Author's Notes:

Happy Hearth's Warming Chapter. I hope this chapter brings you all good feels and happiness as not only is it filled to the brim with goodies, heartfelt gooeyness but guess what. Its DOUBLE SIZED! Normally I aim for a chapter around 7k words, this one is 14k so tada. Basically this is a double chapter two in one all for you all for sticking with me and enjoying my work so far.

That being said I believe I will be taking a break next week and maybe the week after for a recharge period. Thank you and I hope you all enjoy.

My Little Tactics

Chapter Nineteen: Happy Hearth’s Warming.

The weather team had pulled out the stops for today the eve of Hearth’s Warming. There was a light snow fall, just enough to give it the feel of the holiday without being too much for everyone to deal with. Well at least it was that way in town, in the Everfree castle as snow was constantly being shoveled left and right as the clouds were left unchecked for the most part. Some of the pegasi in the castle tried to deal with the clouds but there were too many at the time and so they gave up and just accepted the need to shovel like everyone else.

When Dustan woke up that morning, besides getting dressed for the cold day and after a much needed trip to the hot spring to warm up, he had planned on going into town to see where everyone on his present list was going to be so he could find them easily that day. However the first thing he noticed was the arch that was the entrance to the castle grounds that had been left open till now was now covered. When he tried to get someone to tell him he found every single one clamming up and gave that shifty eyed look that they knew something. For the moment Dustan left it at that thinking maybe it was something for tomorrow.

First up on his check list were the ones that were closest to him: Sturdy, Eden, and Merlene. “Merlene you there?”

“Yes my lord?” The falcon looking griffon asked as she appeared from her hiding spot. If not for the fact that Dustan was getting used to the fact she always seemed to be around that would have scared him half to death.

As it happened this helped him out. “Well two things. One: What are your plans for tomorrow?”

Merlene seemed to think about that for a moment before replying proudly. “I have been invited to a party in town hosted by the party planner resident.”

‘Ahh Pinkie got to her, well then chances are I am likely going to get a lot of the same answer.’ With a smile and nod he stretched. “Good to hear. Second, do you know where Sturdy Structure and Still Eden are?”

Nodding the wren would point towards one of the rooms of the barracks and say. “That is where they live.”

‘Oh right I keep forgetting they are together. They never tend to show any PDA so it’s kinda too easy to forget that.’ Walking over to the door he would knock and wait for an answer.

A sleepy looking fawn patterned pony appeared and smiled. “Oh hello Lord Warner, how can I help you?”

Groaning he face palmed and sighed. “Well for starters no more of that Lord Warner stuff.”

She managed to giggle into her hoof and grin at him. “As my Lord commands.” That just got another groan from him.

“I swear at this point is revenge for some unseen slight I have done to people that everyone calls me that.” Dustan told her honestly.

Except she shook her head at that. “While yes, for those of us that know you, we know how much that bothers you we do it to tease in good natured fun. Those of that also know you like addressing you as this cause even if you aren’t a noble in title you act more like a noble than any other.”

He could feel the heat rise to his cheeks and severally hoped that the cold bringing out the pink of his cheeks hid that fact, even if the new round of giggles said it didn’t. “Well thanks. Anyways I came to see what yours and your boy toy’s plans were for tomorrow.” Sighing after a moment as he seen her tilt her head halfway through his statement he just said. “Boy toy means colt toy.”

“Oh!” That managed to get the gardener to blush a bit before she giggled. “Well right now he is resting; he and the others of his team were busy with a project and didn’t get home till late last night.” Lighting up her horn she used her magic to make a tracing of light in the air showing a certain gingerbread house. “As for tomorrow, he and I are heading to Sugarcube corner for a party hosted by Pinkie Pie and the Cakes.”

‘Three down.’ “Good to know. Hopefully I will be able to catch you all there when I can.” He started to turn and walk away. “Alrighty thanks for your time. Go ahead and go back to snuggling or what not.” He was rewarded with a telekinetic shove and a blush for his tease making him chuckle loudly.

Next up on his list was Zecora. “Kweh!”

The white flash of the tall ostrich like bird came from his room as he chuckled. “Hey there girl. Did you sleep well?” The Chocobo merely nuzzled against him as he hugged and pet her. She had gotten into the habit of sleeping with him once again now that he was back, not that he minded as she kept him nice and warm at night snuggled up against her plumage. “Did you close the door?”

Both human and Chocobo looked back and could see that the door was wide open and with a quick ‘Wark’ did the White Chocobo quickly move and shout the door with her foot. Honestly everyday she seemed to be getting smarter and smarter, while not strange as Chocobo’s in Final Fantasy always seemed to be intelligent he almost wondered how smart she would get, or if it was this world affecting her somehow.

“Good girl.” He pulled out a small treat, something that Zecora said she had made one day of a mix of the green’s that chocobo’s liked, carrots, some veggies and fruit along with a few nuts all compressed and backed into a small square that Boko seemed to go wild for. Seeing the treat the white avian’s eyes lit up almost comically as she made a pleading noise. “It’s yours go ahead.” Giving an excited Kweh she took it right from his hand and devoured that treat like Pinkie Pie would with a cake…or maybe Celestia.

Traveling to Zecora’s hut was a bit of a challenge, not for Merlene or Boko as their wide feet offered them some measure of weight distribution on the snow, his feet were not made for that sinking in each time and thus having him trudge through the snow as best he could on the way.

The inside of the hut was warm and inviting though he didn’t knock as he still felt like this was his home even though he was slowly moving things to his room at the castle. “Zecora, you here?”

The clip clop of hooves on wood was heard as the zebra appeared and smiled. “Ahh Dustan, to what do I owe the appearance? Surely the Lord of the Everfree will find visiting me as interference?”

The grin on her face showed she was teasing as he went up to her and gave her a hug. “Never Zecora. You are my friend and I will always make time for you, just say the word. Though I am here to ask you what your plans are for tomorrow.”

“I will remember what you have said here today. As one day you might find out that you making that promise will make you pay.” Her chuckle was deep and genuine and he couldn’t help but join in. “Truly though my plans are very thin. I had considered just staying in. Problem was the pink energetic one wouldn’t let me. Thus I had no choice but to join her party for merriment and glee.”

“Seems everyone is going to that party. I personally haven’t gotten an invite yet but I will ask Pinkie about it when I get to town.” Dustan moved to the fire to warm up his hands some and smiled before he felt Boko move close and nuzzle next to him. “Thanks girl. Merlene you need to warm up?”

She shook her head and ruffled her feathers. “My Winter down is actually keeping me quite warm along with this scarf I bought from the seamstress in town.”

That had been one of the things he rectified as soon as he was made aware of it when he first went shopping for his gifts for everyone before his trip. Merlene had no income what so ever except from some odd chores she did around the castle for others. As such since then he authorized the bank to pay her every week a livable salary. At first she had refused the payment but when he pointed out her living arrangements, food situation, and the fact he was her Lord, she had no choice but to accept it. Truthfully that is when he first stopped asking her to use that term as him using it to his advantage cemented it and he knew it. It was worth it though to see a friend not ruin themselves for his sake.

At that thought, his mind wondered to Pat and his family. If time passed the same way here as it did there, then this would be the first Christmas they would be celebrating without him. He knew his mother and father would invite everyone over as they were always friendly to everyone. Dustan was an only child so no brothers or sisters to share things with, his grandparents on both sides were gone so nothing there. His father was estranged from his family and thus never saw them and his mother really had no other family except some distant relatives that she wasn’t close with. That left friends and while that would be nice, he knew they would be hurting this holiday for sure.

“So my friend what is it you have planned for tomorrow to inquire about my schedule with such curiosity?” Zecora gave a chuckle as she stretched and sat on the couch relaxing. “I must admit that I am not curious as to wonder if that means you have gotten me something with your generosity.”

“Maaaaybe.” The Squire couldn’t help but chuckle at that and stand up. “Finding out where some people are means I won’t have to go looking for them.”

The wren near the door suddenly looked at him and asked. “Is that why you wished to know what my plans are?” When he gave a nod she looked shocked at that. “M-my lord you don’t have to give me a gift. You pay for me and allow me to work for you as well as allowing me to stay on your land. I couldn’t ask for anymore generosity then that.”

“Cool, because you don’t have to ask for this.” Dustan said to her with a grin. “I give all my close friends gifts if I can afford it.” The displaced human watched as the griffon opened and closed her beak a few times before vanishing towards the bathroom in a haste that was not normal for her. “Something I said?”

Somehow, with tea in hoof, Zecora was watching even though her eyes were closed and enjoying the taste of her drink. “I think perhaps, that the time in which she had gotten a gift has long since come to elapse.”

“Hmm maybe. Still didn’t think it would get that kind of reaction from her.” Dustan had to wait maybe ten minutes before his bodyguard came out of the bathroom looking a bit red eyed but much better composed then before as she said nothing and took a stance nearby. “Alright, Zecora I will talk to you later. Next up is Fluttershy.”

“Hold on Dustan.” She told him before coming closer. “You have recently eaten some fish, and as you know Fluttershy is not a fan.”

Wincing at that he sighed. “I know she understands but I can still see it hurts her every time. I will make the visit quick then.”

“So long as you can understand. Then go and do as you have planned.” The shaman told him as they left the hut.

In truth now that it was Winter Dustan was trying to visit Fluttershy more and more as she seemed to be lonely without her animal friends. “Kweh!”

‘Well hopefully a visit from her favorite Chocobo will cheer her up.’ Speaking of. “Boko you are getting to be very big now, I know you love to tackle those you like to be around, but you might start to end up hurting them. So be careful ok? Fluttershy is a bit more fragile than most.” The Kweh that the bird gave sounded a bit sad as he pulled her close and hugged her. “I never said not to go and greet her or anything, just be careful in how you do it ok?”

That seemed to mollify the avian as she nuzzled him back. “Sir how large is your companion going to grow to be?”

Dustan grew a smile at that. “How big am I Merlene?”

“I would say you are nearly four claws tall my Lord. Or in pony terms twelve hooves tall.” Merlene told him making him sigh as he realized that he remembered Rarity saying such things as she was measuring him and doing some quick math he figured out the difference or close to it he hoped.

“My people use a measurement called a foot. A foot is basically two hooves or one point five claws ok?” Seeing her nod he smiled. “Good. Boko here, at full growth should be around the edges or taller than nine feet tall. That means eighteen hooves high or six claws tall.”

Dustan heard the claw falls of his bodyguard halt suddenly as he turned to see her looking at him wide eyed. “Truly?”

Nodding he smiled and rubbed at Boko’s head. “My people can use Chocobo’s as a mount if we want to as they have a much greater land speed then humans.”

She had a question on the tip of her beak now, he could see it, and it was only a matter of time before she asked it. “Is that why you took in Boko, to make her a mount for your service?”

Shaking his head negatively he smiled and hugged the bird. “Nope, Chocobos are just adorable. Look at this face and tell me you wouldn’t care for her if you seen her?”

“Likely not as I am not known to be good with animals sir.” Dustan managed a chuckle as he heard that. “Though considering how big they get likely my fellow griffons would likely raise them for their meat.”

That statement stopped him dead in his tracks as sudden images of meat products made of Chocobos being served in griffon lands: Burgers, slices of huge chicken like dishes of breasts, wings, and thighs. All those thoughts had his stomach lurching however it got worse as Boko gave a concerned Kweh at him and his mind made him imagine himself eating a giant chicken wing with white feathers nearby.

The tears that it brought to his eyes were only matched by how quickly he felt his breakfast leave him. ‘And now I can never eat chicken again. Not like I would get a chance in Equestria but I thought maybe I could order some meat delivered from the griffon nations or dragon if they were willing. Fuck this sucks.’

Boko was at his side nuzzling him and petting him gently on the back with her wings before he eventually stopped hurling. “Are you alright my Lord?”

Nodding he stood up slowly after wiping his mouth off. “Yeah. Honestly I had plans to eventually see about ordering various meat products from the griffons after investigating a bit more about the intelligence of the animals in their area. However with that in mind if they do find Chocobos you are likely correct in how they will react. That makes me much less inclined to eat anything chicken like from them. Which is a good thing as I rather be made to think of things like this now rather than in the middle of eating what could possibly be Boko’s relatives.”

Merlene must have taken that badly as she winced and bowed quickly. “I am sorry my Lord, I didn’t mean to taint your tastes. Please accept my most humble apologizes.”

“No need Merlene.” He told her waving it off. “Like I said I rather think of it now then later. So thanks.” Though that being said now that his stomach was getting itself together again it was now empty before getting a good chance to digest anything. “Well, now that my breakfast is melding with the snow we might have to stop by Sugarcube corner not only to find Pinkie but about some breakfast.”

“Yes sir.” She saluted making him roll his eyes at the constant need for formality between them.

When they got to Fluttershy’s cottage Dustan knew just what to do to avoid problems. Seeing one of the animals outside the abode, a penguin which the human chose not to question, he asked the flightless bird if he could get Fluttershy for a talk.

It took a few minutes, mostly for the penguin to waddle off to find the pegasus, but the bird succeeded as soon the butter cream pegasus trotted out with a smile. “Oh hello Dustan, Merlene, and Boko, what brings you all here?”

The Chocobo hearing her name trotted up and nuzzled the caregiver who giggled and gave the bird loving pets and nuzzles in return. “Well it is me that is visiting, these two are just along for the ride.” That got a giggle out of the pegasus before he continued. “I was wondering where you were going to be tomorrow.”

“Oh I see.” Absentmindedly the Element of Kindness continued to pet Boko who enjoyed the attention immensely. “Well, Pinkie Pie invited me to a party and I heard many of our friends were going to be there so I thought I would join.”

Nodding in satisfaction he merely smiled at that. “Good, though you just gave me an idea to save me a good bit of the day too. Hopefully I will see you at the party.”

With that out of the way and the pegasus giving a wave as he left, the next stop was breakfast and Pinkie. As they got closer to town Dustan had to struggle a lot less to get through the snow, which means he wasn’t sweating as much and getting chilled even less. The weather team obviously were doing their jobs though it was closer to brunch now then breakfast the snow was starting to taper off meaning they were going to stop for today. Least in town as the Everfree seemed content to go on and on. Ponies around town were happy and cheerful, giving waves to the group as Boko went up and inspected them closely. In fact now that he thought about it, was this Boko’s first trip into town or had Zecora visited with her while he was gone?

Well giving time for Boko to greet everyone she saw, which earned her various pettings from many and a carrot from Golden Harvest, aka Carrot Top, Boko and the rest finally got to Sugarcube Corner. The tinkling of the bell as they entered caused the Cake family to call out that they would be right there. Looking around it seemed pretty busy with families of all types coming in to pay a visit and get some treats for tomorrow no doubt.

“Oh hello Mr. Warner and friends. How can we help you today?” Mrs. Cake asked of him as he moved to the counter.

Looking through the various pastries he pointed to a couple. “Can I get a couple of these, raspberry jelly filled donuts? I Kinda had a light breakfast so looking to get through the day.” Looking back he motioned to Merlene who took a moment to look through the display case before ordering a pie with apple filling. “Oh a small bit of carrot cake for Boko if you would. Also do you know if Pinkie is around? I would like to talk to her.”

“I believe she will have a break in about thirty minutes if you want to wait around and enjoy your brunch.” Said the motherly baker as she was putting together the order on a tray. “Or I can bag this up and you can have a nice walk till you get back.”

Looking back to his company Boko was just going around Kweh’ing at various patrons whom all seemed to take the Chocobo in stride, giving her pets and affection. “Hmm I think we should stay here and get warm.”

“I thought you weren’t getting cold thanks to your feathers and scarf?” The human’s curiosity wasn’t rewarded as she just shrugged.

“Ok then here is your order and though she isn’t causing any problems right now, can you get your pet under control. Some ponies just want a good treat with their family and she might distract them from that.” Mrs. Cake brought up a good point.

Boko seemed not to be annoying anyone at the moment but she was distracting them from important family times or time to themselves. “Boko, come here girl, got a treat for you!”

Hearing her name she came trotting over to him as Dustan brought the tray to a booth so they could all sit down comfortably, or as comfortable as he could get. “Are all of her kind like that? Friendly towards all they meet?”

Scratching around where her ears were, which caused the White Chocobo to lean in he smiled at her. “Honestly that is a tossup. They can be aggressive and territorial, but usually only during certain times, beyond that they aren’t always friendly but they aren’t hostile either. When domesticated though they are some of the most friendly and loyal creatures out there though.” Sliding the slice of carrot cake to Boko he let her sniff at it for a bit before she sent out a tongue and tasted it. She took to the treat immediately.

Speaking of treats Merlene had a fork in her claw and was enjoying the pie she was eating while Dustan got to work on his donuts. While jelly filled was his favorite baked good back home, right up there with blueberry muffins, the donuts in Equestria blew them out of the water without it even being a close competition. A mental note was made to order more of these more often, which was only doubled when he went to get another one and found the three he ordered already gone.

“Aww an empty donut bag, that is so sad.” The voice of the party planner herself said as she sat down next to him. “That is why I make sure always to keep some ready for such an occasion.”

Out of her mane came another bag filled with more of the same donuts of which he was offered one; He didn’t refuse. “Thanks Pinkie.”

“No problem!” She smiled and giggled. “So Mrs. Cake said you wanted to talk to me?”

“Wep.” Otherwise known as the full mouthed ‘Yep’ was her confirmation as he swallowed before speaking some more. “I was wondering about the party tomorrow. I hope I am not being rude in asking, but I didn’t get an invitation so came to see what was up and ask you a few other questions.”

Waving a hoof and giggling some more, Pinkie just stated. “Oh don’t be a silly filly.”

“I’m a guy.” Dustan quickly replied to that.

“Oh I know. I remember our first real talk with you when you only had on a towel.” Leaning close she whispered gently. “Psst, you didn’t cover up as much as you thought.” Instantly that statement caused his face to flush in embarrassment. “As for your invite, it’s in the pouch on your belt, the one that is three from the center on your right.”

Taking a moment of not saying anything to get his face back to its normal color he checked his belt pouch and found a folded up letter in it. Pulling it out and opening it, he found an invite to Pinkie Pie’s Happy Hearth’s Warming Party and gift exchange. Perfect.

“Thanks Pinkie, that is actually fantastic, this works out so well for what I have planned.” Since he said that, the pink party pony grew wide eyed. He could sense her imminent bursting of energy so he forestalled it by telling her what it was. “I have gifts for all my close friends and I was looking for a place to give them all out as best I could.”

“So that is why you came to ask me a few questions. I bet those questions all involve where certain ponies are am I right?” The Element of Laughter was practically vibrating in her seat, even more so when he nodded and caused her to bound up from her seat. “Yay!”

Her happiness was easily catchy as he found himself smiling in response to her. “I have already talked to Sturdy, Eden, Merlene here, Zecora, and Fluttershy. So I am wondering are Twilight, Spike, Mystic, Applejack, Dash, Rarity, and Allure going to be there as well? Oh and I assume you are going to be there too.”

Nodding rapidly and at one point he thought he saw her head blur back to an impossible angle during the nodding, of which he quickly forgot for sanities sake. “Yep, they have all already RSVP’ed so yepperooni they are going to be there.”

Reaching over he gave a ruffle to her mane and smiled. “Perfect. That means I can get all the presents and present them all to the ones they go to all in one place.” ‘The others were already mailed out so that means they should be getting them tomorrow or are already there depending on how fast the mail will run.’ Smiling and patting his stomach. “Alrighty Pinkie, thank you for your time, especially considering this place is so busy. I will let you get back to it but see you tomorrow ok?”

“Ok doki loki.” Pinkie told him with a smile and bouncing back to her job. “See you all tomorrow.”

Tomorrow was going to be great; he knew it would be as he could feel it in his bones.

Celestia and Luna were eating their breakfast and dinner respectively as the morning rose on Hearth’s Warming. Both of them were excited as they had gotten some presents this year from those they cared about. Sure there were the common tributes and letters from those that never even knew the sisters, of which some were heart filled and sincere while others were empty platitudes for sure. That is why the ones from those close to them meant a lot.

“So sister, does thou wish to go first or shall We go first?” The sister of the night asked of her sun wielding counterpart.

“Actually I was hoping you would open my gift first.” She told her with a smile handing her a small wrapped gift. “Happy Hearth’s Warming sister.”

“Tia.” The younger Alicorn spoke softly before hugging her. However once the emotion had passed the moon baring Alicorn ripped open the packaging and then the box to find a piece of parchment in it. “What is it?”

“Simple Lulu. You asked how was it I got around in public without none of our ponies ever noticing us?” To which Luna nodded. “Well there it is. That is the spell I use written down for you.”

“Oh the one that allows thee to disguise one’s self in that persona of Sunny Skies?” Luna’s question was answered with a nod and a smile. “We have heard thou has been causing trouble spreading rumors about a certain incident and the legitimacy of a certain pony’s claims.”

“Maybe, though I would say it is more or less believed now, especially with the family butler coming to us for a meeting.” The latter part turned the mood of the room considerably. “We will have to wait for the investigation squad to see what they can pull up, but if it’s true then Logistics is facing Tartarus for his crimes.”

“Indeed.” Luna spoke adamantly for a moment before shaking her head. “However now is not the time for such thoughts. We are celebrating aren’t we sister?”

“Of course.” Celestia told her as she was handed her present from Luna. “Oh thank you sister. Let’s see what it is.” Opening it up, it was something similar to what she gave Luna except it looked to be a recipe of some type. “I am not sure what it is Lulu.”

“Oh it is simple. It is cake.” That had the older Alicorn’s attention right away. “We have asked the royal baker about all the types of cake they were aware of and after some investigation we found a list of five different types of cake that were unknown to them. Those are the recipes which you can give to them at any time.” As she finished saying that Luna found herself in a bone creaking hug from her sister.

“Thank you Luna, this is wonderful!” Celestia called out before letting her go. “I will give this to them tomorrow so they can start learning the recipes.”

From there it came to other gifts, the one from Twilight and Spike was a friendship report and a comic to Celestia and Luna respectively. From Fancy Pants a report to Celestia about his current endeavors and for Luna Shady Hallows was sending their regards and would be sending over some representatives to see her shortly having missed their patron Princess while she was gone. There were others however two stood out from the crowd next. A small box and a rather large box marked as gifts from Equestria’s only known human.

“Hmm seems Dustan sent us something as well. Do you want to unwrap yours first Luna or should I?” Celestia inquired politely of her sister.

Waving her hoof at the smaller gift Luna smiled and stated. “Open yours first sister. Ours looks to be quite hefty and might need work.” Luna smiled hoping her sister caught her use of yours instead of thy as she was trying to learn and use more modern speech.

Celestia gave a smile and nod showing that she had indeed gotten the message. A quick unwrapping later and a letter were enclosed inside of the box along with a book. Opening up the letter first the older sister read aloud its contents.

“Dear Celestia. Being old must suck at times. I myself can’t imagine living as long as you have and seen as many special holidays come and go. The precious friends coming and going, times where you might have been too busy to be yourself or to enjoy the times so many times missed that it must be lonely. So inside this book I decided to save some photographs of your student and her life in Ponyville. I won’t lie I myself couldn’t take them but I hired a photo pony down here in Ponyville to do it for me as I was busy. Inside this book is a collection of some pictures of your student enjoying her new life. No doubt you had a big role to play in it and just because you are no longer actively in it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the fruits of your labors. So I hope you enjoy.” The Alicorn of the sun teared up a little as the letter hit closer to home then most would ever realize.

“That was rather thoughtful of the human.” Luna spoke to her sister only to realize she wasn’t heard as she was already going through the book with a smile. The younger Alicorn decided to let her sister be for a few minutes to enjoy her present but wouldn’t open her own till her sister could be there to share it with her.

With a soft ‘thwap’ of paper closing with the heavy binding of the book cover Celestia had enough for the moment. “Alright sister your turn.”

Going up to the big box Luna’s horn lit up and tore off the paper as a magician would pull a table cloth from a table with disturbing none of the contents. Even the bow and name tag were left in place miraculously getting a clap from her older sister. Giving a bow Luna smiled before starting to open the box up and discovered two things. A letter and a set of armor.

“Let us see what the human has to say and why he sent me armor.” Again Luna hoped her sister heard her efforts to use more modern speech that time.

Giving a cough to clear her throat Luna began. “Dear Luna. It has been a pretty crazy year for you no doubt. Returning from the moon, reuniting with your sister, coming back to run a country that has long since changed, all while being mostly forgotten. I honestly can’t even begin to imagine it. In my gift to your sister I said she must have felt lonely and no doubt even now when reunited you must feel pangs of that as well. Well I can only say that I hope it gets better and to never doubt that people enjoy having you around, just give it time. You have gone through so much that give it another year and you might not even recognize yourself. View it as a rebirth of a type if you want, as that is how I am viewing it. As such my gift will hopefully help you transition in that.”

While she was reading that out loud Celestia was busy pulling the pieces of that armor from the box and organizing them to be displayed for her sister. The armor had only two colors to it but they were lovely colors. A nice shiny silver lining and trim for most of the armor as well as a deep blue that matched Luna’s coat colors perfectly. The armor wasn’t fierce looking either, instead having a lot of rounded edges both for protective purposes as well as to look not as intimidating as some more fearsome looks armors tended to go for.

Taking a moment to look at the armor Luna went back to reading the letter with another cough. “This gift was…honestly kinda hard to put together. I needed a smith that could manage to keep quiet about the project as well as leave the armor without any enchantments as I have no clue what ones you wanted. What was more they wondered where it was that I had gotten the materials for the project. That is why this gift is so special. You see the armor before you was mixed with a few different types of materials, but the major components were the left over pieces of Nightmare Moon’s armor.” That caused Luna to falter in her reading and bring Celestia in close to place a wing over her. “You are no longer her and as such that armor needs a rebirth as well. So I present this armor, made from old elements in a new fashion for a new age and a new beginning. I will understand if you want nothing to do with the armor considering what went into it, but as I said, this was a gift to show your rebirth and that even if something bad has happened in the past, the things that made it up aren’t what appear now. You may need to take it to a blacksmith if you decide to keep it as I simply gave a guestimate on your size.”

Nothing was said for a good fifteen or so minutes as tears dripped from the mare’s eyes down her muzzle, nothing at least till her sister spoke up. “I can dispose of this if you wish Lulu. I can make sure no pony knows that it was brought in at all if-”

“Help me put it on.” Luna called quickly cutting her sister off.

Giving a smile Celestia mentally made a note to send something nice to the human as she responded to her sister. “Of course.”

Meanwhile on a train going out of town Shining Armor and Cadance were cuddled up to one another enjoying their time with each other. They had spent the day with Shining’s parents exchanging gifts and leaving a present for Spike and Twilight should they show up tomorrow, though from the sounds of things they would be missing it so his parents said they would send it to her in the next couple of days.

The reason they were on a train right now is cause of the package that his Fiancé had received from that human creature that Shining had met before. Whereas before he was glad that they seemed like an upstanding individual, now he knew it for sure.

“So what do you wish to do once we get to the Lover’s Cove?” Cadance asked him simply while leaning against him.

Lover’s Cove was a beachside resort in the tropical areas of Equestria that catered exclusively to couples and was notorious for being THE place to visit for those in love. Cadance’s gift for Hearth’s Warming wasn’t something she could wait for and ended up opening it with his parents that night and discovering what it was. An all expense paid pass to Lover’s Cove for a week. It wasn’t a small chunk of bits either likely having come from the human’s secret reward money that Celestia and Luna had paid him from his heroics in the caverns below the Everfree.

“I think we should take it easy and just enjoy ourselves. That and you know more about this place then I do so why don’t you tell me about it.” It seems as that his answer was the right response as his lover right away started to speak of the various commodities the Cove offered to couples. Feeling her snuggle up to him while she spoke, Shining made a mental note to repay the human come time.

The day had been long and hard for Dustan. He started off wrapping the presents and double checking them before he was asked to help officiate some training for those that came for training. Apparently they considered it a privilege to be taught today. So today’s training consisted of finding the specific herbs that he used for the salve. He made sure to show them all signs of what to look for, to only cute the leaves so they could continue to grow, or replant seeds for those that needed the roots. That had been the entire morning, searching and making sure each recruit was able to id the proper parts.

With that done he ate a late lunch and went to the party carrying a sack, in his red dyed outfit for today complete with white trim and while when he first requested the suit Rarity wasn’t sure why he was specific for this one, he was. Today, he was bringing a bit of Christmas to Equestria even if no one but him knew about it. The walk with Merlene to Sugarcube corner was a pleasant one as Boko trotted next to them he hummed some of his favorite holiday tunes. Specifically he hummed the Carol of Bells, he loved that one.

Sugarcube corner was decked out in holiday fair that one would expect of his holiday back home, tensile, stockings, wreaths, and more. Hell he even spotted Mistletoe in a corner as he came in. He made a mental note to stay away from that corner.

“Ho Ho Ho, Happy Hearth’s Warming everyone!” Dustan called out in what he thought was a jolly voice and many responded to that by waving.

The party was pretty big but overall it consisted mostly of those that Dustan knew somewhat. Most were those that he seen in town or their family but he knew that would be fine as he was looking for specific people tonight. However first things first, He turned and smiled at his body guard.

“Happy Hearth’s Warming.” He knew that if given the chance she might try to duck out on him to avoid his gift so he thought the best tactic was get her right away.

“But my Lord-.” She tried to say only to be handed a heavy box from his sack.

“No buts. You are the first gift I am giving tonight so let me see if you like it or not.” With that being said and the fact he said it loud enough drew some attention so that she couldn’t avoid opening it.

She was still feeling nervous as she spoke. “O-ok, but I have a gift for you too; I will present it later though.”

“No problem, now go on.” He urged her and moved to find a place to sit down, sadly he had to settle for leaning against a wall.

Gently tearing away the paper and opening the box the griffon gasped and took out two metal objects. “Are these genuine?”

Nodding Dustan smiled. “Griffonstone made talon gauntlets. You might need to talk to our blacksmith to adjust them for your size but I figure you might like some decent equipment.”

One thing he had learned about Merlene is that she was easily moved by gestures of kindness. She was also very fast as she moved to hug him in the blink of an eye causing him to lose his breath for a moment.

“Thank you my Lord these are a wonderful gift.” She said as she continued to squeeze.

“Air, need, air!” The human gasped a bit in exaggeration though not by much.

Quickly she let go and smiled as she tried on the gauntlets. “A bit loose around the wrist but a simple adjustment can fix that as well as tapping them in a couple of other areas. Otherwise they are nearly a perfect fit. Thank you Dustan I mean it.”

That got a huge smile out of him. “Hey you called me by my name!”

Giggling a bit she hit his arm with her gloved talons. “Don’t expect it often my Lord.”

While she didn’t hit hard she was wearing metal on her talons making him rub his newly bruised arm. “Noted. Now for another victim!”

However the victim found him in the guise of a posh purple maned pony of distinction. “Ahh there you are Dustan. Just the human I was looking for.”

Not able to help himself he had to tease her. “Oh are their other humans? Damn I knew you have been keeping secrets besides beauty care products from me.”

That got a round of giggles from her as well as a few who overheard the exchange before the glow of her horn lit things up. From her saddle bags she pulled out an entire suit and the thing was they didn’t look wrinkled at all.

“Happy Hearth’s Warming darling.” As she presented the suit she unzipped the protective covering on it. The suit was jet black for the most part but there was a few subtle highlights or at least he thought he saw some at times. His gaze must have been noticed as Rarity giggled. “I see you noticed the special feature of this suit, it’s made of Star Cloth.” As she removed the covering completely he could see that the small bits of highlights started coming forth more and more now as streaks of blue as well as multihued dots of white blue and red. “This suit is made to look like a star field and I thought it would be perfect with the theme for you.”

As she turned the suit around Dustan got a shock. On the back was a constellation one that he recognized. “Is that what I think it is?”

“Well sort of dear.” She traced the image using her magic and smiled. “While the symbol is in the middle of the back I outlined it with the symbol of a shield since you have been nothing but protective of others since we first met.”

In the middle of the symbol was a symbol he had known all too well, it was the symbol of his birthstone as well as the powerful stone he was dedicated to defending. “Virgo.”

“That is right dear. It came to me in a dream and it seemed perfect for you. Also you need something for that Gala coming up right?” That question brought him out of his shock.

“Technically I haven’t received a proper invite to that yet, so no.” Dustan honestly wanted nothing to do with that celebration but if he was invited he would go. Though if he did go he knew how he would spend it.

“Hmm maybe Twilight can send a letter to-” Whatever she was going to say Dustan quickly cut off.

“Hold that thought Rarity, let me get your gift for you.” That did the trick as her eyes lit up with that.

“Oh my, you got moi a gift? What a gentlecolt.” Ignoring the colt part of that he understood what she meant.

Pulling out a rather small box he handed it to her with a smile. “I hope you enjoy.”

The small package was enveloped in the blue glow of Rarity’s magic as she pulled it to her and neatly unwrapped it. “Let see here what it is you got-oh my!” The look on her face told him what he needed to know. The unicorn pulled out a laminated card on a necklace. “Is this a V.I.P. pass to the EWFS, The Equestrian World Fashion show that is going to be happening in Manehattan in but a few months?”

“Yep. Got those before my trip to the city, though if I would have known I was going there I would have got them then.” He grinned at her before she grew misty eyed.

“I don’t know what to, I, I-WAHHHHH!” Then there was an incoming pony hug missile for him.

However he expected this. “Think fast Merlene.” She didn’t think fast as he quickly grabbed her and switched places causing her to be swooped up in the hug and captured. “See you later Merlene.” As he looked back he saw the griffon patting the unicorn’s back tenderly with a look promising revenge in her eyes towards him.

The next pony spotted was only half pony whom seemed to spot him first and waved. “Hey there bread winner. Just the human I wanted to see. Got a little something here for you.”

Seems she was a step ahead of him as he managed to pull his box out only a few seconds after hers. “Dang, you beat me to it.”

“Hehe, better be quicker on the draw next time.” They quickly exchanged gifts and Allure quickly tore hers open. “Oh very nice. You don’t see these often. A deluxe two in one scale and mane care kit. These are VERY hard to come by.”

“You have no clue.” He had ordered from eight different places from mail order catalogs only to get a reply of out of stock for all but the last one he tried. “It’s not the best gift since I don’t know you very well, but you have been very kind so I wanted to get you something.”

“Oh trust me; this is more than nice for me. You have no clue how annoying it is when something gets under a scale and you can’t get it out.” He had to take her word for it though as he had no clue how annoying that must be, especially with hooves. “Anyways your turn.”

Seems Allure had a sense of humor as after the wrapping paper of the large box there was another box inside that box, follow that step two more times and there was a medium sized lantern inside. “A lantern?”

She gave him a nod and a smile. “Not just any lantern, but an Ever-Bright Lantern: A lantern using a dragon’s flame that needs no fuel except air to run. It’s clean burning and if you know how to enchant it can be used to send messages. However I didn’t pay for that feature but you can when you get a chance no doubt.”

Turning it on, he noticed the color of the flame, it was bright silver. “You used your flame for this?” Giving him a wink she smiled and turned away to head off. “Thanks Allure, this is great.”

“Enjoy the party bread winner.” She called out as she went to go mingle with others.

‘Three down, ten to go.’ The human thought as he found his next target, someone in the corner who was doing nothing except saying ‘hi’ politely every now and then. “Hey there Fluttershy.”

“Oh, hello Dustan. Are you enjoying your first Hearth’s Warming in Ponyville?” It was Fluttershy of course she would want to make sure he was doing alright. Honestly it had slipped his mind for the moment this was his first one as he was mostly focused on the fact that he was away from home for the first time for Christmas.

As such that thought surprised him before he smiled. “Very much so Fluttershy thank you for asking. How about yourself, also Happy Hearth’s Warming.” He told her as he pulled out her gift.

“I am doing quite alright.” However when she seen the gift her eyes widened as she smiled. “Oh you didn’t have to go through the trouble and do that.”

“Wrong, I would go through that and more for my friends. Plus yours was a simple gift though I am not sure how much good it will do you now.” It was testing a bit of the fabric of the show but if this worked it would work out well.

She gave him a bright smile as she accepted the gift before rummaging around in her pack for her own. “Oh well thank you for thinking so well of me. I have a gift for you too if you would like it.”

“Of course I would like it; a gift from a friend is always appreciated.” Digging into the paper right away Dustan wanted to see what the pegasus had gotten him. It was more practical then he thought as he chuckled. “Thank you Fluttershy. Gyshal Greens tend to be tricky to get and a whole bundle of them for Boko will work out just fine. Speaking of, where did she go?”

Fluttershy opened up a wing and behind her was Boko fast asleep. “She came to me and started nuzzling me, next thing I know she was settling in for a nap.” Smiling at the adorable scene he missed Fluttershy opening up her present till he heard her gasp in shock. “Dustan, this is a lot of land. I don’t know what to do with it.”

“Well I figured you could use some extra room for your animals one day so I set aside some land for you for whatever needs you need of it.” Dustan could see in her eyes a conflict before he would pat her head to calm her down. “Its fine Fluttershy, trust me. I want you to have it. I own too much as it is and don’t know what to do with it all, might as well give you some. Plus this part of the land borders the whitetail woods and from what I understand none of the normal Everfree creatures go there. Anyways I am going to go hand out some more presents, I hope you enjoy yours.” As he was leaving, he mentally grinned as she was going to protest and call out for a moment but he saw her hoof go to her mouth in a thinking pose. ‘Maybe she will get her animal sanctuary up and running sooner. The poor girl could use a bit of more a break then normal anyways.’

The next one came in the group variety as he spotted Twilight, Spike, and Mystic all chatting up one another as he waved of which the sharp eyed dragon was the first to spot him. “Oh hey Dustan!”

Turning and smiling Mystic waved and grinned. “Happy Hearth’s Warming. We were just talking about you.”

“All good I hope.” Grinned the human as he sat his lightened sack down and started going through it.

Twilight’s horn started to glow as she spoke up first. “Well for the most part we were discussing the findings of our research in That it might be possible for ponies to learn your magic, though it would be very difficult.”

Dustan was too busy rummaging around in his bag for the three gifts that by the time he came up, Mystic, Twilight, and Spike were all holding out gifts for him as in a collective they shouted. “Happy Hearth’s Warming!”

Holding the gifts he had for them under his arm he took the onesthey gave and stacked them up with Mystic’s present going on bottom being the biggest, followed by Twilights medium sized box, with Spike’s smaller suspiciously book shaped box at the top. “Here you three go as well. For you Twilight and Mystic, and this one is for Spike. I only have one request before you all open it. That I get to pick who opens theirs first.”

They all looked to each other before nodding. “Alright then who gets to go first?”

Smiling at Mystic’s question Dustan simply pointed to Spike. “Me?” The question was that seemed unsure without a doubt but the Squire gave the go ahead with a nod. Soon Spike was tearing into his present before opening the box. His response was exactly what he hoped for. “No way!” pulling out the sealed bag in the claws of the dragon he held a comic. “This is issue number three of the original run of Power Ponies. The first two may be rarer then this one but this was the one that cemented readers love for the team.”

‘Thank you comic store owner for telling me all that, If not I would have never known what to look for.’ “That is right Spike. Now it is yours.”

The baby dragon gently hugged the comic close to his chest like a precious jewel…wait that might have been a bad analogy. Regardless it was clear that he treasured the gift. “Thanks Dustan, wow this is the best present ever!”

Reaching down he ruffled the head of the dragon, which was harder then it sounded. “No problem buddy. Don’t let anyone tell you that comics are dumb. They can teach just as valuable of lessons as any other, about friendship comradery, loyalty, and doing the right thing. That and they are just fun to read.”

Spike surprised him with a quick hug before backing up and sniffling a bit. “Yeah, um thanks.”

Chuckling he motioned for Twilight and Mystic. “Ok now for the next gift. The one to go next is…both of you at the same time.”

One second, two seconds, three seconds, and they were tearing into the packages like no tomorrow. “I wonder what it is.”

“Its book shaped that is all I need to know.” Twilight’s response made him break down in laughter that didn’t stop till they looked at him curiously. “It has no title. What is it?”

“Open up the first page and you will see.” Tick tock, tick tock, tick gasp. “Yep. A self authored book on all my current abilities and magics. I kept a few hidden away from you both on purpose just for this time.” ‘More or less accurate.’

“You might want to run.” Spike spoke up as he was looking at his comic between desire of opening it up to read personally or keeping it in mint condition.

“Wait wh-” He didn’t get to finish as two pony sized cannonballs rammed him to the floor hugging him both muttering ‘thank you’s’ a plenty.

The two ponies got a tap on their shoulders from the younger of their company to draw their attention. “Um, do you both want to get up and let him live long enough to open up our presents to him?”

“Oh right hehe sorry.” Mystic was the first one to speak up as he got his spotted body off him followed by the pop of a teleport as Twilight did the same. Though in the later case she still seemed to vibrate with restrained glee on what she held in her magic.

As he got up Dustan decided to go with smallest box to largest with Spike’s being the first. “Lets see, Ogres and Oubliettes: Waymaker edition.”

Nodding and pointing to himself Spike smiled. “That is right, I tend to be the game master of that game every so often so if you want to read up and join sometimes let me know. It’s a great way to stretch your imagination and have fun goofing off in fantastic situations.”

“Absolutely Spike. Count me in; just give me plenty of time to read it as I do have other responsibilities and all that.” Spike gave a thumbs up to that as Dustan moved on to the next gift, this one being from Twilight. “Ok let’s see what we have here.”

Twilight smiled as he got through the wrapping paper to the box held within. “I had to get help from Rarity for my gift, as did Mystic but we think you will like them.”

Opening up the box Dustan found a pair of gloves. They were faux leather from the feel and were mostly brown except around the palms and the back of the hands. Dustan was going to say something when his Tactical Eye activated on its own, something it only did a few times and only when he discovered something related to the world in question that he knew wasn’t part of Equestria.

‘That can’t be right. Tactical Eye says these are Magepower Gloves. That is FFT equipment.’ To be sure he looked up to the magister in question and asked her. “What are they, besides gloves I mean?”

He was fitting them on as she explained. “Well I managed to developed a formula based on your magic and then weaved them into gloves I asked Rarity to make. Those should act like a small amplifier increasing the power of your spells just a tiny bit. I call them Magepower Gloves. I wish I could get them to work for Harmonic Magic but as it stands only your brand magic will work for them.”

‘Well seems my ability was right, though I don’t feel any more powerful with them on. Guess it’s one of those show not tell types.’ “Thanks Twilight, I am sure this will come in handy.” He didn’t mean for that pun to come out but it got a laugh so he ran with it.

Mystic smiled and was looking at the next present excitedly. “Next up is mine, I had to think long and hard on it and in the end I needed both Ms. Twilight and Ms. Rarity’s help on it.”

The closer and closer he got to opening it the more excited the spotted pony got until he nearly squealed in excitement as Dustan pulled out the bag. Turning it left and right and even looking inside it Dustan had to ask. “It’s a nice bag, but I already have one. Not that I mind as mine is already starting to get worn out a bit, and the sewer smell from Manehattan still hasn’t gone away from this.”

“Reach inside.” It was all Mystic said but it caused the human to raise an eyebrow.

“But I didn’t see anything in it.” That response only made Mystic repeat himself. “Ok.” ‘I don’t see what is up with the bag. I mean what is so special about…wait…no…they didn’t.’ The realization hit him like a ton of bricks as his arm SHOULD have reached the bottom about a good foot back but didn’t.

Looking at Mystic the earth pony just chuckled and nodded. “took a while to get the formula just right for its dimensions but yes, it’s a bag that is tied to a unique type of pocket space that lets you hold way more then it appears.”

‘It’s a FUCKING BAG OF HOLDING!’ “This is awesome!” Dustan called out as he started transferring his stuff from one bag to the next. “I have needed something like this for so long!”

“Mystic was a genius on this part. I would have never thought that the pocket space could be shaped for a bag like that but he showed me the formula and it made so much sense.” Both of the ponies were giving each other a friendly hug as they smiled before the shine of something caught both of their eyes. “What is that?”

Dustan looked first at them then the object in his hand: The Zodiac Stone. “This is…nothing special, just a keepsake you can say.” ‘Don’t ask anymore question, please, please, please.’

“Oh must be something from your home. It is understandable if you don’t want to talk about it.” The magister in training said saving his metaphorical bacon.

‘Thank you Mystic Quandary you lovely earth pony bastard!’ “Thanks for understanding.” He responded trying not to let the sheer amount of relief show on his face. With everything transferred Dustan put his old bag in the box that the new one came from then put that in the bag as well, that way the smell was no longer around him. “Thank you all, these are wonderful gifts that I know I am going to enjoy for a long time.”

“Oh hey Dustan. Ah was lookin’ for ya.” Turning around he spotted one of the targets for gifting in his sights, the blonde maned county gal herself.

“Oh hey Applejack. I was looking for you as well.” Twilight and Mystic went to talking with each other as they were reading and Spike had settled on pulling out the comic and gently reading it slowly now. “I have a gift for you.”

“That’s mighty fine of ya. I have the gift you requested, though I must say I often don’t get requests.” She told him pulling out a bottle of hard cider complete with red ribbon around it. “This one is from one of the finer batches this year that I was going to save in case we needed to sell it for extra bits. But seeing how y’all have been so neighborly and still go about teaching Apple Bloom when y’all can, I reckon it’s the least I can do.”

Taking the bottle he put it away securely in his new pack as he smiled. “Thanks Applejack, means a lot that you came through on this. Anyways I have a gift for you as well.” This was by far the largest of the gifts he was going to give out tonight.

The unique shape definitely threw the mare off as she went to unwrap it but as she did she gasped as she seen them. “Wow these are wonderful Dustan.”

Nodding he smiled at her and chuckled. “Had to get their containers enchanted with a stasis charm to preserve them but you now have something to experiment with on your farm. These three saplings are from apple trees from various parts of the world. While I think your apples are perhaps the finest, that doesn’t mean you can’t make them even better or make different varieties by trying some cross breeding experiments.”

“Big Mac’ get on over here and take a look!” The large stallion silently walked over and looked at what his sister was calling him for. “Those are some might fine trees don’t you think?”

“E’yup.” That statement made him laugh as what else did he expect from the stallion of few words.

As he finished laughing he gathered up his now considerably lighter sack of goodies and picked it up. “Well I have a bit more to give out tonight so if you don’t mind I got to find some more ponies. Have a lovely evening you two.”

“You too partner.” The Squire could hear them talking back and forth about their plans for the trio of saplings as he wondered off to the next pony on his list. There were only five more on that list and though he had not been here all that long it feels like it has as the energy was already starting to wear off and get him to being worn out. Either that or the other reason.

“Hey there, look like you could use a pick me up.” The fastest flyer in Equestria told him as she handed him a drink. “Pinkie’s punch is good for perking you right up.”

“Thanks Dash.” He quickly drank the whole thing half expecting it to be pranked but finding it only filled with cool refreshing fruit punch. “That hits the spot.” Setting the cup down he reached in and found her gift right away as it was one of the two smallest gifts left. “Happy Hearth’s Warming.”

As she took the present her head reached around and got her own gift for him. “Happy Hearth’s Warming buddy.” Or at least that is what he thought she said considering the box was in her mouth.

The wrapping paper was Wonderbolts themed…who would have guessed. “I am guessing its either something about the team on the paper, or it’s your own theme to show your greatness.”

“Pfft, you already know how great I am, I don’t need to remind you of that.” They both took a moment to look seriously at each other before bursting out laughing. “Anyways I hope you like it you goofball. That one has a bit of a meaning behind it, but I will tell you it when you open it.”

Now he was curious, usually Dash didn’t put that much thought into things so now he had to open it up quickly. As he opened the box he found a necklace with a cyan feather as a charm. He wouldn’t lie he had heard tales on fanfiction on what those meant and it looks like Dash had known how he would take it.

“I know what you are thinking, but anypony who knows pegasus anatomy can easily tell this is a secondary feather not a primary.” She said plainly and without embarrassment. “Pegasus like to give secondary’s that we shed to close friends. Primaries are for lovers and mates. I know that was what you were thinking I gave you but you aren’t that lucky buster.” Ok so Dash was smarter then he thought as that is what he thought and he would have no clue how that came to be if it had. “Plus I got a few unicorns in Cloudsdale specializing in cloud magic to enchant that thing. Now it holds a year’s worth of the Cloud Walking spell and will just need magic to recharge it once a year.”

“Wow that must have cost a pretty bit to afford.” Shaking her head the prismatic mare denied that.

“Na.” Was the simple statement she gave. “They owed me some favors and now they owe me much less is all.”

Putting the charm on right away he smiled as it hang under his shirt. “Won’t your other friends get upset that you gave me such a gift?”

“Na, besides I already gave them each one of my secondary’s when I could, the only difference is that yours has the Cloud Walking spell on it. So now that my awesome gift is out there, let’s see what kinda gift you got me.” A she was unwrapping it a familiar griffon was making her way to him.

“That wasn’t very kind my Lord. She was crying for soo long I thought she would never stop and why are you getting behind me?” Merlene asked as she stopped near the two.

“Oh…no reason.” Ducking behind her he waited and finally was reward.

“Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh.” Twirling around and doing some tight aerial maneuvers in the bakery Rainbow Dash was holding her gift close. “Full Season tickets to the Wonderbolts show. These are good seats too! Thank you thank you thank you!”

Though it seems Operation Meatshield Merlene had failed as Rainbow Dash zipped around her and hugged him tightly. “Ok, no need to thank me. I know how much of a fan you are of them.”

“Wooooohooooo!” The speedster called out as she released him and zoomed all over the place.

“Seems like your gifts are going over wonderfully my Lord.” Merlene commented as the human was trying to get his breath back. “A few more of those and you might have to use your magic on yourself to keep you alive.”

“No kidding.” His breath came in and out quickly as he was trying to stabilize his breathing from the huge hug he had gotten. “But that means only four left to give gifts too. Then I might call it a night and head back to my room at the castle.”

“I will give you my gift when we get back then if that is alright?” The griffoness asked of him.

“Sure. Alright let’s see who else we can find.” Turns out the one he found was a duo. “Eden, Sturdy, there you two are. I have gifts for you two.”

“Hey there boss, come on over, we have some for you as well. Though my gift should be unwrapped for you by now.” That statement made no sense to Dustan but he went with it thinking that perhaps his friend had been hitting the cider.

Getting a hug from Eden she smiled at him. “Happy Hearth’s Warming Lord Warner. If not for you Sturdy and I might not be here to experience it this time around.”

Rolling his eyes at the mode of address he smiled at them. “No problem. Just glad to have friends around to spend it with is all myself. Anyways I got gifts. Here you go.” He handed two boxes of about similar size to each of them and excused himself for a moment to grab another glass of punch and a slice of pie. When he came back both of his gifts had been unwrapped and were now on display.

Sturdy was showing off his new tool belt complete with tools to his marefriend while she was showing off a box with seeds from around the world. “These are great Dustan, quality too.”

“I would hope so. Paid a good bit for self repairing tools.” He remarked as he stuffed a bite of pie in his mouth.

This made Sturdy look at them and specifically at a hammer. “It’s right here at the bottom: Phoenix Craft Artisan Tools, famous for their self repairing tools and high quality products.”

“I suppose. I had to ask Allure about them and she pointed me to a couple of choices. Those I got cause of that self repair part figuring that would go a long way for you if you didn’t have to repair things.” Pointing a fork at Eden he smiled. “Yours was a bit more simple to put together. I bought a large box and a few seed and garden kits of various rarities and put them together. I know how much you love to garden so I thought giving you a huge pool to choose from would be nice instead of just what we have around the castle and in the forest.”

“It is very lovely thank you Dustan.” She held the box in her magic looking at it lovingly. “This will fill my next Spring, Summer, and Fall with lovely flowers. I cannot wait. It may even last longer if I can get the flowers to give me cuttings or seeds for the year after.” Putting the container in her saddlebags she pulled out. “My gift might not be all that impressive but I think you will find its utility to be of great value.” Taking the box he opened it as it was decorated with only a simple ribbon. Inside was a relaxation kit complete with scented oils, candles and more. “The oils I made myself from various plants around the forest and town. Roseluck has some wonderful choices for plants so I managed to convince her to exchange some clippings a while back and we have been doing so ever sense. Those oils are meant to be put on that small saucer and above a candle of any choice that way the heat from the candle evaporates the oil.”

Honestly it sounded wonderful, maybe combine that with a nice relaxing dip in the hot springs, then again that also sounded dangerous as he might doze off in there with all that. “Thanks Eden, this actually is very wonderful and I might even use it tonight to relax.”

“Don’t mention it. I am glad you enjoy it though.” She bowed before her ear flicked and she seen Roseluck. “If you will excuse me, my friend is calling for me.”

She trotted off with a smile on her face and showing off her gift before Sturdy smiled. “When you head back to the castle, take a look at the arch. I think you will like what you see. Well I am going to get me some more snacks, they are great here.”

“Sure, see you later Sturdy.” Dustan waved him off and stretched. ‘Two ponies left. Who will I find next?’

The answer found him as he was finishing off his pie a familiar voice spoke up. “It looks as if spreading cheer is what you do. Though a Happy Hearth’s Warming to you.”

Turning around he swallowed the last bit of pie in his mouth and smiled. “Hey Zecora. Glad to see you as always. Happy Hearth’s Warming to you as well.” He went in search of the last of two gifts and pulled out the biggest left in the bag but still small in comparison to some of the others he gave out. “This gift might be a bit weird, but I think you will enjoy the challenge.”

“For that I can agree. For in my gift that is what I hope you will see.” Her gift was not wrapped and instead was plain to see. A faux leather bound book with very strange writing on the front. Inside it appeared to be more of a personal journal. “My gift is wisdom but a challenge like your own. As my gift is the translated knowledge of my home and all that I have known.”

Taking it gingerly in his hands he realized just what she was giving him. ‘This is a book filled with all her shamanistic stuffs. That is huge!’ “I don’t know what to say Zecora. Are you sure it is ok for you to give me this?”

“For that I am very sure. You have been a friend beyond compare and of your intentions I know them to be pure.” She quickly reached up on her hind legs and gave him a hug. “You came to me in a time of need but I speak of not your own need, and I may have had no physical wounds my heart did bleed. Your honest ways did make it mend, and I can think of no better way for such knowledge to be used then by my friend.”

The shear amount of trust and sacrifice this book in his hand was worth brought tears to his eyes as he hugged her back and petted her gently. “Thank you Zecora. You are my best friend.”

Dustan felt her squeeze a bit harder before letting go with a smile. “Now let us see what it is you have given, for if it is true then my need to know is driven.”

As she unwrapped the gift it was in a similar smaller pod that he had given Applejack just with a small box as well. “This plant, herb, or whatever it is you wish to call it is special. I am not sure how but I know it can be used or combined with something to make what is known as Remedy. It is a very strong curative item that can cure almost any status infliction be it poison, mute, confusion, even petrifaction and more. Problem is I am not sure how it comes to be in that state. So I figured since this is right up your alleyway this type of challenge would be perfect for you. Plus a chance to do that much good is great.”

“Hmmm.” Zecora was already studying the plant as she seemed to consider his words. “Judging from its looks it is not a type of plant that reproduces all too well, but other than that more time is needed to tell.”

Putting the book away in one of the pockets of his new pack Dustan yawned and looked around. “I have one more gift to give tonight Zecora then I am going back to my place and just chilling for the rest of the night. Relaxing I mean.” He clarified when the term chilling brought about concern on her face. “Now I just have to find Pinkie Pie.”

“Here I am silly!” The party pony said as her head appeared from his pack.

“You know what…I should be surprised…but I am not.” He chuckled as he helped her out of the bag and set her down. “So ready for your gift?”

“Yepperooni!” She shouted while also having her mane retrieve her own gift for him. “Here is mine for you as well Dusty. I hope you enjoy.”

“Sure.” As he was unwrapping it, Pinkie Pie somehow managed to slide his gift for her out of the wrapping paper without opening the paper at all. He wasn’t going to question it.

Opening the present she smiled and shouted loudly. “WOOOOO! A lifetime pass to Party Town Equestria, major retailer of all party equipment. This comes with a fifty percent discount of all party equipment including confetti and other things for my party canon!”

The pony was pronking around none stop as she started listing off the items she could get with such a discount. ‘Let’s see what hyperactive pink has for me.’ Opening up the gift gave him two things. One was a group picture that he recognized from the opening of the cartoon only now he was somehow in it. Second was a book, specifically a scrap book similar to what he gave Celestia. The only difference was it was pictures of him with his friends and various memories they had made together.

“So how do you like it?” He had been busy flipping through the tome and had not noticed that Pinkie had stopped pronking around and was watching him.

Nor did he realize his eyes had watered up. “Thank you Pinkie, it is wonderful.” Leaning down he scooped her up in a hug to which she responded with a giggle and a wee sound as he picked her up before setting her down.

Smiling the party pony gave a simple oh and zoomed off before coming back. “Here, since you seem tired I packed you a to-go platter of all manner of sampled goodies from the party.”

Taking it and putting it in his pack as well as the now empty sack he smiled and nodded feeling the energy leaving him. “Yeah, that sounds good. Thank you Pinkie for the wonderful party.” Giving one last hug he waved and called out. “See you all tomorrow everyone.”

A round of byes was called out as he left with Fluttershy promising to look after Boko. “My Lord. Would you like your gift now?”

The voice of Merlene called to him as the door to Sugarcube corner closed. “Sure.”

With a flap of her wings the griffon zoomed off to a spot he couldn’t see before coming back with a long unadorned box. “I hope you like it.”

Taking hold of the box he noticed it was about four foot long and decently heavy. Inside the box was even more of a surprise as inside was a sword and scabbard.

“Oh wow.” Dustan called out as he went to grab it and was further surprised. Tactical Eye was popping up again with more information. This wasn’t an ordinarily sword.

“This sword belonged to my old Lord whom was fond of the sword in his younger days.” Chuckling a bit Merlene continued. “He would often spin tales of this being a sword gifted with the power to strike with the power of lightning. It was his keepsake of many years. When he had grown too old to wield it any longer he gave it to me. However my proficiency lies not with the blade of a sword but in claw to claw combat.”

‘That means elements of Tactics was here before me if her former lord possessed this for a while. What could that mean?’ “Just to let you know Merlene, he wasn’t spinning a tale when he told you it could strike with the power of lightning.” Pulling the sword from its sheath, he could feel its power and know just what to do with it. This sword was blue in coloration for the blade and single edged, similar in shape to a saber but with less of a curve to it and more of a weight then it as well. “Watch.”

Swinging it around a few times, he could feel the sword waking up so to speak as if it had been a sleep for too long and before long the blade was crackling with electricity. “Amazing. I never knew.”

“My people have a similar weapon known to them. They call it.” He sheathed the blade with a crackle of lightning echoing in the open square. “The Coral Sword.”

Strapping it around the same hip as his Blood Sword but in a different position, he now had more options in battle. His Blood Sword for battles that need sustainability, the Coral Sword for exploiting elemental weaknesses, and his Harmonium Axe for brute force as it had a nice heavy swing to it.

Looking back to Merlene he smiled at her and told her. “Take the night off Merlene, go back and enjoy the party.”

Dustan expected a fight; however this time he never got it. “Alright Dustan. Thank you for being a good friend.”

“I am who I am, and that is all that I am.” If he had said that around Pat he would have gotten a slap to the head for that. “Anyways talk to you tomorrow.”

“Same, sleep well my Lord.” With that the door to Sugarcube corner opened and she was absorbed back into the party.

The walk home was filled with silence as memories started to flood the human. Memories new and old took shape around him. He saw himself as he wondered into Ponyville the first time lost and confused. He saw his family and Pat celebrating a birthday; his mother’s if he remembered right. Next came his first kill in either world the goblin band. After that came his first day of living with Pat, well the first day of truly living after he finally gotten over all the shit he previously had to deal with and how sweet the taste of freedom from his problems had become.

All those memories and more came and went and before he knew it he was at the castle, only now it had a name prominently displayed above the arch that was once covered. ‘The Castle of Luminary. Nice name. If I remember right it’s a person who inspires. Though in this context that either means me or that the castle itself is a place to inspire. Either way, that is good and I like it.’

The castle was quiet, no one around as it seemed they were all off either doing their own thing, or at various parties around Ponyville and beyond. That was good as Dustan wanted to be alone at the moment. Getting into the spring and washing up, he soon was back in his room unpacking his gifts and displaying them around his room. Some went to shelves either for display or in the case of some the book shelf for reading later. The oils went to his dresser next to his bed as did the framed photo.

Taking care of his clothing and stripping down to his boxers, he was glad for the enchantments on the barracks that kept them at a comfortable temperature or this wouldn’t have been possible. “Alright then.” He took out the bottle of cider and uncorked it. “Here is to you. Mom, Dad, and Pat. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. With or without me I hope you have a good one.”

Dustan would then start to drink the cider, wondering how strong the alcohol in ponyland was.