I woke the next morning with a smile. Dust was up and was entranced by the snow falling from the window outside. I got out of bed and walked over to Dust and stroked his wings.

"I think it may be too cold for you to go outside and grab some food this morning," I said looking at the thick blanket of snow that covered the ground.

Dust just nodded in understanding before he flew onto my shoulder, I stroked under his head before I continued,

"Why don't you go ask Twilight or Spike for some breakfast and I'll join you in a second," I said.

Dust nodded before I walked over to the door and opened it. Dust then flew off my arm and down the steps, I closed the door and went to get dressed.

I walked out of my room wearing an aqua coloured long sleeve T-shirt and a crimson jacket. I walked into the library and I saw a note next to the horse figurehead in the centre of the room with my name on it. I walked over to the note and picked it up before I began to read.

Dear Ash

I figured out a suitable punishment for you after the prank you pulled yesterday. Also, somehow our friends got ahold of copies of the video you and Luna made and came in today unable to control their laughter. So you’re going to clean up the entire house by yourself while Spike and I are out. A list should be prepared for you in the kitchen, so if you could get on it as soon as possible that would be appreciated.
See you later.

Twilight.
P.S. Dust is with us too.

I let out a laugh at the events that occurred yesterday. I remembered that Luna not only sent a copy of the video to her family, but to my friends and the mane 6. I was just able to stop myself from falling to the ground laughing before I left for the kitchen. I walked inside to see the kitchen had half of the dishes that were in the house covered in muck ready to be washed.

"Guess Twilight was seriously ticked and wants to make my punishment worse than I thought I thought to myself.

I made myself a bowl of cereal first and then looked at the list of chores to do and to my surprise, the list reached my feet. "Man I feel sorry for you Spike," I said out loud and I rolled up the list and went to the cleaning closet and found the cleaning supplies. "Let’s do this,” I said in a determined tone.

An hour later I was about to start on the dishes. I decided to play a song to help the work go faster, once I found a song I hit play.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_X-dLTjXAk

I sang along with the song without missing a beat and bobbed my head in time to the rhythm. When the song ended I ticked off the last thing that was needed for the list.

"Hi Ash."

I looked at the doorway to the kitchen to see both Twilight and Spike. Each one wore heavy clothing which matched their fur or scales and had a few bags in their arms.

"Hey you two, I didn't hear you come in. And you had better of made sure no snow was on you when you walked in here," I said with a growl.

"Not to worry Ash, there isn’t even a snowflake," Spike said.

"Good, it took me half an hour to clean that room and re organise the shelves in there," I said.

"Wait, HALF an hour," Spike said in a surprised tone.

"Yeah," I said.

"It takes me at least two to do that," Spike replied.

Well took me an hour to clean the house," I said surprising Twilight. Spike slumped to the ground looking deflated.

"Now I think you’re just showing off," Spike said in a slightly annoyed tone.

"Hey Spike, this was my punishment for the prank yesterday so don't think I'm trying to get your job," I said punching Spikes shoulder.

"Oh Ash, I got this for you from Rarity," Twilight said as she pulled a blue heavy winter coat out of the bags.

"Gee Twi thanks, but you shouldn't have," I said.

"You were going to need it anyway," Twilight said tossing the jacket over to me.

I placed my blue winter jacket over my crimson one and slipped my wings through the wing slits on my back, just like every piece of clothing that covered my torso.

"It's a perfect fit, like always," I said.

"Why don't you go and enjoy the snow outside? Oh you’ve done well and we need to leave for Canterlot later," Twilight said.

"What for?" I asked.

"For the Hearts Warming Eve play Twilight and the others are going to be playing roles in it," Spike said.

"Hearts Warming?" I asked.

"Oh that's right I forgot to tell you. Well, its one day a year where our family's gather around the Hearts Warming fire and spend time with each other. We tell stories and sing songs; it's basically a day of the year where everypony spends time with each other. And this time our friends and their families are going to spend Hearts Warming Eve up in Canterlot. And the girls, Spike and I will play a role in the play," Twilight explained.

"Sounds like Christmas," I said.

"Christmas?" Twilight asked.

"Human version of Hearts Warming Eve," I replied.

"Cool but ya know you forgot to mention the most important thing Twi," Spike said.

"What's that Spike?" Twilight asked.

"We get presents," Spike exclaimed.

"Oh Spike," Twilight said as she rolled her eyes.

"Presents? Oh shit, I didn't know we were supposed to get gifts," I said as I started to panic.

"Ash calm down," Twilight said grabbing my arm.

"How can I Twi? I have to go out and get a gift for you guys," I said.

"First off Ash, most of the stores would be closed; there is no way you would be able to get any presents for everyone now. Also you've already done so much for us. It's our turn to repay you, even the princesses agreed to this. So it's kinda the reason why none of us told you earlier," Twilight said with an embarrassed smile.

"Wait, you didn't tell me on purpose," I said dumbstruck.

"Uh kinda," Twilight said with a sheepish grin.

I didn't know what to say exactly one part of me felt relief but the other felt like I had been stabbed in the back.

"I see," I said calmly.

"You’re not angry?" Twilight asked.

"A little upset I will admit, but angry no," I replied.

"Ok so what now?" Twilight asked.

"I'll probably pass the time with a walk through Ponyville," I said.

"Alright see you later then," Twilight said.

I walked outside and I saw all kinds of Christmas or in this case Hearts Warming decorations hanging from homes and over streets. Children were building snow ponies and playing in the snow. I walked around Ponyville without a care in the world until something cold hard and wet hit me in my back. I turned around just in time to see a brown tail disappear behind a building. Curious, I walked over to the building and peeped around it to see Apple Bloom, Sweetie Bell, Scootaloo and Pipsqueak giggling, just as Scootaloo handed Pip a snowball. I looked up and I saw a large clump of snow on the roof over the foals just waiting to tip over. I gave the building a strong hit with my metal arm and the snow slipped off the roof and fell on the four CMC.

"Ahhhhh!" The four screamed as they were buried beneath the snow.

All four heads popped out of the snow and looked around in confusion before they spotted me leaning against the wall of the building with a smile on my face.

"Hey, no fair!" Scootaloo called out.

"And hitting me in the back while I wasn't looking was?" I shot back.

"Sorry Ash we were trying to get our Cutie Marks in snowball tossing," Pip said.

"It's alight Pip, but I thought you guys were working on getting your Parkor cutie marks," I said.

"We were but we weren't able to get them," Apple Bloom said looking at the ground in disappointment.

"Parkor takes time Apple Bloom, don't worry you'll get them. All it takes is a little time," I said.

"But that's what everypony keeps telling us," Apple Bloom said throwing her hands in the air before she fell into the snow.

"And how right they are, there's an old saying in my world which rings true, the last flower that blooms is the most beautiful," I said.

"What's that mean?" Sweetie Bell asked.

"To put it bluntly, those who get their cutie marks later than the rest, will probably get the best cutie marks ever," I said poking her nose causing her to giggle.

"So you’re saying we’re late bloomers and we will probably get the best cutie marks in the school?" Pip asked.

"It's possible, but it's just my opinion," I said.

"But still, I want to get a cutie mark now," Apple Bloom whined.

"Well maybe this question will help," I said.

"What is it?" Scootaloo asked excitedly.

"What are you all good at?" I asked.

"Huh?" They said in union.

"How does that help us?" Scootaloo asked.

"You'll know when the time comes," I said.

Just then I saw Rainbow and Pinkie walking down the street towards us.

"Hey watch this," I said as I created two snowballs and held them in my magic before I grabbed one and threw it at them. Then grabbed the other and again threw it at them both of the snowy projectiles hit both Pinkie and Rainbow in the face

"Bullseye!" Pip shouted

Rainbow and Pinkie shook off the snow and looked around and saw me holding another snowball in my hand while tossing it upwards and catching it.

"THIS MEANS WAR ASH!" Rainbow shouted.

"BRING IT ON!" I shouted back.

Pinkie let out a war cry before she threw the first snowball that just missed me. Rainbow took her turn and hit me in my leg. I threw a couple back, each one missing. The CMC joined the fight. Over time more and more ponies joined in and pretty soon all of town square was turned into a battlefield. As the hours went on, many snowballs were tossed to either side of the square, both sides decided to call a truce. Rainbow, Pinkie, The CMC and I walked back to the Library with Mac, Soarin and Gilda, who happened to join us for the snowball fight.

"That was a blast," Soarin exclaimed.

"Eeyup," Mac agreed.

"Man I haven't been in a snowball fight forever," I said with a sigh.

"Well you've got a damn fine aim I'll say that much," Gilda said

We continued our walk until we were at the Library and I saw the others standing by the door and Rarity was wearing a giant hat that looked like a Christmas tree.

"There ya'll are," Applejack said finally noticing us.

"Where have you all been?" Twilight asked.

"Snowball war," Pinkie said cheerfully.

"Aw man, I always miss out on the fun stuff," Spike groaned.

"Don't sweat it Spike, we'll have a match when we get back," I said cheering him up slightly." Oh and Rarity, what are you wearing?" I asked pointing to the hat.

"My Hearts Warming hat, what's wrong with it?" Rarity asked.

"A little over the top don't you think?" I said.

"Heavens no, it is a perfect item for Hearts Warming Eve; especially if we are heading to Canterlot," Rarity protested.

"If you say so," I said.

"Well now that that's done, shall we get going?" Comet asked.

"Yes. Granny Smith is already at the station waiting for us and the rest of our family's should be at Canterlot now," Twilight said.

I looked around and I saw Pip saying goodbye to the Apple Bloom, Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo before he began to walk away with a sad look on his face.

"Hey Pip, where are you going?" I asked.

"Back to the orphanage," Pip said while he walked away.

"Well, why don't you join us?" I asked earning looks from everyone.

"Uh Ash, I don't think," Twilight was stopped as I raised my hand.

"Twi what's the harm in bringing one more?" I asked.

"Well shoot, the more the merrier I say," Applejack said.

"True that," Pinkie added.

The rest of the group just nodded their heads.

"Fine, but he will have to be your responsibility Ash," Twilight said.

"Fine by me," I replied.

Everyone began to walk towards the train station but Pip tugged on my pants to get my attention.

"Um Ash, is it really ok that I go with you? I mean I'm grateful, but I don't think I belong in Canterlot," Pip said.

"Of course it’s ok Pip, now come on before we miss our train, besides you'll get to see both Princess Luna and Dream Catcher if you come with me," I said.

As soon as I mentioned Luna and Dream Catcher he instantly had a smile on his face and ran off to the station leaving me to shake my head with a smile.

Everyone stood at the station platform waiting for the train to arrive; we talked with each other until the train was in sight to take us to Canterlot. The trip was filled with excitement about what everyone was going to do when they got there. While I sat with Dust on my shoulder and in-between both Gilda and Pipsqueak, who both looked a little down that they didn't have a family to spend the holiday with. But with a few words I got them to cheer up a bit.

"Isn't Canterlot wonderful this time of year," Twilight said once we arrived at the station and disembarked.

"Yeah, I wish it was Hearts Warming Eve every day," Rainbow said.

"Not me, I think holidays like this are best left to be a rarity," I said giving Rarity a smile causing her to blush.

"Oh you flatterer," Rarity said with a smile causing the CMC next to me to gag, especially Sweetie Bell. I just laughed and smiled at the action.

"Quite the move for a beginner," Caramel whispered leaning on my shoulder.

"What do you mean by that?" Rarity asked somehow able to hear us.

I froze in my tracks and gave a deadly look towards Caramel before I looked at Rarity.

"It's nothing for you to concern yourself with," I said probably too quickly.

Rarity just raised an eyebrow at me before she turned back towards the still walking group.

"Sorry man," Caramel apologized.

"It's alright; just try not to mention what I said at the spa while the girls are around," I said as we walked to catch up with the others.

We left the station and walked into Canterlot city, the place was sparkling with festive decorations. There were decorated Christmas trees as tall as a two story building, ornaments hanging in windows from tinsel that hung over streets and laurel wreaths on doors with gold bells attached.

"There's so much to look at I feel like my darn eyes are gonna pop right out of my head," Applejack said.

"I hope not, that would be gruesome,” I said jokingly earning laughs from everyone.

"I have an idea, why don't we play eye spy while we walk; I'll go first. I spy an eight foot candy cane," Twilight said looking at an eight foot candy cane while Scootaloo had her tongue stuck to it while the rest of the CMC tried to pull her off.

"I spy a snow pony,” Rainbow said

"I spy somepony eating a gingerbread house," Pinkie said as she zoomed off into a store and came out with a gingerbread house in hand. She then took an impossibly large bite out of it and two thirds of it was in her mouth. "And it's me," Pinkie said with impossibly large cheeks.

The rest of us looked at Pinkie Pie and laughed at her randomness. I looked up and I saw an eight pronged star with a large tail on top of a building.

"I spy the miracle star," I said causing the others to look where I was looking.

"Miracle star?" Twilight asked.

"Yep, a long time ago a miracle took place under that star and that miracle was one of the greatest things to of happened in life," I said.

"What was it?" Scootaloo asked as she was finally free from the candy canes icy grip.

"I'm afraid that's a story for another time, but hey we should get moving otherwise we'll be late," I said.

This caused Twilight to get behind everyone and begin to push with super strength all the way to Canterlot castle.

Once we arrived a guard informed us that Celestia was in the royal theatre. Twi led us towards the theatre and once we arrived we saw that the room was decorated like those classical theatres.

I saw Celestia directing ponies who were carrying stage props into their places while actors rehearsed their lines. I even saw Cadence and Shining wearing some phantom horse like costumes and they were also making a terrible noise.

"Stop Cadence I told you before, a windigo's howl is supposed to be like a wolf’s howl," Celestia instructed.

"I'm trying auntie but I've never howled before so give me some credit for getting this far," Cadence said folding her arms.

"What are you two doing?" I asked making our presence known.

"Oh hello everypony," Celestia greeted us with a warm smile.

"Princess," Twilight said running up to her mentor and giving her a hug.

"Hey where's ours?" Shining said holding out his arms for his little sister.

Twilight let go of Celestia and went to embrace her brother. She then did the same strange dance she did when I first met the fake Cadence, only this time Cadence joined in with the song and dance.

"Granny Smith it has been too long," Celestia said looking at the elderly mare.

"Darn tooten and you don't look a day older than the day we met Princess," Granny said shocking everyone.

"You two know each other?" Applejack said astonished.

"The Apple Family was around when Ponyville was founded and I was there when it all began, it is where I met your Granny Smith," Celestia said.

"Oh those were the best years of my life," Granny smiled.

"Well this holiday is going to be a grand one. Oh and you never answered my question, what are you two doing?" I asked looking at both Cadence and Shining Armour.

'We're practicing our windigo howls," Shining said.

"Howls? No offence to you both, but that was terrible," I said.

"Think you can do better?" Cadence asked, shooting me a challenging grin.

"In my sleep," I said.

"Well then please enlighten us Ash," Celestia said enjoying the conversation.

"Alright,” I said as I cleared my throat and let out a ghostly bone chilling howl. Around me candles blew out, windows blew open letting the cold in and everypony’s hair stood on end. "So how was that?" I asked.

"Terrifying," Fluttershy squeaked clinging to Big Mac in fear.

"How did you know how to do that?" Shining asked rubbing his arms to keep warm.

"Oh that's right, I never told you I was raised by wolves and howling was one of my favourite things we did," I said scratching the back of my head.

"Wolves, but what about your family? What happened to them?" Cadence asked.

"They left me for dead," I replied.

"Oh and your wolf family?" Cadence asked.

"Murdered," I said.

The room went silent but then the main doors burst open.

"Sister, I heard a windigo!" Luna shouted announcing her presence Luna was wearing a blue winter coat and deep blue pants and a pair of blue ear muffs with a white crescent moon on them around her neck.

"Calm yourself Luna, Ash was giving us a demonstration of his howl, which perfectly matched a windigo's howl," Celestia said smiling at me.

"It was nothing," I said

"Nothing? That howl sent chills up my spine and I even saw Discord shaking from the sound," Luna said as she walked down towards us.

"Wow, I never knew that howl would cause such a fright to the moon princess," I said with a laugh

Luna was about to say something but was interrupted.

"Princess Luna," Pip said running up to Luna and hugging her leg making Celestia, Cadence, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie make a daww sound because of the moment.

"Well if it isn't my favourite little subject young Pipsqueak," Luna said crouching down to hug Pip.

"It's great to see you Princess, have you seen Princess Dream Catcher?" Pip asked.

"She's preparing for tonight's performance," Luna said releasing Pip from the hug and smiling at him.

"Ok, just means I get to spend more time with my favourite princess," Pip said.

"Well aren't you the adorable one," A voice calls

I look around for the voice and see Discord wiggling out of Pips ear; I reached forward and yanked the Draconequus from Pips head.

"What do you think you’re doing?" I asked while keeping a firm grip on Discord.

"Rummaging through Pips mind, duh; you should try it sometime it's quite interesting," Discord said.

"I prefer I didn't, I don't even know what's going on inside that head of yours with all the chaos in there, who knows what will happen," I said.

"What’s wrong with a little chaos?" Rage asked separating from my body.

"See, even my good friend Rage here agrees," Discord said snapping his talons and in a flash he was standing next to Rage at his normal size.

"How you two are such good friends amazes me sometimes," I said while I rolled my eyes.

"So these are the CMC huh?" Rage questioned looking at the four foals. "Kinda cute."

"Don't tell me you’re getting soft," I said earning a glare from Rage.

"Alright that's enough. Ash, do you think you can play a windigo in the play?" Celestia asked.

"Ash in acting, this I gotta see," Rage said with a laugh

"I can give it a try," I said.

"Wonderful,' Celestia said.

"What about us?" Cadence asked.

"You two will still be in the show but Ash will also play a windigo and make the sound effects and maybe give you some pointers. If you wish your stallion friends can play as the secondary characters," Celestia said

"We'd be honoured your highness," Mac said.

"I'll also send someone to have rooms ready for all of you to stay tonight," Celestia said.

"Well while you do that Tia I'll take these young ponies to the kitchen for some treats," Luna said earning hoorays from the foals before they all left.

"Granny Smith would you mind walking with me? There is something I would like to talk to you about," Celestia said walking to the door.

"Not at all Celestia," Granny Smith said walking over to the alabaster alicorn and then out the door.

"Well I must be off. I am extremely busy so, until next time Rage," Discord said.

"Indeed Discord," Rage said before Rage entered my body and Discord disappeared.

"Well now what? Comet asked.

"Well maybe you can fill me in on this play because I don't know a thing about it," I said.

"Oh that's right, well I'd better start from the beginning," Twilight said.

Later That Evening

Twilight told me the story of before the rule of Faust and Celestia, the tree tribes the unicorn's the Pegasi and the earth ponies and how they disliked each other. This story revolves around the three leaders and their second in command. Princess Platinum the ruler of the unicorns and Clover the Clever Princess Platinum's sorcerer. For the Pegasi Commander Hurricane and Private Pansy. For the earth ponies their leader was Chancellor Puddinghead and her secretary was Smart Cookie. The tree tribes had disliked each other for years, in exchange for giving rain to the land the Pegasi demanded food from the earth ponies and in exchange for both day and night, the unicorns also demanded food from the earth ponies. One day a blizzard descended upon the land and the earth ponies stoped handing out food to the other tribes and demanded for the Pegasi to stop making it snow. But the Pegasi claimed to have no involvement in it and blamed the unicorns for using their magic to make it snow. The Unicorns denied it as well, so without a peaceful solution they decided to go it alone and leave their old land and go off in search of a new one. Each of the leaders set out with their most trusted in the tribes. They searched for days until they arrived in a new land; coincidently they happened to arrive at the same place at the same time. Soon the leaders began to fight with each other for the land but as they fought snow began to cover the ground. Soon the new land became a winter barren plane like their old home. Seeking shelter, all the leaders found a cave and they all had to share it. Soon an argument broke out for a rock of all things. As the argument raged on the leaders of the three tribes began to freeze over with ice leaving the second in command which leads us to the present. Twilight as Clover the Clever, Applejack as Smart Cookie and Fluttershy as Private Pansy backed away as they watched Rainbow Dash as Commander Hurricane, Rarity as Princess Platinum and Pinkie Pie as Chancellor Puddinghead began to freeze over until they were completely encased in ice. But thanks to a little magic they were frozen in a crystal substance that allows them to breathe but not move. Twilight, Applejack and Fluttershy backed up into the centre of the stage away from the growing ice that froze the leaders, until they bumped into each other letting out a shriek, but took a breath when they saw each other. I took that as my cue and let out a howl causing the remaining three to cry out in terror and search for the noise. I put on a disguise that hid my wings and turned me into a windigo.

I flew down from my place in the ceiling of the stage and over the audience and thanks to a spell from Twilight, every time I blew out air I covered whatever my breath touched in frost giving the audience the impression I was a real windigo. Cadence flew around with me also in a disguise, while Shining in his disguise used wires to hang above the stage.

"What are those things?" Fluttershy asked shivering as if she was cold.

"They must be windigos," Twilight said.

"Windigos," Applejack and Fluttershy repeated.

"My mentor Starswirl the bearded taught me about them, they’re winter spirits that feed off fighting and hatred. The more hate the spirit feels, the colder things become," Twilight explained.

"Then this is our fault, we three tribes we brought this blizzard to our home by fighting and not trusting each other, now its destroying this land too," Applejack said.

"And now our bodies will become as cold as our hearts, all because we were foolish enough to hate," Twilight said closing her eyes and waiting for the end.

"Well I don't hate you, I actually hate Commander Hurricane more then I hate you guys," Fluttershy said earning a laugh from both Twilight and Applejack.

The laughs were a signal for Shining, Cadence and I to look a little weaker from the laughter. Both Cadence and I flew over to the stage and started to circle above the three ponies like vultures.

"Actually I don't really hate her, I just really dislike her," Fluttershy continued earning more laughs.

"Well I don't hate you guys either," Applejack said.

"Nor do I," Twilight said.

At that Cadence, Shining and I made ourselves look like we were in a slight amount of pain before we circled faster. As the girls were talking the ice surrounding the girls reached their necks.

"No matter what our differences were we’re all ponies," Applejack said as the ice covered them.

But before the ice completely covered Twilights horn a large pink flame burst from her horn shattering the three from the ice prison and began to push against Shining, Cadence and I, while we pretended to desperately push against it; only for us to be pushed back into the rafters. After we disappeared from the audiences view the blast of flame turned into a pink heart of fire.

'What was that?" Fluttershy asked.

"I didn't know unicorns could do that," Applejack said.

"I didn't either. Nothing like this has ever happened before, but I know it couldn't have been just me, it came from all three of us joined together in friendship," Twilight said holding her hand out in the middle for a hand pile on, which the other two joined in.

Just then Spike walked on stage to narrate the rest of the story.

"All through the night the tree ponies kept the fire of friendship alive by telling stories to each other and singing songs. Which became the winter carols that we all still sing today. Eventually the warmth of the fire, the singing and the laughing reached the three leaders. And their bodies began to thaw and it even melted their hearts. The three leaders agreed to share the beautiful land and live in harmony ever afterwards, but over time they met a pony who had both wings and a horn and was truly wise. They found out that this pony created this land and she offered protection for the tribes. And all three tribes agreed for her to be their queen for she resembled all three tribes and together they named their new land,"

"Equestria!" The girls shouted as they raised the Equestrian flag.

After that the curtains closed and the audience let out cheers, the curtains opened again to show the main 6 and Spike, lined up in a row taking their bows. Just then bells started to ring and everypony began to sing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQY_BcuLfow

After everyone sang the curtains closed and the girls and Spike walked backstage.

"We should be so honoured that Princess Celestia chose us, she must really think we exemplify what good friends are," Twilight said as she and the others stood backstage while I watched from the rafters. All of a sudden, cold winds blew in from the windows.

"Applejack I thought you closed those windows," Rarity said.

"Don't blame me, Rainbow Dash should have flown up there and shut it, after all she's got wings," Applejack said.

"Why do I have to do all the high up chores? Why can't Twilight use her magic for a change?" Rainbow asked.

Soon enough the room was filled with squabbling from the six so I decided to do something about it. I let out a howl quiet enough to not be heard outside the room and loud enough for the girls to hear. The girls huddled together as the sound reached their ears.

"Y'know what, I got it," Rainbow said as she flew over to the windows and closed them getting laughs from everypony.

I flew down from the rafters to join the laughing group.

"Mind letting me in on the joke?" I asked.

"Oh hey Ash, don't worry it's nothing; but great acting out there," Twilight said.

"You lot did better," I said.

"I have to agree with the girls,"

I turned around and I saw Mac, Pierce, Soarin, Comet and Caramel standing in the door way that led out to the theatre.

"Well I still say you’re giving me too much credit," I said with a laugh.

The stallions and I left the room to give the mares some privacy. Once we did I saw all the princesses and Discord talking amongst themselves with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Granny Smith.

"So you gonna ask Twilight out yet?" I asked Comet.

"Well yeah, but it's just...well," Comet mumbled.

"It's Shining right," I said.

"Yeah," Comet admitted.

"You let me take care of that ok," I said.

"Thanks," Comet said.

"No problem," I said patting his back before I walked over to both Shining and Cadence.

"Hey Ash great job out there," Cadence said.

"Thanks and you guys did alright with your howling; you made a large improvement from when I first heard it," I said.

"Thanks I think," Cadence said.

"Uh Shining, you know Comet Tail right?" I asked.

"Sure what about him?" Shining asked.

"Well he kinda has a thing for Twilight," I said.

Cadence squealed like a filly but Shining took a few seconds to process the information I sent him. When it got through he tried to lunge at Comet but I grabbed his tail and held onto him; but he dragged me across the floor. Even Cadence had trouble restraining him with her magic.

"Shining stop," Cadence pleaded.

"That won’t work," I said.

"Then what will?" Cadence asked.

I took a breath and used my official voice.

"SHINING ARMOUR STAND DOWN THAT’S AN ORDER!" I roared.

Shining immediately stopped dead in his tracks directly over a panicking Comet, allowing both Cadence and I to relax but still keeping a strong grip on him.

"Look Shining, I know what you’re thinking but I can assure you that Comet is a good guy and will be good to Twilight. I trust him with my life and you also need to remember that Twi isn't a filly anymore," I said.

"I know that but...," Shining started.

"But nothing; a brother’s job is to be there for his sibling not chase off suitors. Twi did try to chase off Cadence at first but that's only because it wasn't her at the time. And she didn't know you were marrying her, besides who's to say it will work out between them," I said.

"Um I do," Cadence said.

"Not helping you know," I said.

"Right," Cadence said.

"Look the point is you need to let Twilight decide when or who to date," I said.

The room was silent for a few minutes before Shining looked back at me.

"You’re right I guess. I'm just over protective," Shining admitted.

"Runs in the family," I said with a smirk before I released Shining’s tail.

"Ok I won't tear your head off for wanting to date my sister," Shining said offering his hand to Comet. Comet shakily accepted the hand and stood up only for Shining to grab his shirt and bring him close to his face. "But if you hurt her I will hunt you down to the ends of Equestria," Shining said releasing his grip on Comet.

Just then Twilight and the others walked out from behind the stage door and saw all of us.

"What did we miss?" Pinkie asked.

"Nothing," everypony said at the same time.

The girls gave everypony a suspicious look before they shrugged it off and walked down to join us. We left the theatre and walked down the hallways towards the dining room to eat.

"Hey Ash," Cadence said.

"What's up Cadence?" I asked.

"It's just that this may seem weird but," Cadence said.

"Cadence you can tell me. What is it you want to know?" I asked.

"Do you love anypony y'know from this world?" She asked.

The question took me completely off guard, now that I thought about it, do I actually like any one? Just like that my gaze found itself on Luna talking with Pipsqueak and smiling that beautiful smile of hers.

"I don't know Cadence, I haven't exactly felt that emotion since I was with my family," I said.

"I see," Cadence said.

We reached a path that went off in two different directions everypony went left while I took the right.

"Hey Ash aren't you going to eat with us?" Pierce asked getting the group to stop and look at me.

"Nah I'm a little tired right now so I might head off to bed," I said.

"I insist that you eat something Ash, after all you put on an amazing show along with your friends for us," Luna said.

"Thank you for the compliment oh beautiful goddess of the moon. But I'm just a little tired from the acting so I'll be off to bed; I will see you all tomorrow," I said as I kept my right leg straight and bent my left leg and placing my left hand on my chest, and held out my right arm and bowed deeply before I turned around and left for my room.

"Whoa your majesty, you okay? You’re as red as Big Mac," Applejack said when she saw Luna's face.

"I'm sorry it's just no stallion has blessed me with such words before," Luna said.

"Oooo is our little moon flower in love," Discord said waggling his eyebrows.

Luna lost her blush immediately and her eyes lit with fury and fired a spell at Discord who dodged it easily and flew off with Luna not far behind.

"GET BACK HERE YOU SLITHERING COWARD AND FACE OUR WRATH!" Luna shouted in the Royal Canterlot Voice as she chased Discord down the hallways.

"You know I can't exactly blame Luna. Ash certainly has a way with complementing a lady," Rarity said.

"Yes I saw your face when we arrived in Canterlot this morning red as a tomato," Gilda said with a laugh.

Cadence looked back into the direction Ash walked off in before she looked back at the direction Luna ran off in then back to Ash.

"Haven't felt that emotion since your family my pink flank," Cadence said to herself with a devious smirk.

I woke up to four small objects jumping up and down on my bed, my senses kicked in slowly starting with my hearing.

"Wake up! Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up!" four voices yelled in sync.

I slowly opened my eyes to see Apple Bloom, Sweetie Bell, Scootaloo and Pipsqueak bouncing up and down on my bed.

"What is it you four?" I asked in a groggy tone.

"It's Hearts Warming Day it's time for presents," Scootaloo said.

"What time is it?" I asked while sitting up.

"Around 5:30 in the morning," Pip said.

"Let me get this straight, the sun hasn't even risen and you woke me up because you’re too impatient to wait to open your gifts?" I asked calmly.

"Yeah," they replied in union.

"Back to bed with you four and wait for the sun like everyone else and if you’re that restless explore the castle," I said gripping the foals in my magic and dropped them outside the door and closed it before I shifted over in my bed to try and fall asleep once more. After a few minutes I gave up and got changed and stepped out of my doors and into the deserted hallway.

"Oh good morrow to you Ash,"

I turned around and I see Discord hovering above me.

"Hello Discord, what are you doing up?" I asked.

"The little foals you brought with you have been causing a great deal of chaos ever since they woke up," Discord said.

"That sounds like them," I said to myself.

"Oh by the way Ash, that little secret behind the mark on your back is quite the fascinating one and what that Alex did for you was quite noble, it brought tears to my eyes," Discord said.

At these words I lost control of my body and I launched myself up at Discord and summoned Whispering Wind and slashed at Discord. But Discord just teleported behind me, I fired a blast of magic that knocked him to the ground and I flew down at him ready to skewer him to the ground, but he just dodged Whispering Wind once more. I touched the ground and moved with impossible speed and landed a hit on Discords arm. I looked back at my attacker to see blood drip from the wound.

"My congratulations to you Ash Blade, it's been awhile since anyone managed to spill my blood in combat, but I think that's enough," Discord said. Trapping me in a lime green see through box.

I slashed and blasted my magic at the box resulting in cracking it.

"Before you go and break out of that box and try to kill me, you should know I won't be telling anypony about your little secret," Discord said.

I immediately stopped and looked at Discord with burning eyes.

"Why should I believe you? It must have been a lot of trouble to find out about that," I said in a bloodthirsty tone.

"You can’t blame me for being curious, but I can see why you’d want such a thing hidden. So right here right now, I Pinkie Promise you I won't breathe a word of what I know and what happened here. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye," Discord said in a serious tone.

I thought it over before I sent Whispering Wind back to where I keep my armour and Discord dispelled the box.

"You break that promise and it's not just my wrath you'll face, but Pinkie's as well," I said.

"I'm well aware of that thanks for the tip," Discord said as he teleported away from me.

I looked at the empty space for a few minutes before I began my walk down the hall.

Sunrise

I stood at a window looking at the light pink sky and the bright orb appearing beyond the horizon and the moon just about to leave. I continued my watch until the sound of hooves approached. I turned my head to see Luna in a blue dressing gown approaching me.

"Well good morning sleeping beauty. Sleep well?" I asked with a chuckle.

"Quite well, there weren't many nightmares to get rid of," Luna said with a slight hint of red in her cheeks.

"I see," I said turning my gaze back to the window.

"If I may ask, why are you up so early? I felt your presence leave the dream world," Luna asked.

"The Cutie Mark Crusaders decided to give me a rude awakening this morning," I said with a small smile on my face.

"Yes I can imagine, I remember when was a filly, I used to walk on top of Celestia early in the morning while she was still in bed; I sang I'm walking on sunshine," Luna said.

This caused me to let out a full blown laugh and I had to use the wall as support.

"Aw man, I can see that now," I said as my laughs died down.

"I don't think Tia was too thrilled with it either," Luna said while she laughed.

We looked into each other's eyes before both of us stepped closer to each other.

"So anything happen this morning?" Luna asked.

"Not that I can think of besides keeping the CMC out of trouble," I said.

"But they are an adorable bunch, how much trouble can four foals be?" Luna asked as we stopped in fount of each other.

"Well considering that you just said that were about to find out," I said.

All of a sudden we hear cheers of joy come from around a corner. A little while later the CMC are riding a food cart like a go cart and smash into Luna and I, knocking us up and over the still moving cart.

"Sorry," all four foals shouted out before disappearing down another hallway.

"That's how much trouble they can cause," I groaned.

"Right I'll need to remember that," Luna said.

From the collision with the cart Luna ended up lying on top of me, we looked into each other’s eyes with burning cheeks.

"I...I think I better stop those four before they get somepony seriously injured," I said.

"Um yes that would be a good idea," Luna said as she climbed off of me.

I stood up and began to go after the runaway trolley but I looked back at Luna and decided to pull off a daring move.

"Y'know you look cute when you blush," I said before I planted a kiss in the lower corner of her lips.

Luna let out a squeak of surprise and turned seriously red it was ridiculous.

"Well I’ve got some foals to catch and pray they haven't done any damage," I said then I extended my wings and flew off down the hallway after the CMC as they rode the cart.

Luna stood paralysed on the spot with her red face before she squeed and she jumped up and down. She regained her composure and walked down the hallway with a slight skip in her step but unbeknownst to her, a figure watched the whole incident in the shadows.

"So I was right."

I managed to halt the Cutie Mark Crusaders before they crashed and flew out an open window and told the girl’s older siblings about what had transpired with them. Boy, were they ticked and got even madder when I told them about my wakeup call; the girls ended up being grounded for a week. Pip got off lightly because none of us were his parents or siblings. Later everypony woke up and the families arrived. I was introduced to Fluttershy's mother, Rarity and Rainbow’s family, and Pinkie’s family which was not what I was expecting at all, they were actually neutral and gloomy. I was surprised and asked myself how Pinkie became Pinkie from a family like that? I also met Thunderlane's parents and his little brother Rumble. The others families were having other parties all around Equestria and couldn't make it. Once the introductions were over with, we left for the dining room.

"Morning your majesties," I said as we entered the dining room. All five Princesses and Shining Armour were sitting at a table eating a breakfast of fruits and pancakes.

"Hello Ash, sleep well?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Perfectly, although it could have been better without the wakeup call," I said looking at the CMC who had hung their heads in shame.

"Well I can say that today will be better," Celestia said with a smile.

"Whys that?" I asked.

"You'll see, but first let’s eat and then we'll open presents," Celestia said.

At this all the foals raced off towards the table to eat while the rest of us took a seat Pip decided to sit in-between both Luna and Dream Catcher. Pip started off the conversation by telling Dream Catcher about Nightmare Night which she found delightful. Then waiters came in with our dishes, everyone was given fruits and pancakes while Gilda and my dish made a few ponies pale.

"Ash, Gilda is that…?" Twilight asked.

"Bacon? Sure is, but I'm surprised you eat meat Ash," Gilda said.

"That's right, none of you know us humans are basically omnivores. We eat a balanced diet of fruit veg and meat," I said.

"Fascinating," Twilight said summoning a pen and notepad and started scribbling on it.

"Please Twilight, not at breakfast," Twilight Velvet said grabbing both the notepad and pen and placing them next to her.

"But Mom," Twilight whined.

"You can have it back later, but first we eat," Velvet said.

The room was enveloped in silence after that until Discord appeared.

"Sorry I'm late, had a little matter to deal with," Discord said.

"I pray it won't cause us problems," Chrysalis said.

"Don't worry your pretty little head Chrissy, everything is fine," Discord said reaching over the table and patting her head.

"I told you I hate being called that," Chrysalis growled.

"Discord, why are you wearing that bandage on your arm?" Celestia asked.

I stopped mid chew to look at the bandage on Discords arm to see it was where I’d cut him.

"Oh I was just being careless and injured myself, nothing important," Discord said.

"With what exactly?" Luna asked with suspicion.

"A knife," Discord said simply.

"Liar, what did you do," Applejack said slamming her hand on the table.

Everyone but me gave Discord a cold glare wanting him to confess.

"I can't say," Discord said.

"What do you mean you can't say?" Twilight asked.

"Because I made a Pinkie Promise not to," Discord said folding his arms.

Everyone was surprised by this until Twilight spoke.

"Pinkie is there a way to undo the promise?" Twilight asked.

"Are you loco in the coco? You can't undo a Pinkie Promise," Pinkie said in an insulted tone.

"Yes but…," Twilight started.

"Nope, once the promise is made you can't take it back," Pinkie said holding up her hand to stop Twilight.

"So there is no way to find out?" Twilight said in a defeated tone and slumped her head on the table.

"Well you could ask the pony I made the promise to, but I can't say more than that because of the promise," Discord said.

"But that could take eons," Rarity whined.

"Then I suggest you start looking," Discord said lounging on a cloud.

"I believe that will do for the subject, but Discord answer me this, is this pony likely to be a threat," Celestia asked.

"Can't say for sure but I doubt it," Discord said shrugging his shoulders.

"Very well, then the only thing we can do is pray this won't get serious because only beings with a large amount of power - close, equal or higher can make an immortal being bleed," Celestia said earning gulps from the group.

"Ok, I believe that is enough gloom and doom shall we open presents?" Dream Catcher said earning cheers from the foals, Spike, Pinkie, Gilda and Rainbow as they ran/flew off to the throne room.
The rest of us all left the table and walked after the excited group to the throne room. Once we arrived we were greeted by a humongous pine tree that almost reached the ceiling. It was covered in decorations but my gaze of the tree drifted downward looking at every decoration hanging from the branches until my gaze reached the bottom. To my surprise not a gift lay at the foot at the tree, the group that came in earlier had looks of confusion on their faces as they circled the tree looking for the gifts.

"Hey what gives? Where are the presents?" Gilda asked.

"Oh I didn't say they were here Gilda," Dream Catcher said with a giggle.

"Then where are they?" Rainbow asked in annoyance.

Just then all five princesses turned their heads in my direction with smiles on their faces. I looked to my left and then my right to see no one on either side of me then I looked at the princesses.

"Why are you lot looking at me like that," I said in a nervous tone backing away slowly.

"Well in order to get to the other gifts you need to open yours first," Celestia said.

"Huh?" was all I said before all five alicorns lit up their horns and all of us vanished leaving an empty room.

"AHHHHH!" I yelled as I fell ten feet from the air into a pile of snow.

I groaned before I heard teleportation spells go off above me. I looked up to see the others about to fall on me I teleported out of the way before I was crushed. Lastly the princesses and Discord glided down to the ground softly.

"I suppose you thought that was funny," I said in a annoyed tone.

"Apologies, we must of made a mistake in our spell when we brought you here," Cadence said.

"And where exactly is here?" I asked.

Celestia twirled her finger around in a gesture for me to turn around. So I did as instructed but I was not prepared for what I saw. It was a large two storied manor, something you would see in the Canterlot rich district. But our surrounding's indicated we were northwest of Ponyville on a small hill that overlooked the town.

"Whose house is that? I had heard that a home was being built here but I didn't know who for," I said.

"That's because it's yours Ash," Chrysalis said.

I looked back at the princesses in complete shock, thoughts were running through my mind at a million miles an hour.

"Mine," I said.

My response was met with nods from not only the princesses but my friends as well.

"You guys I...I don't know what to say," I said.

"Then don't, let’s get inside before we all freeze," Rainbow said shivering from the cold.

"Oh right, sorry," I said as I led the group to the front door.

The front door was a grand double oak door and had my mark etched into the wood with gold door knobs. I gripped one of the knobs and turned it and opened the door. I was greeted by the warmth from inside. Everyone walked inside and I saw red carpet that covered the floor and stairs that led up to the second floor. Pillars rose up from the floor and made two rows of three that lead to the staircase and two doorways on either side of the room, and a staircase that lead to other rooms of the house.

"Nice digs, I could get used to living here," Rage said as he appeared.

"Everypony I don't have the words to thank you," I said.

"Don't Ash, this is our thank you gift to you. We even supplied the house with furniture so you won't have to pay for it," Chrysalis said.

"We even added our own little tid bits here and there," Comet said gesturing to my group of friends.

"You guys are the best," I said.

"I'll show you around while the others head into the lounge room to open their gifts," Celestia said.

"Thank you Celestia," I said as Rage disappeared into my body and the others went into the lounge room.

"Let’s start our tour in the kitchen," Celestia said as she led me to the door left of the staircase.

The whole house was amazing, the kitchen was large enough to fit a staff of at least 10 chefs in there; the dining room which was next to the kitchen was so cosy and was beyond the doorway on the left side of the entry room. The door on the right of the staircase led into the entertainment room and in-between both the kitchen and entertainment room behind the stairs was a gym. A door sat underneath the stairs that led to the wine cellar/basement. Celestia then led me up the stairs and I had my own library for the books on the knights which would be transferred to here where I would watch over them from now on. The bathroom was dazzling; the bath tub would be able to hold three ponies. The last five rooms of the house was the bedroom which I would get to see when I went to bed. And three other empty rooms to be turned into anything I wished. Finally the lounge room; the room itself was big enough to be a small ballroom - it had a fireplace and couches. A large decorated pine tree was in the centre of the room where the others were unwrapping their gifts, I smiled as they each got a gift that lit their faces up, and it was magical.

"You guys, thank you all for participating in building my new home. I promise to make this up to you all next Hearts Warming," I said.

"Oh Ash don't worry about it, in fact I have one more gift for you," Rarity said.

"Rarity haven’t you all given me enough with this beautiful home?" I asked.

"Certainly not, besides I made this for you, I really think it will suit you as well," Rarity said.

"Ok," I said in defeat.

Rarity reached behind the tree and pulled out a large box with a brown ribbon tied around it.

"I don't know why but something about this just made me think of you," Rarity said handing me the box.

I took the box and undid the ribbon and opened the lid to see a large black coat with a hood.

I put on the coat and slipped my wings through the wing slits and pulled the hood over my face. Everypony was complementing me on how good it looked on and Gilda let out a wolf howl which caused me to laugh.

"Wow Rarity, you were right it suits Ash perfectly. Oh and that reminds me," Twilight said handing me a thick sky blue book.

I took the book in my hands and saw in gold writing the word Memories I opened the book and I saw photos of our times together. From when I was a wolf as well as pictures from Nightmare Night and at the Canterlot wedding. As I looked through the photos I felt a few tears start to fill my eyes. Once I reached the point there were no more I closed the book and grabbed both Twilight and Rarity and wrapped them in a hug.

"Hey why don't we add another for the album?” I asked once I released both Twilight and Rarity from the hug.

"That's a wonderful idea," Luna agreed.

Twilight summoned her camera and everyone squeezed in. I stood in the centre with Pip on my shoulders and Dust on Pip’s shoulder and Luna next to me. But I felt something missing I thought before it hit me like a ton of bricks.

"You too Rage," I said getting the group to look at me.

"Me?" Rage said confused as he separated from me.

"Is there another Rage?" I asked sarcastically.

Rage just gave a shrug and he stood next to me. Twilight levitated the camera in-front of us and snapped a picture. the photo came out perfectly and I placed it in the book immediately and looked out the window to see the snow had stopped falling.

"Hey guys its stopped snowing," I said.

"Hey how about a quick snowball fight," Thunderlane suggested earning cheers from the group before they raced out the front door. I stopped in my tracks when Rage wasn't moving.

"C'mon Rage, let’s go have fun," I said.

"Why do you want me out there, you have friends to hang out with. Why do you need me out there when I was nothing but horrible to you?" Rage asked.

"Because I believe in second chances and you should too. Now stop moping and let’s go," I said in an encouraging tone.

"But I doubt they would want me," Rage said.

"Hey, are you two coming or what," Pinkie said with her head in the doorway before she disappeared behind it.

"Need any more proof?" I asked.

"Alright I'm coming," Rage said as we walked to the front door.

The snowball fight lasted the entire afternoon before the princesses and Discord left for Canterlot and my friend’s parents also left for home. My friends had a quick snack with me then they left and I walked Pip back to the orphanage and apologized and explained to the earth pony that runs the orphanage called Gold Heart about Pips absence. She forgave me and told me she was glad he got to spend time with me and the princesses. I thanked the mare then I went back home and read for the rest of the day. Once it was dusk I set up my dinner and ate it, then I walked into my new room for the first time. The room was above the front door and the carpets were grey and the walls were midnight blue and a large circular bed was in the centre facing the window doors that led to the balcony outside. Hanging on both sides of the window were a couple of sea blue curtains, a portable telescope sat in the right corner of the room ready to use and a bookcase sat on the left of the room next to a writing desk. Next to the bookcase were doors that lead to the master bathroom. The bathroom had grey shiny tiles on the floor like the other bathroom and cream white walls like the other bathroom. But the difference was that the tub sat in the corner and the grey tiles had been built around it and steps had been made to reach the top of the bath. The tub itself was big enough to fit all five princesses and still had room. A door was on the right side of the room that led into a walk in wardrobe, it was also large enough to fit eleven ponies. The wardrobe had a place for everything like shoes, shirts, pants and coats; there was even a place for my armour and weapons. But the best part of the room was the glass dome above the bed which allowed me to see the night sky. The room was fit for a king in my opinion. I changed into my pyjamas and placed Dust in his new bird house which he found to be a palace fit for a bird, then I climbed into my bed. The bed was so soft it made me feel like I was sleeping on clouds. After a minute of watching the sky I fell into sleep’s embrace.

"Are you sure?" Celestia asked.

"No doubt about it I saw Ash give Luna a peck in the lower corner of her mouth and said, “Y'know you look cute when you blush," Cadence said.

"*Squee* Luna is growing up so fast, oh mother would be so proud," Chrysalis said.

"Indeed, but why are you telling us Cadence," Dream Catcher asked.

"Well I kinda think they are too shy to admit it," Cadence said.

"So you’re saying we need to give them a push," Celestia said.

"Precisely," Cadence said with a smirk.