12:00pm 2 days before Hearth's Warming Day Aephoceria Throne Room

It has been one month and twenty days since Nightmare Night and it is only two days before Hearth's Warming Eve. I was currently helping setting up Hearth's Warming Eve decorations around the castle while humming a few Christmas Carols from Earth while I worked. Pinkie seemed determined to go all out this year, zipping from one wall to another making sure she could hang as many of the brightest and most festive decorations upon the walls as she could. The pegasi made snow gently fall from the sky, covering the ground in a soft blanket of white. I was in the throne room with everyone else working on the decorations for the tree and I was helping Midnight put his first Hearth's Warming bauble on the tree.

"There you go buddy," I said as I patted Midnight on the back when he placed his bauble upon a branch, who couldn't help but giggle.

"Yes well done honey," Luna congratulated before she came over with Pip beside her.

"I truly can't wait until our child is born that way we can experience these small things for ourselves," Nightmare said as she approached while holding her pregnant stomach.

"Neither can I," I said before I kissed the dark furred mare on the lips.

"Hey Ash, ya care to do the honors?" Mac asked as he held up a large crystal star to be placed on the top of the tree.

"Uh sure I mean I'd love to but...," I said before I gestured to my back

"Oh ah'm sorry I didn't....," Mac began.

"It's okay I know what you meant Mac just maybe next time. Instead how about you Midnight," I asked as I looked at the little prince who giggled excitably before I grabbed the star.

"Uh I don't think that will be necessary Uncle Ash look the tree's already got a topper," Rumble said as he pointed at the top of the tree.

Looking up I saw Loki was sitting on the top of the tree and was making himself glow like a light and was giggling.

"Well would ya look at that?" I asked as I looked down at Midnight who seemed to be giving the baby Draconequus a cute jealous pout.

"Okay come here sweetheart," Eris said as she flew over and scooped up her young before coming back down to the ground. Luna then took Midnight off my hands and helped him put the star atop the tree before I turned to my nephew.

"We all know you're a star buddy but I don't think you want to stay up there all Hearth's Warming Eve," I said as I tickled the child's nose causing him to giggle.

"All right ya'll gather round, it's time to draw names for the Hearth's Warming Helper," Applejack said as she took off her hat.

"Ugh this again?" Pinkie groaned.

"C'mon Pinks this is to make shopping for everyone easier especially when Twilight can go a little *chuckles* Twilynanas when it comes to getting everyone gifts," I said.

"Who Told You That!" the lavender alicorn shouted as she glared at me while everyone else giggled and chuckled at the word.

"I don't need anyone to tell me anything Twi when, for the most part of my death, I could see all I needed to see. Until the sight was cloaked by Geralt that is," I said.

"Speaking of, how did you know we were in danger in the first place?" Soarin asked.

"Uh later. First thing's first, drawing names," I said before I approached Applejack who had just wrote down and shuffled the names. Reaching in I pulled out a name and saw it was Tempest so with that I smiled and a nodded. Soon the rest followed in drawing names from the hat while I tucked mine away.

"Oooo I have a few ideas for my...um helpiee is it?" Caramel asked.

"Yeah I've got one for mine," Comet said.

"Same," Soarin said.

"Me too," Pierce said.

"Me three," Mac said.

"Same here," Thunderlane said.

"Wow that was quick," Rarity said.

"Yeah Rainbow Dash quick," Applejack quipped.

"Hey is that some kind of snide remark at us?" Spike asked with annoyance.

"Maybe," Applejack said with a smirk causing me to shake my head.

"So what's going on?"

Looking at the door I saw both Apollyon and Rawlin enter the room.

"Oh hey you two. We're discussing on exchanging gifts for Hearth's Warming," I said.

"Hearth's Warming *sigh* more of this nonsense. I am beginning to wander if I've stepped into true hell. If anyone needs me I'm gonna go start a brawl somewhere," Apollyon said before she left.

"Well she was as cheery as usual," Rainbow said.

"Take it easy on her guys think of her as like me, we both saw things no one should have to see in life. The only difference is she chose a darker version of the same path we both walked down y'know. In fact you may have a bit in common with her Tempest," I said.

"Wha-?" Tempest asked.

"Come on think of it as uh...a friendship problem," I said but Tempest just gave me the 'really' look. "Yeah, yeah I know but still I'm not saying do it now or ever just...give it a shot."

"You know Tempest, Ash is right. Besides you may even surprise yourself," Twilight said.

"Seriously, you too?" Tempest asked in shock.

"What's the worst that could happen?" Twilight asked.

"She could take my head off! And besides...I don't think she likes me very much" Tempest said.

"Pfft she doesn't like anyone very much and there was a time when you thought the same way was there not?" I asked with a smirk causing Tempest to fold her arms underneath her sizeable bust and look away from me with a pout while she grumbled something under her breath.

"Well anyway, now that the tree is up and the castle is set I've got some work to do," I said before I left.

I walked through the hallway's and entered my study before I looked through my books and found the gift I was going to give to Tempest. I wrapped it for her and set it aside so I could retrieve it later before I walked out of the study.

"Ash!"

Turning around I saw Chrysalis jogging towards me and when she stopped she seemed nervous about something.

"Chrysalis what's wrong?" I asked.

"I...I have a favour to ask," Chrysalis said.

"Okay," I said as I turned to face the mare.

"Well it's about the changeling hive I once ruled over when...y'know," Chrysalis said.

"Yeah I remember now, how the changelings once were before that happened and how many ponies were turned into changelings before going back to normal after the wedding," I said.

"Well...as you know changelings can shape shift, which makes them a rather popular...ugh...purchase for the caribou but *sigh* Ash, I plan to go back to the hive and free them," Chrysalis said.

"Okay well I'll go get the others and...," I began before Chrysalis raised her hand to stop me.

"No Ash I...I need to do this myself," Chrysalis said.

"By yourself?" I asked causing Chrysalis to nod. "So you plan to just walk into what would be a heavily armed and guarded compound and free them all huh?"

"Exactly," Chrysalis said.

"Oh gods," I groaned as I lifted a hand to my face and rubbed my eyes.

"Ash I know what you're thinking but think about it; I know that Hive like the back of my hand including every passage in and out and throughout the hive," Chrysalis said.

"And what if you get caught?" I asked.

"Which is why I'm telling you if I'm not back in a couple of days you can come and get me," Chrysalis said.

"Ugh jeez Chrysalis, what's going on here?" I asked.

"Nothing," Chrysalis said defensively.

"That's bull crap and you know it C, now tell me what's going on here or I'm gonna tell you're plan to Faust," I said.

"Tell on mother that's low," Chrysalis said.

"We're siblings Chrysalis, yes siblings by law but still siblings, and siblings do shit like this all the time now spill," I said before we entered a staring match. Our eyes slowly squinting tighter and tighter before I began to walk away to get Faust.

"It's me!" Chrysalis shouted causing me to stop before looking back at her. *sigh* "Back when I ruled over the changelings I was cruel and abusive and not afraid to sacrifice many for my own personal advantage. Since you and Rage freed me it has been nagging at the back of my head for awhile to try and repay the changelings for my misdeeds."

I then turned around and walked towards Chrysalis before I stood before her and slowly pulled her in for a hug.

"Does...does this...?" Chrysalis began.

"On one condition," I said before I pulled away to look at Chrysalis. "I want you to take Apollyon with you."

"Ash...," Chrysalis began with a grown.

"Chrysalis, Apollyon is an excellent warrior and I would feel better if you had someone as back up so you're not walking in there completely on your own. Besides her being cooped up here while a war is going on isn't a good idea for her," I said.

"I...I...*sigh* Fine Ash but only to keep you from worrying," Chrysalis said.

"Thank you and please come back, I like having sisters and I don't want to lose one," I said with a smile.

With a nod Chrysalis turned around and left.

"Um Ash."

Spinning around I saw it was Fluttershy.

"Oh hey Flutters uh when did you get here?" I asked.

"Oh just now but I was wondering if you could help me please," Fluttershy asked.

"Sure what do you need?" I asked.

"Uh Pinkie mentioned a place called the Gift Givers Grove when it came to getting perfect gifts for creatures and I was wondering if you could help me get there," Fluttershy said.

"Gift Givers Grove, I remember Pinkie heading there one Hearth's Warming but I don't know who lives there so why not," I said when suddenly a scroll with a pink envelope and parachute attached to it descended before me. So I grabbed the items and opened the envelope.

Dear Ash

You're gonna need this if you're going to see the Gift Givers.

Pinkie

"That mare," I said as I chuckled and shook my head before I opened the scroll and saw it was a map to the Gift Giver's Grove. "Well we've got a map, shall we go?" I asked.

"Oh yes and...Ash...While we're there do you think we can check on the Yaks. I don't know if they have but if the caribou...," Fluttershy started before I placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Sure Flutters if anything it will be nice to have others to join us for the holidays. What about you Pinks you up for a trip," I said.

"Ooooh it's been so long since I've been to Yakyakistan...I hope Prince Rutherford will recognize me," Pinkie said as she appeared from out of nowhere causing Fluttershy to jump in surprise.

"Pinks, what bizarre creature in Equestria would forget about you unless, of course, they have amnesia then it's an excuse," I said before I opened the scroll Pinkie gave me revealing a map to the Gift Givers. "Okay then so we want to go...here, easy."

I then opened up a doorway that led into what looked like a gentle snow storm. So I summoned some warm snow gear for myself and Fluttershy while Pinkie pulled her's out of nowhere before we walked into the freezing weather.

The area looked like something you'd see in a fantasy Christmas village with snow. Frosted pine trees decorated with lights, tower lamps standing on poles that had a candy cane pattern on them with actual candy canes sticking out of the ground and finally a triangular prism shaped house decorated with lights and snow and lights inside. Gesturing for the mares to follow we then approached the house and before I could knock the door opened and I was greeted by an elderly female caribou with pale silver fur and mane done up in a bun. The...doe, I guess, also had cyan eyes and was wearing a very Christmas themed dress with a red shawl over her shoulders with a gold bell holding it in place. The elderly caribou was also wearing a set of gold framed full moon glasses and I also noticed one of her horns had been broken some time in the past.

"Ah right on time kids," the female caribou said before she grabbed a hold of us.

"Yow!" I cried out before we were all dragged inside and the door slammed shut behind us.

After getting pulled into the house I quickly regained my sense of placement and I see the interior. I notice the house is rather cozy, warm and full off gifts with Hearth's Warming/Christmas decor strung around the place designed to bring comfort to anyone who enters.

"Hi Aurora I hope you don't mind but I brought some friends with me this is...," Pinkie began.

"Fluttershy and Ash Blade. Not very often we treat royalty here but a god is a new one," the elderly caribou said.

"Pinkie how does this do-," I started.

"Before you finish that sentence a thing you should know is that we're not caribou, we're reindeer. We're not called bucks, doe and fawns we're called-," the elder said politely.

"Bulls, cows and calves. Yes I know that part, forgive me but-," I began.

"You thought we were caribou because of our appearance. it's a common mistake everyone would make but there's one key difference between us," a younger sounding voice said and when I looked I saw a young female calf with small antlers and tan fur and a seaweed green mane. She had greenish blue eyes and was wearing a set of blue pants with a sweater that matched her fur and mane colors and upon her neck was a red ribbon tied into a bow with a gold bell upon it much like the elder's.

"And that would be?" I asked causing the calf to giggle before she jumped into the air and began to hover there for several seconds before she landed on the ground.

"We can fly," Aurora said.

"And unlike Caribou we prefer to live in cold and snow," the elder said

"Fair enough," I said.

"Come along you two we all know why they're here," Another female said as she entered the room. She had light grey fur, almost pale, and a rose red mane. She also had a pair of antlers upon her head and had eyes that matched her mane. She was also wearing a bright yellow dress and finally a pair of bells as earrings.

"Uh yeah well as...um sorry, I don't believe we got you're names."

"I'm Aurora," the elder cow said.

"Bori," the cow said.

"Alice," the calf said.

"The Gift Givers of The Grove," the three said in sync.

"Aurora, Bori, Alis," I said before giving off a small laugh.

"What is it Ash?" Pinkie asked.

"Their names when put together, they say Aurora Borealis you know the night rainbow," I said causing the three reindeer to nod.

*gasp* "I can't believe I didn't see that before!" Pinkie shouted.

"Alright you two, I believe we have some gifts to organize for the two dears here. Meanwhile could I tempt his highness with a cup of hot coco?" Bori asked as she held out a steaming mug filled with a sweet smelling chocolate brown liquid with a pair of marshmallows in it.

"Thank you," I said before I accepted the mug and sipped the warm liquid. "Mm delicious."

Aurora, Bori and Alis then went to work on getting Pinkie and Fluttershy's gifts ready and while they did that I discovered these three were like the three fates over gifts. Aurora knows of every gift from the past, Bori knows of every event in the present and Alice knows of every gift in the future. Suddenly there was a knock at the door and I'm shaken from my thoughts. I was sitting by a window looking out at once was a gentle snowfall turned into a massive blizzard before I remembered the knock at the door before I look and see Aurora and Bori look at Alis as if expecting her to know who was at the door.

"I don't know who it is. Whoever it is they aren't here for gifts," Alis said.

"I'll go see for you then," I said before I placed the mug down on a table before I got up and went for the door. I was about to reach for the door when I realized maybe I should don my guise as Hunters Moon without my wings just so no one freaks out.

Opening the door I was about to greet who it was when I'm suddenly pushed aside as someone barges in and I'm sent tumbling into a pile of boxes. When I get my senses back in order I see five caribou have entered the house and were starting to turn the place over as if searching for something or someone. Suddenly one of the caribou pulls me to my fee- eh hooves but keeps the grip on my shirt.

"Where are they," the caribou demanded.

"Where are who?" I asked.

"Don't play dumb with me buddy. We found a map in Yakyakistan telling of a couple of female reindeer living here," the caribou said.

"And let me guess you plan to turn them into you're sex slaves," I said with a voice laced with venom while I summoned a hidden blade to my right arm.

"Far from it, we're here to kill them," the caribou scoffed.

That there set me off. Drawing the blade I then drove it into the surprised caribou's neck before I threw him out the still open door. Suddenly the caribou's fellows arrived into the room to see what the problem was when one of the caribou's horns began to glow in preparation for a spell. I then ran out of the house and into the storm with the caribou just behind me. Once I was out I turned into my wolf form so I could fight better in this storm. Turning around I could barely make out the caribou but I could easily smell and hear them. So focusing on those I began to creep around the caribou and as they began to separate I grabbed one by the legs before I dragged him into the storm and the pain from my teeth in his flesh was enough to make him scream just above the howling winds. I then released his leg before I climbed atop him and clamped down on his throat.

I then saw the other two caribou begin their approach towards where they last heard their friend. I then ran towards the other two caribou once I saw them. I lunged at one of the caribou knocking him to the ground before I began to drag him away but the other caribou managed to grab him as well, thus beginning a tug o war between me and the caribou. I gave the caribou a hard yank, tearing him from the other's grip, before dragging him into the blinding storm winds and ending him. I then moved towards the last caribou and I saw he was in a frenzy of fear, turning around and around trying to catch a glimpse of me. I then turned back into Hunter's Moon and approached the buck from behind before I quickly placed my hand over his mouth and wrapped my arm around his body. I held him there while he tried to escape before I snapped his neck and let his body fall.

"Ash!"

Turning around I saw Pinkie, Fluttershy, Aurora and Bori step out of the house and approach me.

"You all okay?" I asked.

"We're fine but this was unexpected. We thought they had given up a long time ago," Bori said.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"Alright that's enough."

Turning to face the voice I saw it was another caribou who must've stayed inside while I was dealing with the others and in his arms, with a blade to her throat, was Alis and she was terrified.

"Listen here pal, I'm gonna be walking out of here alive and you're not going to come after me. If I see any of you following me I will slit this little whore's throat without a second thought," the caribou said as he brought the blade close to the young calf's throat.

"Alis...look at me sweetheart," I said causing her to look at me with a heartbreaking fearful expression. "Listen to me you're gonna be fine I swear. Everything is gonna be fine but you need to stay calm and still, you understand?"

Alis could do naught but nod with a whimper before I took deep breath's with her to help calm her down and while I was doing that I brought my right hand behind my back before I snapped my fingers. Suddenly Alis and I swapped places much to the caribou's shock before I elbowed the bastard in the gut and pulled his blade out of his hand and jabbed it into his own neck. I looked back at the Gift Givers and saw the elder two comfort the youngest in a tender hug.

"You all alright?" I asked.

"We're fine," Pinkie said.

"Same thanks to you," Bori said as she looked at me.

"I'm glad but what was with these guys, they seemed very eager to kill you?" I asked.

"It's a long and sad story your highness but the short version is we reindeer used to live side by side with the caribou in happiness. Till Diann rose to power and started hunting us and driving us from our homes. There's more to tell but now ain't the time," Aurora said.

"I see," I said before I turned back to the three reindeer. "Aurora, Bori, Alis listen you have to make a choice here, I don't know for certain but it may be possible more caribou might return here and when that happens and you're here I won't be able to help you again. So I ask that you come with us to Aephoceria and when this war is over you are free to return here if you choose," I said.

The three then looked at each other and all nodded to each other before they looked to me.

"You're Highness, we'd be honored," Bori said.

"Alright we'll head there as soon as we are done in Yakyakistan, but right now I recommend you start packing anything personal and important," I said.

"We understand we shall be ready," Bori said before the three ran into their home.

"Pinkie, Fluttershy could you give them a hand please, I'm gonna stay out here and make sure there's no one else," I said.

"We're all over it," Pinkie said before she zipped into the house with Fluttershy in tow.

Meanwhile I went about disposing of the bodies and watched the storm for the shadows of what might be other caribou out there while waiting for the others. Soon I see them all exit the house with a couple of suit cases and Bori locking the door before they all made their way over towards me. No words were said from the reindeer, all they did was nod which I returned. I then opened a gateway and walked through it and then stood before a large building that reminded me of a city hall. Steps leading up to an entrance that was framed by towering pillars and on a plaque nearby were the words Welcome Center engraved on it.

"Come along I'll help you get set up," I said as I gestured to the three reindeer to follow me.

Once we entered we stood within a massive lobby with a few ponies sitting behind several windows that blocked off access to the staff only area's while side stairs led up to other offices that were higher up within the building. I then noticed a white stallion with a short black slicked back mane and wearing a business suit and square shaped glasses walking past and he appeared to be carrying a tower of parchment.

"Ah File Away, just the stallion I need," I said.

The stallion turned to look at me and his face morphed into shock before he slipped on the tiles, throwing the papers into the air before landing on his back, causing both me and Fluttershy to rush over to the stallion and help him up while I gathered all the papers in my magic.

"Sorry about that File, not hurt are you?" I asked as I helped dust the stallion off.

"Oh no no your highness I'm well. I'm merely surprised to see you here is all, had I'd known we would probably set up some refreshments," File Away said as he adjusted his glasses.

"Now there's no need for that File but I do need some help with setting up a home for some creatures who had to flee because of the caribou," I said.

"Oh I can handle this you're highness," File Away said.

"You sure cause you seem busy at the moment and I don't wish to overwork you," I said as I looked at the tower of parchment.

"Oh those were just low grade papers that needed to be filed away and if anything I'd rather help the ones you brought in then do that," File said causing us both to chuckle.

"I hear you there but anyway File I'd like to introduce you too Aurora, Bori and Alis a couple of reindeer who are targeted by the caribou for death. See to it that they are treated right and are comfortable," I said as I gestured to the reindeer in question.

"Of course you're highness I'll see to it now. This way ladies and rest assured we will find you a place to call home while you're here," File Away said as he began to lead the Gift Givers away but Alis put her suitcase down and ran over to me to embrace me in a hug, which I returned, before she left to rejoin her mother and grandmother while Fluttershy and I left for the castle.

"That File guy seems really nice," Pinkie said.

"He is and a hard worker to boot. The stallion that he chooses to share his life with will be glad to have him," I said.

"Wait he's into stallions?" Pinkie asked.

"You say that like it's a bad thing Pinks," I said with a playful smile.

"Sorry it's just I've never met a stallion who's into stallions before," Pinkie said.

"Not surprised, most prefer to keep that side of themselves a secret and with what all the caribou are doing those who like males have it as rough as any female. I met File Away awhile ago, poor bastard was tied to a post and left out in the sun, he's lucky he's alive right now," I said as I recalled the memory and frowned when I saw those that didn't survive what had happened before I shook my head and smiled.

"Anyway what say we get back to the castle. I promised the kids we'd watch some earth Christmas movies and believe me these ones are full of laughs," I said.

"Oohh I'm intrigued," Pinkie said while rubbing her hands deviously.

With a roll of my eyes we continued on our way to the castle and as day turned to night I was busy setting up the movie room for the the movies I had in mind. With that done I changed into a dire wolf and as soon I did I was buried in the fur of my wife, my mates and the kids as well. Then suddenly all female friends and sisters in law come bursting into the room.

"Aw damn it, missed again!" Dream Catcher groaned.

"Ha you say that as if any of you had a chance," Nightmare said.

"Uh what's going on here?" I asked.

"Oh it's simple really. Lulu here created a spell that informs us when you take on the form of our favourite cuddle pillow," Spitfire said.

"And Twilight here, ever the magical expert, managed to replicate it for us so now we all know when you turn into a wolf and the objective was to see who could get to you first this time. Sadly you're mares were quicker...this time," Celestia said.

"And the reason you didn't fly slash teleport in is because?" I asked.

"Well we all agreed, thanks to Fluttershy, that doing either while you're busy doing something could be disastrous and because of Rainbow's pure speed we found it would be unfair if she flew especially on those that do not possess wings and also unfair on those that had magic to aid them here so naturally we all agreed the only way was the old fashioned way," Luna said.

"Goodness, it seems like some ponies were eager."

Looking towards the door I saw it was Faust along with all my male friends.

"Yeah eager to snuggle me. This lot even went as far as to put some kind of transformation tracking spell on me to tell them all of when I turn into a wolf," I said causing Faust to giggle while all the guys groaned.

"Well anyway let's watch these movies already and by the way, Ash, what are we watching?" Soarin asked.

"Oh these movies are called Home Alone and yes Twi, there's a series of them," I said.

"Hey kids," Rage said causing all the foals to turn to face him. "Listen these movies have some important tips for when you want to take on a couple of home invaders who are actually a couple of idiots."

"Got it," the foals said.

"Rage don't you go putting any crazy thoughts into their heads," I said.

"Whats crazier then what they already do?" Rage asked.

"...Fair point," I said before I played the first movie.

Warning Home Alone 1 & 2 Spoiler's Ahead You've Been Warned

The movies started out fine. First viewing the main star Kevin's life and how he was accidentally left behind and the movie had some memorable moments here and there but when the traps came up I got excited. All the males cringed when Harry was shot in the balls with a BB gun and everyone cried out when he placed his hand on the burning doorknob but laughed at the mark left behind. But the kicker for me and another source of cries from the rest while gripping their hooves was when Marv stepped on a nail and Christmas ornaments while he was bare foot

"These losers don't even have a clue!" Spike hollered with laughter after the two burgles slipped on some toy cars before laughing again when the two got hit with a couple of paint cans.

"Either that or this kid is a devil in disguise," Caramel said with a laugh.

"How are they not dead from those, the least they can do is knock them out from a blow like that," Twilight said causing us all to roll our eyes.

"Twilight, sweetie, it's a kids movie. Exceptions are allowed," Cadence said simply.

We soon came to the scene where Marv was on the ground but had a firm grip on Kevin's leg.

"Oh no!" Sweetie Bell cried out.

"Shh calm down, just watch," I hushed the filly before turning back to the scene to watch Kevin grab a tarantula before slowly lowering it onto Marv's face.

"Oh no, nonononono," Soarin said before the spider was placed on Marv.

As Marv began to scream I saw and felt everyone freaking out over the action while Fluttershy smiled sweetly at the spider's heroic deed but almost lunged at the screen when we saw Marv try and crush the spider with a crowbar then sighed in relief while we laughed when he hit Harry instead.

"This child is quite knowledgeable in using what he has available to defeat his opponents," Luna said.

"Indeed and his bravery is quite astonishing for one so young," Moon said as she stroked her chin.

"Down here you big horses ass!" Kevin shouted causing everyone who was a pony to recoil in shock while the rest of us couldn't help but snicker.

"But his language is something to be desired," Moon said bluntly and in a quite unamused tone while she took a quick glance at her own rear in concern but a quick nuzzle from me fixed that.

"What's it matter to you guys, you're ponies not horses last I checked," Rage said.

"It matters because that comment now makes me feel self conscious about my weight," Rarity said as she gave her tush a quick rub.

I then saw some of the males go to open there mouth to make a comment about how they like their mates rears as they were but before they could utter a word I cleared my throat.

"Before any of you go making any comments about this topic let me remind you all that there are foals present," I said with a raised eyebrow causing them to close their mouths and just nuzzle their mates. When the movie ended everyone quickly asked if there was a sequel which I inserted right away and once again I got excited for when the traps came into play. My favourite was the door mounted staple gun.

"Uh dude didn't you learn the last time with this kid about being wary for traps," Shining commented as Marv began to pull on the front door's knob but just ended up pulling out a long thread of string that was connected to the staple gun's trigger.

"Shh," Cadence shushed as Marv saddled the string with his back to the door.

Marv then gave a very hard yank on the string which resulted in a staple being fired right up Marv's butt.

"YEOW!" Marv and all the males screamed while some even held their tails over their butts and they cried out again when Marv turned around and thanks to the string somehow stapled to his butt he pulled the trigger and fired another round right into his crotch causing Marv to collapse to his knees and earn another shot to his nose before falling backward. Everyone laughed as the traps with Marv became more vicious like the electrified sink that briefly reviled his skeleton. I couldn't help but cringe when Harry's head was set on fire and he got the brilliant idea of doing a handstand over a toilet and dunking his head into it. But the thing is the toilet was actually full of kerosene that exploded when it mad contact with the flames.

"Oooo crispy," I said when Harry pulled his head out of the toilet to reveal his burned and blackened face causing everyone to laugh.

"Don't you know a kid always wins against two idiots," Kevin said before he climbed up a ladder.

"Y'know he's got a point there," Rage said.

"Yeah if I had to choose between a kid and two idiots in a fight I'd pick the kid, especially this kid," Shining said causing a certain alicorn filly to pout but I tickled Flurry with my tail to cheer her up quickly.

Once we got to the stairs everyone thought for sure Harry had outsmarted Kevin but the massive pipe reassured us that Kevin was still on top.

So what other little goodies does the young one have in store for these two I wonder," Discord said revealing in watching the show unfold.

"Just watch and find out," I said as Marv and Harry approached a second door and when Harry pulled on the knob he pulled on a string and pulled a tool chest forward creating a large clanging sound as it rolled down the stairs. Harry and Marv, much like how the two idiots are, just pressed their ears against the door in hopes of figuring it out.

"Hey dumbasses, if you hear a loud noise after you pulled on a string you don't just stand there and try to figure out what's making it!" Rainbow shouted.

"Rainbow language!" Rarity cried out.

"Well it's obvious there's no hope for these two," Shining said just before the tool chest slammed into the door pushing the two towards the wall behind them. When they pushed the door and tool chest away we saw their faces had been squished.

"That was the sound of a tool chest...falling down the stairs," Marv said in a nasally voice before Marv and Harry fixed their noses with a sickening crack while we all laughed.

Soon after a few more traps and a heart warming ending it was time for bed. I picked the foals up and carried them all to their respective rooms to sleep before I made my way back to my room.

Spoilers End

The Next Day Aephoceria Castle Library

I was sitting in my study writing some things down in a book of mine when I decided to stop and sit back in my chair and stretch my arms upward with a sigh. Suddenly I felt subtle puffs of breath down my neck before they took a lungful of air.

"Don't even think about it Soarin," I said causing the presence behind me to splutter out the held breath before they walked over to my side and leaned against the desk. When I looked my guess was spot on for it was Soarin right there.

"How'd you know it was me?" Soarin asked.

"You have a slight wheeze in your breath thanks to the blast Chrysalis gave you when we were heading to the Knight's Tomb," I said.

"Aw yeah," Soarin said before a little blood escaped his nose. "That was a great day."

"You know it's perverts like you that give males a bad name," I said.

"Uh no that misdeed goes to the caribou and any other rapist," Soarin said.

"Hm good point there," I said.

"So what you working on?" Soarin asked as he took a peek at my book.

"That is something that is not ready yet," I said as I closed the cover on him.

"Ready for what?" Soarin asked.

"Reading obviously jeez," I said.

"Well anyway the females are all fussing over about some performance that's going on tonight and are insisting that we start getting ready," Soarin said.

"Pfft a performance that doesn't even start until eight and it's only a quarter after twelve right now," I chuckled.

"I know I'll never understand mares but it may help the fact that you tell us what it is that you've organized," Soarin said.

"And I told you all you need to do is dress nicely for it, nothing else needs to be said. The only one who knows a little more then anyone else is Rarity. I asked her to fix up everyone's outfits for tonight and leave their ensemble's in their rooms and considering what I believe she knows she'll have everyone ready in no time," I said.

"Kay...Oh yeah listen, the boys and I have some time to kill before the show and we were wondering if you'd like to come along and make a suggestion for what we could do," Soarin said.

"Hm...Well I was planning on taking a break so sure I'll tag along," I said.

"Great I'll take you to them," Soarin said before we both left the library and left towards the relaxation lounge where I saw them debating with each other.

"And why can't we play Ogres and Oubliettes?" Shining asked.

"Because it's all we've done together, not that there is anything wrong with it, but I just want to do something different," Spike said.

"Yeah but what can we all do?" Comet asked.

Listening to their conversation I gave it a thought before smiling and snapping my fingers as I came up with an idea.

"Whoa! Oh Ash it's just you and Soarin. I take it you're here to join us?" Pierce asked startled by the snapping of my fingers.

"Yeah and I know of the perfect way to kill time that we can do only in this weather," I said before I snapped my fingers again and soon we were teleported outside and on top of a mountain. I also made sure to wrap everyone in warm clothing.

Third Person P.O.V.

"Sweet Jesus Ash, why did ya have to bring us up here for eh?" Eli asked.

"Simple really," Ash said before he summoned a set of boards for everyone which appeared attached to their feet. "We're gonna ride these down the mountain."

"Ey!?" the boys shouted.

"See ya'll down there Yahoo!" Ash said before jumping off the ledge.

"Jeez how can a guy be so cool and yet not care about it?" Pierce asked.

"He's Ash, it's part of what makes him a total badass," Shining said before he leapt off the ledge after Ash.

"Wait hang on, are we seriously doing this?" Caramel asked as he watched everyone begin to move to the ledge.

"Well it certainly beats staying here," Spike said.

"But I haven't even had a snowboarding lesson yet," Caramel said.

"Neither have we," most of the males said before they all jumped off the ledge.

"Oh Mother of Celestia...," Caramel said as he moved to the edge and watched the others slide down the mountain before he took a deep breath. "Okay, I can do this, I can do this. I'm going to trick myself. Oh look at that ,what- AAAAAAAGGGGGGGHHHHHH!"

Ash's P.O.V.

"Yes!" I shouted as I slid down the mountain. I saw I was approaching a small ramp and jumped it and preformed an indy grab while in mid-air before landing the jump.

"Keep up slow poke!" Shining shouted as he past me followed then by Rage, Soarin, Thunderlane, Jabir and Eli.

"Oh it's on!" I shouted before I leaned forward and began to catch up with the others.

"C'mon Ash you can do better then that," Rage said as I began to catch up with them.

Soon the others began to catch up with us but Caramel was all over the place.

"Dude relax don't over think. It's just like any other board just keep you're balance and remain calm," I said causing Caramel to calm down before he was sliding along the snow gracefully.

"Hey Ash!" Thunderlane called out causing me to look just in time to see him disappear beneath the snow before somehow jumping into the air a fair distance away. "Half pipe!"

With a grin I followed Thunderlane and magically unlocked the straps securing my feet to the board before I started doing some tricks like grabs and flips before exiting the pipe. Suddenly we came to a steep slope that led into an ice cave full of all kinds of obstacles and pathways but unfortunately the cave was also unstable and began to come down on us as we all escaped. That led to us all laughing at the near death experience and fist bumped as we slid across a sheet of ice.

"Oh man I love gravity," Rage said.

"I feel like reminiscing," Comet said.

"Remin-icing?" Soarin asked.

"Reminiscing moron," Shining said.

"Hey guys floor fifty going down, no stops, no breeeeaaaaaakkkkkkkkkksssssss!" I shouted as our path led us over a cliff and down into another ice cave. Only this one was like riding a water slide; a long tunnel full of turns but the end spat us out of a cliff.

I then leaned forward so I was lying horizontally before I closed my eyes and remembered the feeling I had when I could fly. When I opened my eyes I saw the slope of the mountain fast approaching but before I could right myself I landed in the snow and began to tumble the rest of the way down the mountain before coming to a rest in a pile of snow at the bottom.

"Hey Ash you alright?" I heard Mac asked as he and the others arrived but I just simply laughed as I picked myself up and out of the snow.

"Aw man that was awesome we should do that more often," I said.

"Yeah I'm really happy you made that call Ash," Spike said.

"Hey whose up for another go?" Rage asked.

"Me!" we all shouted as we raised our hands.

8:30 Aephoceria Castle Lobby

I was in the lobby with the rest of the guys and we were all chatting about our time on the mountain or we were adjusting our outfits. Both Eli and Jabir wore suits however Rarity decided to make the rest of us something more...classical. I was in a suit to be sure but one from the latter years of the golden age of pirates. I was wearing a white shirt with frills on the end of the sleeves along with some navy blue pants and black boots. I was also wearing a stylish dark red vest and a stylish navy blue coat decorated with a few dark reds and golds and silver cuff links and finally around my neck was a white cravat.

"Oh man, can honestly say I'm glad I'm not wearing that frilly thing around you're neck," Rage said as he approached me wearing a interesting outfit complete with top hat.

"Eh it's not so bad got to say Rarity got you to a T roguish yet stylish," I said.

"Actually I organized this one with Eris, Rarity wanted me to be in something else," Rage said in a hushed voice.

"I see," I said before I saw Pip was struggling with his outfit. "Scuse me need to help my son."

I then walked over to Pipsqueak and saw he was wearing a brown and red coat with gold buttons and he wore brown pants. Beneath his coat was a white shirt and beneath the collar was a brown cord done up in a bow and as I approached I could see he was fiddling with his sleeves.

"Something the matter son?" I asked as I stood behind Pip causing the colt to whirl around and breath a sigh of relief when he saw me.

"Oh dad sorry it's just the sleeves beneath my coat got all bunched up and I'm trying to fix it," Pip said.

"Here," I said as I keeled before Pip and used my magic to pull the sleeves of his shirt out of his coat's sleeves and when I did I saw his shirt had frills on his sleeves as well.

"Is that all?" I asked.

"Well this collar is kinda tight as well," Pip said.

Okay," I said before I loosened the cord around Pip's neck. "There that better?"

"Mm-hm thank you dad," Pip said to which I nodded before I stood up to face the others.

"Alright guys listen up I want all of you to be on you're best behaviour tonight kay," I said causing the guys to roll their eyes at me.

"Yes sir," Spike said with a mock salute.

"Jeez Ash when are we not on our best behaviour?" Soarin asked causing me to raise an eyebrow at him

"Oh boys~," a voice cried in a sing song voice.

Looking at the source of the voice I was stunned when I saw it was the girls their clothes were beautiful to say the least. They looked like they came from the Pre-Victorian era. Some were slim others had that puffy look to them. Some of their dresses stopped at just below their knees but continued down at the back or at the side but they were none the less lovely and each one's color matched their fur and mane colors. Even Midnight, Rainbow, Lightning Dust and Gilder were in one of those puffy dresses.

"Oh hohohoho oh man it hurts, it hurts so much," Rage laughed as he pointed at the four.

"Oh I'll make you hurt some more if ya keep it up," Rainbow growled as she, Midnight and Lightning began to roll up their sleeves so they could give Rage a thrashing but were stopped by a blue aura.

"If you so much as break a stitch of that cloth I slaved over, I'll be sure to put you in corsets," Rarity said with deathly calm tone that made the girls pale and gulp audibly before Gilda turned to me.

"I blame you for this," Rainbow said as she pointed at me.

"Now now let's not get hostile here, we're supposed to look nice tonight," I said.

"Tch whatever but what the hey is that frilly scarf thing around you're neck?" Rainbow asked.

"Oh my cravat, it was actually a real popular item back then and for tonight I had Rarity design something a little bit more classical to wear for everyone tonight. So you're not suffering alone here Rainbow," I said as I gestured to the males who were all in similar attire.

"Well you all look simply dashing and Ash you wear that look superbly, it goes well with you're pony tail darling," Rarity said.

"Yeah he looks like a stuck up noble," Gilda said.

"Says the griffon wearing a dress fit for a duchess," I fired back with a grin causing a few to snicker.

The girls then went to their respective mates and I smiled when I saw Spitfire, Tempest and Moon approaching me. I saw Spitfire's dress was one of the ones that reached just below her knees in the front but extended down to her hooves behind her legs and it was probably the only one that didn't completely match her colors. Oh sure there was a flaming orange along her dress and sleeves but there was also blues along the torso of the dress and along the dress itself. Tempest's dress mostly matched her coat color but the front of her torso matched her mane and tail's colors and, similar to Spitfire, the dress part stopped at the knees while the opposite side extended down further but for Tempest's dress the left side of her dress was longer then the right. Next came Moon, hers was a full dress with a midnight blue color with puffy shoulders but the torso and shoulder length gloves she wore were the same color as her old armor. I also noticed she placed an illusion spell over her stomach to hide her pregnancy and her mane was also tied into a braid behind her. Finally she was wearing the necklace I got her when I was Bones along with a choker made from a cloth the same color as her armor.

"Wow you three look absolutely beautiful," I said.

"I feel and look ridiculous," Tempest said with a groan as she rubbed her arms.

"Nonsense you look stunning...where's Luna?" I asked.

"She was finishing up Midnight's suit as we left, she'll be here soon," Spitfire said as she gestured to the stairs.

"That soon being now my dear Spitfire."

Looking up at the stairs I smiled as I saw Luna approaching with Midnight in her arms. The young colt was wearing a simple black suit with white shirt but no tie and Luna was wearing a gorgeous dress.

"You look beautiful Luna," I said as she approached before planting a kiss on the alicorn's lips.

"You look rather dashing yourself my beloved king," Luna said after we parted lips.

"Hey don't go hogging all of the handsome stud Luna," Moon teased as she placed a hand on my right shoulder to pull me back before nuzzling my right cheek with her own cheek.

"Yeah we want some love here too ya know," Spitfire said before she pulled my left arm against her.

"Ladies, ladies please there is enough of me to go round for all of you," I said.

"Oh we know that," Luna purred.

"Alright then, now that we're all here what saw we head out for our destination hm?" I asked. as I motioned to the door.

With both Moon and Spitfire on my arm I led everyone outside to an awaiting set of carriages with a footman, a driver and four horses, two Greek Fire horses for each one except for the royal coach which was pulled by four. Being a gentleman I let the mares climb in first then the foals and finally me before the door was closed and we began to move. After a few moments of sitting, talking and the mares and Pip guessing where we were going we finally came to a stop. I opened the door for the mares and helped them out before Pip got out and then me. I saw we were in front of a theater where a long row of ponies were waiting to get in before one of the other carriages showed up and out stepped Rarity, Rainbow, Soarin and Thunderlane.

"A theater, this is what the big surprise was?" Soarin asked.

"You've been to plays before Soarin, this one is no big deal," I said.

"True but we normally go wearing casual clothing," Soarin said.

"True but when I told Rarity about my plans for tonight she asked if I'd ever been to one of these before and as I explained my experience with them Rarity asked about attire and well she decided to make these for us. Besides, as a guest of royalty it's best to dress nicely for events like this even if the royal wishes to dress casually," I said.

"Ah Ash Blade, old sport."

Looking at the source of the voice I saw it was Fancy Pants and Fleur with Saint Blade walking towards us. Fancy Pants was wearing his usual tuxedo and wearing a monocle and a top hat over his head while Fleur was dressed in a a stunning dress like the other mares and she was wearing an overcoat to keep her warm while young Saint Blade was dressed much like his father.

"Fancy Pants looking as dapper as ever," I said as I greeted the stallion with a firm handshake before kissing Fleur on the cheek and patting Saint Blade on his shoulder.

"And you my friend, truly a grand attire truthfully I am jealous. I assume this is Rarity's work?" Fancy Pants asked as he looked at Rarity who had engaged in conversation with Fleur.

"Indeed and how are you finding yourself so far, I trust your home is to your satisfaction?" I asked.

"Ash you've done so much for us I don't see how I can ever repay you," Fancy Pants said.

"Think nothing of it. Now I assume you are here to see the performance tonight are you not?" I asked.

"Indeed we are we were lucky enough to grab one of the VIP seats close to the royal's box," Fancy said.

"Well then let us enter together then. I assume you heard that Octavia will also be playing her cello tonight as well?" I asked.

"Quite so, one of the reasons I decided to come tonight," Fancy Pants said.

"Well while we wait for the other carriages that are transporting the rest of my friends, let us go and rejoin our respective families shall we," I said as I gestured to the others.

"Agreed," Fancy Pants said before made our way over.

As I was walking by I saw Celestia and Faust gazing at a poster for tonight's performance so I walked over to the two to see how they were doing. I saw Celestia's dress was similar to Luna's however her's was as white as her fur and had gold instead of black while Faust's was mostly auburn red while the torso of her dress was white.

"The Nutcracker," Celestia read.

"Hm can't say it's one I'm familiar with," Faust said.

"Not surprised this story was written in eighteen-sixteen of the fifth civilisation and one of my favourites. The story was then turned into a ballet later on in eighteen-ninty-two," I said.

"I see, so tonight will be a ballet?" Faust asked.

"Not quite, more of a mixture between a play and a ballet. I made sure the original music was used for this so it will be quite an event," I said.

"I do so love plays and the clothes from Rarity seem to fit the mood quite nicely. In fact Ash if I didn't know any better I'd say you were trying to take us back in time without the means of magic or technology," Celestia said with a smirk.

"I assure you I have no idea what you are talking about," I said.

"By the way Ash I've been wondering this for awhile but do you know where Chrysalis is? It's not like her to disappear for so long without someone seeing her?" Faust asked.

"I uh can't say I know where she is. Rest assured but she asked me to keep what she was doing quiet but she said you'll be seeing her the day after tomorrow with a surprise," I said.

"Oh I can't wait," Faust said before she and Celestia walked off.

*sigh* "She'd better be back on that day and if one of those caribou had done something to her or Apollyon they will suffer my wrath," I whispered under my breath.

Soon the other carriages arrived and we walked inside and were immediately allowed to head to our seats when I spotted a familiar DJ wearing a fancy dress and she appeared to have a dejected look on her face.

"Vinyl," I greeted as I walked over to the mare.

"Oh hey Ash sorry I didn't know you were gonna be here tonight," Vinyl said.

"What and miss out on Octavia performing, not on your life," I said.

"Right so what's with the getup?" Vinyl asked.

"Rarity's idea, what's with yours?" I asked.

"Tavi's idea, too bad she won't be able to see it," Vinyl said.

"Why's that?" I asked.

"Well...I made a reservation but the pony at the booth says I never made one so I can't get in. I made a report over at the booking booth but the teller at the desk ain't having it," Vinyl said.

"Hm...Fancy Pants, mind if I borrow you for a second?" I asked causing the stallion to walk over.

I then explained the situation before telling him my plan to which he nodded before we made our way over to a door marked staff only next to a ticket booth marked bookings before I knocked on the door politely. But after awhile when no response came I banged on the door before it was opened by a mare with a pale blue coat of fur with a dark blue mane.

"Miss I told you already if you want help you're gonna need to get in the line and ask at the b-b-b-b-b-," the mare started but began to stutter when her eyes landed on me.

"Ma'am I know you and the staff must be busy but please, I need your assistance with something. This poor mare here has told me that she made a booking for a seat some time ago however, for some reason, she can't get in and I would appreciate it if you could allow me to see the booking roster to see if she has indeed purchased a seat for tonight so we might correct this issue," I said calmly to the mare whose mouth was opening and closing like a goldfish before she closed the door and after a few seconds she returned with a clipboard before she shakily handed it to me which I took and after a quick look through I nodded. "Here it is; Vinyl Scratch, seat paid for and it says here the request was never submitted to the ticket booths," I said before I clicked my tongue three time before I shook my head then looked back at the mare. "Now then I think a small upgrade to one of the VIP seats is acceptable as an apology for your negligence towards this mare."

"B-b-but your highness all the VIP seats are full," the mare said.

"That won't be a problem we have some spare seats in my box so I believe we can house one more for tonight," Fancy Pants said.

"Well miss, is that a problem?" I asked as I looked at the mare.

"N-no sir I-I-I'll get right on it and correct my mistake," the mare said.

"See to it that you do," I said calmly as I handed the mare back her clipboard before she closed the door and once the door closed Vinyl wrapped her arms around both Fancy Pants and me in a hug.

"Thank you both," Vinyl said.

"Hey no trouble V now go, you're marefriend is waiting for you so she can preform," I said before she nodded and left with Fancy Pants while I left for the royal box and when I arrived I saw the box was decorated with gold and royal purple velvet walls and a plush royal purple carpet and ceiling with a gold chandelier. The royal box was basically two VIP boxes that had one side removed and at the back of the box was an all you can eat buffet. The seating arrangements were like those in cinemas the seats at the back were higher then the seats at the front so everyone could see and our box was connected to the ceiling in front of the stage so we got a perfect view of the entire theater. VIP boxes were mounted on the side walls while below us in rows of plush red velvet seats were the stranded seats and as I looked around, the theater was decorated with bronze walls while the floor had crimson carpet while the ceiling had a mural of the sky during sunset.

"This is a lovely theater Ash, was this here before the *ahem* collapse?" Celestia asked.

"Yes but the only thing that survived was the lobby and well over half of the main theater, most of the roof, the stage and backstage were completely wrecked. Could only assume some kind of bomb went off in here when the kingdom fell because of all the burnt wood and scattered debris but thanks to some photos and building plans I was able to restore this place to it's former glory and I gotta say the architect had taste," I said.

"Indeed *sigh* I wish I could preform in a theater like this but that is not where my talent lies...unfortunately," Celestia said with a blush.

"No one starts out as a great actor Celestia, it takes a lot of work to step into such a role. I mean professionals make it look easy but in reality it's not," I said.

"I appreciate the words Ash but the theater is not where I belong," Celestia said.

"Perhaps but who knows," I said when suddenly the lights began to dim and the orchestra began to play a hum that informed everyone that the show was about to start and just like that everyone went quiet while we all took our seats just as the curtain lifted for the show to begin.

Yes I know this is late and I'm sorry about that but the important thing is that it's here for you all now and not that it hasn't come at all and I promise next time I'll try and get it to you all sooner.