upon their pillows, and snuggled up to each other, Twilight softly blinked her eyes open letting out a little yawn. She looked all around her at her friends with a warm smile as she looked at the small child who was sleeping underneath Fluttershy's wing. She quietly stood up, and trotted off her pillow over to the sleeping colt.

She gently used her forehoof to very lightly nudge Fluttershy, and lowered her head down to whisper into her ear. "Fluttershy, could you maybe wake up for a little bit?"

Fluttershy blinked her eyes open letting out a soft yawn as she looked up at Twilight. "Um, hi Twilight, what's wrong?" She asked in a whisper.

Twilight shook her head. "Oh, nothing is wrong, I was just wondering if maybe I could spend a moment with Toby for a little bit?" Giving her a bright smile.

Fluttershy returned a smile, and nodded. "Um. of course Twilight." She turned her attention to the little colt stroking his back with her wing. She leaned her head down to nuzzle at his cheek, and whispered in his ear. "Toby, can you wake up for a little bit sweetheart?"

Toby stirred a little as he let out a soft yawn. He blinked his eyes open to look up into the beautiful sky blue eyes of Fluttershy. He smiled softly.

She gave him a warm smile. "Hi sweetie. Would you like to spend some time with your Auntie Twilight?"

He let out another soft yawn, and looked up at her, then over at Twilight who had a blushing smile on her face. "Yes Momma, that would be nice." He quietly got up seeing that everypony else was asleep, and stretched his arms, and legs.

Twilight turned to Fluttershy. "Don't worry Fluttershy, I will keep him safe." Fluttershy gave a soft smile, and nodded as Twilight turned to Toby. "Come on sweetheart, I would like to take you someplace special." She used her magic to gently levitate the child up onto her back, and quietly trotted out onto the balcony of the castle.

Toby looked up at the stars that filled the night sky along with Luna's moon as they twinkled. He felt a calm breeze soft brush against his skin.

"Hold on dear, I am going to take you on a little ride." She looked back at him with wink.

He wrapped his arms lightly around her neck. "Okay Auntie Twilight."

She carefully flapped her wings to hover up in the air, and looked back at the little colt with a warm smile. She turned he attention in front of her, and started to flap her wings as she started to fly among the night breeze. Toby took a deep breath of the air letting a comforting sigh.

She flew above Canterlot which was lit with lights along the streets. She gently looked back at the child who was smiling softly as the breeze blew against his face, and hair. "I want to take you somewhere special Toby. It is a place where I used to take Spike with me when we was young to relax, and enjoy a quiet moment together." He nodded with a smile.

After soaring above Canterlot for a few minutes Twilight flew towards a cliff that was on the edge of a forest, and overlooked the city. She carefully lowered to the ground, and laid down tucking her legs up underneath her. She looked up at the sky, and sighed softly.

Toby carefully climbed off her back, and sat down on the ground beside, and looked up as well. "It is very pretty out at night Auntie Twilight." He looked up at her.

She looked down at him laying a wing softly over him. "Yes it is sweetheart." She sighed deeply. "Toby, can I ask you something?"

He nodded. "Yes you can Auntie Twilight."

She looked into his eyes. "Toby, when you ran away, did you really believe that we wouldn't love you, because you aren't a pony?" Rubbing along his back with her wing.

He turned his head to the side a bit lowering it, and slowly nodded.

Twilight gave a sad smile, and nuzzled at his cheek. "Look at me sweetheart." She said tenderly. He turned his head to look into her eyes with a frown. "Let me tell you something, although you may not be a pony, we all love you with all our hearts for you being who you are." She said giving him a reassuring smile.

He gave a little smile in return. "Thank you Auntie Twilight."

"There is no need to thank me sweetie, because it is the truth." She sighed softly. "You know something Toby, the way Fluttershy cares for you as your Momma, it reminds me of how I care for Spike."

He looked up at her curiously. "Spike, Auntie Twilight?"

She nodded. "Yes. You see Toby, when I was just a filly I hatched Spike from his egg, and from that moment on I took care of him like he was my own son or my little brother." She looked up at the night sky sighing softly. "When we was growing up in Canterlot, he was the only real friend I had here, and he always made sure I was okay if something bad happened or I was overdoing it with my studies."

Toby smiled. "Well, that was good of him Auntie Twilight. That is how I was with Mommy, I always wanted to make sure she was okay, and happy if she was sad."

Twilight giggled lightly. "You see, that is another thing you, and Spike have in common sweetheart. Apart from being different from us ponies, you two have such big caring hearts that makes us love you even more." Nuzzling at his cheek. She turned her attention back to the sky while keeping her wing over Toby.

"One day Princess Celestia asked me to leave Canterlot to go live in Ponyville, so I could learn the meaning of friendship. Well, Spike being my number one assistant, accompanied me, and that is when I met all of my close friends, your aunties, and momma." She let out a soft sigh. "After we made our home in the library, the townsponies were all first weary, and cautious of Spike for being a dragon, for being different."

Toby nodded. "Oh. They weren't mean to him or hurt him did they Auntie Twilight?"

Twilight looked at him, and shook her head. "Oh, no dear, they never hurt him or were mean towards him. They were just uncertain of how to deal with a dragon in Ponyville. With time they accepted him as part of the community, and my friends accepted him as part of their family."

"That is good Auntie Twilight. I like Spike, he is a very nice, and fun dragon to be friends with." He said letting out a giggle.

"Yes he certainly is. However, during his birthday last year he turned into a big dragon who rampaged through Ponyville." Twilight gave the child a sad smile.

Toby frowned. "Oh, no. It was an accident though, wasn't it Auntie Twilight?" Asking with concern.

Twilight nodded. "Oh, of course it was an accident. He grew because of what is called Dragon's Greed. After he received his presents from me, and my friends, he couldn't stop wanting more stuff that he let his greed the best of him." Sighing softly

"How did he shrink back to normal Auntie Twilight?" The little colt asked curiously yet with concern.

Twilight gave him a nuzzle on his cheek. "When he grew into a real big dragon, bigger than Ponyville itself, he kidnapped your Auntie Rarity with his tail, and was escaping with her. He was about to escape until he seen a fire ruby that he gave to Rarity in the same day. Rarity didn't know it was Spike to begin with, so she believed that the dragon wanted the fire ruby for himself, but she refused to give it to him, because it was a gift from Spike." She sighed softly.

Toby smiled softly. "That was very nice of Auntie Rarity to keep the fire ruby that Spike gave her, and not give it to the big mean Spike."

Twilight giggled lightly, and nodded. "That is right sweetheart. After Spike set his eyes on the fire ruby, he remembered giving it to Rarity, and the kiss she gave him on his cheek that he felt guilty of changing into the big rampaging dragon he was. Suddenly he shrunk back to his normal size, and all of us including the town of Ponyville were able to forgive him, and understand that it was only a huge mistake. Although he is a dragon, he is different from other dragons, because he is caring, loyal, and he does his best to help when anypony needs him." She smiled warmly at the thought.

"And you all love him, even though he isn't a pony." Toby smiled softly.

Twilight nodded. "That is right Toby, we love him for being who is, just like we love you for being who you are." She untucked a foreleg, and rubbed at his tummy playfully causing the child to giggle happily. She giggled along with him as she gave him a kiss on the forehead.

He reached up with his arms to hug her around her neck. "I love you too Auntie Twilight. I love all of my new family." He sighed softly.

She wrapped her foreleg around his back, and rubbed up, and down. "Hey sweetie, how would you like to stay here, and watch Celestia's sun rise?"

He looked up with a bright smile. "I would like that Auntie Twilight."

She rubbed at his back some more, and patted it as she used her magic to gently lift him up onto her back to sit.

As Twilight and Toby sat atop the cliff, they watched as Luna's moon, and the stars were starting to slowly descend in the horizon. They turned their attention to the castle as they saw Princess Celestia trot out onto the balcony. She closed her eyes, and started to light up her horn.

Twilight turned her attention to the horizon past Canterlot. She smile brightly as she looked at the child on her back. "Look sweetheart, the sun is beginning to rise." As she pointed a hoof toward the horizon.

Toby looked to see the golden orb slowly ascend against the vast sky as a deep orange glow showered over the two, and the land around them. He smiled warmly as the sun warmed his flesh as he took a deep breath of the morning air. "Mmm.. it is very pretty Auntie Twilight. Thank you for bringing me up here."

Twilight sighed softly as the sun warmed her fur, and she smiled back at the child. "You don't need to thank me sweetie, I am glad I brought you up here. It is beautiful when Princess Celestia raises her sun, and when Princess Luna raises her moon."

Toby smiled as he watched the sunrise. A moment with his Auntie Twilight that was peaceful that it seemed to last forever. The two sigh softly as they felt the warmth of Celestias sun blanket them in it's golden rays.

Author's Note

I want to apologize for this being a short chapter, but the next chapter is the final chapter, and I am going to make it real special. Twilight's moment with Toby I wanted her to take him for a ride through the night, but also reassure him, and truly let him that her and all of her friends really do love him no matter if he is not a pony.

Thank you all again for your continuous support always. :)

Chapter Thirty (Final): Welcome Home Toby (Edited)

As dawn broke Twilight, and Toby returned to the castle's balcony to see that the group of mares, and fillies were sitting around in a circle enjoying breakfast. She trotted in with the child on her back, and gave them a warm smile. "Good morning everypony." She leaned down on her forelegs to let Toby climb off, and he walked over to sit on his pillow beside Fluttershy, and Twilight took her seat between Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy smiled warmly down at the little colt, and leaned her head down to nuzzle at his cheek. "Good morning my precious little one. Did you enjoy your time with your Auntie Twilight?"

He looked up at her with a bright smile. "Yes I did Momma. She let me watch Auntie Celestia's sun rise, and it was very pretty. She also told me about Spike, and how he is different like me, but you all love him for who he is." He looked over at Twilight.

She nodded. "That is right sweetheart." She looked around the group but didn't see Spike anywhere. "Hmm.. speaking of Spike, where is he? He should be back by now from visiting his friends in Canterlot."

Rarity took a sip of her tea, and cleared her throat. "Oh, Spikey-Wikey decided to go on ahead to Ponyville to get the library cleaned up for you when we return." She gave her a warm smile, and then levitated a plate of two pancakes with toast, and a glass of orange juice over to the child. "And the dear wanted me to give you your breakfast Toby darling. It is still warm." Giving him a soft smile as she laid the plate, and orange juice down in front of him.

Toby smiled at her, and nodded. "Thank you Auntie Rarity." He reached for the fork, and knife provided, and started to cut at his pancakes to take his first bite. He sighed warmly as he felt the warm buttery, and sweet taste of the fluffy pancakes just melt in his mouth as he swallowed his first bite, and drank at his orange juice.

Pinkie leaned in to whisper to Twilight. "Also silly willy, Spike decided to leave early, so he can gather everypony to greet us back home, especially our little wittle cutie wutie nephew." Giggling softly. Twilight nodded as she giggled at her pink friend's giddiness.

As she was eating her haycakes with hay bacon, and a glass of apple cider, Applejack looked at the little colt beside her. "Hey sugarcube."

He swallowed the bite of pancakes currently in his mouth before looking up at her. "Yes Auntie Applejack?" He asked with a soft smile.

Applejack returned the smile. "While ya and Twilight were gone, Rarity and Fluttershy told us how they took ya to the spa the other day, and that is why the spa ponies came with us. Did ya enjoy yourself there little feller?"

He swallowed another bite of his pancakes, and nodded. "Yes I did Auntie Applejack. Aloe, and Lotus Blossom was real nice, and Aloe was very gentle when she tended to my hands, and feet." He blushed a little.

Rarity gave a blushing smile. "Oh, and the little darling also gave me such a wonderful little massage. Those little hands done a little magic of their own, and it felt nice." Toby took another bite of his pancakes, and blushed.

Applejack smiled warmly at the child, and rubbed at his back with a forehoof. "Well, ain't that something." Applejack thought for a second. "Hey sugarcube, after we get done eating, would you mind maybe giving your Auntie Applejack a little massage?"

Toby swallowed his bite of pancakes. "Okay Auntie Applejack, I won't mind." Giving her a soft smile, and blushing.

He finished eating the rest of his pancakes after a couple of minutes, and drinking his orange juice. He reached for the napkin provided for him, and wiped his mouth, and hands. He looked up into Fluttershy's eyes. "Momma, is it okay if I give Auntie Applejack a massage?"

Fluttershy gave him a warm smile, and kissed him on his forehead. "Of course sweetheart." She nuzzled softly at his nose.

He blushed at the nuzzle. He swallowed deeply as he turned to Applejack, and gently asked. "Are you sure Auntie Applejack you want me to give you a massage? I am just afraid I might hurt you like how I was with Auntie Rarity." He lowered his head a bit.

Applejack rubbed at his back some more to comfort him. "Hey now sugarcube, Ah' know ya won't hurt me. Tell ya what, if something doesn't feel right, Ah' will let ya know, ah'right Toby?"

He nodded. "Okay Auntie Applejack." He carefully got up from his pillow, and stood up beside Applejack. He placed his hands carefully on her upper back, and gently started to rub between her shoulder blades. He giggled a little as her mane brushed against the back of his hands, and her fur felt like a big warm blanket over his fingers as he rubbed at her back.

Applejack sighed softly. "Mm.. that feels real good little feller." She turned her head to look at him with a big smile. "Ya see sugarcube, Ah' told ya that ya wouldn't hurt me." She leaned her head forward to give him a light nuzzle on the cheek.

He blushed at the nuzzle as he carefully moved his hands down to the middle of her back. "Thank you Auntie Applejack." He rubbed his hands gently in a circular motion on her back, and very lightly kneaded at her fur with his fingers.

She looked over at Rarity with a warm smile. "Ya were right Rarity, the little feller can give a nice little massage." Toby blushed at the comment as he continued to rub at the middle of her back some more. She turned her head back to him, and reached a foreleg over to rub at his back.

Toby carefully stopped rubbing her back as he lifted his hands off gently. "Was that okay Auntie Applejack?" He gave her a soft smile which she wrapped a foreleg around his shoulders, and pulled him in a big warm hug.

She nuzzled at the top of his head. "That felt real good sugarcube. Ah' feel like Ah' could buck apple trees for the whole day now." She rubbed at his back with her foreleg, and pulled him back to look down into his eyes. "Thank ya very kindly Toby for doing that, ya are a good little massager."

He blushed. "Thank you Auntie Applejack, and you are welcome." He looked over at Applebloom who was sitting beside her sister. "Applebloom, if it is okay with you, would you like for me to give you a massage?"

Applebloom gave the little colt a soft smile. "Awh. shucks little buddy, that would be nice, but are ya sure ya don't mind?"

He shook his head. "I don't mind Applebloom." He looked at her and then all around the group. "If it is okay with all of you, and you Momma, I want to give you all massages. You each gave me something special, and I want to give you all something back." He blushed.

The group d'awwed at the little colt, and nodded in agreement to let him massage them.

Applebloom laid down on all four legs as Toby walked over to her, and stood beside her. "Applebloom, will you let me know if I hurt you though?" Giving her a little smile.

She reached up, and rubbed at his back. "Yes Ah' will Toby, but Ah' am not worried. If my sis enjoyed it, Ah' know I will." She gently nuzzled at his hands. "They sure are cute little hands just like you." Giving him a blushing smile.

He giggled as he placed his hands gently on her upper back between her shoulder blades. Her yellow fur covering his fingers like a warm blanked just like Applejacks. He rubbed his hands gently around in a circular motion very lightly pinching at her fur with his fingers.

"Ooh.. mm.. that does feel good." She sighed softly as she allowed the little colt to rub her back. He moved his hands down carefully down to the middle of her back, and did the same movement as he did between her shoulder blades.

Rarity smiled at the child as he rubbed at Applebloom's back. "Toby darling, it was a pleasure for us to finally meet your mommy yesterday. I can see where you get your big caring heart from, and I know she is very proud of your judgment on what to do with that ruffian of a father of yours."

As he gently continued to rub at Applebloom's back he smiled up at Rarity. "Thank you Auntie Rarity." He swallowed deeply, and looked around the room as well at Applebloom. "You all aren't mad at me for getting Auntie Celesita, and Auntie Luna to send my daddy back home, are you?" Applebloom's fur warmed his little fingers as he massaged her.

They all gave the child a sad smile, and shook their heads.

Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Of course not kid. We all wanted that jerk to pay, but it was all up to you to decide, and we are all proud of you little buddy." Giving him a warm smirk.

Applejack rubbed at his back with a forehoof. "That is right sugarcube, you showed that varmint of a daddy of yours that you had more sense, and more love in your heart by sending him home." She gave him a reassuring smile.

He gently lifted his hands off Applebloom's back as he finished. "Was that okay for you Applebloom?"

She chuckled as she gave him a little nuzzle on the cheek. "That felt great Toby. Ah' feel like Applejack, that Ah' could go all day applebucking without getting tired. Thank ya buddy." She reached up with a forehoof to rub at his head.

He blushed, and nodded. "You are welcome."

Sweetie Belle gave a bright smile, and clapped her forehooves together. "My turn cutie." He smiled at her, and giggled as he walked over to her side.

"Okay Sweetie Belle. I promise I will be careful." He gave her a soft smile.

"I know you will Toby. There is no need to be worried about hurting me." She gave him a reassuring smile, and rubbed at his arm with a forehoof.

Applebloom sat up on her haunches, and reached her forehooves up to place on his shoulders. He tilted his head back. "It's ah'right buddy, while ya rub at Sweetie Belle's back, Ah'll rub your shoulders. Is that okay?" She gave him a big warm smile.

He nodded. "Yes Applebloom, thank you." He said softly as he laid his hands on Sweetie Belle's back between her shoulder blades, and started to rub them in the same circular motion he did for the Apple sisters. He felt Applebloom start to rub at his shoulders with her forehooves. "Mm.. that feels nice Applebloom."

She blushed. "Ah' am glad buddy, and ya don't need to thank me. Ah' am happy to help ya." She gave him a nuzzle on the top of his head. He giggled, and blushed.

Sweetie Belle smiled happily, and sighed. "Mm.. your little hands do feel good cutie." He smiled softly as her fur gently warmed his fingers as he rubbed, and he slowly moved his hands down to her middle back. He started to rub her middle back in the same motion he done for her upper back.

After a few more minutes Toby finished giving Sweetie Belle her massage. "Did you like that Sweetie Belle?" He kindly asked.

Sweetie Belle nodded with a bright smile. "Oh, yes I did cutie, Thank you Toby, that felt wonderful." She gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek causing him to blush.

The group d'awwed at his blushing.

"You are welcome Sweetie Belle." He spoke softly as he walked over to Rarity next.

Rarity smiled warmly at the little colt, and cleared her throat. "Darling, if a lady may be, so kind to ask, how about you give my forelegs a little massage? I bet you can do a good foreleg, and hoof massage good too precious." She reached up, and rubbed at his cheek.

He blushed. "Okay Auntie Rarity. I will try." He spoke softly as he watched her stick her forelegs out. He reached down with his little hands, and carefully placed them on a foreleg. He started rubbing it, this time moving his hands slowly in an up, and down motion.

Rarity noticed that he was bending a little to reach. "Oh, darling here." She levitated his pillow over to him. "You will hurt your back like that precious. Take a seat on your pillow." She gave him a warm smile as he nodded, and sat down on his pillow beside her.

"Thank you Auntie Rarity. That does feel better." He gave her a soft smile looking up into her eyes as he focused back on giving her foreleg a massage. He continued to move his hands slowly up, and down.

She reached her free foreleg over, and gently rubbed at his back. "You are very welcome dear. Your Auntie Rarity won't want you to hurt yourself." She leaned forward, and gave him a gentle kiss on his forehead rubbing at his back soothingly.

He gave a soft sigh at the rubbing of his own back. He carefully moved his hands down toward her hoof. He swallowed deeply as he looked up at her. "Auntie Rarity, would you like for me to stop, or try to massage your hoof?" He blushed a little bit red.

Rarity giggled gently at the blushing child, and patted at his back gently. "Darling, don't be nervous. If you don't want to massage my hoof, you don't have to. I won't be mad at you if you don't, okay precious?" She reached with her free hoof, and rubbed at his cheek giving him a reassuring smile.

He smiled as he felt the comfort she gave him. He sighed softly as he gently reached his hands down, and started to rub at her hoof. He carefully lifted her foreleg up, and placed her hoof in his lap. He placed a hand gently on each side of her ankles, placed his thumbs of each on the bottom of her hoof, and very gently started to move his thumbs slowly in a circular motion.

Rarity sighed comfortably. "Mmm.. that feels very nice darling, thank you." She continued to rub at his back with her other foreleg as she nuzzled at his cheek.

"You are welcome Auntie Rarity. I remember Mommy used to do this for me if my feet hurt real bad." He smiled softly up at her as he looked back down at her hoof to rub at it a little bit longer.

Applejack spoke up. "Ya and your mommy done a lot together, didn't y'all sugarcube?" He nodded with a light smile. She returned the smile, and tipped her hat.

He sighed softly as he finished rubbing at Rarity's first forehoof. He looked up at her. "Do you want me to stop Auntie Rarity, or do you want me to massage your other hoof?" He asked politely.

She nuzzled at his cheek. "Toby darling, that is up to you. If you would like to massage my other hoof, I would truly appreciate it, but if you don't want to, that is okay too. I will never force you to do anything that you don't want to do, or you might feel uncomfortable doing." She reached up with her forehoof, and rubbed at his cheek.

He gave her a warm smile, and gently lifted her other hoof up into his lap. He carefully started to rub at her other hoof just like the other hoof. Rarity sighed warmly as she used her free foreleg to rub at his back comfortably.

"Hey little buddy, did you, and your daddy ever do anything together?" Rainbow Dash asked as she looked at the child with a soft smile..

He sighed deeply as he looked over at Rainbow Dash while still rubbing at Rarity's hoof. "One time, he did take me fishing when I was three. It was a fun time too, and after we got done fishing he took me out for some ice cream." He gave a sad smile. He lowered his head a bit as he looked at Rarity's hoof while rubbing it.

Rarity leaned her head to try, and look into Toby's eyes, which were already moist with tears. "Darling, is something wrong? You know you can tell us, we are all here to listen." She gave him a warm smile, and rubbed at his back.

Fluttershy looked at him with concern. "Yes sweetheart, please tell us what is bothering you. Is it about your daddy?" He nodded sadly as he gently continued to massage Rarity's hoof.

Rarity reached her free hoof over, and gently held one of his hands between both rubbing at the top softly. "Toby, look at me please." He sighed deeply as his body shuddered a little bit as he looked up into Rarity's eyes. "That is better. Now darling, please tell us what is troubling you." She gave him a little nuzzle on his cheek.

He shuddered, but took a deep breath as he looked up at her, and then all around at the group. "I am sorry everyone for yelling at my daddy yesterday. I don't want to be like daddy, but I was just like him yesterday when I yelled." His voice sounded cracked.

Rarity patted his hand gently between her hooves, and gave him a nuzzle on the top of his head. "No darling, there is no need to apologize for your actions yesterday towards your daddy. You were mad at him for what he done to your mommy, and you, so we understood. We know you don't want to be a ruffian like your daddy, and we know that you aren't like that at all."

The others nodded in agreement with Applejack speaking up. "She is right sugarcube. Like Ah' told ya on the night Rainbow Dash found ya when ya ran away, it ain't good to keep all that emotion inside. If ya do keep all that stuff inside ya, it would only cause ya to hurt, and make ya change. Ya did the right thing in yelling at your daddy yesterday, and we are all proud of ya, okay little feller?"

He gave a soft smile, and nodded with a sniffle. "Thank you Auntie Applejack. Thank you everyone." They all nodded softly giving him a warm smile. He calmed his shuddering, and looked up into Rarity's eyes. "Did I do a good job massaging your hooves Auntie Rarity?"

She giggled lightly, and nodded as she lifted up his hand between her hooves, and gently give it a little kiss. "Yes you did precious, thank you. Both were wonderful hoof massages." She patted his hand as he blushed, and walked over to Silver Spoon.

"Silver Spoon, do you want me to just massage your back, just your forelegs, and hooves, or maybe both?" He asked politely with a soft smile.

Silver Spoon returned the smile. "Just my back will be okay sweetie pie." She gave him a little wink, and a nuzzle on his cheek causing him to blush.

He nodded as he carefully walked over her side, and placed his hands carefully on her upper back, and started to rub it slowly in the same circular motion he has done for the others thus far.

Silver Spoon sighed warmly. "Ooh, that does feel good Toby. Are you sure you haven't done this before, you know before you gave Miss Rarity a massage?" She gave a small giggle.

He giggled, and smiled softly. "Hehe.. I am sure Silver Spoon. I am just glad I haven't hurt any of you yet." As he continued to rub at her upper back, and slowly moved his hands down to her middle back. Her grey fur brushing against his little fingers, and back of his hands causing him to giggle some more.

Rarity reached up with her forehoof, and rubbed along his shoulders in a slow right to left back, and forth motion. "You shouldn't be the only one giving us all nice massages darling."

He blushed as he looked behind him at her. "Thank you Auntie Rarity." He sighed warmly as he continued to rub at Silver Spoon's middle back. He very carefully pinched her fur in a kneading like way before he stopped. "All done Silver Spoon. Was that okay?"

Silver Spoon looked at him, and nodded. "Oh, that felt wonderful sweetie pie, thank you." She reached up her foreleg, and pulled him close giving him a warm hug, and gave him a little kiss on the cheek.

He nodded as he carefully walked to Diamond Tiara. Being a little nervous of how she would react to him he let out a little stutter. "D-Diamond Tiara, will you like for me to give you a massage?" He gave her a light smile.

She reached up, and rubbed at his arm giving him a warm smile. "Hey little guy, you don't have to be nervous around me anymore. I promise not to get mad at you, or be mean to you ever again, okay?" He nodded. "That is better. If you are sure you won't mind, I would very much appreciate a little massage. Could you maybe just massage my forelegs, and hooves?"

He nodded. "I won't mind Diamond Tiara." Rarity levitated his pillow over in front of Diamond Tiara, so he can sit on it. He smiled over at her. "Thank you Auntie Rarity." She returned the smile, and nodded. He carefully sat down on his pillow, and very gently lifted one of Diamond Tiara's forelegs, and rested it on his lap. He placed his hands on the sides of her forelegs, and very gently started to rub each side while moving his hands in a circular motion.

Diamond Tiara closed her eyes sighing softly. "Mm.. that feels amazing Toby." She opened her eyes back up, and gave him a soft smile as she reached up with her free hoof, and rubbed gently at his cheek.

He carefully brought his hands down to her hoof, and placed his thumbs on the bottom to gently rub at it. Diamond smile brightly at the massaging of her hoof.

The group smiled warmly at the little colt's kindness he was showing to all of them.

After a few minutes of massaging both of Diamond Tiara's forelegs, and hooves, Toby smiled softly at her as she gave him a little nuzzle on the cheek. "That was indeed wonderful little guy, thank you." She reached up with a forehoof, and patted his back.

"You are welcome Diamond Tiara." He carefully got up from his pillow as the next one was Rainbow Dash.

She very gently placed a forehoof on his hand. "Just to let you know kid, I don't let anyone touch my hooves, but if you would like to, you can massage my back." She gave him a soft smirk, and patted his shoulder gently.

He giggled lightly, and nodded. "Oh, okay Auntie Rainbow. I promise to be careful too, especially with your wings." He walked to her side, and gently placed his hands on her upper back as her cyan fur warmed his little fingers. He started to rub her upper back in a circular motion.

Rainbow sighed deeply "Aauuhh.. that feels good little buddy." She reached back with a forehoof, and playfully rubbed at his side. He giggled happily. "Don't think I didn't see the girls tickle you kiddo." She smirked at him as he smiled brightly, while he still rubbing gently at her upper back.

He carefully moved his hands down to her middle back. He started to rub in the same circular motion, until his hands touched the joints of her wings. Suddenly they started to twitch, and Toby immediately lifted his hands up making a concerned face. "Oh, no Auntie Rainbow. D-did I hurt you?" He asked worriedly.

Rainbow Dashed sighed softly, and looked at the worried child. "Oh, no little buddy. That actually felt very good. You see Toby, that part where your hands touched." She placed her hoof on her wing joints. "Us pegasi get terrible cramps right there, and they hurt bad." She rubbed under his chin. "So, don't be worried kid, that felt awesome. Could you maybe rub there some more?"

He smiled softly, and nodded. He carefully placed his hands on one of her wing joints, and gently rubbed his hands in a smaller circular motion. He looked at her wing twitching, but noticed her smiling, and sighing warmly at the rubbing. He smiled knowing that he wasn't hurting her, and continued massaging.

Rainbow Dash sighed deeply. "Those little hands, and fingers of yours kid are awesome."

He smiled, and blushed as he gently moved his hands over to the other wing to start rubbing it gently on the joint. He carefully rubbed his hands in a slow back, and forth motion while stroking his fingers along the top of her wing.

After a couple of minutes he finished massaging the other wing. Rainbow rubbed at the top of his head gently with a forehoof. "Thank you little buddy. I enjoyed that. I feel like I can fly all over Equestria in five seconds flat." She shot up in the air, and posed with her forelegs on her hips spreading her wings out wide, and her head turned up to the side.

Toby giggled. "Hehe.. you are welcome Auntie Rainbow."

"Awh.. yea." Scootaloo said. She looked at the child.

"Hey buddy, could you massage my wings too?"

He nodded as he carefully walked over to the side of the orange filly. He carefully placed his hands on one of her wing joints, and started to very lightly rub at them. "Ooh, that does feel cool Toby." She gave a bright smile as she leaned to nuzzle at his cheek.

He continued rubbing the first wing for a couple of minutes before moving over to the other wing. He rubbed that one for a couple of minutes before finishing with Scootaloo's massage. She wrapped her forelegs around him, and gave him a warm hug, then rubbed the top of his head with a forehoof. "Thank you buddy, that was indeed awesome."

"You are welcome Scootaloo." He gave her a soft smile.

Twilight, and Pinkie very politely declined to have massages. Instead Twilight gave him a hug gently enveloping him warmly in her wings. Pinkie gave him a beaming smile, and swooped him up in her forelegs giving him a big soft hug, and playfully tossing him up in the air, and catching him. He giggled at Pinkie's playfulness, and gave her a hug around her neck.

He finally turned to Fluttershy with a big smile. "Momma, can I give you a massage?"

She smiled warmly at him, and nodded with a squeal. "Yes you can sweetheart." She gave him a nuzzle on his cheek.

He walked to her side, and placed his hands on her upper back between her shoulder blades, and started to rub gently. "Momma, let me know if I hurt you though, okay?"

She nodded. "I will sweetie, but don't worry, I know you won't hurt me." She sighed warmly as she felt his little hands rubbing. "Mm.. that feels good Toby." Her soft flowing mane cascading over his hands, and arms.

He smiled softly as he continued to rub at her upper back, and slowly moving down toward her middle back, and wings. When his hands touched one of her wings, it twitched just like Rainbow Dash's. "Ooh, that feels very relaxing my precious little one when you rub at my wings." She leaned her head to give him a kiss on the forehead. He blushed as he continued to rub at her wing before moving over to the other one.

After a couple minutes he finished the other wing. "Okay Momma, I am all done. Was that okay?"

She gave him a grin, and reached up a foreleg pulling him into a hug. She laid her head gently on top of his. "Yes it was sweetheart, Momma enjoyed your massage. Thank you." She gave him a kiss on top of the head, and turned him carefully letting him sit down on her pillow next to her, and hugged him close placing her forelegs, and hooves in his lap. She squealed, and laid her head on his shoulder allowing her mane to flow over his other side.

He sighed warmly, and nuzzled his cheek against hers. "I love you Momma." He looked all around the group. "I love you all."

"We love you Toby." They all said in unison as the sat around with big bright smiles.

Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna entered into the ballroom. "Good morning my little ponies, and our young nephew Toby." The sun princess as they trotted toward the group. Celestia saw Toby sitting with Fluttershy, and smiled warmly. "Toby dear, my sister, and I came to let you know that your daddy has turned himself into the authorities of your planet, and is currently being held in jail, I believe that's what you call it."

He looked up at her, and at Luna sighing deeply with a little frown.

Luna looked down concerned at the small child. "Young one, is there something wrong?" The royal sisters decided to lay down on all four of their legs beside Fluttershy.

He felt Fluttershy gently nuzzle at his cheek making him smile a little bit. "I hope Daddy gets better now." Fluttershy rubbed at his arms to comfort him.

"I believe he will dear. It is just going to take some time, okay?" Celestia asked giving him a reassuring smile, and he nodded. "That is better my little nephew." She turned her attention to the group. "Now, I have twelve tickets for you all to board the Friendship Express to arrive back home." They all bowed their heads in a nod.

Luna smiled warmly at all of her friends, then looked at the little colt in Fluttershy's arms. "My young nephew, Tia, and myself would like for you to know that we love you with all our hearts, okay Toby?" They both leaned their head forward to give him a nuzzle on each cheek.

He smiled softly. "I love you too Auntie Celestia, and Auntie Luna."

They gave him a warm smile as they carefully stood back up. "Well my little ponies Luna, and I shall take our leave, so you all may prepare to leave Canterlot, and go back home." She looked down at the little colt one more time. "May I officially welcome you home Toby." She gave him a warm smile as her, and Luna turned to trot out of the ballroom.

Twilight let out a sigh, and looked at the group. "Well, everypony I guess it is time to go back home." They all nodded as they stood up from their pillows. Twilight, and Rarity levitated the pillows into neat piles against one of the walls of the ballroom.

Fluttershy scooped Toby up, and placed him gently on her back, and turned to trot out of the ballroom with the others.

After departing the castle the group head toward the Canterlot Train Station to wait for the Friendship Express, and go back home.

The Friendship Express soon arrived in Ponyville pulling up to the train station. On the waiting dock was Spike, Big Mac, and the spa ponies. Twilight spoke with the girls while the fillies, and Toby was a few seats above them. She looked at Pinkie. "Pinkie, where is everypony else at?"

"Don't worry silly willy, they are all at the town hall. It is going to be such a surprise for our little wittle cutie wutie Toby to be greeted by all the town's ponies. Especially with Mayor Mare officially welcoming him too." She gave a beaming smile as the group got up to depart the train.

Fluttershy trotted up to Toby, and scooped him up onto her back. "Sweetheart, we are going someplace before we go home, okay?" She looked back at him with a warm smile.

He nodded. "Okay Momma." He returned the smile, and hugged her neck softly.

She reached up, and patted at his hands as they made their way toward town hall.

As they neared town hall, Toby could see the entire town of Ponyville outside. When they saw the group arriving they parted to let them through, and everypony gave the small child a big warm smile. Toby returned the smile, but didn't understand what was going until he looked up front. Along the arches of the structure, three banners hung that read, "WELCOME HOME TOBY".

Standing up front on the steps of town hall was the mayor of Ponyville, Mayor Mare. She had a pale brown coat, a moderate to light gray mane, and tail, deep blue eyes, she wore eye glasses with a yellow brim, and for her cutie mark she had a scroll tied with a blue ribbon. She had a gable held in her forehoof, and started hitting on the podium she stood at.

"Citizens of Ponyville, as your proud mayor, I would like to announce that today is a very special day." She motioned for Fluttershy and the others to come up. "Today, I would like to officially welcome a new member to our community. A couple months ago, our very own Element of Kindness Fluttershy *she motioned for Fluttershy to come closer* discovered this lost, and lonely child *she gently reached up with a foreleg to lay over his shoulders* and took him into her home." She gave Fluttershy, and Toby a big smile.

"As this wonderful little colt started to be introduced to us, he has shown us nothing, but the greatest love, and friendship that anypony could ask for." The audience stamped their hooves on the ground giving Toby a loud ovation. Toby felt tears sting his eyes, but tears of joy. Mayor Mare gently rubbed at his shoulders, and looked at Toby in his eyes. "Toby, as mayor of Ponyville, myself, and I am certain that everypony here would like to officially welcome you home." She gave the child a warm hug which he returned with his little arms around her neck.

The crowd quieted down as they saw the child shedding his tears of joy as he broke the hug from Mayor Mare. He looked all around him. He choked back some sobs as he spoke softly. "Thank you Miss Mayor, and thank you all." He gave everypony around him gave him a warm tearful smile as they stamped their hooves one more time giving him a loud ovation. Fluttershy, and the girls just smiled warmly at their precious little colt.

Upon arriving home after town hall with Celestia's sun slowly setting, and Luna's moon rising Fluttershy saw that all her animal friends was up to greet her, and Toby home. They chittered, and chirped happily to see them.

"Good evening my animal friends. I am terribly sorry that we are late. I hope that you all was well fed and safe."

Angel hopped up to his caretaker chittering, and saluted her with a paw. She smiled warmly down at her pet bunny, and leaned down to give him a kiss between the ears. "That is my baby. I knew you would do a good job being in charge Angel." Toby nodded in agreement as he let out a soft yawn. "Oh, it looks like some little colt is sleepy." She gave him a soft smile. She turned to all of her animal friends. "Good night my little ones."

They chittered, and chirped as Toby spoke. "Goodnight everyone." He waved his hand at them as they returned by waving their claws, and talons as Fluttershy trotted upstairs with the child on her back to her bedroom.

As they got up to her bedroom Fluttershy looked behind her at the little colt. "Toby sweetheart.. um.. if it is okay I want to do something a little different tonight, okay?"

He nodded. "Oh, okay Momma." He gave her a soft smile which she returned.

She trotted up to the bed, and used her teeth to pull back the bed sheets, and cover. She carefully turned to the side to let Toby climb onto the bed. As she watched him climb onto the bed, and lay down. She very carefully climbed up on the bed, tucked her leg underneath her, and brought a wing over the small child pulling him to her side gently.

She smiled down at him warmly. "Toby, I would like to sing you a new song tonight that I have been thinking of especially for you. It is a song to let you know that I will always love you with all my heart, and you may not be a pony, but you are still my precious little one, you are my son."

He curled up under her wing, and gave her a soft smile. "Okay Momma." She reached down, and carefully took his glasses off, and put them on the side table.

She sighed warmly, and started to sing.

(All rights of "You'll Be In My Song" belong to Disney and Phil Collins)

After she got done singing she saw that he had his eyes closed with a tear shedding from each. She felt her heart melt, because she knew that those were tears of joy. She leaned her head down to him, and gave him a soft kiss on the top of his head as he slept peacefully. She turned to lay her head above his as she kept her wing over him as she cuddled him close. "Goodnight my precious little one, Momma loves you." She spoke softly as she closed her eyes gently.

The light of Luna's moon shined through the window of her room upon the two as they mother, and son slept peacefully.

As he drifted off into his dreams, Toby felt the love he wished for that night. He smiled softly in his sleep as he let his tears of happiness shed, because he found a family that loves him. He was finally home.

Author's Note

I want to apologize to everyone for being terribly late on this. Yesterday, I would have had it published, but the physical therapist and the home healthcare nurse that comes to see my grandma came yesterday, and I was distracted with working on strengthening her legs and other stuff.

Also, before I do the sequel, I was thinking about doing some short stories or a collection of short stories such as Toby's first Nightmare Night, his first Heart's Warming Eve, etc. What do you all think? If so, what should I name the short stories instead of Toby's First. I would like to thank Fireydude and Sky Hooves for giving me the idea of doing this short stories that I am planning on doing.

I would like to thank you all so much for your wonderful support, beautiful friendships I have made, and touching words. This has been an amazing journey and I am looking to continuing it with A New Home II when I get to it. :)

Life in Equestria: Holidays with Toby Is Up!

The first of my short story collection titled "Life in Equestria: Holidays with Toby" is up. I hope you all enjoy it as much as "A New Home", and thank you all so much always for your wonderful support.

Prologue (Re-written)

As night fell upon the small town of Ponyville, there was a calm silence that drifted along the cool breeze of the evening air. Princess Luna’s moon casted a warm glow over the land of Equestria and brought a feeling of peace to the ponies who were asleep within their homes, except for one. Inside the cottage atop of the hill which overlooks Ponyville, Fluttershy laid in her bed silently crying to herself.

She had her head buried within her forehooves and shook with light sobs, because she felt lonely without the presence of another in her home. No, she did not yearn for the company of a stallion as a mate, but what her heart desired was to have the chance to be the mother of a young foal.Although she had all of her animal friends to take care of, she truly wanted to have a family of her own, and to have a child to call her daughter or son.

Slowly, she lifted her head up with tears rolling down her cheeks as she gazed out of her window at the moon. It’s reflection glistened in her tear-filled eyes as she released a shuddering breath It feels so empty without a special little one to share my home with. As she allowed the last remaining tears to roll down her cheeks, she clasped her hooves together.

Oh precious and beautiful moon of Princess Luna, please grant the wish I wish tonight. I wish for one day to become the mother of a young colt or filly and to one day have a family to call my own. She closed her eyes and quietly kissed her hooves Thank you Princess Luna for the beauty in which you bestow upon Equestria with your moon during the night. After making her wish, she drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

In Canterlot City, Princess Luna stood outside on the balcony of Canterlot Castle and watched over the land with a warm smile on her face. She looked up at her moon with pride and admiration as she felt the wind caress her fur. Letting out a soft sigh, she was about to trot back into her bed chambers when her ears caught the sound of a pony’s wishes.

Oh, it seems like there is a pony whose heart is broken, because I can sense the sadness in the tone of her thoughts. I better concentrate so I can hear it a bit more clearly She calmly closed her eyes and focused on the sound of the mind, but soon she gasped Oh dear, that is the mind ad heart of my and Tia’s good friend, the Element of Kindness, Fluttershy. A frown slowly crept across the princess’ muzzle.

She could feel tears forming in her eyes as she heard the heartache of Fluttershy’s wish and slowly opened them. Gazing up at her moon one last time, she gave a firm nod to herself Don’t worry my dear friend, you shall be granted your wish in time. I promise I will…. wait, what’s that? Suddenly her ears twitched as she could hear yet the thoughts of another soul. However, she could sense that tone to this mind was also saddened, but also the mind of a young one.

Taking a few steps toward the rail of the balcony, she tilted her head to listen a little better Oh my, I can sense deep sadness in this young soul, but it isn’t a mind of Equestria’s it seems. It… sounds like it’s coming from a place that is unfamiliar to me. C’mon Luna concentrate She closed her eyes once more and listened in carefully.

Earth

A storm raged on in the night on the planet, as streaks of razor sharp lightning light up the night sky as it traveled along the starry canvas. Thunder rolled among the land, nearly shaking the ground with it’s tremendous power. In a small residential area, the people who lived there were all quietly sleep within their homes, but outside the community in a eery forest, there was a young child.

Scared and alone, the young boy decided to run away from the one person who was supposed to protect him, his father. He scavenged through the streets of the neighborhood, looking for any possible place to stay for the night, but he couldn’t. Unable to find safe shelter from the storm, the boy ran to the forest and found a small cave that was abandoned.

Now as he sat against the wall of the dark, damp cavern, he shook with sobs as rain poured down, striking the ground. He had his head buried in his lap as he hugged his legs close to his chest. The only clothing the child had on was a set of red wool pajamas and a light rain coat to keep him dry.

The child was only six years old, but he has endured experiences that even the toughest adult would break under. As the storm continued, the boy looked out from the mouth of the cave and up into the sky to see just a hint of the moon. He allowed his tears to escape and roll down his cheeks as he clasped his hands together.

Star Light Star bright,

The first star I see tonight,

I wish I may, I wish I might,

Have the wish I wish tonight.

I wish to leave this scary place and find me a new home to live where I can have a new family that will love me. I wish I could find someone that will love me and not be mean to me… like my daddy is.

He kissed his clasped hands and looked down to his chest. Around his neck hung a golden chain that held a heart-shaped pendant. The boy held the locket in the palm of his hand and carefully opened it Inside on the left side was the inscription To my precious baby boy, Toby and on the right was a picture of a blonde-haired woman with sky blue eyes, and she was holding an infant wrapped up with a light blue blanket.

He gently closed the locket back and placed his lips to it in a soft kiss I miss you so much Mommy, I love you. As time passed, the storm started to die down, but the boy felt so weak and tired after leaving his home that he laid himself down upon the ground of the cave, and cried himself to sleep.

While he slept, an orb of blue light appeared over his small form You poor, poor child, you indeed are a broken soul. Worry not little one, for I shall grant your wish, and you shall have the true, caring love in which you seek. Soon the young child’s body was enveloped in a gentle, calming blue aura, and slowly he started to fade away within the light.

Back in Equestria

Princess Luna appeared in the front of Fluttershy’s cottage and using her magic, she conjured a small woven basket. Inside the basket laid the young child, wrapped in a warm, soft white blanket. A warm smile crept across Luna’s face as the little boy slept and she leaned her head down to kiss at his cheek “Rest peacefully little one, for in the morning, you shall meet the one who shall take care of you.” She whispered softly into his ear as she stepped back from the basket and looked up at her moon.

I hope I'm doing the right thing in bringing this creature here. I just wonder what has happened in his life that caused his heart as young as he is to be truly broken.

Chapter Four: A Broken Heart (Re-Written)

As morning arrived in Equestria, Princess Celestia stood out on the balcony of Canterlot Castle, and watched as the sun ascended in the horizon, just beyond the Crystal Mountains. She took in a deep breath of fresh morning air as a smile crept across her muzzle Mm… what a beautiful morning it is today. As she took in the breathtaking sight, a knock sounded at the door of her bed chambers and she turned to trot back inside.

“Come in.” She used her magic to open the chambers’ doors when Princess Luna calmly trotted in. With a warm smile on her muzzle Celestia greeted her sister “Good morning Lulu, how are you my dear sister?” She sat down on her haunches in the center of her bed chambers and motioned for Luna to sit by her.

Luna nodded and trotted over as she sat down across from her older sister “I am doing good Tia.” She let out a heavy sigh “However, we do need to discuss something with you, if you aren’t too preoccupied.” She looked down at the floor and scuffed her slipper covered hoof against it lightly.

Celestia looked at her sister with a bit of worry in her eyes “Of course you can talk with me dear sister, but please tell me, what is the matter?” She reached across to place a hoof comfortingly on Luna’s shoulder.

As another sigh escaped her lips, Luna lifted to look into the eyes of her sister “Well Tia, two nights ago I…” She was soon cut off as a scroll suddenly appeared between the two. She let out a sigh of relief and gave a curious look “Hmm… that appears to be a letter from Twilight Sparkle Tia, but why do you think she would send one this early in the morning?”

Celestia shook her head softly “I couldn’t guess dear sister. However, this must have been written last night, and I am just receiving it now.” She tilted her head in curiosity “Let us find out what it says, shall we?” She gave a warm smile and unraveled the scroll.

Dear Princess Celestia,

This morning, my friend and the Element of Kindness, Fluttershy discovered an unusual creature on her doorstep, sleeping in a basket. His name is Toby, and I’ve come to read that he is part of a species called Homo-Sapiens or humans. He is only a young human, probably the age of a colt, if not younger, and he is very sweet and polite.

However, what I’ve read about his species has me deeply concerned for myself, my friends, and the entire land of Equestria. I read that these humans rely on the source of fruits and vegetables for food, but the worst part is that they also eat meat, fish, chicken, and pork. I don’t believe Toby is like other humans, but he is still just so young.

If it’s alright with you princess, I thought myself and the other Elements of Harmony could bring this young one to meet you and Princess Luna. The others are going to be staying the night here at the library and we will wait for your reply.

Sincerely your fellow princess,

Princess Twilight Sparkle

After she read the letter, Celestia rolled it back up, and levitated it over to her shelf where she kept her letters. Luna who watched on curiously spoke up “Is something wrong Tia? What did the letter say?” A look of concern formed on her face.

A light chuckle escaped Celestia’s lips “Oh dear Lulu, there is nothing wrong whatsoever. It appears that our fellow princess, Twilight Sparkle and her friends have discovered a new, foreign species to our land.” She cleared her throat “Guards!” She used her magic to open her chamber doors as two guard ponies entered.

“Yes your highness?” The two said simultaneously as they bowed their heads.

She gave a small bow of her head as well “Guards, go prepare a chariot and go down to Ponyville. I would like for you to bring Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends to the castle.” She gave one last bow of her head.

“Yes your highness!” The two guard ponies bowed their heads in return and turned to trot of Celestia’s bed chambers.

As Celestia turned she smiled warmly at her sister “As for us dear Lulu, we better prepare to welcome our fellow princess, her friends, and their special guest.” She chuckled as she trotted up beside Luna and nuzzled her cheek “Now what was it that you would like to discuss with me dear sister?” That warm smile still on her muzzle.

Luna blushed at the nuzzle from her older sister “Oh… nothing Tia.I am looking forward to meeting our friends again and this new arrival that Princess Twilight Sparkle speaks of in her letter.” She returned the smile.

“As am I Lulu.” She turned to trot out of her bed chambers “Come, let us go get ready for their arrival.” With a nod of agreement, Luna followed beside her older sister.

Ponyville - Golden Oaks Library

As sunlight trickled through the windows of the library, Twilight started to stir in her sleep. She blinked her eyes open as she let out a soft yawn Mm.. what a night. I slept like a newborn foal tucked in snug and comfortable in her crib. She looked outside her window to see the sun shining brightly in the clear, blue sky and a warm smile crept across her muzzle I’ll go see if the others are up yet so we can have some breakfast. She carefully climbed out of her bed and turned to see that Spike wasn’t sleeping in his basket as a soft giggle escaped her lips Well it looks like someone is already downstairs preparing breakfast for us all. She carefully trotted downstairs to see if her friends were awake.

Each of the girls were starting to wake from their slumber, but their new little friend, Toby remained asleep and curled up under the warm, soft wing of Fluttershy. When Twilight arrived downstairs she smiled warmly at her friends “Good morning everypony.” She watched as they slowly stood up, except for Fluttershy who kept the small boy tucked under her wing close to her side.

“Well for one, I slept marvelous darling.” Rarity let out a light chuckle and took a deep breath “Oh my, what is that wonderful aroma?”

Spike soon entered into the den of the library “Well m’lady, I prepared all of you a big breakfast. I also made the little guy something special which I am keeping warm.” The baby dragon gave a smile of confidence, but soon felt a rumbling in his stomach “BURP!” A small burst of green flame escaped his lips and a scroll suddenly appeared.

“Oh, Princess Celestia must’ve sent a reply!” Twilight beamed as she used her magic to levitate the scroll in front of her and unrolled it.

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

After reading over your letter, I’ve decided that it would be an honor to welcome not only you, and your fellow elements, but also the new arrival that you speak of. I will send a couple of my loyal guards down to Ponyville to accompany you and your friends to Canterlot. Luna and I will be waiting for your arrival.

Your fellow princess & friend,

Princess Celestia

“Alright girls, let us eat the wonderful breakfast that Spike prepared for us, wait for Toby to wake up so he enjoy his breakfast, and then we’ll get ready. A chariot with a couple of Princess Celestia’s guards should be here soon.” Twilight smiled warmly and thought "How about we eat outside on the balcony today? I think it’s a beautiful day to do so.”

“That sounds like a mighty fine idea sugarcube.” Applejack chuckled as she stood up along with the others. She then looked to see Fluttershy still laid down “Fluttershy, ya better wake the little feller up so he can eat with us.” She gave a warm smile.

Fluttershy turned to look down at the sleeping child “Um… I know Applejack… um.... but he looks so peaceful sleeping.” She carefully lifted her wing and leaned her head down to nuzzle at the top of his head “Um… Toby sweetheart, it’s time to wake up.” She lightly stroked at his side with her wing.

“We’ll go on ahead outside while you try to wake him up, okay Fluttershy?” Twilight looked at her friend and Fluttershy gave a simple nod and warm smile.

As he laid sleeping quietly under the pegasus’ wing, Toby was having a dream. “Hello, is anyone here?” He called out as he was surrounded by darkness and he started to tremble “Hello?” He called out again, this time with a whimper. Suddenly a small ball of light appeared in front of him “Hello? Is someone there?” He hesitantly took a step forward.

“Shh… calm yourself sweetheart, it’s me.” The sound emanating from the light was soft, tender, and it shrouded the child with a warm, comforting aura. However, as he listened to the sound, he gasped as he recognized the voice.

“Mommy?! Is that you?” A look of elation adorned his face as he looked ahead, but all there was, was the beacon of light.

“Yes my little angel, it’s me.” The light suddenly got closer and started to take on a physical form as it approached Toby. Within seconds, the light took on the form of a woman who knelt down in front of the boy and reached up to stroke at his hair “Oh Toby, my sweet baby boy, I miss you so much.” She gave him a warm smile and lowered her hand to tenderly caress his cheek.

Tears started to prick at his eyes as he looked into the beautiful, blue eyes of his mother “I miss you too Mommy!” He cried as he reached up to touch at her hand, but all he felt was air and soon the figure began to drift away “Mommy, what’s happening?” His lips quivered as he watched her slowly disappear.

“Shh.., please sweetheart, don’t be sad.” The woman felt tears form in her own eyes as she slowly stood up. She placed a warm, angelic hand on his back and pulled him to her abdomen in a hug “Mommy loves you Toby, and I’ll always be here with you.” She looked down at him with a maternal smile “I have to go now my angel, but I will always return when you need me.” She lifted her hand off his back as the rest of her drifted away like sand in the wind.

“Mommy, no wait! Mommy!” He cried out as his eyes shut open only to see the face of Fluttershy looking down at him with a warm smile, but that soon faded once she noticed him trembling under her wing, and saw tears rolling down his cheeks.

“Toby dear, what’s wrong?” Fluttershy stroked at his small form to try and calm him down “Um.. did you have a bad dream?” She leaned her head down and nuzzled his cheek, gently licking away the tears.

He sniffled “No, it wasn’t a bad dream, but it was bad at the end.” He started to calm his trembling as he felt her lick at his tears “I saw my mommy in my dream, but she disappeared.” He sniffled and snuggled closer to Fluttershy’s side.

The poor dear, I hope we can find out what’s bothering him when we go see the princesses. For right now, I’ll do my best to comfort him. She continued to tenderly caress at his side with a wing “Toby… um… are you hungry sweetheart? Spike made you a warm breakfast and we can eat outside on the balcony with the others.” She nuzzled at his cheek.

He calmed himself and looked up into her caring eyes “That sounds nice Fluttershy. I am a little hungry.” He let out a small yawn “What did Spike fix me for breakfast?” He looked at the pegasus curiously.

A light giggle escaped her lips as she lifted her wing and nuzzled at his cheek again “Well, that is a surprise. Let’s get up and go out to the balcony and see.” She carefully stood up as Toby done the same and stretched out his arms and legs. As she was about to trot ahead, she felt a gentle tug on her wing and looked down at the child “Is something wrong Toby?”

He bit his lip as he looked up at her “Fluttershy, I need to go use the bathroom.” He turned his head away shyly.

“Oh my… um… okay sweetheart. Just follow me.” She placed a wing over his back and carefully trotted with him up the staircase. Once they got to the bathroom door Fluttershy looked down at Toby tenderly “I’ll be right outside the door when you are done Toby, and we will go join the others for breakfast.”

He looked up at her and nodded “Okay Fluttershy.” He turned and entered the bathroom, shutting the door behind him.

Outside on the balcony, Twilight and the others were enjoying their breakfast while enjoying the beautiful morning. Rarity took in a deep breath of fresh air “Mm.. such a marvelous day it is to eat outside if I may say so myself. “ She let out a small laugh as she sipped at her mint tea that Spike brewed for her “I hope Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will like meeting our darling new little friend.” Her brows furrowed with a bit of worry.

“Ah’m sure they will sugarcube.” Applejack smirked proudly while she munched on her tomato and lettuce sandwich Spike made her “Besides he is a mighty fine little gentleman if Ah may say so. He is very respectful to others and that will go far with him meeting the princesses.” She tipped her hat as she chewed at her sandwich.

“I agree Applejack.” Twilight smiled warmly as she ate her fresh fruit salad “I do believe the princesses will like Toby, but then there is that worry of mine with him being a human, that they might… well, let’s not discuss that right now.” She waved her hoof with a heavy sigh.

Soon Fluttershy and Toby walked out onto the balcony with Toby walking beside the pegasus. He waved at the others “Good morning everyone.” He gave a soft smile as he tried to shake off the events from earlier.

“Good morning darling, did you sleep well last night?” Rarity gave him a warm smile as she had a pillow beside her “Come dear, I saved you a seat beside me and a seat for you Fluttershy to sit with him on the other side.” She patted the pillow with a hoof.

“Thank you Rarity and yes Ma’am, I slept good last night.” Toby returned the smile and carefully walked over to the white unicorn, and sat down beside her. As he saw the girls eating, he felt a small rumble in his own little tummy and a light blush formed on his cheeks “Oh, I’m sorry.” He then felt something soft on his back and looked up to see Fluttershy.

“No need to be sorry sweetheart, you are hungry and need something to eat.” The pegasus sat down beside him and nuzzled at his belly, causing the child to giggle.

“I think I might have a solution to that Fluttershy.” The group turned to see Spike coming out with a tray with three plates on it “This is for you Fluttershy, a fresh, crisp salad with lettuce, diced tomato, pecans, and cranberries.” He placed Fluttershy’s plate in front of her and turned to Toby “And for you little guy, I done some reading of what humans like to eat. I made two pancakes with some fresh syrup. I sliced an apple for you too so you can have your daily fruit and a glass of apple juice.” He placed Toby’s plate in front of him.

“What did you fix for yourself Spike?” Twilight gave a curious yet warm smile toward her assistant and friend.

“I got myself a bowl of mixed crystals and gems.” He chuckled and sat down beside Twilight.

She let out a chuckle of her own and ruffled the frills on top of his head. She then turned her attention to Toby “Toby, after we get done eating breakfast, we are going to go meet with the royal sisters of our home, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. How does that sound?” She gave a warm smile hoping that he won’t be timid about meeting a couple more princesses.

He swallowed a bite of food “I would like that Twilight.” He returned the smile and reached for his glass of apple juice to take a drink.

After a few minutes passed and they all finished their meals, the royal guards tasked in bringing them to Canterlot Castle arrived in front of the library. Twilight noticed them stop in front of the door “Alright girls, they’re here. Let’s get ready to leave.” She turned toward Spike “Would you like to come with us Spike?” She gave him a warm smile.

“Nah, I’ll be fine here Twilight. I will make sure it is spick and span when you get back.” He gave a wink, saluted the others and turned to go back into the library.

Fluttershy looked down at Toby as she stood up “Are you ready to go meet the princesses Toby?” She smiled warmly at him as he gave a simple nod. She placed a wing over his shoulders and walked along side him as they went downstairs.

As they trotted out of the library, the guards bowed their heads to Twilight “Princess Twilight Sparkle, we have been assigned to bring you and your fellow bearers of the Elements of Harmony to Canterlot Castle and meet with the royal sisters.” One guard spoke with a salute of his hoof.

“Please step carefully into the chariot and we shall be on our way.” The other guard saluted as well.

Twilight gave a bow of her own “Thank you sirs.” She trotted forward and stepped up onto the chariot, and took a seat at the front.

“Yippee! We’re going for a ride!” Pinkie giggled and hopped happily up into the chariot beside Twilight. She grabbed the reins which the guards used to pull the chariot “Mush!” She playfully lifted the reins and struck the flanks of the guards, earning a grunt from both.

“Meh… I’ll just fly alongside you two slowpokes. How about you two learn what real flying is about?” A sly smirk crept across the cyan pegasus’ muzzle as she shot up in the air.

Applejack rolled her eyes as she trotted up onto the chariot next and she turned to Rarity “Want to sit by me sugarcube?” She patted the seat beside her.

With a fluff of her mane, Rarity trotted up to the seat next to the country mare “Don’t mind if I do darling. Thank you kindly Applejack.” She turned to see Fluttershy and Toby exiting the library last “Dear, we saved the last two seats for you and Fluttershy.” She gave him a warm smile.

“Okay Rarity.” He stepped up onto the chariot and scooted toward the side. He looked around at the red satin interior and golden armored exterior “I never rode anything like this before.”

A soft, warm wing laid over his shoulders as Fluttershy sat down beside him and she looked down at him “Don’t worry sweetheart, the guards will go easy.” She kissed the top of his head He is such a precious child that I feel as if he could be my own. A warm smile crept across her muzzle as she couldn’t take her gaze off Toby.

Soon the guards trotted forward to gain a bit of speed, and then they flapped their wings to ascend in the air. They turned in midair to face the direction of Canterlot Castle and made their way to the high-class town.

Canterlot Castle

Soon the group arrived in front of the castle as the guard ponies slowly descended from the sky and came to a soft landing on the ground. One of them turned toward the group “Step carefully off the carriage and enter the castle. The royal sisters are awaiting your arrival in the throne room.” He gave a salute to them.

One by one, they exited the carriage and as soon as Toby stepped down, he looked up in awe at the large castle that stood before him. He looked up at Fluttershy standing beside him “Wow! This place is so big Fluttershy.” He gently wrapped an arm around her foreleg.

Her heart melted at the gesture as she laid a wing over his shoulders “Yes it is sweetheart, but don’t be scared, the princesses are very nice and will make sure you are safe here.” She kissed the top of his head “Are you ready to go meet them?” He looked up and responded with a simple nod and the group entered the castle.

As they traveled through the castle toward the throne room, Toby just looked in wonder at the beautiful décor of the palace. A smile crept across his face Mommy would love this place and the many pretty windows. He then saw that they were approaching a set of large doors where two guard ponies were standing on each side.

They opened the throne room doors “You may enter.” They said in unison and inside stood the two royal sisters at their respective throne.

A warm smile crept across each their muzzles “Welcome my little ponies!” Celestia spoke and bowed her head “It is great to see you all again. I hope the trip here was safe for you all.” She looked at the girls, but she couldn’t see the little human that Twilight spoke of in her letter.

“I too hope you all had a safe trip.” Princess Luna gave a bow of her head as well to the group “And as Tia said, it is a pleasure to see you all again.” She gave a light chuckle.

Twilight returned a bow of her own along with the others and smiled “Yes Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, the trip here was safe and relaxing may I say.” She let out a light chuckle as well.

“It was fun, fun, fun!” Pinkie exclaimed as she started to randomly do cartwheels around the group, earning a laugh from her friends and the princesses. She stopped and started to hop in place “I was like Santa Hooves as I got the guards to lead the carriage like his rein ponies.” She beamed from ear to ear.

Celestia giggled at the pink party pony’s giddiness, but looked curiously at the group, still searching for the little boy. She cleared her throat “So, where is our special guest at that you mentioned in your letter?” She gave a warm smile.

“Oh, he is right here Princess.” Twilight turned to point a hoof toward Toby, but didn’t see him. She arched her brows “Uh, where’s Toby Fluttershy?”

Fluttershy turned her head to looked down at her foreleg and lowered to the child “Toby dear, it’s okay, there isn’t anything to be afraid of.” She gave a reassuring and warm smile as she nuzzled his cheek.

With a gentle nod, Toby slowly stepped out from behind Fluttershy’s foreleg and took a step forward. He lifted his gaze from the tiled floor up to the two sisters and a nervous swallow traveled down his throat. He slowly knelt down on one knee and bowed his head “Hello your highnesses.”

Luna and Celestia looked at each other with expressions mixed with surprise yet they smiled at the young child. They slowly trotted forward, stopping a few feet away from him “It’s okay little one, there is no need to bow.” Celestia reached out one of her golden slippers out to lightly touch at his shoulder “You may rise my dear.” She smiled warmly down at him.

He lifted his head to look up at the sisters as he carefully stood up “Yes your highness.” He gave a small smile as he folded his hands in front of him.

So not to be intimidating to the boy standing at their full height, both royal sisters carefully laid down onto the smooth tiled floor. Twilight along with the others did the same to help make Toby feel more comfortable around the princesses. Celestia reached her hoof to him again and held his hands in it “Welcome to Equestria little one, I am Princess Celestia and this is my sister, Princess Luna.” She motioned her free hoof toward her sister.

“Hello dear, it is a pleasure to meet you.” Luna gave him a warm smile.

Celestia rubbed the back of his hands gently with her free hoof “Together we rule this land of friendship and harmony. I hope your stay here has been a pleasant and peaceful one so far little one.” She looked into his eyes “If a princess may ask, could you tell me your name dear?”

Toby couldn’t help but blush as the royal mare rubbed at his hands gently with her hoof. He returned her gaze “My name is Toby, Princess Celestia. It is nice to meet you and nice to meet you too Princess Luna.” He gave a soft smile to Luna who returned it.

“Well, that is a nice name for a handsome young boy like yourself. And as Luna said, indeed it is a great pleasure to meet you as well Toby.” She then gently touched his shoulder with her horn as did Luna. As her horn touched his shoulder, Celestia could feel something was off about the boy, like some internal pain. She carefully lifted her head and looked deep into his eyes again “Toby dear, is there something that is bothering you?”

A look of nervousness spread across the boy’s face, but he shook his head “No your highness, I’m okay. I promise.” He gave a reassuring smile.

There is something truly bothering this child I believe Celestia thought to herself as she gave a softened look to Toby “It’s okay Toby, if there is anything bothering you, you can tell us. There is nothing to be afraid of, we won’t judge you.” She leaned her head down to nuzzle at his hands.

Toby looked back at Fluttershy who gave him a sincere smile and nod of her head to let him know that it was okay to tell. He then turned back to look at Celestia “Well Princess Celestia, when I was five years old, I…” Suddenly he closed his eyes and took in a shuttering breath. He turned his head to the side as he felt tears form in his eyes “I can’t. I’m sorry your highness, but I can’t.” He sniffled and started to shake.

Without hesitation, Fluttershy quickly trotted up to him, wrapped a foreleg around his shoulders, and pulled him into a warm, comforting hug against her body “Shh... don’t cry sweetheart, I’ve got you.” She rubbed at his back soothingly with her foreleg and leaned her head down to nuzzle the top of his head.

The girls along with the two sisters frowned at the pain displayed by the young child. Celestia reached out to lightly stroke his back “Oh you poor child, I’m so sorry. Please dear, try to calm yourself.” She felt his shaking starting to settle down.

As he sniffled, Toby turned his head to look at the comforting smile of Celestia “I’m sorry your highness, it’s just hard to talk about.” He hugged at Fluttershy’s foreleg and looked up at her “I’m sorry Fluttershy and everyone.” He turned to look at the others who simply shook their hooves.

“No darling, there is no need to apologize. If you don’t feel like speaking about anything right now, we aren’t going to force you.” Rarity gave him a sincere, warm smile.

“That is right little one.” Luna cleared her throat “When you do feel like talking, we will be ready to listen, do you understand?” Toby replied with a simple nod as his crying and shaking settled down.

Celestia carefully stood up along with her sister and the others as she looked down at the boy “For now, how would you like to take a small tour of the castle?” She let out a soft laugh.

Toby looked up at the alicorn and nodded “I would like that Princess Celestia. I never been inside a castle before.” He then looked up and around the massive throne room “It’s very pretty in this room.”

“Well, thank you dear, my sister and I always try our best to keep it not only clean, but welcoming to all of our guests who come and visit.” Luna gave a warm smile as she motioned around the room with a hoof “This room is mine and Tia’s throne room where we usually meet with other ponies or other inhabitants from all over Equestria.” She looked toward Celestia who gave a nod.

“Come dear, we have a lot to show you.” Celestia trotted forward to lead the way as Luna was right behind her sister, and soon the girls followed behind. They soon arrived at a long hallway with well crafted and colored stained glass windows on each side “And this place Toby is known as the Hall of Elements.” Celestia smiled warmly down at the boy.

“Elements Princess Celestia?” Toby looked up at the princess with curiosity and turned to look at the windows.

She nodded “Yes dear, the Elements of Harmony. They not only bring all inhabitants, both great and small of Equestria together in happiness, but also protect this land from those who try to bring chaos and sadness to all of us.” Her gaze focused on one window which had the elements altogether “And these six ponies that you have met are the current Elements of Harmony.” She motioned toward Twilight and the others.

With a flutter of her brows, Rarity cleared her throat “That is correct darling, we each possess an element that help ensure the safety of Equestria and brings peace to all. For instance, I like to put the needs of my fellow ponies first before mine, so therefore I am the Element of Generosity.” She gave a gentle wink and a pat on his head.

“If ya ever lie sugarcube, Ah’ll know about it.” Applejack tipped her hat and looked at the child “Ah am the Element of Honesty, and Ah am always able to tell when ya are lying. So don’t ya ever lie, do ya understand?” She gave a stern yet soft smirk, but Toby replied with a simple nod. She chuckled “Don’t worry little fella, Ah won’t ever harm ya for telling a lie, but just maybe give ya a lecture.” She ruffled his hair a bit.

As quick as lightning, Rainbow Dash shot up in the air and spread out her wings “If you ever get in a bind or just need someone to talk to little dude, I’ll always be there.” She smirked and lowered herself back down “I’m the Element of Loyalty, and I’ll never desert my friends, especially in a time of need.” She gave a smirk of her own and ruffled Toby’s hair as well.

Suddenly Pinkie Pie started to randomly cut cartwheels again earning a laugh from her friends and Toby. She stopped in front of him “Laughing is the sound I like to hear little wittle Toby!” She ruffled his hair before lifting him up in the air “I’m the Element of Laughter and it is always my duty to make sure all the ponies in Equestria always have a smile on their face!” She placed him back on the floor and patted his head before hopping around.

Fluttershy let out a slight squeak giggle and turned to the boy “I’m the Element of Kindness Toby and I make sure to give the greatest care I can to all creatures of Equestria both big.” She then placed a wing over his shoulders and nuzzled his nose “And small.” She gave him a warm smile.

Twilight lit her horn up as she gently surrounded Toby with her warm, comforting purple aura. Carefully, she levitated him in the air “Don’t be scared Toby, it’s harmless, safe magic. I won’t let anything hurt you dear, because I am the Element of Magic.” She gave him a warm smile and levitated him over on her back “However, I always do my best to use good magic, but at times I have to face those who possess dark magic. Yet I know though with my fellow elements and friends I can defeat the forces of dark magic.” She looked back at him.

“And that my dear are the Elements of Harmony.” Princess Celestia smiled warmly at the child on Twilight’s back “Now let us go…”

“Hold up! What about the Element of Chaos?!” A voice echoed through the great hall as a look mixed with confusion yet shock washed over all the ponies’ faces.

“DISCORD?!” Everypony said in unison as they looked around for the owner of the voice.

Suddenly out of nowhere, the draconequus appeared before the group. He floated in midair, drinking out of a tall glass of chocolate milk, and laying back against a beach chair. He sported a pair of sunglasses, a sombrero atop of his head, an aloha shirt on his upper torso, and on his lower torso, he wore a pair of beige shorts.

“That’s my name!” A chuckle escaped his lips as he looked at the group “I was just spending a well rested vacation in Las Pegasus and I won pretty big!” With a snap of his talons, a pile of gold coins appeared in mid-air and fell to the tiled floor.

“Well, it is a pleasure to see you again old friend.” A slight chuckle escaped Celestia’s lips as she gave him a warm smile “I would like to meet a special guest of ours.” She looked toward Twilight who gave a warm smile and trotted forward with Toby on her back. Celestia placed a wing over the boy’s shoulders and looked at Discord “Discord, this fine young boy is Toby.” She then turned to Toby “Toby, this fine, yet what is the word, oh right, mischievous creature is Discord, also known as the Master of Chaos.” She motioned toward the draconequus with a hoof.

“That was a decent introduction Celly.” Discord chuckled and reached out his lion paw “It’s great to meet you little fella.” He gave Toby a wink.

Toby reached out to shake the lion paw “It is nice to meet you too Mr… Aah!” Suddenly the paw fell off as Toby shook it.

The girls gasped, but Discord simply chuckled “Haha… easy there little guy, it was only a prank.” With a snap of his talons, the lion paw vanished from the floor, and reappeared on his arm “See, all fine and dandy.”

Twilight shook her head “Now Discord, Toby is new here, and he isn’t familiar with jokes or pranks like that.” She sighed and looked back at Toby “Are you okay sweetheart?”

“Yes Twilight, I am.” He then let out a slight yawn.

“Oh, it seems like a little one is getting sleepy.” Fluttershy smiled warmly and trotted up beside Twilight “If you want to Toby, you can curl up on my back and I’ll cover you up with my mane.” She nuzzled at his cheek.

With a simple nod, he let out another yawn before crawling over onto Fluttershy’s back “Thank you Fluttershy.” He gave a soft smile as he laid down and curled up into a ball. He slowly closed his eyes and drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

Twilight lifted a hoof to brush Fluttershy’s mane and lay some of it over the child’s form “Sleep tight sweetheart.” She whispered and leaned to give a kiss atop of his head. After making sure he was sleeping peacefully, she looked at Celestia “Princess Celestia, what do you think is bothering him?” She returned her gaze at Toby with a look of concern on her face along with the others.

A heavy sigh escaped Celestia’s lips as she frowned at the sleeping child “To be quite honest Twilight, I don’t know.” She then looked at the girls “However, I can sense that whatever is bothering him, it is very traumatic, even for one as young as him to go through.” She trotted near Fluttershy and reached a hoof up to very lightly stroke at Toby’s sleeping form.

“The poor dear, I wish there was something we could do to cheer him up.” Rarity sighed heavily as she looked on sadly at the sleeping boy.

Without warning, beamed from ear to ear and shot straight up in the air “I GOT IT!” She said excitedly as her mane poofed out wildly.

“PINKIE!” The group gasped as they placed their hooves up to their lips.

“Oops, sowwy!” Pinkie giggled and blushed “I was thinking that we could throw the little wittle cutie wutie a fun-filled, cake-filled, cookie-filled, game-filled, music filled…”

“Are ya trying to say we should throw the little fella a party, sugarcube?” Applejack raised an eyebrow.

Pinkie nodded enthusiastically “Yeppy, yep, yep, but how did you know?” She looked at the country mare quizzically.

“Just a lucky guess.” Applejack chuckled and tipped her hat “That is a mighty fine idea indeed to throw him a party.” She smiled warmly as she looked Toby.

“Oh, that is an awesome idea!” A smirk crept across Rainbow’s muzzle as she hovered in the air “I can show the little guy my awe inspiring, eye popping, and breathtaking Sonic Rainboom!” She chuckled proudly “And I could also perform other tricks for him to enjoy.”

“Oh my, this is starting to sound like it will be such a wonderful event!” Rarity smiled brightly “I believe I will like to participate in preparing for this party by making the darling a new outfit.” She looked at the sleeping child and then at Fluttershy “Would you be okay with that dear?”

“Um.. of course Rarity. I think Toby would like that.” Fluttershy turned her head to look at him sleeping soundly on her back, covered by the warmness and softness of her mane. She turned to look at the others “Maybe I could try to get my birds to sing a song for Toby.” She smiled as a pink blush formed on her cheeks.

“Oh this is indeed a great planned party so far!” Twilight clapped her hooves together “Spike and I could send out invitations to the ponies of Ponyville and Canterlot.” She beamed and fluttered her wings.

“Well, my little ponies, I see that we have a party to prepare for. This is such a good idea Pinkie, that I believe this will make our young friend feel more welcomed here, and show him that we do care.” She looked at Toby with a semi smile “However my friends, I believe we should always show this child the best care we can provide, because at his age, he can learn the gift of friendship and grow to remain as our friend.” She sighed softly.

“Sister, is something wrong?” Luna looked at her sister with worry in her eyes.

Celestia calmly shook her head “No Lulu, but what I read of humans, some humans, it is horrific what they are capable of doing to creatures on their planet.” She frowned as she looked back at the sleeping boy “I just hope that this young one won’t grow to be like those humans, so it is very important for us to show him the gift of not only friendship, but the love he needs.” She leaned her head to nuzzle at his cheek.

“I agree Tia, this young one deserves a home and family.” Luna looked at Toby.

“Oh dear, if I knew that the little guy was sad, I wouldn’t have pulled that mean prank on him.” Discord frowned, but suddenly snapped his talons “You know what, I believe I will throw my name in the hat.” With another snap he made a top hat appear along with a slip of paper with his name written on it above it, and placed it inside “And I will do something special for this gathering.” He gave a pouty face toward Celestia “That is if I am invited.” He let out a small whimper.

Celestia chuckled and let out a sigh “Yes Discord, you can some.” She shook her head slightly as she looked at the girls again “Well, my little ponies, it looks like we have a lot to prepare for. I will get the guards to escort you back to Ponyville.” She smiled at all of them and bowed her head.

Luna done the same as she gave them all a smile as well “It was a pleasure meeting you again my friends and also the little one.” She looked at the sleeping child I will have to tell them that I found them soon. I believe I will let them all know when the party takes place.

“Thank you Princess Celestia and Princess Luna for allowing us to bring this young one with us to meet you.” Twilight bowed her head and smiled at Toby “We all will do our parts to ensure that Toby feels love and welcomed here in Equestria.”

The girls nodded in unison as they all bowed their heads to bid farewell and turned to trot out of the royal sisters’ throne room.

“Oh Tia, I can’t wait to have this celebration to welcome the young one to Equestria.” Luna smiled up at her sister “I just hope he won’t be too overwhelmed with all the guests that will be here and meeting new ponies.” She gave a reluctant smile.

“Worry not my sister, I believe we will have a successful and great time for our young guest.” She placed a hoof on Luna’s shoulder “Now let’s go discuss with the chefs to what they could prepare for the party.” Luna nodded in agreement as the two trotted out of the throne room toward the kitchen.

Outside, the girls were getting into the carriage one by one “Um.. Rarity… um.. Could you maybe levitate Toby in your magic until I can get seated in the carriage?” She turned head to smile warmly at Toby still sleeping peacefully on her back.

“Of course darling.” Rarity nodded as she surrounded the boy with a warm, light blue aura of magic and carefully levitated “He is simply adorable when he’s sleeping.” She gave a warm smile as she looked at him.

After Fluttershy got into the carriage, she sat down on her flank as Rarity carefully levitated Toby over to her. She reached with her forelegs to take Toby into them and held him in the crook of her left foreleg. She cradled him close to her chest and leaned down to kiss his forehead Such a precious little one you are Toby. Don’t you worry sweetheart, I promise my friends and I will make sure you are always loved and cared for as long as you live here in Equestria. A maternal smile crept across her muzzle as Rarity sat down beside her, and the guard ponies started to trot forward and head toward Ponyville.

Ponyville

After they returned to Ponyville, the girls bid each a goodnight and went to their respective homes.

Twilight entered the library “Spike! I’m home.” She called out as she heard the pitter patter of the baby dragon’s feet coming down the stairs. She smiled warmly as he reached the bottom “How did it go today at the library?” She then saw Owlowiscious fly down from up in her bedroom and settle down on his perch “Hello there to you too Owlowiscious.”

“Hoo!” Owlowiscious hooted and raised a talon to scratch behind his ear.

“Everything went fine Twilight.’ Spike crossed his arms proudly “I cleaned the library from bottom to top, re-shelved the books, but this time I placed them in alphabetical order. I also went out to get some extra quills and ink for your friendship letters.” He gave a confident smile.

Twilight chuckled and wrapped a foreleg around her assistant, pulling him into a hug “That is why you are my number one assistant Spike.” She nuzzled his cheek.

After they broke the hug, he looked up at Twilight “How did things go in Canterlot? Did Princess Luna and Princess Celestia like Toby?” A hopeful smile crept across his face.

“Yes they did!” She beamed “And while we were there, we decided that we could throw a party for Toby to welcome him to Equestria.” She clapped her hooves together and fluttered her wings with excitement.

“Oh, that sounds like a great idea Twilight!” Spike beamed “Is there anything I can do to pitch in to help with?” He clapped his claws together.

Twilight reached up to ruffle his head frills “Of course you can silly. I thought we could each send out invitations to the ponies of Ponyville to come to the party.” She smiled brightly.

“Oh, that sounds like an awesome idea Twilight!” He clapped his claws again “I will get started right away!” He turned to run upstairs, but was caught in the purple aura of Twilight’s magic “Hey Twi, what are you doing?” He looked at her with confusion etched on his face.

“Well Spike, I was thinking we could maybe get some hot chocolate to drink while write them. How does that sound?” She levitated him over and placed him onto her back. She turned to Owlowiscious “Would you like to help as well Owlowiscious?”

“Hoo!” The owl flapped his wings and he hovered over to the duo.

“Hot chocolate sounds delicious Twilight.’ Spike chuckled as he held gently onto her mane as the trio headed toward the kitchen.

Sweet Apple Acres

“Apples, Ah’m home!” Applejack trotted into her house as she looked around for the rest of her family. Soon she heard the barking of her pet dog, Winona as the canine came running into the living room, and jumped happily “Well howdy there Winona! How have ya been today?” Applejack ruffled the dog’s head fur.

“Sis!” Appleboom beamed as she saw her older sister and galloped up to her, reaching up to hug at her neck “Did ya bring me anything from Canterlot?”

“Sorry Applebloom, but nah Ah didn’t.” She returned the hug and patted Applebloom on the back as she looked around “Where are Big Mac and Granny Smith at sugarcube?” She looked at her sister curiously as they broke they hug.

She motioned toward the kitchen with a foreleg “Big Mac is cleaning up the dishes while Granny is eating a slice of pie before she goes to bed.” She chuckled “We saved you a salad and piece of pie as well sis.” She kept that beaming smile on her muzzle.

“Yup!” Suddenly Big Mac entered the living room with a nod of his head “Ah’ve just got done washing the dishes and now Ah’m going to bed.” He nodded his head one more time and trotted toward the stairs.

“Well, ya have a good night big brother, but tomorrow, we have a lot of work to do.” She let out a yawn “Granny, are ya coming to bed?” She called out to the elder.

“Nyah… hold your horse shoes youngin” Granny Smith into the living room “Now what ya talking about Applejack that we have a lot of work to do? Don’t we always?” She raised a brow questioningly.

“Yah, ya are right Granny, but tomorrow is something special.” She chuckled and waved for the rest of her family up the stairs “Ah will tell ya’ll in the morning, but right now let us get some shut eye.” She smiled as she followed behind the group up the stairs to their respective bedrooms.

Carousel Boutique

“Ahh.. what a day today was.” She let out a heavy sigh as she looked around “Oh Opalescence, my precious darling, Mommy’s home!” She called out to her cat as the feline lazily padded out of the kitchen chewing up some cat food.

Rarity smiled and trotted over to her, and petted her from the top of her head to her tail “Oh Opal dear, I have the greatest news! The girls, myself, and the princesses are going to throw a wonderful celebration for our new friend we’ve met today.” She clapped her hooves happily while Opalescence simply purred at the petting and rolled her eyes.

Rarity shook her head as she watched the cat react unenthusiastically at the news “Oh Opal, why aren’t you excited about such an occasion?!” She gave a frown, but Opalescence let out a big yawn and padded over to a red satin pillow in the middle of the living room. Rarity trotted over to her and leaned her head down to give the cat a kiss on the cheek “Goodnight my sweet Opal. Mommy’s got some work to do upstairs.” She stroked along her side one more time before turning to head upstairs.

As she reached the top of the stairs, she trotted into her washroom to see Toby’s old clothes still on the floor Oh dear, I forgot to get these and take them down to the laundry room to get washed. No matter, I will get them nice and cleaned for the little one to wear again. She levitated the pile of clothes with her magic and suddenly something fell out of them, and onto the floor. Rarity gasped a little What is that?

She kept the clothes in her magic as she trotted over to the fallen object and peered down at it with curiosity. As she examined it, it appeared to be golden heart-shaped locket with a long gold chain Hmm… this is a pretty little gem and it looks like it can be opened. She picked it up with her hooves and carefully opened it. Inside on the left was a picture of a blonde-haired woman holding a baby, cradled in her arms as she looked down at him lovingly. On the right side was the inscription “To my precious baby boy, Mommy loves you forever and always.”

Rarity gasped and placed a hoof against her lips. She felt tears start to prick at her eyes Oh dear, she must be the little darling’s mother.She brought the locked to her chest and closed her eyes to allow a single tear to roll down her cheek. She sniffled, but suddenly a warm smile crept across her muzzle Oh, I know exactly how I can incorporate this into Toby’s new outfit. I believe he will absolutely love it! First, I just got to get these old clothes washed and then I can start on my newest creation. She beamed with glee and exited the washroom to trot downstairs to the laundry room.

Sugarcube Corner

Pinkie was upstairs getting dressed in her pajamas as Gummy, her pet baby alligator watched from atop of a stool and blinked his big, bulging purple eyes. Pinkie fluffed her mane with a beaming smile across her muzzle “Oh Gummy Wummy, tomorrow is going to be funny, fun, fun!” She giggled as she turned and hopped toward the alligator. She scooped him up from underneath his front legs “Tomorrow I’m going to get started on making the biggest, sweetest, tastiest, bestest, and most scrumptious cake I ever made!” She twirled around excitedly while Gummy simply blinked.

After dancing around the room with her companion for a while, Pinkie let out an exaggerated yawn and suddenly plopped herself down on her bed with Gummy on her chest. She stroked the alligator with a hoof “For now, let us go to bed Gummy Wummy!” She kissed his forehead and the two fell asleep as Pinkie started to snore loudly.

Cloudsdale

Outside of her cloud home, Rainbow Dash was performing some of her tricks such as mid-air front flips, backflips, and figure eights. Her pet tortoise, Tank was hovering in the air with her with a tiredly, yet soft smile on his face. Rainbow stopped in front of him “Well Tank buddy, what did you think of those? I’m going to give Toby a show that he will never forget!” She smirked proudly and cut another backflip.

“However, these simple tricks won’t compare to my Sonic Rainboom I plan on showing the little guy!” She chuckled and continued to warm up for her performance “C’mon Tank, let’s have some fun before we go in for the night!” She smiled at her friend and he slowly nodded as he followed beside her.

Fluttershy’s Cottage

After they returned home, Fluttershy entered the cottage as quietly as she could so not to disturb Toby as he continued to sleep peacefully underneath her mane. She discovered that all of her animal friends were all soundly asleep except for Angel Bunny who came hopping in from the kitchen and saluted with a paw. She smiled warmly down at her pet bunny “Hello my precious little angel.” She petted him between his ears.

“Did you and all the others have a good day today while we were gone?” She leaned her head down to nuzzle his cheek. Angel simply chittered and nodded “That’s Mommy’s boy.” She giggled “Now you go on to bed Angel Bunny while I go tuck Toby into bed.” Angel gave another nod and saluted with a paw, and hopped out of the home.

After she watched him hop outside to his bed, Fluttershy turned around to trot upstairs to her bedroom. As she reached the top, she trotted over to her bed and turned to look at the sleeping child. She very carefully took the collar of his hoodie in her teeth and as gently as she could, she lifted him off her back. She laid him carefully on the bed and pulled the covers over him, and tucked him in comfortably.

She carefully climbed up on the bed and laid down beside him as she place a wing over him. She leaned her head down to kiss his temple “Goodnight Toby. I promise my friends and I are going to give you what you deserve, a caring family, friends, and most importantly a loving home.” She quietly whispered as she gently laid her head over his and kept him warm.

Maybe my wish the other night came true. Maybe this precious little one showed up at my door for me to take care of him. However, I just hope we can find out what truly happened to him. She sighed softly and slowly closed her eyes as she drifted off into a peaceful sleep next to Toby.

Author's Note

Finally I am done re-writing this chapter! I want to apologize though for taking so long in getting it published. I hope you all enjoy it better than the original version.

Chapter Nineteen: An Honorary Crusader (Edited)

Celestia's sun was shining brightly against the sky blue canvas as Scootaloo, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Toby arrived at the Ponyville schoolhouse. Scootaloo pulled her scooter, and the wagon behind the same tree as the day before. Applebloom climbed out of the wagon, and turned around to offer Toby a foreleg, so he can climb out safely. Sweetie Belle climbed out last, and the four made their way onto the pathway to go inside the schoolhouse.

As they were walking along the path Diamond Tiara, along with Silver Spoon, came trotting up behind the group a couple feet away. She leaned her head closer to Silver, and said quietly. "Watch this Silver."

Silver looked up ahead at the group, and then back at her friend with a confused look. "Diamond what are you.." Before she could finish asking, Diamond galloped up to the group, and pushed through Applebloom, and Toby who was on the end. Causing him to fall to the ground.

"Hey, what's the big idea Diamond Tiara?" Applebloom asked as she kept her balance, and trotted over to Toby offering him a forehoof. "Are you ah'right Toby?" As she helped him stand up, and dusted the dirt off his clothes.

"Y-yes, I-I am okay Applebloom, thank you." He said softly as he looked up at her smiling. He bent down to get his lunch.

"Aww..ain't that a precious picture, bluh. Maybe next time runt, you should watch out where you are going." Diamond Tiara said with a snarky tone as she flicked her mane and trotted inside the schoolhouse.

Silver Spoon gasped at her friend's actions, and carefully trotted up to the four. "Toby, are you okay?" She gently reached a forehoof, and rubbed at his shoulder very gently.

He smiled up at her softly and nodded. "Y-yes Silver Spoon, thank you."

"I thought you were going to talk to her about being mean Toby, and us, Silver Spoon." Scootaloo spoke up a little bit annoyed.

"I tried to, but she was just so mad about not being in the talent show that she just ignored me." She lowered her head with a frown.

Sweetie Belle looked at her, and gently patted her on her back. "Hey now. It's okay Silver Spoon. You tried your best." She gave Silver Spoon a reassuring smile.

Toby looked up, and nodded. "Y-yes Silver Spoon, don't be upset. I-I asked Ms. Cheerilee if she could put Diamond Tiara back in the talent show tomorrow." The fillies gasped and looked down at the little colt shocked.

"Come on kids, it's almost time to start class." Ms. Cheerilee came out to greet the group.

"Yes Ms. Cheerilee." They all said in unison as they entered into the building.

Toby stopped and looked up at Ms. Cheerilee before going in. "M-Ms. Cheerilee, is it too late to participate in the talent show tomorrow?" He asked with a soft and hopeful smile.

Ms. Cheerilee smiled warmly down at him, and shook her head gently. "Of course not dear. What would you like to do?" She asked kindly.

"I-I want to play the piano Ms. Cheerilee."

She smiled brightly. "Well, that is a wonderful idea Toby. I will arrange to get a piano for tomorrow then. Now go on inside, so we can start class." He nodded up at her and walked inside.

Toby sat down at the desk on the far right side, between Sweetie Belle in the front, Applebloom in the back, and Scootaloo on his left side. They each gave him a warm smile, but still was stunned to hear that he wanted Ms. Cheerilee to let Diamond Tiara back into the talent show.

Ms. Cheerilee trotted into the classroom, and stood behind her desk. "Alright class, today we are going to be preparing for the talent show tomorrow evening." She pulled out a clipboard with what appeared to be a piece of paper which was a checklist. "First, Sweetie Belle. Do you think you could go, and ask your sister if she could make a few costumes? I have a checklist here of the costumes, and which pony will be wearing them." She looked at Sweetie Belle.

"Of course Ms. Cheerilee. I am sure Rarity will be glad to create costumes for us. She is the best fashionista in Equestria, and she always love designing something new." She smiled brightly, and got up from her desk to trot up to Ms. Cheerilee. "I can go ask her now if you would like for me to Ms. Cheerilee."

"That would be wonderful dear, thank you. Here is the checklist." She handed Sweetie Belle the clipboard as Sweetie Belle turned toward her friends, and waved a forehoof as she galloped happily out of the schoolhouse toward the Carousel Boutique.

"Next, Scootaloo I would like for you to work with Snips, and Snails to get the stage set. Get the curtains set up, and also the stage lights." She looked at the three with a smile, and nod.

Scootaloo placed a forehoof up in a salute. "You got it Ms. Cheerilee. Snips, Snails, you guys ready?"

Snips spoke up first with a moderate pitched voice. "Yea, you bet Scoots. What do you say Snails, you want to make the stage look cool?" The pale blue unicorn colt with orange mane, buck teeth, and with a pair of scissors as his cute mark on his flank looked toward his best friend.

Snails replied. "Duu..sure thing Snips." Speaking with a low goofy accent, and the taller of the two. Snails has an amber coat of fur, moderate turqoise mane, and tail, black eyes that are slightly bigger than Snips, and on his flank he has the cutie mark of a snail. He as well was a unicorn colt.

The filly, and two colts got up from their desks to go outside to get to work. Scootaloo patted Toby's shoulder gently, and waved at him, and Applebloom as she left with the other two.

Ms. Cheerilee looked at Applebloom, and Toby next. "Now, Toby, and Applebloom, I would like for you two to pass out these flyers to all the residents of Ponyville." She pulled a stack of papers tied with a string in a bow to keep them all together.

Applebloom smiled over at Toby, and then looked at Ms. Cheerilee with a nod. "Ya got it Ms. Cheerilee, we won't let you down." She smiled, and got up from her desk as Toby did the same.

Toby walked up to the desk, and stretched out his arms for Ms. Cheerilee to put the flyers in them. "I-It's okay Ms. Cheerilee, I will be careful with them."

She carefully picked them up by the string with her teeth, and very gently placed them in the child's awaiting arms. "Here you go dears." She smiled warmly at the two as they walked outside.

"Alright, the rest of you, I would like for you all to go out to the playground, and make sure there isn't anything laying around." She smiled at the rest of the remaining colts, and fillies.

"Yes Ms. Cheerilee." They all said in unison as they trotted out one by one.

Ms. Cheerilee spotted Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon. "Oh, Diamond Tiara, could you come see me for a minute, please? Silver Spoon you can go outside if you would like." Silver Spoon nodded, and smiled a little at her friend before trotting outside.

"Yes Ms. Cheerilee?" Diamond Tiara asked with a curious look on her face as she looked up at the older mare.

"Diamond Tiara, I am very disappointed in you of how you treated Toby on his first day of school. You still have detention for a whole week, but I have decided to let you perfom in the talent show." She looked at the filly with a soft smile.

Diamond Tiara smiled brightly. "Oh, thank you, thank you Ms. Cheerilee. I can't wait for all of Ponyville to see my fabulousness." She exclaimed happily.

"You are welcome dear. Now go on outside to help the others get the playground clean." Diamond Tiara nodded, and trotted outside.

Before Toby, and Applebloom was ready to set out toward the town, Toby saw Silver Spoon. He turned, and looked up at Applebloom. "A-Applebloom, can I tell Silver Spoon something real quick?" He asked with a soft smile.

"Of course Toby, Ah' don't mind. Ah'll be waiting right here, ah'right?" She smiled warmly at him. He nodded, and carefully walked over to Silver Spoon.

"S-Silver Spoon?" He asked softly.

She turned around after facing the door waiting for Diamond Tiara to come out. She smiled down at the little colt. "Yes Toby?" She sat down on her haunches.

He looked up at her with pleading eyes. "P-please don't tell Diamond Tiara that I asked Ms. Cheerilee to let her back into the talent show. I-I just didn't want her to be mad at me for causing her to lose her spot in the talent show." He lowered his head solemnly.

She frowned at him and lifted a forehoof to very gently rub at his shoulder. "That was very sweet of you Toby to do that." She lowered head to try and look into his eyes. "Hey sweetie pie, look at me, please?"

He swallowed deeply, and raised his head to look up into her eyes.

"There, that's better." She gave him a warm smile. "I won't tell her, I promise." She gently reached her forehoof up to caringly stroke at the top of his head. "You know Toby, you have a big, and caring heart. Don't you ever feel bad about the kindness that you show, okay little guy?"

He smiled up softly, and nodded. "Th-thank you Silver Spoon." He waved at her as he turned to go back to go join Applebloom.

Silver Spoon smiled, and waved back at him. "He is such a sweet little thing. I just wish Diamond could see that." She thought to herself, she frowned as she waited for Diamond Tiara to come out.

Toby, and Applebloom were walking toward the town of Ponyville when he looked over at her while carrying the flyers. "A-Applebloom, you, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle aren't mad at me for asking Ms. Cheerilee to let Diamond Tiara back in the talent show, are you?"

She turned her head toward him, and gave him a soft smile. "Nah, of course not Toby. Yah, we are a bit shocked, but ya are a sweet little colt that we understand. Ya have a big heart Toby, and just maybe Diamond Tiara will see that, and change her tune." She smiled, and made a soft smirk. She trailed behind Toby some.

"M-maybe you are right Applebloom." He smiled to himself, and looked to see Applebloom was no longer beside him. "A-Applebloom where did you..wh-whoa." Applebloom carefully came up from behind Toby, and gently lifted him up onto her back.

"Haha..there ya go Toby, now ya don't have to walk all the way through Ponyville." She smiled happily as Toby sat carefully on her back, while still holding the stack of flyers.

"A-are you sure you don't mind me riding on your back though Applebloom? I-I am not too heavy am I?"

"Nah, you are light as you are small. Besides, we earth ponies are strong." She smiled to herself as they arrived in town.

*Back at the schoolhouse*

All the colts and fillies returned after completing their assigned tasks. Applebloom came trotting in with Toby riding on her back as she stopped by his desk to let him get off. He smiled up at her softly. "Th-thank you Applebloom."

She reached a forehoof up, and rubbed at the top of his head. "Don't mention it buddy." She smiled warmly at him as she trotted over to her desk. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo smiled at the two as they were seated at their desks.

"Alright class, I would like to thank you all for helping prepare for the talent show. You all have worked very hard, and I am very proud of all of you." She smiled happily at her class.

The last school bell rang for the day. "Remember everypony, the talent show starts at eight o' clock, but be here by seven to rehearse your acts. Have a good day, and I will see you all tomorrow evening." She smiled at her class as they all got up from their desks, and started to trot out, one by one.

Toby got up from his desk, and followed the CMC. "Bye Ms. Cheerilee." The three fillies said in unison.

Toby smiled up at her. "B-bye Ms. Cheerilee."

"Bye Toby, bye girls. Have a good day." She waved them off with a forehoof as they trotted over to the tree where Scootaloo left her scooter.

While Scootaloo was pulling the wagon with the other three riding, Applebloom looked at Toby. "Heya Toby, we have a surprise for ya, but ya have to close your eyes ah'right?" He nodded, and closed his eyes.

So he wouldn't feel scared Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle gently placed a forehoof on each of his shoulders. Sweetie Belle smiled at the little colt, and leaned her head towards his, and whispered softly. "Don't worry Toby, you will see what your surprise is soon."

Toby gave a small smile a little nervous of what the surprise was, but remained calm.

After several minutes, Scootaloo pulled up to the CMC clubhouse. "Okay buddy, keep your eyes closed." She told Toby. Applebloom climbed out of the wagon. Sweetie Belle gently placed her other forehoof on Toby's other shoulder to safely guide him towards Applebloom, who was standing sideways next to the wagon.

"Ah'right Toby, you can just climb onto my back." She said softly to the child as Sweetie Belle helped him onto her back, then climbed out of the wagon next.

Scootaloo lead the way, while Applebloom followed behind her carefully trotting up the ramp, so not to scare Toby. Sweetie Belle followed last as she smiled brightly at the little colt riding on Applebloom's back. Scootaloo opened the door to the clubhouse, and the other two trotted in.

"Okay buddy, you can open your eyes." Scootaloo said with a smile.

Toby opened his eyes, and saw he was in small room made out of planks of plywood There was a small assortment of furniture such as a table, and a few chairs. There was a few posters on the wall with one that appeared to be a diagram of the buildings in Ponyville. "O-oh, cool. Wh-what is this place?" He asked curiously with a look of wonder, and a soft smile.

"Toby, we welcome ya to the Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse." Applebloom smiled as she lowered herself a bit to let Toby climb off. "This is where we figure out ideas of how to earn our cutie marks, but also have fun."

Sweetie Belle giggled with a bright smile. "Oh, hehe..I almost forgot. Toby, we have one more surprise for you. Do you mind closing your eyes one more time?" He nodded, and closed his eyes.

Scootaloo trotted over a ladder that led to the upstairs section of the clubhouse. She carefully ascended the ladder. After a couple of minutes she came back down carrying a folded up piece of cloth on her back.

"Alright kid, open your eyes." She said with excitement.

Toby opened his eyes to see Scootaloo standing sideways in front of him with something on her back. "Wh-what is that?"

Applebloom smiled, and reached for the cloth, and unfolded it to reveal a cape that was a deep red in color on the outside, with gold silk on the inside, and on the outside was a blue shield with a yellow silhouette of a filly standing on it's hindlegs kicking it's forelegs in the air with a cape on it's back.

"We like to call this the official uniform of the Cutie Mark Crusaders." Applebloom smiled warmly at the little colt and handed the cape to Sweetie Belle. "We would like to make you an honorary member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders Toby."

The two smiled, and nodded in unison. Toby looked at each of the three fillies with a soft smile. "T-Thank you you three. I-I would like to be apart of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, but are you sure it's okay if I am not a pony?"

Scootaloo giggled, and reached up with a forehoof to rub at his head. "Of course buddy. You don't have to be a pony to be a part of our group. You are our friend, and it would be cool to have you come along with us on our adventures."

"Yah. Besides mah' cuz Babs Seed is a member as well. Maybe ya will get to meet her when we have our Apple Family Reunion in a couple months. Ah' am sure she will like ya just we all do." Applebloom smiled, and patted him on the back gently.

"Having such a little cutie like you in our group will be so much fun." Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she gave him a friendly nuzzle on the cheek. Toby blushed slightly in reaction. Sweetie Belle helped tie the cape gently around Toby's neck as it smoothly fell over his back.

Suddenly the ring of a bell could be heard. "Well, that means it is time to eat Toby, would ya like to join us? Ah' am sure Applejack and Granny Smith made plenty to eat. Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle are going to eat as well."

"O-okay, that sounds good." He said softly.

"Awesome. First, we have to put our hooves together to make this official." She looked at the other two fillies with a soft smirk. "Ready girls?"

They nodded, and placed their three hooves together leaving space for Toby. Toby smiled softly and placed his hand in the group of hooves.

"Toby you are now officially a member of THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" The three said in unison, and all four lifted their hooves and hand in the air.

Applebloom smiled brightly, and carefully lifted Toby up onto her back. "Let's go get something to eat, shall we?" With that the four exited the clubhouse, and started toward the Apple Family home to enjoy dinner with their friend, and new Cutie Mark Crusader.

Author's Note

Well, there we go. Toby's big surpirse is officially being inducted into the Cutie Mark Crusaders and being gifted with the Cutie Mark Crusaders cape. Next chapter,I promise is going to be good. I have decided on the song for Toby to play on the piano in the talent show will be "This Broken Soul" from The Legend of Spyro - The Eternal Night.

I wanted to thank you all again for your support, comments, and help as always. I truly appreciate it. Oh, and whenever I get to the final few chapters, I just want to say if you thought James was terrible before, what I am thinking of right now of how I want to do the last few chapters, you haven't seen anything yet.

THERE WILL BE A SEQUEL! :)

I am going to try and put the finishing touches on my final chapter today, but I wanted to take this chance to let all you, my wonderful readers that there indeed will be a sequel. :)

I have decided to let it be about one year later when Toby turns seven. Also, I plan to involve either one or two villains into it, I don't know yet, but I am certain there will be one villain in it. I am going to continue with the last chapter of "A New Home" today.

Thank you all so much again for your wonderful support and friendships. I have loved every step of writing this story, and I am glad to continue it. :)