Chapter 23 – The Heart's Warming Eve.

Winter was in full swing, every corner of the kingdom had been covered by a thick layer of white snow, rivers and lakes were so solid that anypony could easily skate on them without any problem, and the trees had completely lost their foliage too.

Most wild creatures had entered a state of hibernation to save energy during winter. The cold winds whipped the territory without mercy, but despite this the atmosphere was warm and cheerful. You could see the little foals playing with the snow, some building snow ponies, others making snow angels, the vast majority threw snowballs at each other.

The streets and homes sported multiple colorful ornaments, crowns and bows hanging from the windows and entrances, while smell of pies came out from windows.

You could observe the families of ponies walking around the beautifully ornate avenues and roads. Young couples shared their time enjoying each other's company, some drinking hot chocolate in restaurants. Others enjoying the wonderful view offered by the capital's gardens.

Undoubtedly the atmosphere radiated a pleasant heat that flooded the heart of the ponies of all Equestria from the imposing capital located in the high mountains to the modest farms located on the edge of the kingdom. And was worth it, for the heart’s warming eve was right on the corner.

A young mare dressed in a turtle neck sweater was sitting on the white snow gently playing a violin, the young mare had a white color fur that was easily confused with the color of the snow, except for the musical note that adorned her flanks and the eye-catching electric blue color of her mane and tail.

The mare observed absently ponies come and go, the citizens were singing cheerful heart’s warming’s songs, while she simply continued to play the violin she held between her shoulder and her chin, the notes coming out from the instrument carrying a sad tune.

The door of Blueblood’s mansion opened suddenly, however, she seems to pay no attention to that fact and continued to play the instrument, completely absorbed into her own world, while her dark crystals kept her eyes protected from the sunlight.

She catches the sound of the gentle hoof steps approaching her, although she decided to continue with her little melody in an attempt to ignore the presence of the newcomer.

-It's a beautiful melody Miss Scratch- the old butler said.

The mare continued to play, her hoof holding the bow gently, as she glided it over the strings in full control, never stopping.

-I'm going to leave today, will be on Manehattan to see my family, you know.- the stallion said. -I guess I won't be able to play the Cello for you tonight- the old pony said, extending an invitation to her.

The mare lit her horn to take the invitation offered by the butler and after folding it several times proceeded to place it under her sweater, right where her neck and the fabric made contact. The movement was not fast at all, so the old butler could notice a couple of marks stood out beneath Vinyl’s fur, those looks like small holes marks made in her neck, very close to her throat.

-Excuse me, if I’m been rude miss, but...- the butler shut up instantly.

The courage he had a moment before had abandoned him completely, he was not sure why on earth he had asked Vinyl that question. After all, in his short time as butler of the Blueblood family he was very aware of secrets kept by the blong mane lord, whom Cent served. Part of Cent’s vows consisted of an oath of absolute silence before anything he might witness or known concerning Blueblood or those with whom the lord related.

Nor was he a foolish or naive pony and knew perfectly well what the Ponies of the Wine family were. After all, among Blueblood's multiple meetings with Lord Red, it was impossible not to notice certain attitudes and behaviors characteristic of the wealthy Lord of the Wine’s house. Although Cent had to admit that meeting a vampire pony so closely was very different from what the myths told, particularly the young mare. Vinyl did not exhibit many of the behaviors attributed to her species. However, the Olde Butler could not say the same about the leader of the Wine Family or the other servitude that works for the enigmatic lord.

While Cent had previously expressed to Blueblood about his concern towards Blueblood's relationship with the wealthy family, it was more than obvious that Blueblood owed the Lord too much to think even of betraying him. But that mare was different in many ways and the most notorious was its ability to be able to stay out in the open in both night and daytime, which he had never seen any of the members of the Wine family do. After all, the only events in where the ostentatious unicorn was seen was in the fanciest night events.

-... I'm sorry, just forget what said miss Scratch- the butler added before turning around intending to leave, when suddenly he felt a tug in the tail of his tuxedo.

He looked back where a violet energy held his clothes, preventing him from living. For a moment Cent thought the mare might be thinking of doing something to him, though after been unable to identify any kind of aggressive attitude coming from the young mare, the old butler immediately puts the idea a side.

-Is there… anything I could do for you, Miss Vinyl?- asked the butler kindly.

The stallion watched the grip of the unicorn's magic start fading, while the mare began to perform another melody.

It was a much softer and more dynamic tune than the previous one, with the same melancholy tone. The butler could feel as if the instrument was speaking to him, he felt as if that violin tried to tell him a story through Vinyl’s melody.

The butler looked at the crazy-haired unicorn, her old, tired eyes fixed on the young mare who was seated on the snow playing for herself.

-You're not like every pony else, are you?- asks the butler.

Vinyl shook her head slightly, her expression remained serene as she continued her performance.

-The wound on your neck... does it hurt?- the old stallion received a denial from the young mare.

From the position of those marks Cent was able to deduce that the mare’s vocal cords received some damage, which probably, was the reason why the unicorn could not speak.

-The other night I heard you go out into the gardens- this time there was no answer from the Musician. -I guess you went hunting, I can only guess the cupboard does not have the kind of food you need.- the butler added scratching the back of his head.

The mare only smiled showing a couple of small white and shiny tusks that were barely noticeable under her lips. It was a rogue smile, almost as if the young mare was mocking at the situation.

-I guess that's why we haven't found as many rats as we used to. Well, either that or they freeze to death… I mean It's not uncommon for their numbers to decrease during the winter, but the cook has confirmed to me that there are certainly far fewer than in other years.- the butler said.

Vinyl kept her smile as she changed the melody’s tone to a slightly more cheerful one.

-I guess in winter it's harder to find food because of your diet- the butler guessed watching outside the mansion, where families continued their joyful lives completely ignoring their conversation.

The young white-coated mare simply nodded, still smiling.

-I-I could give you a little if you needed it…- he said without thinking.

"Have I gone crazy, what do I think I’m doing? "he rebuked himself.

The mare began to perform her first melody again, this time in a less sad tone, then she nodded. The butler looked strangely at the mare. Vinyl looked really calm, considering the nature of the conversation.

Cent couldn’t really understood why he had offered something like that. If his suspicions were correct and he was sure they were, Vinyl could end up killing him. He really had just put his own life on Vinyl’s hooves… Still, Cent could feel a strange connection between that crazy young mane mare and him, though the butler couldn't fully understand what it was about.

They were quiet for a moment, the only sound produced by Vinyl’s Violin.

-Would you like some hot chocolate?- asks the butler, breaking the silence rising up on his four helmets. He hadn't even noticed the moment when he had taken a seat next to Miss Scratch.

The mare removed the crystals from her eyes for a moment, looking at the butler with a pair of mesmerizing violet eyes, the last time Cent had seen them, they were an intense crimson red, however, that violet seemed to be the natural color of her eyes. The wild mane unicorn nodded again giving him a friendly smile before covering her eyes once again, then directed her gaze to the outside of the mansion.

-Okay, I'll get you one- the old butler said, re-entering the mansion.

Vinyl remained in place while still performing her melodies, it was the first time a pony offered to give her their own blood on their own free will. Usually when her clan fed the poor victims shouted and pleaded for mercy, one more reason to the list of why she preferred to feed on animals and why she only feeds from other ponies when her blood levels were dangerously low.

Vinyl could not remove the hoof from the subject, she was sure that her fate had led her to meet the butler for some particular reason, in the same way that she had ended up meeting her master that winter night.

Life and death had visited her that night and although she had never been physically attracted to her Master Red Wine, she had some respect for him. After all, Red had given her a chance to live a new life.

During the rest of the day the streets were flooded with joy, those festivities helped to raise mood of their subjects and theirs too. Very early, the deity of the Sun had supervised the preparations for the great dinner, everything was ready for the main event, everything except the dessert Clover had promised to bring her.

It was really hard to maintain composure with how much her mouth salivated every time she thought about the sweet delicacy's assaulting her palate.

Clover had made sure to keep the secret well, for not a single pony in the entire castle had any idea what the sorceress had prepared.

-I don't know, Your Majesty, but Clover assured me it will be delicious.- It was the answer of every pony she asks.

Celestia had to admit the sorceress knew how to do her job. Clover had somehow managed to spread the rumor of how amazing that night's dessert would be without divulging a single clue that would give her a guess of what it was about.

On the other hoof, she was proud of been able to get enough bits to be able to carry out the event. While she had had to get rid of many of her possessions to sponsor the feast, The ruler of the day did not regret doing so, for she knew that her sacrifice would be rewarded with the happiness of her beloved subjects.

Celestia hoped that the gesture would inspire other ponies to help their fellow ponies now that they needed it most. She had always set an example, and this was no exception. After all, if she could get Equestria's ponies to somehow smile again as they did in the past, it would be worth their effort.

She walks through the corridors of the castle, giving some advice to the decorators. None of them, seemed to complain however, and always seemed to take the princess’s ideas into account.

The white-pearl colored alicorn decided to take a walk to the royal gardens, everywhere she passed the ponies greeted her with smiles and flattery. It was something that lifted her spirit, knowing that her efforts were rewarded in some way.

Every time Celestia could, paused for a moment to talk a little with her subjects. These were not particularly interesting talks, in fact, they were quite casual conversations, but she had to admit that being accompanied by her little niece Cadence, really lit up her days. Although, she usually left the little filly in the care of Smart Cookie and Private Pansy, it was also true that she loved spending time with the little pink pegasai. Somehow it reminded her of her little sister when she was younger.

Celestia couldn't help it, it was hard not to compare them considering that both were extremely hyperactive and shared a similar laugh.

The castle was illuminated by the dim candle lights that adorned the place. The flapping a pair of small wings caught the attention of the young baby-pink mane deity with white-pearl colored fur.

Hahahahaha

-Please young lady come back here!-

The deity of the sun decided to take a peek, she had had many tasks given by her mentor, and Celestia was really having a hard time following the lessons, especially those of physical endurance.

-Catch me if you can!- said animatedly the little dark-blue alicorn that flew down the corridors completely soaked from head to tail.

-For all the ponies Miss Luna, we haven’t finished your bath yet. You will end up sick if continues to fly with your fur wet- complained one of the young maids who had been assigned to the care of the younger alicorn.

The mare suddenly jumped catching the dark-blue alicorn in mid-flight, she smiled in full satisfaction as soon as she noticed the little filly trapped on her forelegs. The maid had finally beaten the little whirlwind, or so she thought before the little filly began to shake off the excess water of her mane completely soaking the maid, who ended up releasing Luna from her grip in a futile attempt to cover herself from the splashes of water.

The young pearl-colored fur deity began to laugh upon seeing the scene. It was hard to imagine the situation of the young maid of the castle.

-Luna dear, you must not do that. Miss Prism is your friend, you mustn’t be mean to her.- said the pink-mane alicorn as she left the room and approached her little sister.

-Tia!- exclaimed enthusiastically the younger alicorn flying right into her older sister's hooves - Are you done with your homework?, Can we play find the pony?, Would you read me a story?, I want you to teach me how to raise the sun as you do- the little one bombed Celestia with questions.

- Sorry Luna… I'm not done yet, but… I can take a little break and dry that mane of yours before you get sick, how does that sound?- said the white-pearl alicorn levitating her little sister placing Luna on her back – Prim, I'll take care of Luna don't worry and go change yourself, I wouldn't want you to catch a cold too- Added the older alicorn.

-But Miss Celestia, you are not done with your duties yet, you cannot be distracted- reproached the maid twisting her own mane to extract the excess of water.

-I know, but I needed a break anyway… Don't worry, I'll take care of tucking Luna in tonight.- said confidently the older alicorn.

-Okay, miss… as you wish- responded the maid leaving the two sisters alone.

Once in her room, the young deity took a towel and began to dry her sister's body gently.

-Luna, you know you shouldn't misbehave with Prism. She just wants to take care of you, she cares a lot about you-

-I know Tia. It's just that I wanted so bad to see you, and Prism didn't let me, so I escaped as soon as I got a chance-

The young alicorn let out a resigned sigh.

-We’ve been apart lately, isn’t it? What you say if I talk to Starswirl to give me a day off and then we can spend some time together?- proposed the older alicorn.

-Really Tia? That would be fantastic, I have so many Ideas and games I’ll like to play with you!- Luna's eyes shone hopefully.

-Of course you have- the deity said, taking a comb from her dressing table to start brushing Luna's mane.

-We could have tea or have a picknick in the garden, I found a very nice flower that I want to show you-

-That sounds promising Luna-

-Come it's time for you to go to bed- Celestia said, standing up.

-Tia...- Luna spoke from her place -Can I... I... I'd like to spend the night with you, if it’s ok…- said hesitantly the little filly looking at her older sister with those huge sapphire blue eyes.

-Oh Luna, of course you can, but I still have to finish a couple of things so you'll have to lie down first-

-Please let me stay by your side while you study, I won't make any noise neither distract you I promise.- the little foal replied, hugging her older sister's hoof.

-Okay- replied Celestia stroking Luna’s mane affectionately.

-Great! Maybe you can teach me something too, I could learn a lot of spells like you.- said Luna Jumping around her sister before settling herself between Celestia's fore hooves as the white-pearl alicorn opened the book she had left unfinished.

-I'm sure you'll learn a lot of spells little sister.- the eldest sister replied kissing the base of Luna’s horn.

It did not took long before the little filly start snoring, deep asleep, Luna was curled up between Celestia's forehooves.

As soon as the white-pearl alicorn finished her duties, she took her sister using her aura and lay her down on the bed, covering her with the soft blankets, before laying down next to her.

-Tia... I love you...- said Luna still dreaming, her little forelegs stretching out to reach her older sister, as if looking for the warm sensation of Celestia’s Coat on her body.

-I love you too Luna- the deity replied, extinguishing the candle’s light with her own magic before snuggled up next to her little sister.

-Luna, I just hope this party will also help us reconcile with each other- said the deity of the Sun as she resumed her walk through the gardens, staying close to Cadence at all time.

They walked to the depths of the garden where a very peculiar statue remained intact and in its maximum glory. Celestia leave the pegasai playing with the flowers that adorned the garden around the statue before approaching it.

-Happy heart’s warming eve Discord- the princess said, pulling out a crochet doll that looks just like the draconequus statue. -I know you're not used to celebrating our parties Discord, but I thought maybe I could do something for you this time- she added smiling sadly at her once friend.

The deity placed the doll at the feet of the statue before looking at the creature, the expression of his face made him look just how Celestia remember his personality. That mocking expression was the one of a creature who is proud of himself, confident of his enormous power and always pranking on others.

Her sister's words had made Celestia think of what had happened. For many nights she had wondered why the draconequus entered such a state of unbridled madness, now she had an idea of what had happened.

-I guess it's too late to say it, but... I'm really sorry if I hurt you Discord... it wasn't right of me to hurt your feelings… But to unload your rage on others and hurting innocent ponies... You know I couldn't forgive you do something like that... I still want you to know that I felt something for you too, but that feeling doesn't exist anymore- She said, it was a lie though. Celestia had felt crushed the moment she and her younger sister had to imprison him into stone, but she also knew that their relationship will never be the same, not after all that.

The princess began flapping to rise high enough to come face to face with the draconequus and place a delicate kiss on his petrified cheek, the surface was cold and hard, just like Discord’s heart was during that last day.

-I must go, I need to get everything ready for tonight's party- she said descending back to the ground.

The babbling of the pink pegasai called her attention.

-I see, you want to give him a gift too- said the monarch, taking the little pink filly with her hooves and lifting her to the foot of the statue, where Cadence deposited a bouquet of flowers she had collected with her mouth.

-This will be a night like no other- Celestia said, turning around. -Come on Cadence, we have a lot to prepare yet- the deity added, returning to the castle with the foal over her shoulders.

The princess of the day delighted herself in the company of her subjects. It didn't take her long to assign different tasks to each of the managers, handing out the activities with mastery and experience to assign the tasks to the most suitable ponies to execute them efficiently, while Celestia orchestrated each movement, just like a master of ceremonies.

There was no denying that the monarch had a talent for leading the kingdom, she knew the strengths and deficiencies of each of the ponies that served by her side. This gave her the tools to know who, at what point and how a pony should do some activity to ensure that it was carried out as quick and efficiently as possible.

Quickly the Castle was completely adorned and ready for the big event. Food and beverages had been prepared and served at tables adorned with white tablecloths decorated with pink buns that had been placed throughout the large hall. Celestia had prepared a set of her royal guards, as well as several cadets at Hurricane's service, so that they could guard the perimeter during the event.

As soon as Smart Cookie and Private Pansy were free, they took care of little Cadence and dressed the filly up for the event.When Celestia was sure that the rest of the activities were covered, the deity of the Sun returned to her chambers to dress appropriately for the occasion.

The white-pearl coated alicorn puts on a Pink dress, with light violet finishes. The dress had a beautiful lace on the sides and tail, the fabric was adorned by small embroiders suns on its surface. The horseshoes had beautiful slats that went up her hooves forming spirals up to her upper legs. It had a pronounced neckline on top of which anypony could see a gold necklace decorated with pink gemstones embedded on its surface.

Celestia decided to call a stylist to give her a slightly different hairstyle. It was really difficult to accommodate her hair due to its constant movement, but when her stylist finished her hair was tied up in a very conservative hairstyle pulled up on top while the rest of her mane fell elegantly to one side making her look slightly younger and leaving her neck and face discovered.

The deity of the day returned to the great hall to receive the ponies who had begun to assist. It was a great surprise when a couple of ponies entered the large hall accompanied by several servants carrying a lot of sandwiches and lots of gifts, which they placed on one of the large tables in the background.

The stallion leading the group was wearing a tailor's suit specially made from the Lord's exact measurements, he had a tall black hat and a monocle placed in front of one of his eyes. The mare who was with, was wearing a beautiful wine-colored dress which was adorned by a red hat with purple flowers like her mane. Her blue eyes were adorned by long lashes, along with a perfectly clean and bright white fur.

-Oh! Your Majesty I am glad to see you, it is really a delight to be able to admire your beauty once again, wearing something other than a shining armor- said the lord accompanied by a slight reverence as he kissed the ruler's forehoof.

-The pleasure is mine, Lord Luxury Pants-replied the deity with a slight blush on her cheeks.

-Your Majesty- Marvel said, bowing at her.

-I'm glad you could assist too, Lady Marvel- Celestia said.

-We couldn't stand around when we found out that this year's heart’s warming eve party would be open doors- said the mare. -Lord Pants and I decided to bring something for the ponies that lost so much during wartime, so that they will be able to enjoy themselves tonight.- Lady Marvel added.

For a moment, the princess remained speechless, she was hoping that some ponies would follow her example, contributing a little that night so that the families most affected by the war could have a Heart’s Warming Eve full of happiness.

-I have no word to thank you for your generosity and kindness.- the princess finally with a bright smile on her face.

-You don't have to thank us for this. The truth is that we wish we could do much more your majesty- Lord Luxury Pants replied, removing his top hat.

-It's not about the amount my lord- replied the deity. -It's the intention that really matters... just turn around so you could see it with your own eyes- Celestia added moving her forehoof from one side to the other f the great hall.

Both unicorns looked behind their backs. They could observe many other lords and ladys entering carrying gifts or dishes, every pony contributing a little with the Heart’s Warming Eve’s spirit.

-As long as there are good-hearted ponies, our kingdom still has hope- the deity said. Marvel and Luxury nodded.

Before realizing it, the hall was already overflowing with ponies of all social classes, ages and races.

All enjoying the cheerful music that the orchestra of the capital played for them. Being there surrounded by her smiling subjects filled Celestia’s heart with joy. After all, her little ponies never seem to stop surprising her with things like this.

The deity of the sun could see Private Pansy fly behind Smart Cookie who was chasing Cadence all over the room. Without a doubt the earth pony was a constant victim of the antics of the pink pegasai. However, it seemed that Cookie did not look upset or irritated, on the contrary, she seemed to be enjoying the company of the little filly.

When the time came, Celestia decided to lower the Sun to make way for the beginning of the night and the official start of the celebration.

The Heart’s Warming Eve celebration was the only night when the ponies of Equestria appreciated her beautiful night sky. As soon as the time came, Luna raised her imponent Moon illuminating the dark sky decorated with her beautiful stars.

The last few days had been exasperating to her, although the job of safeguarding the dreams of all the inhabitants of the kingdom was no simple task, what really took her out of her box, was to deal with the nobles. There were some noble ponies raised with excellent values, the vast majority however, were but a bunch of egomaniacs, racist and with an ego the size of a whale.

For Luna’s relief, that night she wouldn't have to deal with those situations. After all, Chrysalis had managed to improve in a short time and that meant they could spend quality time together during the celebration. Siegfried would escort her beloved Changeling to Canterlot’s Castle and because the ceremony would be open doors, the princess of the night would be able to spend time with the little foals of the orphanage once again. If she was lucky enough, the dark-blue alicorn would be able to meet her best friend again too.

While Luna knew very well how much Snowdrop struggled with creating her winter stars, it was also true that they were always looking for ways to spend time together if a suitable opportunity presented itself. And this was one of those rare opportunities.

She dressed in one of her most elegant winter dresses, it was a bright black color adorned with royal blue finishes, the dress’ tail was made of a slightly translucent material that left her flanks in sight. She also wears silver horseshoes and a silver necklace, combined with a silver coat Luna decided to wear along with the black dress.

As soon as her crown was properly placed, the deity of the night came to meet her subjects, she was guarded at all times by Alcor and Merak who had polished their armors especially for the occasion.

While it was true that unlike the dawn guards, they would not be in everyone's sight, as their job mainly was to remain in the shadows, they felt that showing up at the event without due care in their outfit might give a bad impression of their princess.

As soon as they reached the great hall they were greeted by a friendly and harmonious atmosphere. The Princess of the Night watched the multiple guests dancing and tasting the delicacies that the event offered. Among the crowd, Luna could observe mostly the representatives of the noble houses of all Equestria.

Her gaze hardened when she saw many of them there, being that they only showed up at high society fancy events, several of them had not even deigned to show up for the meetings she had with them and instead, most of the nobles had sent their trusted servants to attend many of the issues that, Luna considered, should be the Lords main interests.

It was annoying that many of them put their own interests before the kingdom itself, somehow Luna could also feel that that was their way of complaining to the deity of the Sun for having rescheduled their meetings to the nighttime dominated by Luna.

Nevertheless, the deity of the Night could not locate with her eyes many of the representatives of the noble houses of the outer edges.

With her usual stealth she came down the stairs to the living room and mixed herself with the crowd, while her guards remained hidden in the shadows.

-Princess Luna- one of the Fillydelphia’s ladies addressed her. The lady wore an ostentatious dress, and several jewels adorning her neck, helmets and ears. To Luna’s eyes, that mare looked more like a strange walking chandelier than a pony, however the princess decided to omit that comment and instead responded with property.

-Lady Cristal Print is a pleasure to have you in our castle tonight, we hope that your stay will be pleasant-

“Really, I just Wanna Puke, she is nothing but an opportunist” Nightmare whispered in her ear.

-On the contrary, Your Majesty. It is a pleasure to be able to see you. You know the situation of the ponies has really become complicated after these last months at war, fortunately you and your sister managed to get out unharmed. I couldn't imagine what would happen if the lineage of your species disappeared completely-

"Great here we go"

-And speaking of preserving lineages, I don't know if I've introduced you to my eldest son, Ink Print- the chandelier pony said, making moving her hooves like if she was trying to show all her accessories at once.

A young stallion with grey fur and silver mane approached both, he was wearing an elegant coat and a bow perfectly tied to his thin neck, which make him looks like an decolorated asparagus tied up. The young stallion had a perfume with such a piercing smell that instantly blocked the ruler's smell sense completely, although the ruler made no gesture about it.

-He's my pride, very soon will inherit the family's ink business, though he’s still single, I'm sure many mares will be behind him very soon...-

-Oh! but of course they will be my lady, we could assure you that a young stallion like your son will have no problem marrying a beautiful young mare soon, and we must certainly would be honored to see your beloved son in the caring hooves of a mare who is willing to love him properly and guide him on the right path. So that in the future he too will be able to follow my sister's example and offer a Hearth’s Warming Eve party in his own mansion, and invite those most in need without having to show up at the castle to enjoy such a wonderful time. But I wouldn't want to bore you with a long speech like that, so if you'll excuse me, I can't wait to try some of the snacks our chefs have so kindly prepared for tonight’s party- answered the ruler of the night with a slight nod, before sinking herself further into the crowd.

"It's really annoying, don't think so dear Luna? I'm sure that mare already tried to marry her son before with our dear sister. I guess you were just the second most obvious option” Nightmare commented.

-I'm not interested in ponies like them- Luna replied quietly as she rolled her eyes.

Being close to all those altruistic ponies have been producing a strange sense of nausea, especially when the situation began to repeat itself over and over again. If she could only find her beloved Chrysalis, things could greatly improve, and as long as she was accompanied by her changeling, Luna was certainly sure that other nobles would be more hesitant to approach her.

A little tug in her mane caught her attention. Lunas gaze went down only to end up looking a pair of fillies, dressed in embroidered matching sweaters, which also looked extremely warm and fuzzy, they also wear a beanie and a pair of gloves for their tilly hooves. Every cloth made by hoof. The princess soon recognized the little unicorns who had spent that night by her side in the garden of the orphanage.

-Her hair is much colder than Princess Celestia's- Cinnamon said as she stroked the ruler's mane with her forehooves. The deity of the night simply smiled at them.

-I'm glad SweetCandy agreed to bring you all- Luna said as she strokes the filly’s head gently.

-Well, Fresh would have cried a lot if she couldn't convince Grandma to bring us in, so I talk to the rest of the foals at the orphanage and we decided to plead grandma to let us come- the cinnamon coated filly replied, pointing in the direction in which an old lady pony gave directions to the army of foals accompanying her.

-Princess, did your hoof still hurts?- ask the second unicorn, which pink mane and white fur reminded her of her sister when she was younger, except for the strip of color that crossed her mane and tail from root to tip.

-Of course not Freshmint! I’m fine now, see?- replied the alicorn by showing the foals her hoof, which was now completely healthy.

-That's amazing. It takes me several weeks when I get hurt with the kitchen knife every time I make something for Fresh- the cinnamon unicorn said.

-Alicorns have a higher healing rate than any other pony- she said. -That's why you have to be much more careful when handling those utensils and you should always use them under the supervision of an adult- Luna lectured them.

-Yes princess!- both responded in chorus.

-All right, now come with me- the princess said, embarking on her journey to the old flowered hat pony that exchanged her gaze with the two fillies advancing beside the ruler of the night.

-It's a pleasure to see you again- Luna said addressing the old lady.

-Pleasure is ours princess. I hope the girls are not causing you any trouble-

-Oh no! on contrare, we would like to be the ones to guide all of you, so you could taste some of the snacks until your stomachs are satisfied- said the princess messing Cinnamon's mane with her hoof.

-Why, thank you, your majesty.- the old lady replied, holding a caring smile before indicating the other foals to follow the princess.

The deity of the Sun took her time talking to every pony she could, also noticed that her sister was guiding the ponies of the orphanage right to the sandwich tables, while most nobles did their best to keep their distance from the homeless little ones, although some other seemed to take some interest in them.

-Your Majesty- called her a poni of white fur and golden mane accompanied by a young fur mare as white as snow and dressed in colorful clothes, the mare was wearing a long sweater with a turtle neck, on her face she keeps wearing a pair of dark glasses that hide her eyes fully.

-Oh Lord Blueblood!, I'm so glad you decided to join us tonight- said the pearl-colored alicorn approaching him.

-I couldn't miss an event like this, your majesty-

-Especially since the little ones in the orphanage have come too- mentioned the alicorn pointing behind her with her foreleg.

-You mean those... Ufff-

He did not finish the sentence before Vinyl hit him on his side. Despite wearing those dark crystals, it was pretty obvious that Vinyl was looking at him with total disapproval.

-Those adorable foals- the Lord smiled, looking back at the white unicorn.

-I don't remember being introduced before, although I remember seeing you the other night when I visited the mansion- the princess said, extending her hoof to the young mare who was accompanying the lord.

-She doesn't speak princess- the lord explained.

-I am surprised my lord, it is really strange that some pony of the nobility hires someone with that kind of disability, especially considering that it seems quite close to you. I am glad to know that you are not like the others.-

-Why thank you, Your Majesty- the stallion replied bit confused.

-So… could you be so kind as to introduce us?- commented the deity of the Sun.

-Of course princess. This is Vinyl Scratch, one of my closest helpers, although I must admit that I hired her very recently, it has been of great help to me in the development of the Manehattan's investment project-

-Really? I'm glad to hear it, dear- the monarch said, stretching her hoof once again.

Vinyl hesitated for a moment before shaking the princess hoof. When the musician made contact with the mare, the deity notices a strange sensation going down her back. Like her body was trying to warn her that the white unicorn was dangerous.

-Go ahead and enjoy the feast, you are welcome- the deity said before leaving them.

-Thank you, Your Majesty- the blonde stallion replied continuing with his walk.

The performer, on the other hoof, remained in place for a moment before discovering that the leg that had made contact with the princess earlier, showed some harm. Her fur looked light burns and her skin was a bit red, it was the first time something like this had happened to her.

She knew that his master was accustomed to kissing the hooves of the mares as a sign of chivalry and knew that he had done so before with the Princess of the Sun. However, by the time they both came into contact, Vinyl felt a hot sensation burning her skin, as if the monarch had used some kind of spell to protect herself from any potential threat.

Unlike the ponies of her clan, the power of the Sun Princess seemed to affect Vinyl much less than those of her own kind and that could only mean one thing. His master should not approach the ruler that night, not if he wanted to keep his facade intact. If Lord Red came into contact with the princess that night, there was no doubt that his master would lose his facade the instant he’ll took the hoof of the Princess of the Sun. Vinyl had to do something and she had to think quickly.

Outside Canterlot, inside a huge mansion could be hear a series of screams which were overshadowed by the thick walls of brick and rock.

Inside however the screams increased their intensity through the corridors of the huge mansion to the dungeons, where they could be heard clearly.

Inside there, was a Pegasai with a sky blue fur and a pistachio and silver mane and tail. His four limbs were tied to a set of chains that kept him in position. His body looked multiple lacerations everywhere, one of its wings remained closed and shaking to his side, while the other looked seriously damaged as if it had exploded into pieces. In front of him stood on her four hooves an orange pony with green mane holding a whip in one of her hooves.

-I think that's enough Viper, our captain must have learned the lesson well, you can let him go- mentioned a pony dressed in fancy clothes, wearing big coat, his fur looked opaque marron and his mane was a deep black.

-As you ordered master- replied the mare by hitting a lever with her hind hoof causing the chains to release and drop the pegasai to the ground.

-Captain Wind Chaser, you know very well that I do not like to have to deal with these kinds of problems, if it were not because you are still useful to me, I would have ripped off your jugular myself when the commander notified my dear sister of your current situation-

The pegasus coughed up a little blood before he could talk.

-I-I’m... I'm sorry my lord, I-it wasn't my inten... COOFF... COOFF - coughed again - I didn't expect that... The princess... attacked me by surprise, I-I was hoping that... the night guard did it- the pegasai continued trying to get on his four hooves.

-Fortunately you weren't expelled from the army Wind. Although, I’m sure Hurricane would have done it without a look if it wasn't because you're engaged to my sister. Which reminds me, you're very lucky. If it weren't for the ritual of the "bond of supremacy" you signed with my sister, I have no doubt that a blow like that would have pierced your body from side to side- Red said, looking at the pony at his hooves -Instead it looks like you only lost one of your wings-.

-My lord…-

-However, your stupidity also brought unexpected benefits- the Lord interrupted him. -My beloved Canaries have told me that the sisters seem more distant than before. I think it's the perfect time to start with the next phase, after all my dear silent canary has notified me that the princess has already contacted our blue-blooded pawn, tonight may be crucial-.

-So you’re planning to attend the celebration that takes place in the castle right now?- ask the mare by rolling her whip on her foreleg.

-Yes, it's also a good opportunity to see my dear Vinyl's progress- said the stallion turning around. -You'll stay in the mansion tonight Wind, and I recommend you clean your wounds well. Viper may be able to control her own desire to suck every last drop of your blood, but I cannot promise the same from the rest of my concubines- said the lord smiling macabrely before leaving the dungeon along with Viper.

-My lord, do you really need that stupid Pegasus yet? I thought his only function was to provide you with information from the military, but after what happened, I seriously doubt Hurricane will ever trust him again-.

-That doesn't matter Viper, the important thing is that Captain Wind Chaser still has connections. He may be an impulsive idiot, but his stupidity opened a wide gap between the princesses, just as the Master predicted.

-As you wish my master-

-Tonight, I want you to come with me and my sister, so make yourself up a little before we go out, we mustn’t keep our dear princess waiting.

-As you wish my Lord- replied the mare, retreating.

-You shouldn't have been so gentle with him- PinkWine said as soon as Red walked into the room.

-I've already told you dear sister, we still have time. The master predicted that the day will come when darkness will cover the Sun and Moon by submerging the world in eternal darkness, and when that happens you and I will rule over all Equestria and we will never have to fear the Sun again-.

-The master...- thought the mare as she fills herself a glass of one of their special bottles. -I suppose you will have a contingency plan in case the master decides to betray us and not to comply with his part of the deal- mentioned the mare drinking from the contents of the cup.

-Even if the master decided to betray us, there is still a way to win.- Red said, energizing his horn to cast a spell to appear an old book, its covers were made with pony’s skin.

Author's Notes:

Well here we start with the Hearth’s Warming Eve, I hope you enjoyed the chapter, a greeting to all of you and I hope to see you soon in the next chapter.

For those who wondered, Luna and Celestia’s age in the flash back are very similar to the ages between the CMCs and their older sisters, this is because I don't know exactly what the age difference between Luna and Celestia is, so I'll rely on that approximate metric.

I know I leave a lot of argumental gaps in this chapter, but I didn't want to saturate it, I hope you don't mind me leaving the chapter at that point.

Don't forget to leave me your comments, they encourage me to continue with this project and also improve my use of English.

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In memory of Victor Fidel Beloved grandfather and mentor.

March/1938 - October/2018

In memory of Carolina López Beloved aunt and life's example.

May/1947 - February/2020