> Son of Sombra
>  by BubblePuff
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

SON OF SOMBRA 

BY 

BUBBLEPUFF 

The arctic landscape outside of the Crystal Empire was engulfed in a harsh blizzard. The guards standing watch at the entrance were lucky that they were just behind the magical barrier that kept the kingdom warm and protected. It was another uneventful day, and the the two guards could not wait for their shift to be over. Guarding the entrance was the most boring assignment in the Crystal Empire. 

The horn signaling the changing of the guard was blown. The guards were about to leave their post when one of them spotted something in the distance. The other guard picked up his binoculars and looked out into the blizzard. He immediately spotted a pony marching through the snow, wrapped up in a heavy cloak. The guard alerted the others. The magic gate was opened, and a rescue party was sent out to retrieve the wandering pony. 

After being brought in from the blizzard, the pony instantly collapsed. The guards removed the cloak to check on the mysterious pony. It was a mare, and she was sick with pneumonia. The guards felt her forehead, and she was burning up. The guards also noticed one more thing about the mare. She was pregnant. The guards immediately rushed her to the hospital.    

At the hospital, the doctors tried everything to stabilize the mare’s condition but she only got worse. The mare then went into labor. The mare remained conscious long enough to give birth, but after giving birth to the foal she died. The doctors examined the newborn foal. It was a colt, with charcoal-grey hair and a red mane and tail with black stripes. The foal was also a Unicorn. However, it was the foal’s horn that caused alarm for the doctors. They told the guards to notify Princess Cadence at once. 

“Please be positive, please be positive” Princess Cadence thought to herself as she looked at the pregnancy test, waiting for the results. For months she and her husband Shining Armor had been trying to have a foal, but with no with luck thus far. Cadence was the princess of love, and she wanted to feel the greatest love of all, the love of mother for her child. 

There was a knock at the door. Cadence turned her head and opened it. On the other side was her husband, Shining Armor. 

“So, what did the test say? Are you pregnant?” He asked anxiously. 

“The test hasn’t given an answer yet. It takes ten minutes to read, and it’s only been five” 

Shining rubbed the back of his head. “Sorry. It’s just that I’m nervous, you know? I want to be a dad, but I don’t know if I’ll be good at it” 

Cadence smiled and put her hoof to to Shining’s face. “How do you think I feel? But don’t worry Shining, I know you’ll be a great father” 

“I hope you’re right” Shining said with a smile. He nuzzled Cadence on the nose. Another five minutes passed and Cadence checked the pregnancy test. “Is it positive?” Shining asked. 

Cadence turned around, a sad look was on her face. “Negative” Tears began to roll down her cheeks. Shining walked over and wrapped his front legs around her.  

“Don’t worry Cadence, we will try again” Shining said, trying to reassure his wife. 

“What’s the point?” Cadence gently nudged Shining away. “We keep trying and trying, but the result is always the same. We just aren’t meant to have any foals of our own” 

There was a loud knock at the door to Shining and Cadence’s bedroom. Shining answered the door and was greeted by a guard. “Your highness, something has happened at the hospital. You and Princess Cadence are required at once” 

Shining looked back over at Cadence. “Now is not a good time” But Cadence just walked over to Shining, covering up her sadness. 

“Royal duties come first, no matter what they are. Now what seems to be the problem?” The guard told them both about the mare that had been found in the blizzard, and how she had died during birth. However, it was the foal that had everypony concerned. “What is wrong with this foal?” Cadence asked. 

The guard spoke with a slightly frightened tone. “The foal bears the horn of Sombra” 

Princess Cadence and Shining Armor rode in their carriage straight to the hospital from their palace. The entrance was heavily guarded, and the corridors of the hospital had guards stationed at every entrance and exit. A doctor greeted Cadence and Shining at the entrance. 

“Princess Cadence, Prince Shining, I am grateful that you arrived” Dr. Heartbeat said as he bowed before the the royal couple. “Come, follow me” Dr. Heartbeat led the two inside the hospital. 

“Any identification on the mother?” Cadence asked. 

“None, unfortunately”  Dr. Heartbeat replied. “She didn’t even have a cutie mark. Poor thing never spoke a word” Dr. Heartbeat led Cadence and Shining Armor to a private room on the maternity ward. The two guards standing in front of the door stepped aside. Dr. Heartbeat opened the door and the three stepped inside. 

In the center of the room, there was a single foal bed. Cadence and Shining Armor looked in to see the the sleeping foal, swaddled up in a blanket. Atop the young colt’s head was indeed King Sombra’s horn, albeit a bit smaller. 

Dr. Heartbeat picked up the foal’s medical chart. “The child is perfectly healthy. We have found no complications whatsoever. The only problem, obviously, is his horn. Tell me Princess, is this the return of Sombra?” 

Shining Armor put his hoof to his chin. “It is possible that Sombra could possibly regenerate from his dark magic infused horn. But that was not found after he was defeated. Also, this foal has differences in appearance from Sombra, though they are minor. It could all be a coincidence. Still, I think the other Princesses should be notified just in case” 

Cadence continued to look down at the foal. He woke up and yawned, staring back at Cadence with bright green eyes. The foal smiled and let out a coo. Cadence smiled back and tickled the newborn foal on the nose, causing him to laugh. While Shining Armor and Dr. Heartbeat were busy talking, Cadence picked up the foal and sat in a nearby chair, cradling him in her front legs. 

Shining Armor finally looked over at Cadence after speaking with Dr. Heartbeat. His eyes went wide as he saw her cradling the foal. “Cadence, what are you doing?!” 

“I’m just giving him some love and attention” Cadence said with an innocent smile. “He is so adorable! And the poor thing just lost his mother” 

Shining marched over to Cadence. “Honey, this foal may be Sombra in disguise! What if this is some scheme to sneak into the Crystal Empire and restart his dark reign?”  

“And what if he’s just an innocent foal?” Cadence said in the little colt’s defense. “It’s not his fault that he looks the way he does. We have no right to pass judgement on him” 

Shining closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead. He let out a deep sigh. “You just have baby fever on the brain. You want a child of your own, so you’re latching onto this one” 

Cadence gave Shining a stare that all husbands dread. The kind that means You’re sleeping on the couch tonight. “Perhaps I am, but it’s with good reason. This foal has no family, and is already being judged for how he looks. He is all alone in the world, and needs love and attention. Doctor, we’ll be taking this foal back to the palace until the other princesses show up” 

Shining Armor wanted to object, but he knew that he was in a no win situation. “Ok, the foal can stay with us for now. But can we at least give him a name? Simply calling him foal just sounds weird” 

Cadence looked out the window at the night sky. The Stars were shining bright above the frozen north outside of the Crystal Empire, especially one in particular. “How about North Star? It’s only fitting, seeing as he shines so bright” 

Shining thought for a moment. “It is a good name” He then leaned down towards North Star. “You may won over my wife, but I’m watching you” North Star Smiled, then reached out with his little hoof to boop Shining on the nose. “I’m in trouble” Shining thought to himself.
> Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Where’s North Star? There you are!” Cadence said with glee as she removed her wings from North Star’s eyes. The little foal laughed and waved his hooves in the air. Cadence repeated the process over and over. 

Shining Armor looked down at floor where his wife was playing with the adopted foal.It had only been a day since Cadence and Shining Armor had adopted North Star, and already Cadence was treating him as her own. Shining was glad to see that his wife was happy, but Shining still had his doubts about North Star. “Honey, you’ve been playing with him all morning. Don’t you think you should take a break?” 

“I can’t help it. He is just too cute!” Cadence rubbed North Star’s cheeks. “Besides, I don’t see you spending time with him. He is technically your son now.” 

Shining let out a sigh. “Have you’ve forgotten about the horn? What if North Star turns out to be just like Sombra? The Crystal Empire could end up being lost in shadows for another thousand years.” 

Cadence gave Shining a stern look. “It’s not North Star’s fault that he was born this way. A pony should not be judged by their appearance.” Cadence picked up North Star and gave him to Shining. “In fact, why don’t the two of you spend some time together? I have to get things ready for when Celestia, Luna, and Twilight arrive anyhow.”  

Shining held out North Star in his hooves. “Cadence, you know darn well that I don’t know anything about kids, let alone newborn foals!” Shining protested. 

“Shining, it isn’t that hard. Besides, you’re a fast learner. Have fun!” Cadence blew him a kiss then walked out the door. Shining looked looked at North Star. Shining smiled, but then North Star began crying loudly. 

“Oh sweet Celestia.” Shining thought to himself. “Please don’t cry! Uh, ooga booga booga!” Shining tried making funny faces, but they had no effect. He then heard a rumbling sound coming from North Star’s tummy. “Are you hungry?” Shining went to the kitchen, but could not find anything the young foal could eat. He then summoned a guard. “Officer, run down to the market and buy some foal formula stat!” 

The guard hurried to the market and bought the formula plus a baby bottle. He rushed back to the palace as quick as he could. North Star’s loud crying was starting to give Shining tinnitus. When the guard returned, Shining immediately snatched up the formula. “Finally! Now, how did mom do this with Twilly? Oh, right!” Shining filled the bottle with the formula, then warmed it up in hot water. After testing it to make sure it was the right temperature, Shining stuck the bottle in North Star’s mouth who began sucking away.  

Shining was relieved to finally have some silence. North Star sucked down the whole bottle in under a minute. “My, you have some appetite.” Shining placed North Star over his shoulder and patted him on the back to burp him. North Star let out a burp so loud that it could be heard throughout the palace. 

“Excuse you!” Shining held up North Star. “I assume you got enough?” Shining then smelt something foul coming from the foal’s diaper. “Just my luck.” Fortunately, Cadence had bought diapers when she and Shining adopted North Star. Not having a changing table yet, Shining placed some old newspapers on the floor and began to change North Star. As soon as he removed the diaper, Shining was shocked. “Gah! It’s like something from the pits of Tartarus!” Shining used his magic to lift away the diaper and throw it away. He wiped and powdered North Star’s bottom, only for the foal to pee in his face. North Star giggled happily. 

Shining wiped his face then fitted North Star with a fresh diaper. “In all of my years as captain of the royal guard, never have I faced a challenge as great as you.” North Star just sucked on his hoof. 

Cadence got everything ready in the crystal gardens. Up in the sky, she could see the chariots of Celestia, Luna, and Twilight. The royal guard stood at attention and saluted as the three chariots landed. 

Cadence knelt before Celestia and Luna as they approached her. “Aunt Celestia, Luna, I am so glad that you both could make it under such short notice.” 

Celestia and Luna both smiled. Celestia motioned for Cadence to rise. “There is no need to kneel before us Cadence. After all, we are family.” 

Cadence blushed as she stood up. “Sorry, force of habit.” As Twilight walked towards her, Cadence smiled and the two Alicorns embraced. “Twilight, it is so good to see you!” 

“It’s great to see you too, Cadence.” Twilight replied with a big smile. 

Luna approached Cadence. “We all came as soon as we receive your message. What is this urgency that you wrote to us about?” 

Cadence explained what happened with the mysterious pony who emerged from the blizzard. She also explained that the foal that was born bore the horn of Sombra. 

“And where is this foal now?” Celestia asked. 

“Shining should be here with him in a minute. Also we have big news.” Cadence then looked over to the garden entrance to see Shining Armor approaching. North Star was strapped to his chest. Although Shining was visibly exhausted, he perked up as soon as his sister. 

“Twily!” Shining ran up to his sister, and the two nuzzled one another. 

Twilight looked down at North Star. “That does appear to be Sombra’s horn on his head.” 

Shining rubbed the back of his neck. “Uh, yeah. You see, there’s another reason we called you here, and it is-.” 

“We’ve adopted him!” Cadence interrupted. “Twilight, say hello to your nephew North Star!” 

Twilight was taken aback. “You two adopted the foal?” 

“It was Cadence’s idea” Shining replied. 

“I had to do it. The poor thing lost his mother and was all alone. He needs a family, and then Shining and I showed up. I dare say it was destiny that brought us together.” Cadence smiled and nuzzled North Star. 

Celestia stepped in between Cadence and Twilight. “Perhaps it is best that we continue this discussion in the crystal palace. There is much to be said concerning little North Star.”  North Star played with Celestia’s mane, which brought a smile to the princess’s face. “We must test whether there is any dark magic in North Star or not.”  

Cadence led everypony into the crystal castle’s royal courtroom. Celestia instructed Cadence to place North Star on the floor. Cadence did so, then Celestia, Luna, and Twilight stood around North Star. The three princesses touched each others horns together above the young foal. North Star looked up in amazement at what was going on. The princesses horns glew bright for several seconds, then the three dispersed. 

“There is no trace of dark magic within him.” Celestia informed Cadence and Shining. 

“In fact, there is no trace of any magic within him at all.” Luna added. 

“But what of the horn?” Shining asked. 

“We could not detect any magic in the horn either.” Twilight replied. “More tests will have to done. Also, I would like to examine the body of North Star’s mother to see if that yields any clues.” 

Cadence spoke up. “Will Shining and I still be able to raise North Star?” 

“I can see that you have much love for this foal.” Said Celestia. “You have already adopted him, So my sister and I trust you raise North Star right.” 

Cadence hugged Shining. “Isn’t this great?! North Star is permanently ours!” 

“Permanently?” Shining said with a gulp. North Star crawled over and began sucking on Shining’s tail. 

Cadence, Celestia, Luna, and Twilight all awed at the sight. “See darling? You and North Star get along so well.” 

Shining faked a smile. “Yeah, we sure do.” “How am I supposed to tell Cadence that I’m not ready to be a father?”
> Part 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dr. Heartbeat led Twilight into the Hospital’s morgue. He opened one of the freezers and pulled out the body of the mare that had given birth to North Star. “Here is the body that you requested to examine Princess.” 

Two guards moved the body over to an examining table. Twilight held up a notepad and pencil in her magic to take notes as she looked over the body. “The mare is an Earth pony, green hair, white mane and tail. No cutie mark. Very odd.” Twilight scanned the body with her horn to detect any dark magic, and she sensed a small trace. 

“Interesting.” Twilight put on gloves and a surgical mask. She picked up a scalpel to start the autopsy. But as soon as Twilight cut into the body, it was engulfed by black flames. After they vanished, nothing was left of the body except for a small pile of ash. 

Dr. Heartbeat and Twilight both stood in shock. Twilight removed her mask and gloves. “I’ve got to report this to Princess Celestia immediately.” 

“Should I inform Princess Cadence about this as well?” Dr. Heartbeat asked. 

Twilight paused for a moment. She thought about how happy Cadence was being a mother, and the love that she had for North Star. “No. For the time being, this is classified. North Star has shown no signs of dark magic, so there is no need to be worried.” 

Dr. Heartbeat gave Twilight a worried look. “For Celestia’s sake, I hope you’re right.” 

Cadence and Shining were awoken in the early hours of the morning by North Star’s crying. “It’s your turn.” Cadence said before Shining could even get a word out. With eyes half opened, Shining got out of bed and made his way to North Star’s room across the hall. 

Shining looked down into North Star’s crib. The foal was crying and wriggling under his blanket. “What is it now?” Shining asked in a gravely voice. He picked up North Star and checked his diaper. “Well, you don’t need a change.” Shining listened to North Star’s tummy, but heard no grumbling. “You’re not hungry either.” Shining rocked him back and forth while trying to sing a lullaby. “Go to sleep, go to sleep. Please go to sleep.” 

North Star then spat up all over Shining. The little foal yawned and fell back asleep. Shining simply put North Star back in the crib, then walked back to his room. 

Cadence heard shining coming in and turned on a light. She looked in shocked at her husband. “What happened to you?” 

“That kid hates me.” Shining said bluntly. He walked into the bathroom to wash up. 

Cadence could not help but smile. “Shining, North Star does not hate you. He’s still just a foal. All you need to do is spend time with him.” 

Shining dried himself off with a towel as he emerged from the bathroom. “But every time I’m near him he’s either crying, hungry, or doing something gross.” 

Cadence put her hoof to her chin and thought for a moment. “I’ve got it! The two of you will spend the day together at the foal gym tomorrow.” 

Shining climbed into bed with a skeptical look. “You mean the place where parents get together to play with their foals? I don’t know Cadence. I still have my duties as captain of the royal guard.” 

“Shining, you’re a father now. The most important thing for you is spending time with your son. Besides, it’s only one day. Just hand over your duties temporarily to one of your officers. I’m sure Celestia and Luna will understand.”  

“Well, alright. It couldn’t hurt to give it a shot. And besides, I really could use the day off.” Shining nuzzled Cadence before going back to bed. 

Cadence nuzzled him back. “Trust me, the two of you will have a great time together.” 

The next day, Cadence got Shining and North Star ready for their big day out. Shining had North Star strapped to his chest, and Cadence had filled his saddle bags with diapers and bottles of formula. Shining was starting to feel like a pack mule. 

“Honey, don’t you think you’re overdoing it a bit?” 

“Not at all. We must always be prepared.” Cadence kissed Shining on the cheek, then kissed North Star on the head. “Ok, have a fun day you two!” 

Shining waved goodbye to Cadence as he left the castle. Two guards followed from a safe distance. As he walked down the street, Shining waved to the ponies of the Crystal Empire. Most smiled and waved back, but some gave odd looks as soon as they saw North Star. 

After a good long walk, Shining and North Star finally arrived at the foal gym. Inside was a big play area filled with foal safe toys. Parents mingled with each other while showing off their newborn foals. A caramel-colored earth pony with a brown mane and toy blocks for a cutie mark stepped to the center of the room. 

“Hello parents! My name is Caregiver, and I am the lead instructor here at the foal gym. If everypony could please sit in a semi-circle, we can start with introductions.” 

Shining sat on the floor and removed North Star from the foal carrier and placed him on the floor in front of him. Caregiver immediately noticed the prince, and she made her way over to him. 

“Shining Armor! What a surprise to have you here with us!” She knelt down to look at North Star. “Is this little cutie yours? Why, I didn’t even know Cadence was pregnant.” 

“Yeah, he’s mine. His name is North Star. Cadence and I actually adopted him.” 

“I doubt a dark little foal like could belong to Cadence anyway.” One of the other parents muttered. Caregiver looked over and gave the pony a stern glare. 

“Ok parents, we’re going to pair up and have our foals play together!” Caregiver announced. Caregiver paired Shining and North Star with a pegasus and her daughter. The mother had a white coat and yellow mane with a Daisy cutie mark. Her daughter was yellow with an orange mane. 

Shining watched as the two foals rolled a ball back and forth to one another. “Your daughter is adorable. What’s her name?” 

“Summer Haze. My name is Daisy.” She replied. “So, you said you and princess Cadence adopted North Star?” 

A sad look came over Shining’s face. “Yes. His real mother died a few weeks ago after giving birth to him. Cadence and I adopted him that same night.” 

Daisy put her hoof to her mouth. “Oh my, that is so sad! North Star is so fortunate that you and Cadence decided to adopt him.” 

Shining rubbed the back of neck. “Well, it was mostly Cadence’s idea.” 

“How so?” Daisy asked. 

“To be honest, I’m not ready to be a father. I know nothing about kids, and North Star is a hoof-ful to handle.” 

Daisy simply smiled. “No pony is ready to be a parent. We all try our best. In the end, all that matters is love. That you care about your child, no matter what. North Star may not be yours biologically, but he is your son now. You just need to take it one step at a time.”  

“Wow. Such wise words. You must be some sort of teacher.” 

“Actually, I’m a bartender. I see a lot of broken hearts in my line of work.” 

“Well, your husband must also have an interesting job.” 

Daisy lowered her head. “Yeah, husband.” 

Meanwhile, North Star and Summer giggled as they pushed the ball back and forth between one another. Suddenly, another foal crawled over and took it away. Summer began crying as North Star tried to grab the ball back, but the other foal would not let go. Frustrated, North Star shoved the foal back onto his behind. The foal began screaming, which brought over his mother and Shining. 

“Get away you little monster!” The foal’s mother shouted as she scooped up her child. 

“Whoa, calm down. What happened?” Shining asked. 

“That monstrosity attacked my child!” The mother shouted, glaring down at North Star. 

Shining grew angry. “My son is NOT a monster!” He said as he put his hoof down. North Star hid behind him. 

“He’s right.” Caregiver stepped forward. “Ma’am, your son stole the ball that North Star and Summer Haze were playing with. North Star shoved him down while trying to get it back. I witnessed the whole thing.”  

The mother was taken aback. “How can you defend that beast?! It bares the horn of Sombra!” 

“Ma’am, I think you should leave.” Caregiver said with an insistent tone. The mother turned around and left in a huff.  

“I apologize for causing a scene.” Shining told Caregiver. She simply waved him off and smiled. 

“Don’t be. Mothers like her are always causing a scene.” 

Summer Haze was still crying. North Star crawled over and booped her on the nose. This cheered her up and she started giggling. 

Daisy picked up her daughter. “Summer appears to like your son. The two really seem to get along.” 

Shining ruffled North Star’s mane. “Well, his mother is the princess of love. Perhaps the two of them can have a playdate at the castle sometime?” 

Daisy nuzzled Summer. “That sounds like a wonderful idea.” 

After returning home to the castle, Shining was greeted by Cadence. “So, how did everything go? Did you and North Star have fun?” 

Shining set down North Star and explained everything. “Well, things started out alright. North Star made a friend with a young pegasus named Summer Haze. Her mother Daisy is also a very nice and polite mare who gave me some good advice on being a father. But then another mare’s foal stole North Star and Summer’s ball, and after North Star tried to get it back, she called our son a monster! Can you believe the nerve-” 

Cadence abruptly cut off Shining. “Shining, did you hear what you just said?” 

“Uh, what?” 

“You called North Star son! For the first time since adopting him, you called him your son!” Cadence hugged shining, tears of joy running down her face. 

It was then that it dawned on Shining. He had called North star his son. coming to North Star’s aid made him feel like he was defending the foal as his own. “I guess the little guy is really growing on me.” He said with a smile. 

North Star wiggled in between the two, looking up at them with a smile.
> Part 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight entered the royal hall in Canterlot. Princess Celestia and Luna were both waiting for her. “Any news to report on the investigation of North Star’s birth mother?” Celestia asked. 

“I have unfortunate news” Twilight replied with a worried look. “The mother bore no cutie mark, so identification was impossibles. I discovered traces of dark magic, but when I tried to perform the autopsy, the body was destroyed by a mysterious dark flame.” 

Princess Luna spoke up. “This is indeed troubling. Sombra might not have been completely destroyed as we previously thought. He could still be hiding in the shadows, biding his time.”  

Celestia stood up from her throne. “I will order the guards at the Crystal Empire to keep watch for anything suspicious. It is best to not let the public know, as this could cause panic.” 

“What of my brother and Cadence?” Twilight inquired. 

“So far they have done a good job of raising North Star.” Luna said. “The little one has not proven to be a threat. With the right guidance, Princess Cadence and Shining armour can keep North Star away from the path of darkness.” 

“You need not worry. I have full confidence in my brother and Cadence.” Twilight said reassuringly. 

“We shall see.” Celestia muttered. 


Cadence sat on the couch, feeding North Star his bottle. Shining was busy putting on his uniform. He looked in the mirror to do some last second touch ups before heading out. He stopped and nuzzled Cadence. 

“Can you believe that it’s been one month today since North Star entered our lives?” Cadence removed the empty bottle from North Star and patted his back. 

Shining smiled at the two of them. “And what a month it has been. It actually feels more like a year has passed.” 

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. “Princess Cadence, Prince Shining, a package has been dropped off for you.” A guard announced. 

Shining turned to Cadence. “Honey, were you expecting a package?” Cadence simply shook her no. “Bring it in.” The guard opened the door and pushed in a large crate. 

Shining looked over the crate. “I wonder what this could be?” He then used his magic to pry open the top. As soon as he did, confetti and streamers shot out of the crate, followed by a pink pony with a poofy mane blowing on a party whistle. 

Cadence and Shining looked on in shock. “Pinkie Pie?!” They both said in unison. 

“SURPRISE!” Pinkie shouted.  

“Pinkie, what are you doing here?” Cadence asked. 

“To celebrate North Star’s 1 month birthday, of course!” Pinkie placed a party hat on North Star’s head, who looked up and giggled at the silly pink pony. 

“But, how did you even find out about North Star? The only ponies outside of the Crystal Empire that we’ve told are Luna, Celestia, and Twilight.” Shining said with a confused look. 

“Simple, my Pinkie sense alerted me a month ago! At first I couldn’t pinpoint it because I keep records of every newborn foal in Equestria, so I had to do some digging which led me to Canterlot. After that I joined a traveling circus, stopping at each town and asking if there had been any undocumented newborn foals. Then after mixing candy and cider, there was an explosion that transported me to another dimension where I met this really interesting, I think he said he was human? I think his name was Wade, but he kept calling himself something pool and he told me all about North Star because the story needed to be moved forwards. After that a wormhole opened up, I stepped through and arrived in the Crystal Empire just in time!” 

Shining and Cadence just stood there in silence for a moment. What they had just heard made no sense at all, but they decided to let it slide because it was Pinkie Pie after all. 

“A party sounds like a wonderful idea!” Cadence said. “We can even invite North Star’s new friend Summer Haze and her mother Daisy.” 

“We can hold the party in the royal ballroom.” Shining chimed in. “We hardly use it anyways.” 

Pinkie bounced on her tail with excitement. “Great! I’ll have everything ready in just a few hours!” 

“That will give time to do my briefing with the royal guard. Cadence, how about you take North Star out on stroll?” 

“That sounds wonderful. I just got a stroller for North Star that I’ve been to try out. He gained a bit of weight over the past month, and carrying him has become somewhat of a hassle.”  

“You can say that again” Shining said as he tickled North Star’s tummy.  

A little time later, Cadence walked through the streets of the Crystal Empire, pushing North Star along in his stroller. A pony also with a stroller walking by stopped and talked to the princess. 

“Excuse me, princess? I don’t believe we’ve met. My name is Daisy Haze. I met your husband at the foal gym.” 

“Oh yes, Shining told me about you.” Cadence looked down at Daisy’s stroller. “And this must be your daughter Summer. She is adorable!” 

North Star and Summer instantly recognized each other. They smiled and reached over to touch each others hooves. 

“It looks like our kids really like each other.” Daisy said with a smile. “Would you like to get a cup tea Princess?” 

“I would love to.” Cadence replied. “And please, call me Cadence.”  

Cadence and Daisy went to a local tea shop. They sat at an outside table and ordered their drinks. “So Cadence, how has motherhood been so far?” Daisy asked.  

“Well, it hasn’t been easy. North Star does have his little tantrums from time to time, but for the most part he’s been a good little foal. It took a while for Shining to warm up to him, but now he truly has accepted him as a son. North Star has become a real blessing in our lives.” 

“I know the feeling” Daisy said. “Summer is what motivates me to get through the day.” 

Cadence and Daisy’s drinks arrived. “And what about your husband?” Cadence asked. 

An uneasy look appeared on Daisy’s face. “I don’t have have a husband.” She she said as she stared down into her cup of tea. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” 

Daisy took a sip of her tea. “It happened a year ago. I was bartending and a few of the Wonderbolts came into the tavern. They were in the Crystal Empire as part of their tour of Equestria. I started up a conversation with one of them. He was a very sweet colt, a real gentlemare. At least I thought he was. When my shift was over, he invited me back to his hotel room. A week later I started feeling sick, so I went to the doctor. That’s when I found out I was pregnant. I approached the stallion and told him the baby was his. He didn’t believe me and wanted proof. A blood test confirmed that he was the father. He became so furious. He said that he didn’t want a child because it would only slow down his career. I begged him to stay but he left anyway. I haven’t seen him since.”  

A tear streamed down Cadence’s face. “That is so sad! What is this Wonderbolts name?” 

Daisy took another sip of her tea. “I cannot tell you. I hold no ill will towards him. I can’t just force somepony to be a father. I can only hope that one day he will come around and be with his daughter.” 

Cadence reached over and held Daisy’s hoof. “You truly have been through a lot. I may not know what it’s like to be a single mother, but just know that you will always support from me and Shining.” 

Daisy smiled. “Thank you. It’s good to know that I have the help of friends.” 

“By the way, this afternoon we’ll be throwing a party to celebrate North Star’s one month birthday. Shining and I would love it if you could come. And I know North Star would want Summer to be there.” 

“Thank you. Summer and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” 

Cadence arrived back at castle with Daisy and Summer to celebrate North Star’s party. They all arrived at the royal ballroom were Shining was standing in awe. It didn’t take long to see why. In the center of the ballroom there was a two story tall cake. Streamers of every color hung from ceiling. Pinkie fired confetti balloons from her party cannon.  

“Great, you’re all here! Now we can party!” Pinkie cranked up the record player and party music began playing. 

“I must say, Pinkie really outdid herself.” Shining said to Cadence. 

“She always does.” Shining, Cadence, and Daisy began celebrating with North Star and Summer. A few minutes later, Caregiver arrived with a present. 

“Hi! I hope I’m not too late. Happy birthday North Star!” Caregiver handed the gift to North Star. Shining and Cadence helped him to unwrap it to reveal a sparkly ball. North Star giggled with joy and rolled ball between himself and Summer. 

Soon after there was a flash of light. Twilight had teleported to the part, and she brought Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity with her. 

“Twily, you came!” Shining said with a big smile as he hugged his sister. 

“Well of course I did. You didn’t think I’d miss my nephew’s one month birthday did you?” Twilight gave North Star a gift and nuzzled him. “Happy one month birthday, North Star!” 

Twilight helped her nephew to open the gift. It was a pony plushie with blue hair, a green mane, button eyes, and black pants with yellow polka-dots. “Rarity helped me to make it. Say hello to Mr. Smarty Pants!” 

North Star smiled and hugged the plushie tightly. Everypony we'd at the adorable sight. 

After receiving gifts from the others, it was time to blow out the candle on the cake. Shining picked up North Star, and Cadence lifted them both with her magic to the top of the cake. “Ok buddy, make a wish!” Shining assisted North Star in blowing out the candle. 

After blowing out the candle, North Star looked up at Shining. “Dad-dad.” 

Shining shook his head. He couldn’t believe what he had just heard. “North Star, did you just talk?” 

“Dad-dad.” North Star said again. 

Shining smiled brightly and called down to Cadence. “Honey, North Star just spoke his first word! He called me dad!” 

Cadence brought the two down. “He did? His first word?” 

North Star looked at Cadence. “Mom-mom.” 

“His first words!” Shining shouted with celebration. He and Cadence both hugged North Star. 

“That’s right. We’re your mommy and daddy.” Saying that she was a mommy made Cadence cry tears of joy. 

“It’s a one month birthday miracle!” Pinkie Pie shouted. She then set off a 21 party cannon salute.

> Part 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“This way!” The first guard called out to the other. The two guards had been patrolling the outer edge of the Crystal Empire, close to the frozen north when they both spotted something mysterious. 

“Ugh, I signed up for patrol duty so that I wouldn’t have to do anything dangerous!” The second guard complained. The two guards headed towards a cave where they saw a dark shadow disappear into. They both stood at the entrance. 

“You stay here and keep watch.” The first guard said. “I’ll go in and investigate.” The guard then entered the cave. 

Ten minutes passed, and the first guard hadn’t come back. A harsh blizzard was rolling in, and the second guard was getting concerned. “Are you alright in there?” He called out, but there was no response. Suddenly, the shadows started racing out of the cave at high speed towards the guard. 

He tried to run away, but the shadows grabbed him by his hind legs. The guard was then dragged into the cave. “No, No, No!!!” He screamed, but dark crystals formed at the entrance to the cave, silencing his calls for help. 


Shining, Cadence, and North Star all sat at the dining table eating breakfast. Cadence fed North Star applesauce. 

“Choo Choo! Here comes the train into the station!” Cadence said playfully. She placed the spoonful of applesauce into North Star’s mouth, who gobbled it up instantly.  

Shining looked over at the two and smiled. “You know Cadence, we haven’t had a night to ourselves since we adopted North Star. How about this weekend we have a date night?” 

“That sounds like a lovely idea.” A slight frown then appeared on Cadence’s face. “Oh, but what are going to do about a baby sitter?” 

Shining tapped his chin with his hoof and thought for a moment. “I know, how about Caregiver? She already runs the foal gym, perhaps she can look after North Star privately for a few hours.”  

North Star reached out towards Shining. “Dad-dad, up!”  

With a smile, Shining walked over and picked up North Star from his booster chair. Cadence couldn’t help but giggle. “He’s really grown attached to you.” 

“And I’ve grown attached to him.” Shining held North Star up to his face. “Isn’t that right bud?” North Star booped Shining on the nose. 

There was a sudden knock at the door. Shining opened it, holding North Star in his foreleg. He was greeted by Flash Sentry. “Private Sentry, how may I help you?” 

Flash saluted back. “Captain, we have reports of two guards missing in the mountains on the northern border of the empire.” 

Shining frowned. “Send out the search parties. Have the the pegasi squad search from the air. I’ll lead the ground team.” 

“Yes sir.” Flash replied. He then looked down at North Star. “Is this your son North Star? He is adorable!” 

North Star pointed at Flash. “Dumb-Dumb!”  

Flash stood there in surprise, his eyes wide open. “Private Sentry, I’m so sorry.” Shining said. “North Star, say you’re sorry.” North Star just stuck out his tongue at Flash. 

“I’ll just be going.” Flash lowered his head and closed the door. Cadence stared at Shining. 

“What?” 

“I know that North Star is learning that from you.”  

“I don’t like it that Private Sentry makes moves on my sister. It’s not my fault if our son feels the same way.” Shining then winked at North Star and and gave him a bro-hoof. Cadence just sighed and rolled her eyes. 

Later that day, Cadence took North Star out on stroll to the local park. They stopped at the playground and she placed him in the sandbox. North Star played with his Mr. Smartypants plushie while Cadence sat and watched from a nearby bench.  

Cadence eventually took a book out of her saddlebag and did some reading. 

Meanwhile, Shining led the royal guard on a search and rescue mission in the northern mountains. He and the ground team trudged through the thick snow, but could find no sight of the two missing guards. A pegasus member of the air team landed in front of Shining. “Anything to report seargent?”  

“Yes sir.” The sergeant replied. “The air team has spotted a cave not too far from here. The entrance appears to be covered in dark crystals.” 

A worried look came over Shining’s face. “Take us there at once. I only hope nothing has happened to the two guards.”  Shining and the rest of the ground team followed the sky team to the cave. Just looking at it sent shivers down Shining’s spine. 

Shining approached the dark crystals that sealed off the mouth of the cave. “The two guards must be in there.” He called out to the other guards. “Unicorns, on the count of three I want you all to blast the crystals with your magic.” Shining aimed his horn and charged up his magic. “One, two, three, fire!” Shining and the other unicorns fired their magic at the dark crystals. 

Back at the playground, North Star’s horn lit up. He dropped his Mr. Smartypants plushie and rose up into air, surrounded by dark flames. His eyes glew with a bright red light. 

Cadence looked up from her book at North Star, and could not believe what she was seeing. She ran over to him, but the dark flames kept her at bay. 

“North Star!” Cadence cried out. North Star looked down at Cadence. He opened his mouth, and out came deep, sinister voice that was not his own. 

“The darkness shall fall upon this land once again.”  

Shining and the other unicorn guards kept blasting the dark crystals with their magic until they finally shattered. When they did, the dark flames surrounding North Star disappeared and he went back to normal. North Star fell back to the ground, but Cadence was able to catch him. North Star then began crying uncontrollably. “Shh, shh. It’s ok, mommy’s here.” Cadence said in a soothing voice, holding North Star close. 

A crowd had surrounded Cadence and North Star. Most looked on in a stunned silence, bust some ponies began speaking to one another in hushed tones. Cadence rushed off to the hospital. 

Shining entered the cave. He lit up his horn and searched for the two missing guards. Shining and the rest of the search party were only able to find their armor. Shining let out a sigh. “Notify the families of the guards. We’ve done all we can do.” As shining left the cave, he was approached by a messenger. 

“Prince Shining, Princess Cadence has taken your son to hospital. You are needed there right away.” 

Shining raced to the hospital as fast as he could. Once there, the nurses led him to a room where North Star was being looked over by Dr. Heartbeat. Cadence rushed over and embraced Shining. 

Shining comforted Cadence. “I came as soon as I heard. What happened? Is North Star alright?” 

“Oh Shining, it was horrible! It was as North Star was possessed! He was speaking in a strange voice, and was surrounded by dark flames. I was so worried!” Cadence cried into Shining’s shoulder. 

Shining looked over at Dr. Heartbeat. “Is my son ok?” 

“I’ve ran every test there is, and I cannot find anything wrong with North Star.” Dr. Heartbeat rubbed North Star’s head. “The little guy is as fit as a fiddle.” 

Shining began to beat himself up on the inside. “I should have been there. I should have protected my son!” 

Cadence held Shining by his hoof. “Don’t be so hard on yourself. I was there, and trust me, there was that either of us could have done. Let’s just be happy that North Star is safe.” 

There was a knock at the door. Shining and Cadence turned to see a guard standing in the doorway. “Princess, I found this at the park, as you requested.” The guard gave Cadence Mr. Smartypants. 

Cadence smiled and thanked the guard. She then handed Mr. Smartypants to North Star. North Star held the plushie tight and smiled. “Smartypants!” He said with glee. Shining and Cadence looked on and smiled, but what Cadence had witnessed still worried her deeply.



> Part 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star was medically cleared by Dr. Heartbeat, so Shining and Cadence took him home to the castle. As their chariot pulled up to the main gate, Cadence and Shining could see two crying mares arguing with the guards. Shining got out of the chariot to see what was the matter.  

“I demand to see Prince Shining this instant!” One of the mares shouted at the castle guards. The guards tried to get the two the leave, but then Shining Armor appeared before them. 

“Guards, it’s ok.” Shining turned to the two mares. “How may I help you?” 

One of the mares stepped forward. “We are the wives of the two guards that were reported missing. All day long we have been trying to get answers about what has happened to them, but none of the guards will tell us anything!” 

Shining let out a sad sigh. “I am sorry to be the one to tell you this, but your husbands went missing while out on patrol. The only thing the search party and I could find were their armor and helmets. I fear they may be dead.” 

Both mares broke down, crying even harder. Cadence emerged from the chariot, holding North Star. “Shining, what’s going on?” 

Upon seeing North Star, the second mare went off into a rage. “You! This is all your fault!” She screamed as she pointed a hoof at North Star. “You’re the one responsible for this, you horrible little monster! Burn in tartarus where you belong!” 

North Star turned and cried into Cadence’s shoulder. “How dare you speak to my son like that!” Cadence shouted back. “He’s just a foal for Celestia’s sake!” 

“A foal that bares the horn of Sombra! He will be the end of us all!” The mare tried to get closer to Cadence and North Star, but the guards held her back. 

“Enough!” Shining shouted. “I am truly sorry for your loss, but my son is not to blame. Guards, please escort these two away from the castle grounds.” The Guards escorted the two mares away from the castle, and Shining comforted Cadence and North Star. 

Later that evening, after North Star had been tucked away in his crib, Shining and Cadence sat and talked. 

“Shining, what happened when you went searching for the missing guards?” 

Shining looked down at floor. “We came across a cave surrounded by dark crystals. I and the other unicorns used our magic to destroy them. Inside the cave we found the armor of the missing guards.” 

Cadence thought for a moment. “Do you think those crystals and what happened with North Star might be connected?” 

Shining looked over at Cadence. “I don’t know what to think.” 

Cadence put her hoof to Shining’s face. “You can’t keep blaming yourself for what happened today. Those lost guards will be found. And if Sombra is coming back, we will be ready for him.” 

“And what about North Star?” 

“North Star is our son. He should be judged by who is, not what he looks like. There is good in him, and no force in the world will take him away from us.” 

Shining smiled at Cadence. “It’s times like these that I remember that you’re the brains of this family.” 

Cadence kissed him on the cheek. “You’ve got that right.” 

As the weekend arrived, Shining and Cadence decided to have their date night. The royal chariot pulled up in front of Caretaker’s house. Cadence and Shining got out and knocked on the front door. 

Caretaker answered with the door with a big smile. “Hello! It’s good to see you!” She patted North Star on the head. “And how is little Northy?” North Star smiled and giggled. 

“We want to thank you again for foalsitting North Star tonight.” Cadence said. She then gave Caretaker a saddle bag. “All of North Star’s diapers and formula are in here, as well as his Mr. Smartypants plushie and sparkle ball. He simply refuses to be without them.” 

“North Star will have a great time tonight. I’m also looking after Summer Haze, and we know how well they get along.” 

Shining gave North Star to Caretaker. “You shouldn’t expect any problems. I’ve assigned one of royal guards to monitor your house.” 

Flash Sentry stepped forward and saluted. “Private Sentry, reporting for duty!” 

North Star pointed at Flash and smiled. “Butt head!”  

Shining stood there with a confused look on his face. “I...I have no idea where he’s learning that.” 

Cadence gave him a stern glare. “Sure you don’t.” 

Cadence and Shining waved bye-bye to North Star and Caregiver before re-entering the chariot. Caregiver took North Star inside. Summer Haze was already playing with some toys on the floor. 

“Look who’s here Summer!” Caregiver placed North Star down next to Summer. 

“Northy!” Summer said with a big smile. 

“Sum-Sum!” North Star replied. The two foals then playfully hugged. 

Shining and Cadence arrived at their destination for their date night. The golden truffle, the most elegant restaurant in the entire Crystal Empire. Shining and Cadence had been offered the private V.I.P. table, but opted for a regular table instead. They wanted no special treatment, and wanted to be among their fellow citizens. 

Upon being seated, several ponies stared at the royal couple. Some even spoke in hushed tones. Cadence knew they were talking about North Star, but she paid them no mind. 

“Ah, a nice adult night out. Seems like forever ago that we did this.” Shining said. 

“Yes, this is very nice. But I can’t stop thinking about North Star.” Cadence said with a slightly worried look. 

Shining reached over and held her hoof. “Honey, North Star will be fine. He is in capable hooves.”  Shining could not help but smile. “You are such a mom.” 

Cadence blushed when she heard the statement. “You’re right, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.” 

The waiter came over and took their orders. Afterwards, Shining looked over at the bar and saw a familiar face. “Hey it’s Daisy! I didn’t know she worked here.” 

Shining and Cadence walked over to the bar to say hello. 

“Shining! Cadence! Fancy seeing you two here!” Daisy said as she noticed the royal couple. “Are you out on an adults only night?” 

“Yes we are.” Cadence replied. “I didn’t know you worked here.” 

“Yep, I’m a master mixologist. You name it, I can make it.” 

“Alright, two Manehattens please.” Shining ordered. 

“Coming right up.” With lightning quick reflexes, Daisy whipped up two Manehattens. “So, where is little North Star.” 

Shining and Cadence took a sip of their drinks. “He’s actually with your daughter at Caregiver’s place.” Said Shining. 

“That’s great! Those two are so cute together!” Daisy gushed. 

“I know. I wonder what they’re up to now?” Cadence pondered. 

Back at Caregiver’s house, Caregiver watched as North Star and Summer rolled North Star’s sparkle ball back and forth to one another. She then heard a rumbling noise coming from their tummies. 

“Aw, are you two hungry?” Caregiver reached into North Star’s saddle bag and retrieved his bottle of formula. She did the same for Summer. Both foals clung tightly to their bottles as the suckled away. After they were done feeding, Caregiver burped them both. North Star and Summer then began to cry. A foul stench filled Caregiver’s nostrils, and she quickly figured the reason why the little foals were upset. 

Caregiver peeked outside and spoke to Flash. “Private Sentry? Will you lend me a hoof for a minute?” 

Flash was more than eager to help. “Sure! What do you need me to-” Flash stopped dead in his tracks as soon as he entered the house. “By Celestia! What is that stench?!” 

“I need your help to change North Star and Summer. I can’t both of them at the same time.” Caregiver gave North Star to Flash. “Just follow me to the changing table.” 

“But I don’t know how to change a diaper!” Flash protested. 

Caregiver could not help but giggle. “Don’t worry, I’ll show you. Just watch me.” Caregiver led Flash over to the changing table. She had him lay North Star next to Summer. 

“First, we must remove the dirty diaper.” Caregiver procceded to remove Summer’s diaper and put in in the trash. 

Flash removed North Star’s diaper and almost barfed. “How can something so small make something so big and disgusting?!” Flash carefully picked up the diaper and put it in the trash. 

“Next, we wipe their bottoms to make them fully clean.” Caregiver grabbed a wet wipe and cleaned Summer’s bottom.  

Flash lifted North Star’s bottom and wiped it clean. North Star then farted in his face. “Gross!” Flash shouted. North Star giggled and Caregiver almost passed out laughing. 

After a few minutes, Caregiver caught her breath and continued. “Finally, we powder the bottom and put on a fresh diaper.” Caregiver powdered Summer’s bottom, then put on a clean diaper. 

Flash powdered North Star’s bottom. As he went to put on a clean diaper, North Star clung to his foreleg. “Very funny, now get off.” North Star instead climbed up to Flash’s head and covered his eyes. “Hey I can’t see!” Flash panicked and ran around the the room. Summer then took off flying in circles over Flash.
Back at the golden truffle, Shining and Cadence finished up their meal. They called the waiter over for the check, and gave him a big tip. Shining and Cadence also gave a big tip to Daisy. 

Shining and Cadence both waited until Daisy’s shift was over so that they could pick up North Star and Summer together. After arriving at Caregiver’s house and knocking on the door, Flash answered. Cadence, Shining, and Daisy looked on in shock. 

Flash was a complete mess. He was covered in baby powder, his mane was tangled with baby formula, and his armor was falling apart. 

“What happened?!” Cadence asked. as North Star and Summer came crawling out to their mothers. 

“Let’s just say that I have more respect for you as parents.” Flash said. He then passed out on the ground. 

Caregiver stood over Flash, shaking her head. “Tsk tsk. There are just some ponies who can’t handle foals.”

> Part 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was North Star’s first Nightmare Night, and Shining and Cadence wanted to make it a memorable one. Cadence would first take North Star out trick or treating with Daisy Haze and Summer, And Shining worked with Pinkie Pie to turn the castle into a haunted house for everypony in the Crystal Empire to enjoy. 

Cadence put the finishing touches on her witch costume. She walked out of her dressing room to show Shining. “How do I look?” 

“You look fantastic!” Shining said as he nuzzled her. “And a bit naughty.” He added with a wink. 

Cadence couldn’t help but blush. “And who are you supposed to be?” 

Shining held up his Shield. “I’m Captain Equestria! He’s my favorite comic book hero. I joined the royal guard because of him.” 

Cadence simply smiled. She never really understood comic books. North Star came crawling over dressed up in a bee costume. Cadence happily picked him up. 

“You are so cute! Who’s mommy’s little bungle bee?” Cadence nuzzled North Star. 

“Candy!” North Star said happily. 

“That’s my boy, getting right into the spirit of the holiday.” Shining said with pride as he patted North Star on the head. 

“I’m going to take North Star over to Daisy’s house so we can pick up her and Summer for trick or treating. Will you be alright looking over the construction of the haunted house with Pinkie Pie?” 

“Knowing Pinkie Pie, I’m ready for anything.” Shining kissed Cadence and saw her and North Star off. 

Cadence arrived with North Star in his stroller at Daisy’s house. Daisy answered, wearing a timber wolf costume. Summer was in her stroller, dressed up in tiger costume. 

“Daisy, I love your costume!” Cadence leaned down to Summer. “And Summer looks just adorable!” 

“Thank you!” Daisy replied. “Summer just loves to play dress up. And North Star is just too cute!” 

“Rawr!” Summer said as she waved her hooves like tiger paws. 

“Buzz buzz!” North Star said he waved his hooves in the air. 

Cadence and Daisy laughed at how cute the two foals were. They set out to go trick or treating. 

Back at the castle, Shining went to check on the haunted house. “Pinkie, how’s the house coming along?” 

Pinkie Pie appeared right behind Shining. “Great!” She shouted. Shining was so shocked that leaped ten feet in the air. 

Shining quickly turned around to face Pinkie. He was more than a little confused by her costume. “Uh Pinkie, what are you supposed to be?” 

“I’m the Smooze, silly!” Pinkie smiled as she stood surrounded by a mound of green goo with top hat on top. 

Curious, Shining stuck out his hoof to touch the ooze then tasted it. “Is your costume made of lime gelatin?” 

“Well duh! How else was I supposed to make my costume?” 

“Right.” Shining responded with a look of confusion on his face. 

Cadence and Daisy arrived at the first house for North Star and Summer. They knocked at the door and were greeted by a mare holding a big bowl of candy. North Star and Summer held up their hooves. 

“Twick or tweat!” Summer said happily. 

North Star replied simply with “Candy!” 

“Oh, aren't you two simply adorable!” The mare put a hoof full of candy into each of North Star and Summer’s bags. 

“Thwank you!” North Star and Summer said in unison. Cadence and Daisy moved on to the next house. They knocked at the door and another mare answered. But before she gave out any candy, the mare looked down at North Star and became disgusted. 

“How dare you come to my house, you nasty little thing!” The mare said as she scolded North Star. “I already lived through the nightmare that was Sombra’s curse, and I will not let you bring it about again!” 

North Star burst out crying. Cadence lost her temper and got right in the mare’s face. “Listen you! You have no right to talk to my son like that! He is only a foal for crying out loud! What happened to the Crystal Empire was tragic, but it was not my son’s fault! I may be the princess of love, but I am also the ruler of this kingdom and niece to both Celestia and Luna! Now apologize or spend the next 1,000 years in the royal dungen!” 

The mare’s eyes were as big as dinner plates, and her jaw practically fell to the ground. She apologized, then emptied her entire bowl of candy into North Star and Summer’s bags. 

As Cadence and Daisy walked away, Daisy turned to Cadence. “Wow. I didn’t think you had that attitude in you.” 

“I can only be pushed so far. Besides, there is nothing more dangerous than a mother defending her child.” 

Daisy smiled and nodded. “Darn right.”  

After a few hours of trick or treating, Cadence and Daisy made their way to the castle for the opening of the haunted house. Upon arriving, Shining greeted them both. 

“So, how was trick or treating?” 

Cadence pointed down to the fully stuffed bags of candy in the strollers. 

“Wow, what a haul!” A puzzled look then appeared on Shining’s face. “Um, where are the kids?” 

At that moment, North Star and Summer both popped up from their respective candy bags and shouted “Boo!” 

Shining jumped back, then laughed at the sight before him. “Very funny. Now come, the haunted house is ready.” 

Many ponies had gathered around the entrance to the haunted house. In front was a stage with a podium. Shining walked up to it and addressed the crowd. “Happy Nightmare Night everypony! Before we open up the haunted house, I would first like to thank Pinkie Pie for building such a spooky attraction!” Pinkie came up on stage, her mouth full of candy, and took a bow. 

“And now the special guest for this evening, the one for whom this night is named after, Princess Luna!” Luna descended from from the night sky in her chariot, escorted by her bat pony guards. The chariot landed, and Luna made her way to the podium. 

“My ponies of the night!” Luna announced in her royal voice, “Thank you all for coming out on this, the most magnificent of nights. And now it is my pleasure to declare this haunted house open!” Pinkie flung open the doors, and a swarm of bats came flying out. The crowd lined up to enter the haunted house. 

Shining, Cadence, Daisy, North Star, and Summer were the first to enter. They walked down a narrow hallway filled with cobwebs and fake spiders. Skeletons descended from the ceiling. Summer clung to Daisy in fear, but North Star just looked on with amusement. 

The next section was a replica of a Changeling hive, complete with egg sacks, slime, and animatronic Changelings. A giant Chrysalis popped up towards the end, causing Daisy to shriek. 

“If you think that’s scary, I almost married her” Shining said with a laugh. 

The group then entered the next section, which was a crystal cave. Shining looked around, puzzled. 

“Hey Pinkie, wasn’t this supposed to be the Everfree Forest section?” 

Pinkie put down a hoof full of candy and looked at the blueprints. “You’re right, something is very off here.” 

There were two ponies standing in the center of the cave. Both were completely covered in a black goo. Suddenly, their eyelids opened, revealing nothing but pale white eyes. A dark swirl appeared behind them, growing until it took up half of the cave. A pair of eyes sprouting green flames emerged from the center. 

“SOMBRA!” Cadence shouted. 

“So good to see you again, princess.” 

Shining took a step forward. “These are the two missing guards! What have you’ve done to them!?” 

“They are merely vessels for my army of shadows. They will be the first of many.” Sombra then looked at North Star. “But my greatest project is not yet complete. It still needs time to mature.” 

Cadence held North Star close to her and tightly. “You monster! Stay away from my son!” 

“Your son? Is that what he is to you?”  Sombra’s eyes shifted over to Cadence. “How odd it is to fall in love with the weapon of your destruction.” 

Princess Luna then came bursting into room. “Foul beast, you are not welcome here! Away to the shadows from which you came!” Luna then blasted Sombra with her magic. Sombra and the two shadow ponies vanished, and the crystal cave turned into the Everfree Forest section. 

Shining ran to Cadence and North Star, hugging them both. “Are you ok? Is North Star hurt?” 

Cadence looked North Star over. “He appears to fine. But what did Sombra mean by calling him the weapon of our destruction?” 

Luna chimed in. “I do not know. Though Sombra is back, he is still far from complete power. Still, I fear that his sights are set on more than just the Crystal Empire.” 

Shining and Cadence looked down at North Star. North Star looked back up at them and smiled. They both nuzzled him, a cold wind blowing past.
> Part 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shining and Cadence sat in the royal parlor room while North Star played with his toys on the floor. A few weeks had passed since the Nightmare Night incident, and things had remained quite. But something still bothered Cadence and Shining. 

“I received a letter from Twily today.” Shining said. 

Cadence looked up from the book that she was reading. “Oh? What about?” 

“She would like us to bring North Star to Ponyville, to run some test.” 

A worried look came over Cadence. “Shining, we’ve talked about this.” 

“It’s just a precaution. There have been two encounters with Sombra already, and you heard what he said about North Star.” 

“Our son is not a threat.” Cadence replied with a defensive tone in her voice. “Besides, I don’t like the idea of him being poked and prodded. He’s still just a foal.” 

Shining moved closer to Cadence. “I’m not saying he is. I love him with all my heart. All I want to do is prove once and for all that North Star is not dangerous, and Twily tests are the best way to prove that.” 

“But what about what Sombra said?” 

“Sombra is just playing mind games.” Shining put his foreleg around Cadence. “North Star is good boy. And none of Sombra’s sick games are going to change my mind.” 

North Star crawled over to his parents, a foul odor coming from his diaper. “Momma, I made poopy.” 

Cadence simply snickered. “We will never change our minds. But you can change his diaper.” 

Shining smiled and picked up North Star. “Come on bud, let’s get you cleaned up.”  

Later that day, Cadence took North Star to the foal gym. She met up with Daisy and the two talked while North Star and Summer played together. 

“So Cadence, what’s new with you?” Daisy asked. 

“Well, Shining wants to take North Star to Ponyville to visit Twilight. She wants to run some test to see if what Sombra said was true, but I don’t want my son to be experimented on.” 

“Do you think what Sombra said is true?” 

Cadence shook her head. “Of course I don’t. But the rest of the Crystal Empire, and the other princesses, won’t be convinced until Twilight performs her tests.” 

Daisy put her her hoof to her chin and thought for a moment. She then had a wonderful idea. “Why don’t Summer and I come with you to Ponyville? We can be there to support you and Shining,and North Star will have friend so he won’t be alone.” 

Cadence lit up with joy. “Daisy, that’s a brilliant idea!”  

“Thanks. Now if I could only find a way to get time off from work.” 

Cadence put her hoof on Daisy’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. I’ll tell your boss that you are needed for official royal business.”  

“You can do that?” 

“Well, being a princess does have it’s perks.” Cadence said with a wink. 

North Star and Summer had never been on a train before. The two foals looked out the window as the world whizzed by them. Summer was so excited that she happily flapped her wings. 

Shining, Cadence, and Daisy looked at the two with smiles. “Ah, to be young again. The whole world full of adventure and wonder.” Daisy said. 

Shining turned to Daisy. “So Daisy, have you ever been to Ponyville before?” 

Daisy shook her head. “No. In fact, this is my first time leaving the Crystal Empire ever.” 

“You’ll love Ponyville.” Cadence said. “The Ponies are very friendly, there are lots of great shops, and the town is very peaceful.” 

“Aside from the occasional monster attack.” Shining muttered. 

The train arrived at Ponyville station. The group got out, and were greeted by Twilight and Spike. 

Twilight hugged her brother. “Shining, I’m glad you came.” She then looked down at North Star. “And how is my little nephew?” 

North Star looked over at Spike. His face lit up with a smile. “Hewro!” 

Spike could not help but beam with pride. “Well, it looks like I have another fan.” 

“Oh yes, we’ve told North Star all about how you saved the Crystal Empire and the Equestria Games.” Cadence said. 

“Aw shucks, I was just doing my job.” Spike waved it off like it was nothing. He then felt a tugging on his tail, and looked down to see North Star sucking on it. 

Shining giggled. “He does that all the time. It just means he likes you.” 

“So are we going to be staying in a hotel?” Daisy asked. 

“Don’t be silly. You’ll all be staying in my castle. Trust me, it’s more than enough room.” Twilight led the way as everypony grabbed their bags. 

Upon arriving at the castle, Daisy looked around in amazement. “Wow, this whole castle is yours?” 

“Yep. It’s just me and Spike. He’ll show you to your rooms while I take North Star to my lab for the test.” 

Cadence walked up to Twilight. “Actually Twilight, I would like to be there while you perform these tests. I am North Star’s mother, and if I see something that I don’t approve of then this whole thing is over.” 

“I agree Twily.” Shining said. “I want to be there too.” 

Twilight nodded. “Of course. I understand.” Twilight looked towards Spike. “Spike, how about you take Daisy and Summer down to Sugarcube Corner to get something to eat?” 

“I’m on it!” Spike led Daisy out as she pushed Summer in her stroller. Twilight then escorted Shining and Cadence to her lab. North Star was placed in a high chair, and a monitoring device covered with wires and lights was put on his head. 

“This device will do a deep scan of North Star.” Twilight said. “It will be able to detect anything that I and and the other princesses could not find with our magic alone.” 

“Is it safe?” Cadence asked, a worried look on her face. 

“Of course it is. I would never do anything that would bring harm to my own nephew.” Twilight activated the device. North Star looked on with wonder at all the bright, flashing lights. 

After a few minutes, a long sheet of paper came of a printer. Twilight picked it up and looked at it. 

“Well, what does it say?” Shining asked. 

“Interesting. Apparently North Star’s cells have the ability to absorb and store magic.” 

“You mean like a sponge?” asked Cadence. 

“Exactly. But the cells are not fully developed. They probably won’t be able to absorb magic until North Star hits puberty.”  

“What does this have to do with Sombra?” Shining inquired. 

“I’m not sure. For now, we can only wait and see.” 

Spike returned with Daisy and Summer. “I hope you’re all hungry, because we brought cupcakes!” Daisy announced. 

North Star smiled and reached out for a cupcake. “Cupicake!” 

Cadence gave North Star a red velvet cupcake. “Here you go, for being such a good little colt for aunt Twilight.” North Star gobbled down the cupcake, getting frosting all over his face. 

Summer was the same way, getting chocolate frosting all over herself. Daisy could not help but snicker. “You two are just a couple of sloppy little piggies!” 

Cadence picked up North Star. “And piggies need a bath. Twilight, where is your bathroom?” 

“Down the hall and to the left. Follow me.” 

Shining and Cadence washed North Star in the bathtub alongside Daisy who washed Summer. While Summer was playing with the bubbles, North Star gave her a curious look. 

“Where peepee?” North Star asked as he pointed at Summer. 

Shining, Cadence, and Daisy sat there in silence. Shining began to rub the back of his head while Cadence and Daisy both tried to speak. 

Shining spoke first. “Well, you see bud, Summer is a filly. Fillies do not have peepees, only colts.” 

“That’s right.” Daisy said. “Colts have peepees, and fillies have, uh.” Daisy could not think of a proper word. 

Cadence spoke up. “A triangle! Fillies have a triangle!” 

“Why?” North Star asked. 

Shining rubbed North Star’s head. “You are way too young to learn about that.” 

Shining, Cadence, and Daisy dried off North Star and Summer. Twilight read them a bedtime story before they fell asleep in the same crib. 

Daisy and Cadence watched the two foals as they slept. “They are so cute together.” She said with a smile. 

“Yes, they’ve really grown attached to one another.” Cadence replied. “It’s like Summer can only see the good in North Star. I just wish the rest of the Crystal Empire felt the same.” 

Daisy turned to face Cadence. “Just give them time. They’ll eventually come around.” 

The next day, Cadence and Daisy took North Star and Summer for a day out around Ponyville while Shining and Twilight did some catching up. 

Shining walked in on Twilight as she was working in her lab. “Twily, can we talk for a moment?” 

Twilight looked up from her paperwork. “Sure, what is it?” 

“Twily, I understand that you want to run these test to find out more about North Star. But I don’t want you to jump to any conclusions.”  

Twilight approached her brother. “I’m only running these test because princess Celestia has ordered me to. I love North Star. I’m his aunt, he’s my family. But the reemergence of king Sombra has Celestia concerned.” 

Shining let out a sigh. “I just want my son to live a normal life. I don’t want him to be constantly watched because there are those who see him as an ill omen.” 

Twilight placed her hoof on Shining’s shoulder. “North Star will turn out just fine. You and Cadence are doing a wonderful job as parents. I know that you will raise him right, and he’ll grow up to be a great pony.” 

Shining smiled and hugged Twilight. “Thanks Twily.” 

“Hey, you are my BBBF after all.” Twilight said smiling back.
> Part 9
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Crystal Empire was decked out in Hearth's Warming decorations. Inside the castle, Shining Armor was getting everything ready for the big day. He had placed the final gift on top of the present pile, and was setting up the rest of decorations. 

Cadence walked into the room while holding North Star. “Wow Shining, you’ve really outdone yourself.” 

“What can I say? Hearth's Warming eve is my favorite time of year.” Shining then noticed what Cadence had done to North Star. “Um Honey, why is North Star dressed up like a present?” 

Cadence smiled and giggled. “Because he’s the greatest gift we have ever received.” Cadence nuzzled North Star, causing him to laugh. Cadence then placed him among the present pile and took a picture. 

“I have to admit Cadence, this is the most adorable sight I have ever seen.” Shining then walked over to the fireplace and put up plushies of himself, Cadence, and North Star. 

Cadence heard a knock at the door. She answered it and was greeted by a guard. “Miss Haze is here to see you.” The guard said. 

“Great, send her in.” The guard stepped aside and Daisy entered with Summer. “Cadence! Shining! Thank you so much for inviting us over!” 

“Oh, it was no trouble.” Cadence said waving her hoof. “After all, this time of year is about friends and family. And you have been very helpful in teaching Shining and me how to be parents.” 

Daisy placed Summer next to North Star. The two foals smiled and playfully hugged each other. Daisy also placed four gifts onto the present pile. 

“Daisy, you didn’t have to get us anything.” Shining said. 

“But I insist. You and Cadence have helped me and Summer so much.” 

North Star and Summer both grabbed presents and began shaking them. “Now now, you two will just have to wait.” Cadence said with a smile. 

Suddenly, there was another knock at the door. “Shining, are we expecting anypony else?” Cadence asked. 

“Just a few more.” Shining said happily. 

Cadence opened the door. She was greeted by Twilight, Spike, and Shining’s parents. “Happy Hearth’s Warming!” They all shouted. 

“Twily, Spike, mom, dad, you made it!” Shining rushed over and gave them all big hugs. Cadence hugged them as well. 

Shining introduced Daisy. “Mom, dad, this is Daisy Haze. She’s been helping me and Cadence with North Star.” 

Daisy shook their hooves. “It’s very nice to meet you.” Daisy then picked up Summer. “This is my daughter Summer. She and North Star are inseparable.” 

Twilight Velvet pinched Summer’s cheeks. “She is so sweet!” Summer giggled in return. 

Shining walked over, carrying North Star. “Here he is, your grandson!” 

Twilight Velvet and Night Light both took hold of North Star. 

“He is so precious!” Twilight Velvet said as she nuzzled North Star. 

North Star looked at them both and smiled. “Gwanny! Pop Pop!” 

Night Light could not help but smile. “Well I’ll be, I have a nickname!” 

Twilight, Twilight Velvet, and Night Light all placed plushies of themselves above the fireplace. Daisy did the same with plushies of her and Summer. 

Everypony then sat in the royal dining hall for dinner. Shining rang his glass to give a speech. 

“This Hearth’s Warming eve is very special for Cadence and I. For the longest time, the two of us have tried to have a foal of our own. But we never gave up hope. And then North Star entered our lives. When he came into this world, he was all alone. It’s as if we were destined to be a family. Even though there are ponies who are suspicious of North Star, Me and Cadence only see the good in him. North Star is a kind, sweet hearted little foal who has brought love and joy not only into our lives, but into the lives of our friends as well. And so, I dedicate this Hearth’s Warming eve to North Star.” 

Everypony raised their glass. North Star drank from his sippy cup while Summer knocked hers over and clapped.  

Everypony enjoyed the delicious meal, even if North Star and Summer got most of it on their faces. After dinner, Spike spoke to Twilight. “Twilight, can we still do our yearly tradition? Please?” 

“What tradition is that?” Shining asked. 

“Well, every year Spike and I open up our presents on Hearth's Warming eve instead of waiting until the morning.” Twilight replied. 

“That sounds like a wonderful idea!” Cadence said. “Why don’t we all do it tonight?” 

“I agree. But first, the Equestrian flag must be raised.” said Shining. “And by tradition, that honor goes to the youngest in the family.” 

Shining picked up North Star and took him over to the flag pole. Shining placed the rope in North Star’s little hooves. “Ok bud, give it a big pull.” North Star pulled with all his might, but he still got a little help from Cadence when she used her magic. North Star looked up at the raised flag with awe and wonder. 

“Um, can we open the presents now?” Spike asked. 

“Pwesents!” North Star cheered. 

Cadence could not help but snicker. “Yes, we may open presents now.” 

Twilight gave a present to North Star. He quickly tore away the wrapping to paper to find out that it was, surprise surprise, a book. 

“It’s a collection of Equestria’s fairy tales.” Twilight said proudly. “This was my favorite book as a filly, and I hope that you enjoy it just as much.” 

North Star put the book in his mouth. Everypony else then broke out laughing. 

After all the presents had been opened, North Star and Summer fell asleep atop their pile of toys. The everypony else all gathered by the fire and drank cider. 

Shining snuggled up to Cadence. “This has been the happiest Heart’s Warming eve of my life.” 

“Mine too.” Cadence and Shining then kissed. 
> Part 10
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shining and Cadence were both awoken in the early morning by the sound of crying coming from North Star’s room. Cadence yawned and kissed Shining awake. 

“Time to wake up dear.” 

“That kid sure is effective as an alarm clock.” Shining said with a laugh. 

Cadence entered North Star’s room and peeked into his crib. “Good morning my little bundle of joy. Is something wrong?” 

North Star reached up to Cadence. “I’m hwungry mommy.” 

“Then let’s get you some breakfast.” Cadence picked up North Star and carried him to the kitchen. She set him down in his high chair then brought him a bowl of applesauce. Cadence held the spoon up with her magic. “Here comes the Wonderbolt, flying into Cloudsdale.” She flew the spoon into North Star’s mouth and he gulped the down the food. 

Shining walked into the kitchen soon after. “Good morning bud.” He said as he rubbed North Star’s head. 

“Worning daddy!” North Star said in between mouthfuls of food. 

“So what’s on your agenda today?” Cadence asked. 

“I have a meeting with Celestia regarding new airships and armor for the royal guard. How about you?”

“I’m dedicating a new playground, as well as meeting with the mayor of Trottingham.” 

“Sounds like both of our days are full. What should we do with North Star?” Shining asked.  

Cadence thought for a moment. “Well, Daisy is busy with her job. I don’t want to bother her while she’s working.”



Shining then had an idea. “We can drop him off at the Foal Gym. Caregiver won’t mind looking after him all day. Plus, Summer will be there.” 

“That’s a great idea.” Cadence walked over to North Star. “Here that sweetie? You get to spend the whole day with your little friend.” 

“Yay!” North Star shouted as he raised his hooves in the air. A foul odor then filled Cadence and Shining’s nostrils. 

Cadence turned to Shining. “I fed him. You change him.” 

Shining knew better than to argue with Cadence. “I’m on it.” He lifted North star out of his high chair and took him to his room. He placed North Star on the changing table and opened the diaper. The look on Shining’s face was that of complete horror. 

“By Celestia’s mane! How can one little foal make THAT big of a mess?!” North Star simply giggled.  

Later that morning, Shining and Cadence dropped North Star off at the Foal Gym. Cadence gave him a goodbye kiss on the cheek. “Ok sweetie, behave for miss Caregiver.” Cadence handed North Star over to Caregiver.  

“Don’t worry, he’s in good hooves.” Caregiver said with a smile. Shining and Cadence waved goodbye. Caregiver took North Star over to Summer. “Summer, there’s somepony here to see you!” She set North Star next to her her. The two foals smiled and began playing make believe together. 

After a little while, Caregiver announced that it was nap time. All of the foals were placed on padded mats to sleep on. North Star was about snuggle up with his Mr. Smartypants doll when he Summer crawled over to his mat and wrapped her hooves around him. Caregiver was going to separate them, but seeing the two foals together was just too cute of a sight. 

One hour later, the foals woke up from their nap. North Star noticed that Summer had been clinging to him the whole time, and this made him smile. 

“Alright my little foals, snack time!” Caregiver announced. Sippy cups filled with juice and animal crackers were given out. 

North Star ate his snack. Before Summer could eat hers, a loud fart and foul odor came from her diaper. “Aw, did somepony make a stinky?” Caregiver said. She picked up Summer and took her over to the changing table. 

While Summer was being changed, a red Earth pony foal with a blue mane crawled over and began eating her snack. North Star did not like this. 

“Dat not yours!” he said angrily to the other foal, but the foal ignored him. 

“You meanie!” North Star cried out. The other foal looked at North Star and just shoved him over. 

North Star then lost it. He began screaming and smacking the foal. The foal smacked North Star back. Caregiver and Summer both heard the commotion and looked to see what was going on. Seeing that North Star needed her help, Summer flew off of the changing table and grabbed the bully foal. Summer then flew him over to the dirty diaper bin and dropped him in. 

Summer landed next to North Star and two of them began laughing. The bully foal emerged from the bin with a dirty diaper on his head and broke crying. 

“North Star! Summer!” Caregiver cried out. “Shame on you two! You should know better!” Caregiver placed both North Star and Summer in the time out pen. She then picked up the bully foal and washed him off.  

When Shining, Cadence, and Daisy arrived to pick up North Star and Summer, Caregiver informed them of what had happened. All three of them were in shock. 

“North Star! How could you do something like that?” Cadence said. “Your father and I are very disappointed in you. You will apologize this instant!” 

“But he’s a meanie!” North Star protested. 

Cadence then gave North Star a look that could cut through steel. North Star turned to the bully foal. “I’m sowrry.” 

“Summer, I want you to apologize as well.” Daisy said. 

“Sowrry.” 
“And you’re grounded for a month. That means no sweets or going to the playground. Understood?” said Shining. 

“Yes daddy.” 

Daisy looked at Summer. “The same punishment goes for you too.” 

Cadence picked up North Star and Daisy picked up Summer. As they were being carried out, North Star looked back to see the bully foal sticking his tongue out at him. North Star stuck his out back. 

	
> Part 11
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star stood out in the open. The little colt looked on in shock at the remains of the Crystal Empire. “What happened here?” North Star thought to himself. He took a step forward, only to feel something crunch under his hooves. North Star looked down in horror to see the ground completely covered with the charred bones of fallen ponies. 

North Star then heard a loud rumble. He looked up and saw dark clouds filling the sky. It began to rain. North Star felt a few drops hit his face, and after wiping them off he looked at his hoof to see that the drops were blood. 

A large pair of eyes sprouting green flames suddenly appeared before him. North Star then heard eerie voice call out to him. "Your destiny awaits."

North Star screamed and sat up in his bed. A cold sweat ran down his face. North Star held his Mr. Smartypants doll tightly as he called out for his parents. “Mommy! Daddy!”  

Shining and Cadence both came rushing into North Star’s room. “What’s wrong? Are you alright?” Cadence asked. 

North Star sniffed his nose. “I had a nightmare.” 

Shining sat on North Star’s bed. “It was just a bad dream bud. Bad dreams can’t hurt you.” 

“But it was so real.” 

Cadence gave North Star a gentle hug. “It’s ok, the dream is over now. We’re here and you’re safe and sound.” 

North Star felt better being in the warm embrace of his mother. “Can I have a glass of water?” 

“Of course.” Shining left and returned moments later with a glass of water. North Star drank it slowly, then made a satisfying sigh. “All better?” Shining asked. 

“Better.” North Star responded with a smile. 

“Ok. Now try and get some sleep.” Cadence kissed North Star on the cheek. 

“Good night bud.” Shining said as he smiled and hugged North Star. 

“Night mommy, night daddy.” North Star laid back down on his bed and fell asleep.  

Shining and Cadence returned to their room. As they got into bed, Cadence turned to Shining. “This is the third time this month that he has had a nightmare.” 

“I know, but what can we do?” Shining said. “I suppose we could contact Luna and have her investigate, but she already has so many nightly duties.” 

“North Star is her nephew. I’m sure Luna will understand.” 

Shining looked at Cadence. “We can’t shield him forever you know. He’s already four years old and in kindergarten.”

Cadence lowered her head. “I know. But he’s been through so much in his little life. And there are still ponies in the Crystal Empire that think North Star is evil.” 

Shining held Cadence’s hooves. “Honey, we both knew life wasn’t going to be easy for North Star from the start. Even I had my doubts. But we have stuck by him and we know that he is a good pony. We won’t be able to convince everypony, but what matters are the ones who already know how kind and loving North Star really is.” 

Cadence smiled and nuzzled Shining. “You’re right. We can’t worry about the future. All that matters is the here now.” 

The following day, North Star was dropped off at kindergarten. “Have a good day North Star!” Cadence said with a smile as she waved him goodbye. 

“Thanks mommy, I will!” North Star then noticed Summer Haze Flying down beside him. “Hi Summer!” 

Summer landed next to North Star. “Hey North Star! Wow, you look tired. Are you alright?” 

“I’ve just been having weird dreams.” North Star said with a sigh. 

“What about?” Summer asked. 

North Star thought for a moment. “I can’t really remember. All I know is that they make me feel scared.” 

Summer placed a hoof on his shoulder. “Well, you’re awake now. And that’s all that matters.” 

North Star smiled. Summer always knew the right thing to say. The two of them both hurried into the schoolhouse. North Star’s smile turned into a frown when he saw a certain colt sitting in the center of the room. 

“Hello Dork Star!” The colt said as he pointed and laughed. 

“Red Sea.” North Star gritted the bully’s name through his teeth. Red Sea had been harassing him and Summer since they were foals. Red Sea’s parents let him get away with it because every time somepony tried to tell on him, he would claim that he was the victim.

“Red, you’re a meanie!” Summer said right to Red Sea’s face. 

“At least I’m a normal pony. Unlike this freak you hang out with.” 

North Star felt himself filling up with rage. He wanted to charge at Red Sea, but Summer held him back. 

The teacher, Miss Buttercup, finally called the class to attention. “Alright children, gather around.” 

Red Sea walk away with a grin. “Don’t let him get to you North Star. He’s not worth it.” Summer whispered in North Star’s ear. 

North Star calmed down. Summer always had that effect on him. North Star and Summer sat next to each other as class began.   

“Ok everypony, today we’re going to focus on our ABC’s.” Miss Buttercup said. She put up a flip book and turned to the first letter. “This is the letter A. Can you say A?” 

“A!” The class responded. 

“Very good!” Miss Buttercup turned the page to the letter B. After going through all the letters, Miss Buttercup pulled out a record player and turned it on. 

“Alright class, now we’re going to sing a special song to help us remember the alphabet.” Miss Buttercup put a record on the record player, and began playing the alphabet song. 

Around the P section of the song, Red Sea reached over and pulled on North Star’s tail. North Star yelped out in pain, then tackled Red Sea. The two colts wrestled on the floor until Miss Buttercup broke them up. 

“North Star! Red Sea! You stop this right now!” Miss Buttercup gave the two a stern look. “Now why are you two fighting?” 

“North Star attacked me for no reason!” Red Sea faked crying. 

“That’s a lie! He pulled my tail!” North Star was steaming mad. 

“It doesn’t matter who started it, I will not tolerate fighting! The two of you are in time out for the rest of the day, and I will be telling your parents.” Miss Buttercup sent North Star and Red Sea to sit facing opposite corners of the room. 

After school, Miss Buttercup informed Cadence and Red Sea’s mom, Blue Sea, about the fight. 

“North Star, apologize.” Cadence didn’t even need to raise her voice. The look on her face was enough to inform North Star that he was in trouble. 

“I’m sorry.” 

Cadence and and Miss Buttercup expected Blue Sea to tell Red to apologize, but she did not. 

“Well, I certainly hope your son does not attack my Red for reason ever again.” 

“It wasn’t for no reason! He pulled my tail!” North Star shouted. 

Blue looked down at her son. “Is this true?” 

“It’s a lie! I was singing with everypony else when he attacked me!” Red said with a fake look of helplessness on his face. 

Cadence’s motherly instincts kicked in. “Are you calling my son a liar?”  

“Well I’m surprised.” Blue said. “That son of yours does have a history, what with those two missing guards and the Nightmare Night incident.” 

Cadence was struggling to hold back her anger. “You know, this isn’t the first time our kids have gotten in trouble with each other. I’m beginning to wonder if it’s your son who is the liar.” 

Blue’s eyes widened with shock. “How dare you accuse my sweet Red of being a liar! He would never start trouble, unlike your cursed foster child.” 

Cadence was the princess of love, and one of the sweetest ponies in all the land. But at that moment, for the first time in her entire life, she so wanted to smack the living daylights out of another pony. Cadence simply took a deep breath, grabbed North Star by the hoof, and began to walk home.” 

“Mom, what does foster mean?” North Star asked. 

“It’s not important Sweetie. I’ll tell you later.” 

That night, Luna arrived to visit Shining and Cadence to talk about North Star’s nightmares. 

“Thank you so much for coming.” Shining said. 

“I arrived as soon as I got your letter.” Luna sat and had a cup of tea. “I have been investigating these nightmares that North Star has been having, but I’ve come across a problem.” 

“What sort of problem?” Cadence asked. 

“Everytime I enter the dream realm, I can’t find North Star’s dreams. It’s almost as if he isn’t dreaming at all.” 

Shining and Cadence were in shock. “But, how is that even possible?” said Shining. 

Luna let out a sigh. “I do not know. I will continue to search the dream realm. In the meantime, be sure to report any more nightmares. I sense a darkness approaching.” 

Shining and Cadence saw Luna off. They then went into North Star’s room. He was fast asleep, clinging tightly to his Mr. Smartypants plush.
 
> Part 12
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star had been very busy. For days he had been working on his presentation, and it was finally ready. He ushered Shining and Cadence into the living room and began his pitch. North stood in front of an easel with poster boards on it. Written in crayon where the words WHY I NEED A PET. 

“Thank you for coming.” North Star began. “I have gathered you all here today to discuss why it is time that I finally had a pet of my own.”   

“Sweetie, we’ve talked about this.” Cadence said. 

“Now, now. Before you say no, let me show you some research I’ve done.” North Star pulled down the poster board to reveal another one with a pie chart. 

“As you can see, fillies and colts who have pets are more responsible than ones that don’t.” North Star said as he pointed to the chart. He pulled down the poster board to reveal a graph. “Also, pets provide joy and friendship. A pony with a pet is happier than a pony without a pet.” 

North Star revealed a final poster board with a drawing of himself, Shining, and Cadence all hugging a dog. “Finally, a pet can help keep a family together. Keeping us all happy and strong. And that is why I need a pet.” 

Shining and Cadence sat silently for a moment. “Well bud, that was a very impressive and thought out presentation. But I think your mom and I should discuss this for a minute.” Shining and Cadence walked to their room and closed the door for privacy. 

“Well, what do you think?” Shining asked. 

“North Star does make a lot of good points. But is responsible enough for a pet? This is a huge step for him, and I want to know that he’s ready for it.” Cadence said with a look of concern. 

“I think it will be good for him.” said Shining. “Having a pet might help him make more friends. North Star has only had Summer as a friend for most of his life. Having a pet may help him socialize and get out of his shell.” 

Cadence thought for a moment. “Alright then. Let’s go tell him.” Cadence opened the bedroom door to find North Star trying to listen in. Fortunately, Cadence and Shining had put up a sound proof spell. 

“North Star, your father and I have been talking, and we have decided that you are ready to have a pet.” 

North Star’s face lit up. He made a huge smile and hugged both Shining and Cadence. “Oh THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!” 

The next day the family traveled to Ponyville to visit Fluttershy’s cottage. Shining and Cadence both thought it would be better if North Star got his pet from a shelter than a pet store, and Fluttershy had the best animal shelter in all of Equestria. 

Shining and Cadence walked up to the front door of Fluttershy’s cottage. Cadence knocked and Fluttershy answered. 

“Shining Armor! Princess Cadence! What you brings you here?” Fluttershy said, a bit surprised. 

“Well” Cadence started, “We’re here because-” 

“I’m getting a pet!” North Star interrupted. 

“Really? That’s great news!” Fluttershy said with glee. “Follow me and I’ll show you all of the animals that are waiting to be adopted!” 

Fluttershy led Cadence, Shining, and North Star to the back of her cottage. “Go ahead and take your pick! I have animals big and small, furry and scaley, and young and old!” 

North Star looked around at all the animals. He didn’t want a typical pet like a cat or a dog, he wanted one that was special. After looking at practically every animal that Fluttershy had, North Star was about to give up when he spotted an animal sleeping all by itself. 

The animal was covered in black fur, except for it’s back which was covered in white/gray fur. It had a tail and snout. North Star had never seen anything like it before. “What kind of animal is this?” He asked. 

A worried look came over Fluttershy. “Um, that’s a Honey Badger. It’s a type of weasel. I’ve been having trouble finding him a home because he has a bit of an attitude problem.” 

“What kind of attitude problem?” Shining asked. 

Fluttershy’s voice became weaker than usual. “He’s kind of mean. He scares off all of the larger animals, such as the bears, and steals their food. Even Angel Bunny is afraid of him.” Sure enough, Angel Bunny was cowering behind Fluttershy, shaking with fear.  

Cadence had a bad feeling. But before she could tell North Star to stop, he was already petting the Honey Badger and waking it up. 

The Honey Badger opened one eye, and then the other. It looked up at the small colt that had just awoken him from a deep slumber. North Star smiled. “Hi!” 

The Honey Badger got up on all fours and walked over to North Star. Cadence’s motherly instincts kicked in. She was about to rush over and pull North Star away when suddenly, the unexpected happened. The Honey Badger began nuzzling North Star, and North Star hugged him in return. 

Shining, Cadence, and Fluttershy were all in shock. “I’ve never seen Honey Badger let anypony get near him, let alone hug him.” Fluttershy said in a state of shock. 

North Star turned and looked at Shining and Cadence. “I love him! Can we take him home? Please?” 

Shining and Cadence looked at one another. On the one hoof, they had promised North Star that he could have a pet. On the other hoof however, the one he had chosen was one of the most dangerous in the world.  

Shining and Cadence both looked into North Star’s eyes. They could tell that this animal made him happy, despite its reputation. “Ok North Star, you can keep him.” Cadence said. 

North Star’s eyes went wide. “THANKYOU THANKYOU THANKYOU! I promise to play with him, and feed him, and bathe him, and walk him everyday!” 

As North Star walked away with the Honey Badger, Fluttershy waved goodbye. Angel Bunny wiped his forehead and let out a sigh of relief. 

On the train ride home, North Star cuddled up with the Honey Badger. Cadence and Shining sat across from them. Shining still had a worried look on his face. “So bud, have you thought of name for your pet?” 

North Star rubbed his chin for a second. “I’m going to name him Butch!” 

Shining made a nervous smile. “Butch sounds like a great name.” “Oh Celestia, don’t let this thing chew my face off while I sleep.” Shining thought to himself. 

That night, Butch slept at the foot of North Star’s bed. Shining walked up to Cadence in their bedroom. 

“Honey, I’m not really comfortable with North Star having that Honey Badger as a pet. You heard what Fluttershy said, it’s way too dangerous.” 

Cadence looked lovingly at Shining. “I’ll admit, Butch is intimidating. But North Star loves him so much. And North Star was the only pony that Butch showed any affection towards. I dare say that the two of them were meant for each other.” 

“I don’t know.” Shining said with a worried face. 

Cadence nuzzled Shining. “Trust me, everything will be alright.” This put Shining at ease. Cadence always knew how to calm his nerves. 

North Star was so excited to have a pet that the next day he convinced Shining and Cadence to let him Butch off at school. 

“Alright class, settle down.” Miss Buttercup announced. “North Star would like you all to meet his new, um, pet.” North Star walked to the front of the class, with Butch walking alongside. 

“This is my pet, and his name is Butch.” North Star said proudly. “He is a Honey Badger, and one of the toughest animals in Equestria.” 

“He looks like a stupid skunk!” Red called out. 

“He is not stupid! Butch can scare off bears, and fight off swarms of bees!” 

“Yeah, right!” Red burst out laughing. 

An angry looked came over Butch. He walked over to Red, then peed all over him. 

“EWWW!” Red cried out. The rest of the class pointed at Red and burst into laughter. North Star and Summer secretly Bro-hoofed one another. Even Miss Buttercup covered her mouth so she could snicker. 

After school, Miss Buttercup informed Cadence of what happened. “Am I in trouble?” North Star asked. 

Cadence smiled and wrapped her wing around him. “Butch just needs to be house trained. Accidents do happen.”
> Part 13
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shining sat at the dining room table, calmly eating his breakfast. He felt a nudge at his leg and looked down to see Butch looking up at him. 

“Can I help you?” Shining asked, his voice a bit shaky. Butch began to paw at his leg. He wanted attention. Normally he would play with North Star, but it was Saturday and he was sleeping in. 

Shining tried to bribe Butch with some hay bacon. Butch just smacked it away. He only ate real meat. Feeling to afraid to run, Shining looked around and found a tennis ball that the family had just bought for Butch to play with. Shining picked up the ball and tossed it. “Fetch!” 

Butch went after the ball. As soon as he grabbed it with his mouth, he bit it right in half. Shining looked on in shock. “The owner of the pet store told us that ball was puncture proof.”  

To Shining’s relief, North Star eventually woke up. “Good morning!” Butch saw North Star and up to him, licking his face. North Star then began rubbing Butch’s belly. 

“Why he chose that thing as a pet, I’ll never know.” Shining thought to himself. 

Cadence entered the room after getting herself ready for the day. “Good morning everypony!” 

Shining got up and kissed her on the cheek. “Morning honey.” 

North Star ran over and hugged her leg. “Morning mom!” 

The three sat at the table and had breakfast together. “So North Star, are you excited about your play date with Summer?” Cadence asked. 

“You bet!” North Star said with excitement. “I can’t wait for her to play with me and Butch!” 

A little later, Daisy arrived with Summer. Summer went up to Butch and rubbed his cheeks. “He is such a cutie!” After North Star and Summer went off to play, Daisy approached Shining and Cadence. 

“Cadence, Shining, something has come up and I need your advice.” A bit of a worried look was upon Daisy’s face. 

Shining and Cadence were both surprised. “Usually it's us coming to you for advice. So what seems to be the trouble?” Shining asked. 

Daisy let out a sigh. “The Wonderbolts are coming to town tomorrow for a big show, and I want Summer to meet her father. But I don’t know how he will react.”   

Cadence placed her hoof on Daisy’s shoulder. “Daisy, I’m sure he would be excited to meet his daughter.” 

“But the thing is, he didn’t want to put his career on hold to raise a kid that he didn’t even plan on having, much less after a one night stand. It was my idea that he should continue on with his life, but I also want him to apart of Summer’s life.” 

Shining interjected. “And you’re worried that he’ll want nothing to do with Summer?”  

“Exactly. I just don’t know what to do.” Daisy sat on the couch, her head hung low with sadness and worry. 

“Daisy, I’m sure that Summer’s father will be elated to meet her. You don’t have to pressure him into doing anything, just let him know that there is a beautiful little filly that wants to meet her dad.” Cadence said with a reassuring voice. “By the way, what is this stallion’s name?” 

“Jetstream. His name is Jetstream.” 

Shining’s eyes went as big as dinner plates. “Jetstream! As in the fastest rising member ever in the history of the Wonderbolts Jetstream?!” 

“The one and only.” Daisy said.  

Meanwhile, North Star and Summer were in North Star’s room playing. “Let’s play knights! I can be the brave knight who rescues you from the fierce dragon!” North Star said. 

Summer rolled her eyes. “I am not going to be some damsel in distress. Let’s team up to defeat the evil wizard and his dragon!” 

North Star set up Mr. Smartypants as the evil wizard, with Butch by his side as the dragon. “Prepare to be vanquished dark one!” North Star said as he raised his toy sword in the air. 

“I’ll cover you!” Summer threw balled up pieces of paper at Butch, which she pretended were arrows. Butch mostly ignored this and fell asleep. 

North Star navigated the labyrinth of toy blocks. After reaching the dark wizard, he held his sword at the wizard’s throat. “Do you surrender?” Mr. Smartypants fell over. “Victory!” North Star shouted as he raised his sword in the air.  

“What mission should we go on next?” Summer asked. 

“We shall acquire the treasure of cookies from the kitchen fortress!” North Star then got on Butch’s back. “Away my mighty steed!” Butch looked up at North Star, then crawled out from under him. “Looks like we’re going to have to hoof it.” North Star said embarrassingly. 

North Star and Summer crept quietly towards the kitchen, being careful not to alert their parents who were busy talking. They rounded a corner and saw into the kitchen. That’s when they spotted their treasure, sitting atop the counter and glowing like the sun, the legendary cookie jar. 

“What kind are in there?” Summer asked. 

“My mom’s specialty. Chocolate chunk. She makes extra soft and chewy.” North Star began drooling just thinking about those cookies. The two snuck into the kitchen and stood under the counter. 

“Alright Summer, just fly up and grab the jar.” 

“Can’t you just use your magic?” 

North Star lowered his head in embarrassment. “I don’t know how to use magic yet.” 

Summer gave him  sympathetic smile. “Don’t worry, I’ll fly up and get those cookies.” Summer flapped her wings and flew up to the counter. She opened the lid of the jar and saw the cookies. They were even more tastier looking than North Star had described. 

Just as Summer picked up the Jar, she and North Star heard Cadence call out for them. “North Star, Summer, are you two in the kitchen?” Summer was so startled that she dropped the cookie jar, which landed on North Star’s head and became stuck.  

“What’s going on in here?” Cadence walked into the kitchen and could not believe the sight in front of her. Summer was sitting on the counter while North Star ran around wildly with a cookie jar stuck on his head. 

Cadence tried to get a word out, but she just couldn’t. Instead she burst out laughing.  

“What’s going on in here?” Shining asked as he walked into the kitchen. He paused, speechless at the sight before him. Shining used his magic to get the cookie jar off of North Star’s head. 

North Star sat on the floor, dizzy from around in circles. He looked over at Shining and Cadence. “Am I in trouble?” 

Cadence finally stopped laughing. “You’re not in trouble. I’d say what just happened was punishment enough. But please, clean up this mess.” 

Summer flew down and helped North Star to clean up all of the broken cookies on the floor. North Star was disappointed when he threw them away. He never even got to taste one. Summer tapped him on the shoulder. North Star looked over to see that Summer had snatched two cookies and gave him one. 

North Star bit into the cookie and smiled. He chewed it slowly, savoring every second of the sweet delight. 

Cadence and Shining went back into the living room with Daisy. “What was all that commotion?” Daisy asked. 

“Oh, just North Star and Summer being silly.” Cadence said. “Anyway, would you like it if Shining and I came with you tomorrow for support?” 

Daisy nodded her head and smiled. “Yes. I would appreciate that very much.” 

North Star and Summer came running into the room. “Hey mom, can Summer sleepover tonight?” 

“Only if it’s ok with Daisy.” Cadence turned to Daisy. 

Daisy smiled. “I don’t see why not.” 

“Yay!” North Star and Summer shouted in unison. Daisy arranged to bring over Summer’s things later in the day. 

That night, North Star and Summer slept on the floor of North Star’s bedroom. Summer slept in her Wonderbolts sleeping bag, while North Star slept in his Power Ponies sleeping bag with Butch curled up at his hind hooves. 

North Star looked over at Summer. “Hey, are you still awake?” 

“Yeah.” Summer replied. 

“Summer, how come I never see you with your dad?” 

Summer turned to face North Star. “Well, my mom says he’s very busy. She says he’s one of the Wonderbolts.” 

North Star nearly jumped out of his sleeping bag with excitement. “Your dad is a member of the Wonderbolts! That’s so cool!” 

Summer let out a sigh. “Yeah, but I’ve never even met him. My mom has only shown me pictures of him.” 

“The Wonderbolts are having a show tomorrow. My parents have had tickets for weeks. Maybe you can come with us and meet him.” 

Summer smiled. “That sounds terrific! I can’t wait to see what he’s like.” 

The next morning, Summer was overjoyed when Daisy told her that they were going to the Wonderbolts show with Shining and Cadence. They all arrived at the stadium and watched the show from special box seats. When the the show was over, it was announced that the Wonderbolts would be signing autographs. 

Daisy asked Cadence if she could arrange it so that she and Summer were at the front of the line. Cadence easily made that happen. 

Daisy and Summer both stood at the front of the line as a spokespony came out to introduce Jetstream. “Fillies and gentlecolts, the high flying sensation of the Wonderbolts, Jetstream!” Jetstream emerged and made his way to the autograph table. His hair was orange, as was his mane and tail. His cutie mark was a pair of golden wings, with streams of frost coming from the tips. 

Daisy and Summer walked up to the autograph table. Jetstream looked down at Summer and smiled. “Hello there little filly. What’s your name?” 

“My name is Summer!” Summer said excitedly. 

Jetstream signed the autograph. “Summer, that’s a pretty name. What’s your last name?”  

“Haze.” 

Jetstream tapped his chin. “Haze. Now why does that name sound familiar?” 

Daisy then stepped forward. “Hello Jetstream.” 

Jetstream looked at Daisy, and his eyes became as wide as dinner plates. “Oh boy.”

> Part 14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Summer jumped up and hugged Jetstream by the neck. “Daddy!” 

Jetstream looked over at the announcer. “Can I have a few minutes, please?” Daisy pulled Summer off of Jetstream, and the three of them went to a back room to talk while the announcer told the crowd that Jetstream was taking a quick break. 

Jetstream closed the door then turned to faced Daisy. He let a slight breath. “It’s been quite a while Daisy. How have you’ve been?”  

Daisy shuffled her hooves. “I have been well. I’m sorry if I caused a scene out there. I only wanted you to meet our daughter.” 

Jetstream looked down at Summer. She smiled and hugged his front leg. “I’m so happy to finally meet you daddy!” 

Jetstream looked at Summer. He didn’t have to ask if she was really his. Summer had his eyes. 

“Daddy, when are you coming home?” Summer asked. 

Jetstream could feel a lump in his throat. A cold sweat began to build up on his forehead. Jetstream gently released Summer from his leg. He looked up at Daisy. 

“There is something that I need to tell the two of you that is very important.” 

Daisy walked over and stood by Summer. “What is it?” 

Jetstream took a deep breath. “I’m engaged to be married.” 

The room became so quiet a pin drop could be heard. Daisy could not believe her ears. “Y-you’re engaged?” 

Jetstream nodded his head. “The wedding is next month.” 

“Does she know about me and Summer?”  

“No, she does not.” 

Tears started to build up in Summer’s eyes. “You don’t love me and mommy?” 

“That’s not true. It’s just that-” 

Jetstream was cut off by Summer bursting into tears. Daisy wrapped a wing around her daughter. She glared at Jetstream. “And what about us? Why do you think you can just move on and start a new Family?” 

Jetstream’s face became bright red with anger. He slammed down his hoof. “Because you gave me an out! I wasn’t ready to be a father, and you said it was ok for me to continue on with my career. And don’t you dare deny it!” 

Daisy knew that Jetstream was right. At the time they were both young, and she didn’t want to feel guilty about having Jetstream give up on his promising career because of her. Daisy lowered her ears. “I’m sorry. It’s just, I don’t know.” 

“No, I’m sorry.” Jetstream said with a much calmer tone. “I shouldn’t have lost my temper like that. But I love my fiance and I want to spend the rest of my life with her.” 

“But what about me daddy?” Summer said as she poked her head out from under Daisy’s wing. 

Jetstream smiled. He walked over and nuzzled the top of her head. “Of course I love you, you’re my daughter. And nothing will ever change that.” 

“So who are you getting married too?” Daisy asked. 

“Her name is Halestorm. She’s an instructor at the Wonderbolts academy.” Jetstream turned his head away. “I didn’t tell her about you because I figured you’d moved on with your life years ago.” 

“I tried Jetstream, but caring for Summer has taken up all of my time.” Daisy held her daughter close. “So what do we do now?” 

Jetstream looked at both Daisy and Summer. “I don’t know. This is all very complicated.”  

“Can Summer spend the rest of the day with you at least?” 

Jetstream smiled. “Of course.” He knelt down and looked at Summer. “How would you like to spend the day with daddy?” 

“Yay!” Summer shouted with joy. Jetstream then walked out of the room with Summer, who joined him at the autograph table. Afterwards the two went out for ice cream, and they even played at the local playground. 

At the end of the day Jetstream returned Summer to Daisy. “So how was your day with daddy?” 

Summer beamed with excitement. “It was great! We got ice cream, played games at the playground, and daddy even let me sit with him at the autograph table!” 

Daisy smiled. “Well, it sounds like you two had a big day.” Daisy then looked at Jetstream. “So, where do we go from here?” 

“There are a lot of things that I need to sort out.” Jetstream said. “Informing Halestorm about Summer will be hard, but she is a kind and understanding mare. And hopefully I can find time in my schedule to come back to the Crystal Empire every now and then.” 

“That sounds alright to me. I’m just glad that you’re becoming a part of Summer’s life.” Daisy hugged Jetstream goodbye, and Jetstream did the same with Summer, adding a kiss on the forehead. 

Daisy and Summer found Shining, Cadence, and North Star hanging out with the other Wonderbolts. “So, how did things go with Jetstream?” Cadence asked. 

“I think everything is going to be alright.” Daisy said with confidence. 

That night at the palace, Cadence was in the bathroom. She hadn’t been feeling good, but she thought it just a smile stomach virus. Still, she was curious. Cadence had one of the guards go out and buy a pregnancy test. After ten minutes, Cadence let out a loud scream. 

Shining ran up and knocked on the door. “Cadence, what’s wrong?” Cadence opened the door, tears in her eyes and a big smile on her face. She gave Shining the pregnancy test, which read positive. 
> Part 15
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star sat in a chair watching Shining pace back and forth. They were in the waiting room of the Crystal Empire maternity wing. Cadence had gone into labor a few hours earlier. While waiting, North Star thought back to the moment he first heard the news that he would be a brother, and everything else that unfolded. 

It was nine months earlier. North Star was playing tug of war with Butch, who was winning and dragging North Star across the floor. Shining and Cadence both approached North Star with smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes. 

North Star looked at them, feeling a bit worried. “Mommy, daddy what’s wrong?” 

“Nothing is wrong bud.” Shining said with joy in his voice. “Your mom and I have big news.”  

“I’m pregnant!” Cadence said with glee. 

North Star was confused. “What does pregnant mean?” 

“Well honey, it means that in a few months you’re going to have a baby brother or sister.” Cadence said. 

North Star didn’t know how to feel. On the one hoof, it would be fun to have little brother or sister to play with. But on the other hoof, he had always been a single child. Would his parents still love him once the baby came, or would he be replaced?  

“Will you still love me?” 

Cadence walked over and gave North Star a big hug. “We will always love you! You are our special little colt, and nothing will ever change that.” North Star hugged Cadence back, but he he still had a bad feeling deep inside. 

Over the next several days, Cadence’s pregnancy became more apparent. Every morning she would rush to the bathroom and throw up. This made North Star worried. 

“Daddy, is mommy sick?” 

Shining smiled and rubbed North Star’s head. “Don’t worry Bud. What’s happening with mommy is perfectly natural for a pregnancy.”  

The whole pregnancy thing seemed weird to North Star. During recess at school he told Summer about it. She was actually kind of thrilled. 

“Your mom is pregnant? That is so cool! Is the foal a colt or a filly?” 

“We don’t know yet. My parents are going to going to visit my aunt Twilight tomorrow to tell her the news.” 

“Well. I can’t say I’m not jealous. I’ve always dreamed of having a brother or sister. Somepony to play with at home, to share secrets with, to celebrate special events with.” 

“But you already do that stuff with me.” North Star pointed out. 

“But a sibling is different.” Summer said. “They’re family, so the relationship is extra special.” 

“So, you don’t think our friendship is special?” 

Summer giggled. “That’s not what I meant. You’re special to me as friend. But there is also a family relationship. Like between a foal and parents.” 

North Star was beginning to understand. It was important to have loved ones as part of your family as much as it was to have them as friends.  

“So, I guess I’ll be staying with you and your mom while my parents are out of town.” 

“Umm, about that.” Summer rubbed her front hooves together. “I’m going to visit my daddy in Cloudsdale.” 

North Star was obviously disappointed. “Oh. Well, I hope you have a great time.” The bell rang and everypony went back to class. 

Right before Shining and Cadence left, North Star was expecting them to tell him that Caretaker would be foalsitting him. However, she was out sick. This left only one option. 

“Are you ready for a fun weekend North Star?” Flash Sentry asked. 

North Star rolled his eyes. “You bet I am.” He said sarcastically. 

Shining and Cadence gave Flash Sentry a list of what to do, then hugged and kissed North Star goodbye. North Star sat and stared at Flash. 

Flash looked over the list he was given. “Ok North Star, it says here that dinner is first. What would you like?” 

“Can we have pizza?” North Star asked. 

“Well, alright. What topping would you like?” 

“Black olives!” 

Flash placed the order. When the pizza came he placed it on the table. North Star took his seat, and Butch sat next to him. 

“I’m sorry North Star, but pets are not allowed at the table.” 

North Star just shrugged his shoulders. “Ok, but good luck getting him to move.” 

“How hard can it be?” Flash walked over to Butch. “Alright, down you go.” Flash tried to grab Butch, but the honey badger snarled and bit Flash’s tail.  

“Ah! Get him off!” Flash ran around the room, Butch still hanging on to his tail. Butch then used his strength to bring Flash to a complete stop, and proceeded to drag him into the living room. 

“No, please show mercy!” A loud commotion could be heard coming from the living room. North Star just sat quietly and ate his pizza. When he was finished, North Star walked into the living room where Butch had buried Flash under a pile of pillows to save him for later. 

North Star dug up Flash, whose armor had been torn to shreds. “Yeah, Butch only likes it when I touch him.” 

“You don’t say?” Flash said before collapsing, visions of birds flying around his head. 

Once Flash had recovered, he looked over the list again. “Ok, now it’s your bath time.” 

North Star Frowned. “But I’m not even dirty!” 

“I’m sorry, but your parents left me with a list of instructions and it says that you need a bath.” Flash then scooped up North Star with one of his front legs and carried him to the bathroom. North Star tried to wiggle himself free, but Flash’s grip was just too strong. Flash dumped North Star into the bathtub with a splash and began scrubbing him down. 

North Star just sat in the tub, his front legs crossed and a grumpy look on his face. 

“Come on North Star, a bath isn’t that bad.”  

“I just don’t like being wet.” 

“But you’ve been having baths since you were a foal.” 

“Well, lately they feel different. The water feels like it’s trying to hurt me.” 

A concerned look came over Flash’s face. “Are you saying that water feels painful to you?” 

“Yeah, a little bit.” 

Flash took North Star out of the tub and dried him off. He decided to tell Shining and Cadence about the water problem when they got back. 

Bedtime came around, and Flash tucked in North Star. North Star didn’t put up a fuss as he was too tired. North Star let out a big yawn and fell asleep. Shining and Cadence returned later that night. 

“So how was your trip?” Flash asked. 

“Let’s just say that Twilight is very excited about becoming an aunt again.” Cadence said. 

“And she even made up a replica of my old room! It had all my old comics, action figures, posters-” Shining Armor would have continued, but Cadence cut him off to find out how everything with North Star went. 

“Things went great. Aside from Butch using me as a chew toy.” 

Shining could not help but chuckle a little bit. 

“Also, North Star brought up something strange. As I was giving him his bath, he said that water feels a little painful to him.” 

Shining and Cadence looked at Flash with shock. “Is he alright?” Cadence asked in a worried voice. 

“Yes he’s fine. I put him to bed a few hours ago.” 

Shining and Cadence both thanked Flash and sent him home. Cadence turned to face Shining. “How is water hurting North Star?” 

Shining thought for a moment. A frown came over his face. “Well, from what I’ve learned from Twilight, Celestia and Luna, darkness can turned away by the elements of nature. Earth, Water, Air, Fire, they are all that can do harm to the power of darkness.” 

Cadence shook her head. “No. North Star does not have any darkness in him. I refuse to believe that our son has the power of darkness.” 

“Honey, I don’t like it either. But he does have Sombra’s horn. Maybe-” 

“Shut up!” Cadence shouted. “There must be a mistake. Our son is not evil!” 

“Mommy?” Shining and Cadence both looked over to see North Star standing in the hallway. He was holding his Mr. Smartypants doll and rubbing his eye. “Mommy, are you and daddy fighting?” 

Cadence walked over and nuzzled North Star. “No, we’re just tired from our trip. There is nothing to worry about. Now let’s get you back to bed.” Cadence took North Star back to his room and tucked him in. She then kissed him goodnight. 

“Goodnight Mommy.” 

“Good night, my bright shining star.” Cadence closed the door and walked past Shining, an angry look on her face. “We’ll finish this tomorrow.” 

Shining took a deep breath. “It’s her hormones. Only 8 more months to go.” He thought to himself.






> Part 16
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The weeks went by, and Cadence’s belly became bigger and bigger. Shining would joke that Cadence looked like she ate a whole pumpkin, which would earn him a nasty look from his wife. Cadence’s cravings became odd, such as eating onion and jelly sandwiches.  

One day North Star could not help but ask “Mom, why are you eating so much?” 

Cadence giggled at her son’s curiosity. “That’s because I have to eat for myself and your brother or sister.” Cadence then felt the foal kick inside her, which made her jump. 

“Mom, what’s wrong?” 

“Nothing sweetheart. Your sibling is just kicking. Would like to feel?” 

North Star got up on the couch and felt his mother’s tummy. He then felt a kick that caught him by surprise and made him jump back. 

“It looks like your sibling is very eager to meet you.” Cadence said with a smile. 


“It doesn’t feel like it.” North Star frowned. “Mom, I’m still your favourite, right?”

Cadence was caught by surprise. She held North Star close and stroked his mane. “Sweetie, you are my son, and I will always love you. But I will also have the same amount of love for your brother or sister. The two of you will be equal in my eyes. And besides, you’re going to need to be there for your sibling and vice versa. The two of you are family, and family always look out for one another.” 

Cadence’s words brought a smile to North Star’s face. She always knew what to say to make him feel better.  

The next when North Star came home from school, he was filled excitement. “Dad, dad! Guess what!” 

Shining looked up from some royal report papers he was reading. “What is it bud?”  

“Tomorrow is parents day! You and mom get to come and talk to the whole class!”  

“I don’t know. I’m very busy, and with the condition your mother is in I don’t think she can make it either.”


North Star’s lower lip quivered, and his eyes went wide. “Please?” 

Shining knew that face. North Star used it whenever he needed something, and Shining could never say no. “Alright, I’ll speak with your mother.” 

North Star ran up to Shining and hugged his leg. “Thanks dad!”  

Shining walked into the nursery where Cadence was putting up the final touches. “Honey, we need to talk.” 

Cadence hung a mobile over the crib and turned to face Shining. “Sure, what is it?” 

“North Star just informed me tomorrow is parents day at his school, and he wants us to come.” 

“That sounds wonderful! I would to speak in front of North Star’s class!” Cadence said with glee. 

“But what about your condition? And my busy schedule?” 

Cadence walked over and placed a hoof on Shining’s shoulder. “Shining, you’re being too overprotective. I’ll be fine. And you can make room in schedule, I’m sure the the rest of the royal guard will understand. Besides, we need to do this for our son. Ever since I became pregnant we really haven’t made enough time for him. I bet he could really use this.”

Shining smiled. “You’re right, as always. I just hope we don’t outshine the other parents.” 

Cadence rolled her eyes. “We’re only the rulers of the Crystal Empire. I doubt that we are that important.” She said sarcastically. 

Shining and Cadence went and found North Star wrestling with Butch in living room. “North Star, we have good news.” Cadence said. “We can both make it to parents day tomorrow.” 

North Star released Butch from a headlock and jumped with joy. He ran up and hugged both of his parents. “Tomorrow will be the best day ever!” 

The next day, Shining and Cadence went with North Star to school. All the fillies and colts had brought their parents for parents day. Summer Haze even arrived with her father Jetstream. 

Shining and Cadence met with Jetstream. “So you’re Summer’s father. We have heard a lot about you and your career.” Cadence said. 

Jetstream could not help but kneel. “Thank you your highness.” 

“Please, call us Cadence and Shining.” Cadence said. 

“Sure thing. My daughter speaks very highly of your son.” 

“Yeah, the two of them have been friends since they were foals.” Said Shining. “They’re practically inseparable.” 

“Yes, they are cute together.” Jetstream looked over at North Star and Summer playing together. He then turned back to Shining and Cadence. “I don’t mean to seem rude for asking, but I notice that North Star does not look the two of you. Why is that?” 

Worried looks came across the faces of Shining and Cadence. They were about to answer, but the bell rang signaling the start of class. The adults and children all filed into the school.  

Parents day started off without a hitch. Each filly and colt took turns going to the front of the class with their parents, introducing them, and explaining what they did. There were bakers, police ponies, fire ponies, plumbers, electricians, and doctors. Summer Haze introduced her father Jetstream, a member of the Wonderbolts. North Star’s turn was last. 

North Star, Shining, and Cadence all made their way to the front of the class. “My name is North Star, and these are my parents Shining Armour and Princess Cadence. My dad is the head of the royal guard, and my mom is the princess of love. They are also the leaders of the Crystal Empire. When I grow up, I want to be just like them and lead the Crystal Empire from the crystal throne!” North Star said proudly. 

It was then time for questions. The fillies and colts in North Star’s class asked the usual questions, like how did they meet, how was the Crystal Empire saved, when was cadence’s foal due, and so on. But then the teacher called on North Star’s longtime nemesis Read Sea, who asked a couple of questions that would change North Star’s life forever. 

“I have a question. How come North Star doesn’t look like the two of you?” Red Sea asked. 

Shining and Cadence’s eyes went wide. Shining tried to answer first. “Well, uh, you see North Star is a very special pony. He’s different.” 

Red Sea asked another question. “My dad says that North Star bares the horn of King Sombra, who imprisoned the Crystal Empire. Are you related to Sombra?” 

“No, we are not related to Sombra.” Cadence said firmly. 

“Then why does he have the horn?” another pony asked. 

Cadence swallowed hard. She looked down at North Star, who had a worried look on his face. “What’s wrong mom?” He asked. 

Cadence let out a deep sigh. She knew this day would come, and she couldn’t hide the truth from North Star or the citizens of the Crystal Empire forever. 

“North Star is...adopted. He is not our natural child.” Those words were the most painful thing Cadence had ever said in her life. 

Murmurs broke out amongst the other ponies in the classroom. North Star stood there in shock, tears welling up in his eyes. He then took off running out of the school. 

“North Star wait!” Shining called out. He and Cadence instantly gave chase. North Star kept running, ignoring the pleas for him to stop. North Star all the way back to the palace, where he entered his room and slammed the door shut.  

Both Shining and Cadence soon arrived back at the palace. They knocked on the door to North Star’s room. “North Star, please open the door. We need to talk with.” Cadence pleaded. North Star gave no answer. 

“Please bud? We’re sorry that we never told you the truth. We were just waiting until you were older.” Shining said. North Star Still did not answer. 

Butch walked up and clawed at the door. North Star unlocked it and opened it a tiny bit to let in Butch in. He then shut the door and locked it again.  

Shining and Cadence waited outside of North Star’s room for hours. No matter how much they pleaded, he still would not unlock the door. Cadence then had an idea. She started singing North Star’s favorite lullaby, the one she always sang to him when he was sad. 

 



After a moment of silence, the door opened. North Star sat on his bed, petting Butch. 

Shining and Cadence entered his room. “Are you alright Bud?” Shining asked. 

North Star lowered his head. “Is it true?” 

Shining and Cadence looked at each other. They did not know how to properly address the question. 

“Is it true? Am I adopted?” 

Cadence stepped forward. “It’s true North Star.” 

North Star looked up at her. Tears were streaming down his face. “Why did you never tell before?” 

Cadence embraced North Star in a hug. “We were planning on telling you sweetie, but we wanted to wait until you were older and more mature.” 

“Then where did I come from?” North Star asked. 

“You found us.” Cadence replied. “Your father and I wanted a foal of our own for so long. Then one night our wish was granted and you came into our lives. You are truly a blessing.” 

“One of the ponies at school said I looked like Sombra. Who’s that?” 

Shining rubbed the back of his head. “He’s no one. A pony you should not concern yourself with. All that matters is that we’re your parents, and we love more than anything.”  

North Star didn’t know how to feel. His entire life had been turned upside down. His parents were not his real parents. And who was this Sombra? Was he the reason that he was treated like an outcast by so many ponies? 

“I...I would like to be alone for a bit.” 

“We understand.” Cadence kissed North Star on the cheek. “We love you North Star, always remember that.” Cadence and Shining then left the room. 

North Star tucked himself into bed. Butch curled up at his hind hooves. North Star held onto his Mr. Smarty Pants doll tightly as he fell into a deep slumber. 

North Star dreamed that a pair of eyes with green flames stared at him. North Star then heard a voice. “Hello North Star.” 

North Star was intimidated by the voice, yet it seemed familiar. “How do you know my name?” 

“I know everything about you. I have been with you since day one. My voice was the first lullaby that you ever heard.” 

North Star became more curious. “Who are you?” 

“You will find out, in time. Just know that I will be there for you, even when your parents no longer care.” 

“You’re wrong! My parents love me!” 

“Do they now?” 

North Star woke up in cold sweat. His heart was beating a mile a minute. Suddenly, there was a knock at his door. “Yes?” 

Shining opened the door and came into the room. “Hey bud, I hate to wake you but we need to go the hospital.” 

“What, why?” North Star asked with a confused look. 

“Your mom just went into labor. Your sibling is about to be born!”



> Part 17
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star came out of his daze. He was still in the waiting room at the hospital, and Shining was still pacing back and forth anxiously. Dr. Heartbeat soon came into the room. “Congratulations Shining Armor, it’s a healthy filly.” 

Shining was overcome with joy. “Can I see her now?” 

“Yes, of course.” Dr. Heartbeat replied. “Come right this way.” 

Shining looked down at North Star. “Follow me bud.” North Star followed Shining and Dr. Heartbeat down the hallway to Cadence’s room. North Star still had mixed emotions. Was he truly Shining and Cadence’s son? Would they love this newborn filly more than him? 

Dr. Heartbeat led Shining and North Star into Cadence’s room. She was propped up on a bed, the newborn foal wrapped up in a blanket in her forelegs. 

Shining smiled and kissed Cadence on the cheek. “I’m proud of you honey” He said. 

Cadence looked over at North Star. “Sweetie, come meet your sister.” Shining picked up North Star and set him on the bed so that he could get a closer look. The filly yawned and opened her big, bright eyes. 

“She’s beautiful.” Said Shining. 

“That’s not all.” Cadence pulled back the blanket to reveal that the foal had both a horn and a big set of wings. 

“By Celestia, she’s an Alicorn!” Shining nearly shouted. 

“North Star, what do you think of your new sister?” Cadence asked. 

North Star looked at the filly. For a few moments he was silent, and then he spoke. “She looks weird.” 

Both Shining and Cadence could not help but chuckle. “And what makes you say that?” Cadence asked. 

“She has big bug eyes and big wings.” 

Shining put a hoof around North Star. “That just makes her unique, like you.” 

The newborn foal then grabbed North Star’s hoof and began sucking on it. 

Cadence smiled at the adorable sight. “Aw, she likes you already.” 

North Star did not like his hoof being used as a pacifier and pulled it out. As soon as he did, the foal’s eyes teared up and and she let out scream so loud that everypony in the that wing of the hospital had to cover their ears. North Star quickly put his hoof back in the filly’s mouth, and she calmed down. Everypony else was in a commotion over what had just happened, and all of the other newborn foals were crying from the noise.  

“Whoa, she’s got some set of lungs on her.”  Shining said, his ears still ringing. 

North Star just sighed and hung his head. He had a feeling that he and his new sister were not going to get along very well. 

North Star returned to school the next day. It had been a few days since the incident, but fortunately he was given time to catch up with his work. North Star met up Summer Haze at recess, and she had a surprise for him. 

“You got your cutie mark!?” 

“That’s right!” Summer said happily. “Check it out.” She turned and showed North Star her flank, which bore the image of a rising sun. 

“Wow, congratulations.” North Star continued to admire the cutie mark. “How did you get it?” 

“Yesterday I was with my mom shopping at the market. Another pony walked by and dropped his bit pouch without noticing. I grabbed it and returned to him. He offered me a few bits as a reward, but I politely declined. Suddenly there was flash of light and there it was.”  

North Star and Summer’s conversation was interrupted by a familiar voice. “Well well, if it isn’t the orphan!” The two turned around to see their longtime bully, Red Sea.  

“What do you want?” North Star asked with an angry look. 

“Oh, I was just thinking. During parents day, you said you wanted to lead the Crystal Empire when you grew up right?” 

“Yeah, so?” 

“Well, now that your sister has been born and your parents have a real child, that means you don’t get throne.” Red Sea said smugly. 

“That’s not true! Take it back!.” 

“But it is. You’re not the natural child of Shining and Cadence, you’re adopted. Your sister is their natural child and an Alicorn to boot. Face it, she will get the throne and you will not. You’re just a pathetic, hopeless orphan.” 

North Star felt a rage build up inside of him that he had never felt before. He stared at Red Sea, green flames coming from his eyes. Suddenly, a beam of dark magic shot out from his horn. It stuck Red Sea, lighting his tail on fire. Red Sea then ran around the playground screaming. 

North Star took deep breaths as he tried to calm down. Summer then tapped him on the shoulder. “North Star look!” She said pointing to his flank. 

North Star looked and could not believe his eyes. He had gotten his cutie mark. It was a red crystal in the shape of a star. 

Later that day North Star sat in his room. Both Shining and Cadence stood looking at him. “Do you mind explaining what happened?” Cadence asked. 

North Star lowered his head. “I don’t know. I was so angry at Red Sea for making fun of me, then everything went dark. The next thing I remember is Summer telling me I had gotten my cutie mark.” 

“North Star, we’re proud that you got your cutie mark but Red Sea could have been seriously hurt!” Shining said in a strict tone. “You’re lucky he only suffered minor burns.” 

“As for your punishment, you are grounded until further notice.” Cadence declared. “And you will not be allowed to attend your sister’s crystaling.” 

“Why does she even get a crystaling? I never got one.” 

“Well…” Cadence tried to come up with an answer, but she could not. 

“This isn’t about your sister.” Shining said. “You need to learn that actions have consequences. You should have handled that bully situation in a non-violent manner.” 

“Whatever.” North Star turned and sat in the corner of his room. The crying of his sister caused Shining and Cadence to leave. As Cadence fed the little foal her bottle, she turned to Shining. “I’m really worried about North Star.” 

Shining nodded in agreement. “This has been his first display of magic, and he has developed more of an attitude since finding out the truth about himself. And now that his has a sister he seems to be getting worse.” 

Cadence looked at Shining with worried eyes. “So what do we do?” 

“He’s no longer the little foal that we first met. He’s getting older.” Shining let out a depressed sigh. “I don’t want to lose him, but I am out of ideas.” 

Cadence thought for a moment. “Maybe we could place a magic suppression ring on his horn?” 

Shining tapped his chin as he contemplated the idea. “It’s worth a shot. I’ll ask Twilight for one when she arrives. Speaking of which, she and her friends will be here soon. I’d better go downstairs to greet her.”   

North Star sat in his room and sighed. He looked in a mirror and tapped his horn. “Why me?” He thought to himself. He then heard a loud scream that he recognized as his sisters’. “Great, another temper tantrum.” 

North Star then looked out of his bedroom window and saw snow falling. “Weird, it isn’t winter time yet.”  North Star then felt dizzy, and collapsed on his bed. 

North Star awoke in the darkness. The same pair of flaming-green eyes that he had seen before stared back at him. “You’ve earned your cutie mark. I’m very proud.” The voice said. 

“But I got it by hurting another pony.” North Star said sadly. 

“You were putting him in his place. He deserved to be punished for questioning your reign.” 

“But I’m not even an Alicorn. Everypony knows that only Alicorns can be royalty.” 

“LIES! You do not need wings to be a ruler. A true ruler has absolute power!” 

“Who are you?” 

The voice simply laughed. “You shall find out, in time.” 

North Star then awoke. He looked outside to see that the snow had stopped falling and that the sky was clear. There was a knock at his door. North Star answered it and was greeted by Cadence. 

“Honey, I’m so glad you’re alright!” Cadence said as she scooped him up for a hug. “You won’t believe what just happened.”  


> Part 18
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A few weeks had passed since the crystaling. North Star had been told by Cadence and and Shining exactly what had happened, and that his sister now had a name, Flurry Heart. 

“It’s not fair.” North Star thought to himself as he sat on floor and played with his toys. “I defend my family by lighting a bully’s butt on fire and get grounded, but Flurry Heart destroys the crystal heart and almost destroys the Crystal Empire, and she gets no punishment at all! I don’t care if mom says that she’s only a foal and doesn’t know any better. There is no justice in this world.” 

North Star also poked at the magic suppression ring that was around his horn. He hated wearing it, but Shining and Cadence it was for his own good. “Flurry Heart should be the one wearing this stupid thing. She’s the real trouble maker.” 

No sooner had North Star finished his thought, Flurry Heart crawled over to him. North Star looked over at her and sighed. “What do you want?” The little foal pointed at North Star’s Mr. Smartypants plushie, uttering foal gibberish. 

“No, you can’t have Mr. Smartypants. He’s my special toy.” North Star with an irritated voice. “Go play with your own toys.” 

Flurry Heart then snatched up Mr. Smartypants with her magic and held him tight. “Hey, give him back!” North Star yelled. He lunged at Flurry Heart, but she just flew into the air and giggled. 

“Come back here!” Flurry Heart flew away and North Star gave chase. He followed her through the halls, rooms, and just about everywhere else in the crystal palace. North Star eventually got close enough to make a leap at Flurry Heart, grabbing Mr. Smartypants and bringing his sister to the ground. Flurry Heart however, refused to let go. 

North Star and Flurry Heart engaged in a tug of war over the plushie. “Let him go!” North Star demanded. Flurry Heart responded with more foal gibberish. Both ponies pulled as hard as they could when suddenly Mr. Smartypants was torn in half. Stuffing flew everywhere. 

North Star was in complete shock. Mr. Smartypants, his favorite toy since he was a foal, a gift from his aunt Twilight Sparkle, was destroyed. Tears welled up in his eyes. North Star then looked at Flurry Heart, who was watching the still falling stuffing with awe. North Star snapped. With all of his rage, he slapped Flurry Heart across the face as hard as he could, leaving a big bruise. 

Flurry Heart of course began to cry and let out one of her defining screams. It did not take long for Shining and Cadence to find the two. “What’s going on here?!” Shining demanded. He then saw the bruise on Flurry Heart’s face. “North Star, what did you do?”   

“Flurry took away Mr. Smartypants, and then she tore him apart!” 

Cadence’s eyes went wide. She ran over and scooped up Flurry Heart. “My poor baby! North Star! You should be ashamed of yourself!” 

“But she destroyed my favorite toy!” 

“That is no excuse to hit your sister!” Shining said with a stern voice. “Now go to your room! We will deal with you later.” 

North Star stood up. “This isn’t fair! Flurry Heart nearly plunged the entire Crystal Empire into an ice age, steals and ruins Mr. Smartypants, and I get punished?!” 

“North Star, watch your tone.” Shining demanded. 

“No! And by the way, Flurry Heart IS NOT MY SISTER!” North Star Ran to his room and slammed the door. He buried his face in a pillow and cried. After what felt like hours, Butch walked over and nuzzled him. 

North Star got up from his bed and stroked Butch. “At least you still care about me.” North Star then had an idea. “Come on Butch, we’re getting out of here.” North Star tied his bedsheets together to make rope. He then opened his window, held Butch with one leg, and climbed down from his room. Butch followed close behind North Star as they snuck past the guards, then ran away from the palace. 

After getting Flurry Heart to calm down, Shining and Cadence put a bandage on her face and put her in her crib. Cadence turned to Shining. “Honey, I feel bad about yelling at North Star.” 

“So do I. We have been ignoring him since Flurry Heart came along. We should just give him some attention, spend some quality time together to let him know we haven’t forgotten about him.” 

Cadence nodded in agreement. She walked over to North Star’s room and knocked on the door. “North Star, can we talk?” When there was no reply, Cadence opened the door and looked into the room. She then turned towards Shining, a look of panic on her face. “Shining, North Star is gone!” 

North Star and Butch walked across the Crystal Empire, being careful not to be seen by any guards. They eventually reached their destination, the one place North Star knew where he had a friend: Summer Haze’s house. North Star threw pebbles at her bedroom window. “Psst, hey Summer!”  

Summer opened her window and looked out to see North Star. “North Star? What are you doing here?” 

“It’s complicated. Can you come down and talk with me?” 

“Sure thing.” Summer flew down from her room and landed next to North Star. “So, what’s up?” 

North Star explained everything that had happened since the crystaling. “I just really needed somepony to talk to. You and I have been friends for so long that you’re the one I trust the most right now.” 

“Wow, that sounds really tough.” Summer said as she placed a reassuring hoof on North Star’s shoulder. “But do you think that running away was really the best option?” 

North Star rubbed Butch’s head. “It just feels like that I don’t belong there lately. Ever since I found out that I was adopted I’ve been wondering who my real parents are.” 

“I know how you feel.” Summer said. “For years I would ask mommy about daddy, but she would only give me vague hints. It wasn’t until recently that I got to meet him for the first time.” 

“At least you got to meet your father. I don’t know if I’ll ever get to meet mine.” 

“North Star, I know that things may be tough for you right now, but you have to stay strong.” Summer moved closer to North Star. “Shining and Cadence may not be your real parents, but I’m sure that they still care about you. Besides, I know one pony that really cares about you.” 

North Star gave Summer a puzzled look. “Who?” 

Summer then gave North Star a quick kiss on the cheek. 

North Star’s ears shot straight up and his cheeks turned bright red. For a minute he was utterly speechless. Summer waved her hoof in front of his face. “Hello? Earth to North Star.” 

A goofy smile appeared on North Star’s face. “That was...nice.” 

Summer covered her mouth and giggled. 

One of the royal guard suddenly appeared behind North Star and Summer, causing the two to jump and scream in unison. 

“Prince North Star, thank Celestia I’ve found you!” The guard said. “Your parents are very worried. They’ve sent out search parties all over the Crystal Empire to find you.” 

“Looks like you have to go. See you later!” Summer said with a wink and a smile. She then flew back into her house. 

“What was that all about?” The guard asked. 

“Oh, nothing.” North Star said with a smirk. He and Butch followed the guard back to the crystal palace. 

As soon as North Star entered the crystal palace, Cadence ran up and embraced him in a tight hug. “North Star, I’m so glad you’re safe!” She said with tears running down her face. 

“You shouldn’t run off like that.” Shining said. “You had us worried sick!” 

North Star lowered his head. “I know. I’m sorry.” 

Cadence Smiled. “It’s ok, we forgive you. We also have something for you.” Cadence used her magic to bring over Mr. Smartypants, who was all stitched up. 

“Mr. Smartypants!” North Star grabbed the plushie and hugged it tightly.”Thank you, thank you, thank you!” 

“One more thing.” Cadence walked out of the room and came back holding Flurry Heart. “I want you and your sister to make up.” 

North Star gave Flurry Heart a nasty look. “I’m sorry” He mumbled. 

Shining moved over to North Star. “A little louder, please.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

Flurry Heart giggled and booped North Star on the nose. “See? Your sister is sorry too.” Cadence said. “Now go wash up and get ready for dinner.” 

“I’m not sorry.” North Star thought to himself as he walked away. “And she’s not my sister.”
> Part 19
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

North Star sat in front of the mirror in his room. His hooves gripped the magic suppression ring around his horn as he tried with all his might to pull it off. “What did mom and dad do, super glue this thing on?” North Star thought to himself. 

“North Star, breakfast is ready!” Cadence called out. 

“I’m coming!” North Star called back. He took one final look in the mirror and sighed. “Will my parents ever trust me with magic?” North Star made his way to the dining room and took a seat at the table. Flurry Heart was sitting in her high chair, making a mess with her food. Shining read the morning newspaper. Cadence came over and gave North Star a plate of pancakes and hay bacon.  

Cadence took her seat at the table. “Guess what North Star, your aunt Twilight is coming over today for a visit.” 

North Star swallowed his mouthful of pancakes and smiled. “That’s great! Is she coming to remove this ring from my horn?” 

Shining put down his newspaper and spoke up. “Actually she-” Before he could finish, Cadence used her magic to close his mouth. 

“Of course she is!” Cadence said. 

North Star could not be more excited. After breakfast, Shining had a private meeting with Cadence in their bedroom. 

“What was that all about? Twilight is coming here to check up on Flurry Heart.” 

Cadence lowered her head. “I know. It’s just that I don’t think keeping that ring on North Star is being fair. I want Twilight to remove it so that he can feel normal again.” 

“But putting the ring on his horn was your idea in the first place.” 

“I know, and I was wrong. I’ve seen how miserable he is with that ring. He shouldn’t be punished forever just because he made one mistake. He is still our son, and he deserves to live a normal, happy life.”  

Shining let out a sigh. “You’re right. Besides, one of our kids already nearly destroyed the Crystal Empire, what’s the worst that could happen?” 

Later that day, as Shining was getting everything ready for Twilight’s visit, he was approached by North Star. “Dad, how do you know when you’re in love?” 

Shining was taken completely by surprise by the question. “Why do you ask Bud?”  

North Star dug his hoof into the carpet. “Well the other day when I was out, I stopped over at Summer’s house to have a talk with her. As we were talking, she kissed me on the cheek.” 

Shining could not help but smile. “So, you had your first kiss Huh?” 

“ But does this mean that I’m in love?” 

“Well, how did the kiss make you feel?” 

North Star rubbed the back of his head. “It made me feel pretty good.” 

“Have you kissed Summer back?” 

“No, not yet. Should I?” 

Shining placed a hoof around North Star. “You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. Just take your time. Tell me, do feel the same way about Summer as she does about you?” 

North Star shrugged his shoulders. “I’m not really sure.” 

“Trust me bud, when the time is right, you’ll know. I remember the day I first saw your mother. It was like time was standing still.” 

“Did she feel the same way about you?” 

“Well, no. That took a little song and dance on my part to win her heart.” 

North Star was confused. “So, Summer is going to sing and dance for me?” 

Shining could not help but laugh. “No, but she she has already shown that she has feelings for you. Whether or not you like her back, just be sure to show Summer respect.”

“I will dad. Thanks for the advice.” North Star then went on his way. 

“They grow up so fast.” Shining thought to himself.

When Twilight arrived, she was greeted by Cadence and the two of them did their special greeting. “So, how’s Flurry Heart been doing?” Twilight asked. 

“Actually, I want to talk to you about North Star first.” Cadence said. 

“Oh, and why is that?” 

“I want you to remove the ring around his horn. I thought it would be a good idea, but all it’s doing is making him miserable. I can’t stand to see him like this.” 

Twilight scratched her chin and thought for a moment. “Well, I can try. The ring was designed to suppress dark magic. But since North Star hasn’t had any episodes like last time, then I’m sure I can remove the ring.” 

Cadence was beaming with joy. “That’s great! I’ll go get North Star and Shining.” 

The whole family had gathered in the throne room. North Star could barely contain his excitement. “Finally, I can go back to being a normal colt!” He thought to himself. 

Twilight’s horn lit up with magic as she prepared to remove the ring. Her magic encased the ring, but it would not move. Twilight tried harder, but the ring remained around North Star’s horn. 

“Twilight, why isn’t the ring being removed?” Shining asked. 

“I don’t know.” Twilight replied with a worried look. “I should be able to easily the ring, unless…” 

“Unless what?” Cadence asked. 

“The ring was designed to suppress dark magic. If I can’t remove it, then that means that North Star still has dark magic within him.” 

North Star could not believe what he was hearing. “Are you saying that I’m evil?” 

“No sweetie, nopony is saying that.” Cadence said to North Star reassuringly. 

North Star quickly became frustrated. “Then why won’t this ring come off?!” 

Flurry Heart, who was sitting on Cadence’s back, began to whimper. North Star stared right at her. “Oh shut up you stupid little brat!” 

“North Star! Don’t shout at your sister!” Shining said with a stern voice. 

North Star then completely lost it. “She is not my sister! In fact, I’m not even your son! You said so yourselves in front of my entire school! I AM SICK OF THIS ENTIRE FAMILY!” North Star then took off running at high speed, tears streaming down his face.  

Shining ran after North Star. But in the blink of the eye, he suddenly disappeared.  

North Star came to a stop. He found himself surrounded by darkness. “Where am I?” North Star said out loud. 

“You are home.” Two eyes glowing with green flame appeared in front of North Star. 

North Star recognized the voice. “You’re the one from my dreams.” 

“That I am.” 

“Who are you? Why do you keep following me?” 

“I suppose it’s time that you knew the truth. I am your father. My name is King Sombra.”   

North Star was in shock. “You’re my father?” 

“That is correct.” 

North Star was silent for a moment. “Then...who was my mom?” 

“Your mother was a pony who never earned her cutie mark. She wandered all over Equestria, trying to find her purpose but to no avail. That is, until she came to frozen north. I found her lost in a blizzard, and offered her a chance to have the greatest purpose of all: to be a mother. She gladly accepted, and I impregnated her with you. And I must say, you grew fast. But the blizzard had already taken it’s toll, and she became sick with pneumonia. She only had enough strength to make to the gates of the Crystal Empire and give birth to you before passing on.”  

North Star was saddened to learn that his real mother was dead. But he still had questions for his father. “Where have you been my entire life?” 

“I have been waiting for you to grow. I must say, you have done me proud. Shoving that bully when he took Summer’s ball as a foal, zapping him with your magic when he insulted you and questioned your royalty, and slapping that spoiled brat Flurry Heart when she tore apart your plushie.” 

“But those were all times where I was bad.” 

“Are they? You were defending yourself and punishing an ungrateful foal. Besides, didn’t you feel better afterwards?” 

Those words made North Star think for a moment. He did feel better when he lashed at others that had wronged. It was only later that Shining and Cadence told him that what he had done was bad. 

“Come with me, North Star. It is time for you to rightly take your place on the throne.”  

“But, what about mom and dad?” 

“They are not your real parents. They only took you in because they wanted a foal of their own, and you filled that void. But now that they have Flurry Heart they no longer have any need for you.” 

“That’s not true! They love me!” 

“Do they? Flurry Heart got a crystaling, but you did not. You got into a schoolyard scuffle and are punished, but Flurry Heart nearly destroyed the Crystal Empire and nopony even raised so much as a hoof. Flurry Heart broke your favorite toy, but you are the one who had to apologize to her. Face it, Flurry Heart is they’re true child. You’re just somepony they took pity on.” 

North Star lowered his head and began to cry. King Sombra was right. Flurry Heart was the true child of Shining and Cadence. They saw him as nothing more than an inconvenience. Then another thought came to North Star. 

“What about Summer?” 

“What about her?” 

“Well, she likes me. I mean LIKE likes me, and I feel the same way.” 

King Sombra narrowed his eyes. “Let me tell you about love. There was once a special somepony in my life. I loved her more than anything in the world. I thought that we would always be together. When I began my studies to strengthen my magic, I thought that she would stay by my side and be my queen. We would rule the Crystal Empire together! But when she saw my new power, she just ran. She ran and never came back. I thought she loved me no matter what, but then she just abandoned me.” 

“Are you saying that Summer will abandon me too?” 

“Of course she will. Being in love only leaves to heartache and pain. It is best that you cut her out of your life and avoid the pain all together.” 

Everything that King Sombra was saying was making sense to North Star. He had already felt heartbroken by his family, and he didn’t want Summer to do the same. 

“I’ll do it. I’ll join you, father.” 

“Hmhmhm, you have made a wise choice my son.” 

“But I still have this ring on my horn, and I can’t remove it.” 

“Oh, but you can. Just concentrate. Focus all of your anger and unleash it.” 

North Star closed his eyes. He thought about all of the times he had been bullied, ignored, punished, yelled at, and made to feel inferior. His horn glew with dark magic as the the ring cracked, and eventually shattered into pieces. 

“It has begun.” King Sombra wrapped his darkness around North Star. 

Back at the crystal Palace, Shining held Cadence as the guards searched the grounds for North Star. Suddenly, North Star reappeared in front of them. 

“North Star!” Cadence shouted. “Are you alright? Where have you been?” 

North Star just looked at her, and made a sinister smile. A pillar of dark flames then surrounded him and reached to the sky. When they faded, King Sombra stood in his place. 

Shining, Cadence, and Twilight were shocked and wordless. 

“Finally, I HAVE RETURNED!” King Sombra Announced. 

“You monster! Where is my son!?” Cadence shouted. 

King Sombra simply laughed. “North Star was but vessal, a way for me to once again have a physical form. All he needed was a push towards the darkness. And thanks to the two of you, that task is now complete.” 

Cadence broke down crying as Shining held her tight. “You have no power here, the crystal heart is in place!” Twilight said. 

“I have become more powerful than the crystal heart! Flurry Heart shattering it only proves how powerless it has become. Speaking of which.” King Sombra lifted Flurry Heart up in his magic. He then encased her horn in dark crystals, and locked her up in a dark crystal cage. 

Cadence looked on with horror. “My baby!” 

Shining summoned the guards, who surrounded King Sombra. 

“You’re not the only one with an army.” King Sombra stomped his hoof, and the the two trapped guards encased in darkness appeared by his side. “Say hello to my shadow guards.” 

“What have you done to them?!” Shining demanded. 

“They serve as hosts for my darkness. Think of it as armour, except the armour is in charge.” King Sombra’s darkness then spread out from beneath him, catching and encasing the surrounding guards. 

“Shining, Cadence, Sombra’s magic is too great! We have to fall back!” Twilight pleaded. 

“No! I will not leave my children!” 

Shining looked her in the eye. “Twilight is right, my love. We will get North Star and Flurry Heart back, but we must get help.” 

Twilight then used her magic to teleport the three of them away to a safe distance. King Sombra’s darkness encased the entire crystal palace. 

“My new reign of darkness begins!” 
> Part 20
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 A month had passed since Sombra’s return. While the civilians of the Crystal Empire had successfully been evacuated, all the royal guard had been taken over by Sombra’s darkness armor. The rest of Equestria stood ready, waiting to see what Sombra’s next move would be. 


Cadance and Shining had fled to Canterlot. Cadence stood on the balcony of her room, looking out in the direction of the Crystal Empire. Shining walked up beside her. 


“Cadance, you’ve been standing on this balcony for hours. Come inside and get some rest.” 


Cadance continued to look out into the distance. “Am I a good mother Shining?” 


“Of course you’re a good mother! Why would you ask such a question?” 


Cadance turned to look at shining, a look of great sadness upon her face. “Then why did I fail with North Star?” 


“Honey, you didn’t fail North Star. He was tricked by Sombra.” 




“Was he though?” Cadance turned and slowly walked into the room. “We never really paid much attention to him once Flurry Heart was born. Then there was forcing him to wear that magic-suppression ring instead of trusting him and teaching how to handle his magic. And then publicly revealing that we weren’t his real parents.” Cadance began to cry. 


Shining walked over and nuzzled her. “All parents make mistakes Cadance. We are no different than other couple in Equestria. And we learn from our mistakes.” Shining held Cadance close. “We’ll get our children back.” 


“I hope you’re right.” Cadance looked over at the bed. On it were North Star’s plushie Mr. Smartypants, and his pet honeybadger Butch. She could tell by that sad expression on Butch’s face that he missed him. 


There was a knock at the door. Shining opened it to find a guard saluting him. “Prince Shining, Princess Cadance, you both requested in the royal throne room for an emergency meeting.” The guard said. 


Cadance and Shining entered the throne room. They could see Celestia, Luna, and Twilight as well as commander Spitfire from the wonderbolts all gathered around a large table. Upon it was a map of Equestria. 


Celestia looked up at the royal couple. “Thank you both for coming.” 


“What is this meeting about?” Cadance asked. 


“We are planning an assault on the Crystal Empire.” Luna said. “We have to strike now before Sombra’s forces spread throughout Equestria.” 


“But my children are still in there!” Cadance pleaded. 


Twilight walked over and put a hoof on her shoulder. “Don’t worry. Our first priority will be to infiltrate the crystal palace and rescue Flurry Heart.” 


“But, what about North Star?” Cadance asked as she looked Twilight in the eyes. 


Twilight lowered her head. “He is still under the control of Sombra. Until we can defeat him and contain his power, we have no way of saving North Star.” 


“Then let me come with you! Just let me talk to North Star, I know that he is still in there!” 


Celestia shook her head. “I am sorry, but we cannot risk you being captured.” 


Cadance ran over to Shining and buried her face in his chest. Her cries echoed throughout the throne room. 


Shining wrapped his front legs around Cadance. “I’ll go.” He said with a look of determination. 


Twilight gave Shining a look of concern. “Shining please-” 


Shining cut her off. “I am still the captain of the royal guard. That means I’m in charge of the ground troops, just as Spitfire is in charge of the wonderbolts. I’m going to be needed on the front lines anyway, so it should be me who leads the rescue mission.” 


Twilight wanted to argue, but she knew that Shining was right. He was needed to lead the ground forces. And if there was anypony that knew how to break into the crystal palace, it was him. 


“Very well.” Spitfire said. “Here’s the battle plan. The wonderbolts and I will come in first, striking from the air. The first battalion on the ground will then attack from the east. The second battalion will then attack from the south. Prince Shining, you and a team of elite guards will then sneak in from the west.” 


“Sounds good.” Shining said. “With most the darkness guards distracted, getting into the crystal palace and taking out the rest shouldn’t be a problem.” 


“Then it is settled.” Said Celestia. “We will attack at dawn.” 


As everypony headed out of the throne room, Cadance held Shining close. “Promise me you’ll bring our children back.” She whispered in his ear. 


“I promise.” Shining then kissed Cadance on the cheek. 


Inside the crystal palace, King Sombra sat upon his throne of dark crystals. In his right hoof he held a goblet of wine, which he took a sip from. To his left was a dark crystal cage that contained Flurry Heart. Sombra did not want to kill her. In fact, he rather enjoyed keeping her as a pet. 


Flurry Heart’s tummy began to growl, and she cried out loud with hunger. Sombra calmly put down his goblet and stood up. He walked over to her cage and opened the door. Using his magic, Sombra lifted Flurry Heart into the air. Sombra then used magic to pick up a paddle. 


“What did I tell you about crying!” Sombra then spanked Flurry Heart on her bottom repeatedly with the paddle. Flurry Heart stopped crying, but she still had a look of terror on her. 


Sombra called for a darkness guard. One showed up immediately with a bottle of milk. Sombra jammed the bottle into Flurry Heart’s mouth then put her back in the cage. “That little thing annoys me as much as it amuses me.” Sombra said to himself. 


Another darkness guard approached Sombra and saluted. “My king, the scouts have spotted Equestrian forces approaching from the east and the south.” 


Sombra smiled as he sat back on his throne."Very good. Prepare the troops for battle." The guard saluted once more and trotted off. Sombra picked up his goblet and took another sip of wine. “Time for the fun to begin.” 


The wonderbolts flew over the Crystal Empire. Spitfire landed next to Shining to give her report. “All is quiet sir. There doesn’t appear to be any activity in or around the Crystal Empire.” 


Shining grew suspicious. “There is no way that Sombra would make it that easy.” He thought to himself. The Equestrian forces were already in position, awaiting his orders. 


Shining knew that this might be his only chance to seize back the Crystal Empire. He told Spitfire to tell the battalions on the southern and eastern fronts to make their move. Spitfire saluted and flew off. Soon both forces began their march, while Shining and his team snuck into the city. 


Everything was going according to plan, except that there was no resistance at all. Not one darkness guard could be spotted anywhere. “I have a bad feeling about this.” Shining muttered to himself. 


Suddenly, thousands of darkness guards emerged from hidden holes in the ground. Giant dark crystals also emerged, trapping the Equestrian troops and preventing them from getting away. Resistance was futile, as the darkness easily consumed the Equestrian troops. 


A massive storm cloud appeared over the Crystal Empire. It’s mighty winds blew away the wonderbolts. “RETREAT!” Shining called out to his squad, but they did not get far. His troops were taken by the darkness, and chains of dark crystal wrapped themselves around Shining’s legs, pinning him to the ground. 


Sombra appeared before Shining, a look triumph on his face. He stood above the fallen captain of the Equestrian royal guard. “Greetings Shining, or should I say father?”
> Part 21
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sombra had Shining Armor brought to his throne room. As he was entering, one of the darkness guards approached. “My lord, we have also captured one of the Wonderbolts.” 

Sombra looked down at the chained up Wonderbolt that was being dragged behind the darkness guard. It was Summer Haze’s father, Jetstream. Sombra made a sinister smile. He leaned down and looked Jetstream right in the eye. 

“Today is your lucky day. I’m going to let you live, but only because I want you to deliver a message to the princesses. Tell them everything that happened here today, and to rest lightly. Because I am coming, and next time I want a fight that is worthy of my time.” 

The darkness guard dragged Jetstream out of the throne room. Sombra ordered the other guards to leave him with Shining Armor. They left, and Shining remained tied up in chains. Shining looked up, and could see Flurry Heart locked up in a cage. 

“What are you doing with my daughter?!” Shining yelled. 

Sombra chuckled. “ I am keeping this little brat as my personal pet. She amuses me.” Flurry Heart saw Shining and reached out for him, babbling happily. Upon seeing this, Sombra grew angry. He opened the cage and slapped Flurry Heart across the face. “You are NOT allowed to speak!” 

Flurry Heart was about to start crying, but then Sombra raised his hoof again. Flurry Heart immediately went silent. “Very good, you’re learning.” Sombra said with grin. 

“How dare you strike her!” Shining tried to free himself, but to no avail. 

Sombra got right in Shining’s face. “ That little abomination should consider herself lucky! She deserves much worse.”  

“So what do you plan to do with me?” 

Sombra sat back in his throne. “Nothing. I simply want you to watch as I conquer Equestria, and destroy every pony that you know and love.”   

Back in Canterlot, The four princesses waited for any news from royal guard. The guards in one of the watchtowers spotted an object heading towards the castle. They immediately reported to Princess Celestia. Celestia looked at the object through her spyglass. “It’s a wonderbolt!” She cried out. 

Everypony gathered in the courtyard as the lone wonderbolt arrived at the castle. It was Jetstream. He collapsed as soon as he landed. Jetstream’s uniform was torn, and he was battered and bruised. The guards rushed to his side to help him up. 

“Jetstream, what happened?” Luna asked. 

“It...was a trap.” Jetstream said in between deep breaths. “Sombra’s darkness it...it consumed them all!” 

Cadance charged forwards. “What about Shining?!” She asked in a panicked voice. 

“Sombra took him him as a prisoner. He let me go to warn you all that next time he wants a real challenge.” 

“Sombra must be planning an attack.” Said Celestia. 

Cadance fell to the ground, weeping. First her children had been taken captive, and now her husband. It was all too much for the princess of love to take. 

Twilight went to Cadance’s side, putting a leg around her sister-in-law. “Don’t worry Cadance, we’ll free Shining and stop Sombra. There is still hope.” 

Cadance still cried. Luna escorted her back inside the castle. All Twilight could do was frown. “It’s as if she’s already given up.” Twilight thought to herself. 

Jetstream was taken to medical tent to have his wounds treated. After he was patched up, Daisy Haze and Summer entered the tent. “Daddy!” Summer ran up to her father and hugged him tight. “I was so scared!” 

“Omph! Not so tight baby girl.” Jetstream set Summer down on the ground. “Daddy's ribs are a bit sore.” 

“Sorry.” Summer said as she lowered her head. 

“That’s alright.” Jetstream smiled and ruffled her mane. 

“Any good news to report?” Daisy asked. 

Jetstream shook his head. “I can’t tell you much due to security, but let’s just say things have gotten worse.” 

Summer looked up at her father. “What about North Star?” 

Jetstream let out a sigh. “Summer, I’m afraid...I’m afraid that he might be gone forever.” 

Summer could not believe her ears. “What!? But he can’t be gone forever!” 

“I’m sorry sweetie, I know he was your friend but-” 

Summer burst out crying. Daisy held her close and patted her back. “Summer, everything will be alright.” Daisy said in a reassuring tone. 

Thoughts of North Star rushed through Summer’s mind. The first time that they met, all of the play dates, birthdays, Nightmare Nights, Hearths Warmings, and of course their kiss. 

“North Star is more than a friend.” Summer said in between sobs. “He’s...he’s…” 

“He’s what Summer?” Jetstream asked. 

Summer was quiet for a minute. She then looked at her parents with a serious face. “Mom, Dad, I know how to save North Star.”  

Celestia was with Luna and Twilight in the throne room. The three princesses were planning for an invasion from Sombra’s forces when they were approached by a guard. 

“Your majesties, Jetstream and his family wish to speak with you. They claim they know how to defeat Sombra.” 

The three princesses were perplexed, but allowed them in. “So, you have an idea on how to defeat Sombra?” Celestia asked Jetstream. 

Jetstream looked at the three. “Not me, my daughter Summer.” Summer Haze then stepped forward. 

Twilight was shocked. “Her?!” 

“Let us hear the filly out.” Luna said.  

Summer spoke up. “Your majesties, I know how to defeat Sombra. Not with weapons, but with love.” 

The filly’s words got their attention. 

“I propose sending me to the Crystal Empire.”  Summer continued. “I Know that North Star is still alive within Sombra, and I can reach him and remind him of who he is.” 

Celestia looked worried. “I don’t know, this seems way to dangerous for a filly to undertake.” 

“But North Star and I have a special connection! I know I can reach him!” Summer pleaded. 

“I agree.” Everypony looked towards the entrance of the throne room to see Cadance entering. “Summer does have a special relationship with my son. The two of them have been close ever since they were foals. If there is any pony that can save him, it’s her.” 

Luna looked towards Jetstream and Daisy. “The two of you do not object to this?” 

“We believe in our daughter. We know she can save Equestria.” Daisy replied. 

“Then it is settled.” Said Celestia. A small band of the royal guard will sneak you into the Crystal Empire. But once inside, you will be on your own.” 

“You will also need this.” Cadance approached Summer and gave her Mr. Smartypants. “It will be a big help for you in your endeavour.” 

Summer grabbed Mr. Smartypants and placed the plushie on her back. “Thank you princess, I will not fail” 

The princesses then planned out the mission. Summer hugged her mom and dad, and then left with the small squad of guards for the Crystal Empire. 

“Be safe my child.” Daisy thought as a tear rolled down her face. Jetstream held her tightly.
> Part 22
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The small squad of guards landed just outside the Crystal Empire with Summer Haze. “We spotted this access point during a scouting mission.” One of the guards said as he pointed to a small opening in between the dark crystals that surrounded the city. “It’s too small for us, but you should be able to fit through it just fine.”

“Thank you.” Summer looked at the opening. Building up all of her courage, she took a deep breath and crawled through into the city.

“Celestia speed, little filly.” The lead guard said. The squad then took off.

After Summer entered the Crystal Empire, she was shocked by how much it had changed. Dark crystals grew all over every building and poked up through the streets. The sky was dark, with black clouds swirling above. In the center was the crystal palace, which now looked like giant black monolith.

“Remember, you’re doing this for North Star.” Summer said to herself. She pressed on and continued her way towards the crystal palace. Summer then heard hoofsteps and dashed into an alley to hide. She poked her head out and saw a group of darkness soldiers rounding a corner and marching down the street. They seemed to be heading towards the crystal palace.

Summer decided to move through the alleyways in order to avoid being spotted. She moved over and under dark crystals, made her way through abandoned houses, and even crossed across rooftops. All the while she would stop and hide whenever darkness soldiers appeared.

As Summer got closer to the crystal palace, she began to notice more and more darkness soldiers gathering around it. It appeared as though they were gathering for something. “So much for using the front door.” Summer thought to herself. She then remembered that there was a side entrance for palace staff and security. Looking out from her hiding spot, Summer could see that the side entrance was unguarded. With all of the darkness soldiers focused on the front of crystal palace, Summer snuck by them and made her way inside.

Back in Canterlot, the four princesses stood around a map of Equestria. The squad of guards returned to inform them of their mission. “Summer has successfully infiltrated the Crystal Empire your highnesses.” The lead guard informed them.

“Thank you. You are dismissed.” Celestia informed the guard. After he left, she spoke with Luna, Twilight, and Cadance. “It’s all up to Summer now.”

Twilight spoke up. “I don’t mean to sound negative, but I think we should have a backup plan.”

“Do you not trust that Summer can complete her mission?” Luna asked.

“No, but I think we should at least have something to fall back on. I have been in contact with Yakyakistan, the Griffon kingdom, and the Dragon kingdom. They are just as worried about the threat of Sombra as we are. If we combine our forces, we may be able to stop him and his darkness army. Or at the least hold them at bay.”

Celestia thought over Twilight’s words. “You do have a point Twilight. Contact the leader of each kingdom and inform them of our cooperation. We will need all the help we can get.”

“What about Summer’s plan?” Said Cadance.

“I have not lost faith in her, but Twilight is right. We need to keep all of our options open. I just hope that worse does not come to worse.” Celestia replied.

Luna looked at her sister with a worried face. “Indeed. If young Summer is not successful, then all of Equestria could be facing all out war.”

Cadance looked out the window. “So much is weighing on the back of little filly.”

Celestia put a comforting hoof on Cadance’s shoulder. “Do not worry. Summer will succeed.”

Cadance turned her head to look at Celestia. “She must.”

Once Summer was inside the crystal palace, she looked around to try and find the quickest way to the throne room at the top. She passed by the kitchen and noticed one of the darkness soldiers loading up a cart with bottles of wine and sweet cakes.

“That must be for Sombra.” Summer waited until the darkness soldier had its back turned. She then dashed over to the cart and hid underneath the cloth that covered it. Summer crouched down low, freezing up all of her muscles trying not to make a single sound as the darkness guard pushed the cart up towards King Sombra’s throne room.

King Sombra walked out onto the balcony. He looked down at the thousands of darkness soldiers that had gathered at the crystal palace to here him speak.

“My brethren, our time has come! No longer shall we live under the rule of princesses! Those alicorns do not represent us, we represent ourselves! We shall destroy them, and bring order back to Equestria! Unicorns will control the magic, Pegasi will rule the skies, and Earth ponies will dominate the ground!” King Sombra paused as the darkness soldiers stomped their hooves and roared with approval. “The reign of these alicorns, these abominations, shall come at our hooves! Equestria will be ours, and we will destroy anything that dares to stand in our way!”

King Sombra turned and walked back into the throne room. The roar of the crowd could still be heard outside. “You’re mad! You can’t kill the princesses!” Shining Armor yelled from his spot on the floor where he was still chained down.

King Sombra sat on his throne. “I can, and I will.”

“But why do you hate alicorns so much?”

King Sombra looked over at Flurry Heart. “Just look them. A mix up of all the pony races. They can fly, control magic, and have the strength to move earth. On top of all that, they are also immortal. Now tell me, is that fair? No! No one race should have all that power.”

“Except for you, I presume?” Shining added.

King Sombra Glared at Shining. “A hierarchy is needed to maintain order. Unicorns control magic, making them the most powerful. And since I am the most powerful unicorn, it is only logical that I be in charge.”

A darkness soldier entered with a cart carrying wine and sweet cakes. King Sombra poured some wine into a goblet and ate a sweet cake. Summer peeked out through an opening in the cloth.

“But the princesses are immortal, you can’t possibly destroy them.” Shining said.

King Sombra drank his wine and smiled. “You poor fool. Death will reap everypony in time, including the alicorns.” A bolt of dark magic then shot from King Sombra’s horn, hitting the floor and creating a pillar of dark flame. King Sombra then used his magic to open the cage that held Flurry Heart. Grasping the foal in his magic, King Sombra removed her from the cage and held her near the flames. “I was going to eliminate this wretched little thing publicly, but I think you deserve a private viewing.”

Shining tried to speak out, but another chain wrapped around his mouth.

Summer could not wait anymore. She lept from under the cart and stood before King Sombra. “STOP!”

King Sombra paused for a moment. He then looked down at Summer. “You. How did you get inside my palace?!”

“I won’t let you hurt Flurry Heart!” Summer yelled. “And I won’t let you continue to use North Star!”

King Sombra laughed so hard that it’s echo was almost defining. “Foolish filly, North Star is no more! And how exactly do you plan on stopping me from getting rid of this little waste of life?” King Sombra’s magic tightened around Flurry Heart, causing her to scream.

Summer then reached into her saddle bag. “With this!” She then pulled out North Star’s favorite toy, Mr. Smartypants. King Sombra froze. He released his magic on Flurry Heart, who flew over to Shining.

“Come on, remember!” Summer pleaded. “This is your favorite toy! You got from your aunt Twilight on your one month anniversary.”

King Sombra was almost lost in a trance as he looked at the plushie. He soon shook his head and snapped out of it. “That is but a dumb toy! It has no meaning to me!”

“Then what about Butch?” Summer asked. “He’s your pet Honey Badger. No other pony was willing to adopt him, but you saw that he was full of love. Butch has been your buddy ever since.”

Memories of Butch came flooding into King Sombra’s mind. From the first day that Butch was adopted from Fluttershy, to the many adventures North Star and he had together. King Sombra held his head. “Stop it! Stop this right now!.”

Summer looked at King Sombra with pleading eyes. “And what about me? You must remember all of the moments we’ve had together. Getting back my ball from that bully Red Sea when we were foals, going on a quest to get your mom’s famous white chocolate chunk cookies, and that night when you ran away from home and we kissed.”

King Sombra’s eyes lit up as he let out a mighty yell. There was a blinding flash, and when Summer regained her sight she found herself surrounded by darkness. Summer then heard weeping. She looked around until she found a colt sitting all by himself crying. It was North Star.

Summer carefully approached him. “North Star, is that you?”

North Star looked over his shoulder, surprised to see his old friend. “Summer? What are you doing here?”

“I’m here to bring you home. Come on, follow me.” Summer grabbed North Star by the hoof and tried to flee, but North Star wouldn’t budge.

“I don’t want to go home.” North Star said.

“What? But why?” Summer asked.

“Because my parents don’t want me” North Star explained. “Flurry Heart is the one that they really care about. I’m just some monster that they were forced to look after.”

“That’s not true! Shining Armor and Cadance both love you!” Summer walked over and placed a hoof on North Star’s shoulder. “Cadance won’t stop crying, and Shining Armor was captured trying to rescue you. They may not be your biological parents, but they love and care for you just like you were their own.”

North Star lowered his head. “It’s still no use. I can’t leave this place. I’ve been all over and it’s nothing but endless darkness.”

“That’s right.” North Star and Summer looked up to King Sombra standing over them. “This is where you belong, North Star. And as for you little filly, this too shall be your prison!”
> Part 23
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The combined armies of Equestria, Yakyakistan, the Griffon kingdom, and the Dragon lands surrounded the Crystal Empire. The princesses stood with Prince Rutherford, Dragon Lord Ember, and Ambassador Gilda. 

“When fighting begin? Yaks want to SMASH!” Prince Rutherford stamped his front hooves on the ground in frustration. 

Dragon Lord Ember rolled her eyes. “Easy there hairball. We need to plan out a proper attack, not just rush in blindly and get ourselves slaughtered.” 

“Well there isn’t any way we can attack anyhow.” Said Ambassador Gilda. “If you haven’t noticed, the entire city is surrounded by a shield of dark magic.” 

Princess Celestia stepped forward. “No one shall do anything until we have heard from Summer Haze. For now I need all of you to move your respective armies into their positions and wait for the signal to attack.” 

Prince Rutherford grumbled in irritation. “Why wait for puny filly? Yaks attack now!” 

“Summer is NOT a puny filly.” Everyone turned to see Princess Cadance. “She has heart that is bigger any pony, dragon, yak, or griffin. We need to give her a chance before throwing ourselves into all-out war.” The strictness in Cadance’s tone was very uncharacteristic for the Princess of love. 

“And what does this filly have that all of our armies don’t?” Ambassador Gilda asked. 

“She has the power of hope.” Cadance replied. 

Both North Star and Summer stood before King Sombra. He looked down at them, green flames shooting from his eyes.  

“So, a filly and a colt think that they can defeat me? How amusing.” King Sombra said. 

Summer took a bold stance against King Sombra. “We can and we will! Your reign of darkness and terror ends now!” 

King Sombra let out a laugh so loud that it was almost deafening. “Oh you will will you? Stupid filly, here is what is going to happen. First I will destroy you, then that little brat Flurry Heart, then the rest of the Alicorns. Then my armies will march across Equestria, burning every city and town that stands in our way. Those that are not killed will be enslaved, and I will rule Equestria forever!” 

Summer turned to North Star. “You have to defeat him North Star!” 

“W-why me?” North Star asked with a shaky voice. “I’m just a colt that no pony wants or loves.” 

Summer grabbed North Star by the shoulders and looked him right in the eye. “That is not true! You’re family loves you, your friends love you, and I love you!” 

North Star’s face lit up. “Really?” 

“Really.” Summer then kissed North Star. 

“Oh enough of this mushy tripe.” King Sombra shot magic from his horn which struck the ground. Dark chains emerged from the ground and wrapped themselves around North Star and Summer. “Now the end of Equestria shall begin.” 

A viewing portal opened up showing the Crystal Empire. The magical shield surrounding it lifted, revealing thousands of darkness soldiers. The ground shook as they all marched in unison. The four armies of ponies, dragons, yaks, and griffons all stood ready to fight. 

“North Star! You have to fight back against King Sombra!” Summer called out. “If you don’t, Equestria is doomed!” 

“But I’m just a colt!” North Star replied. 

“You’re more than that! Just look deep inside of yourself and find your inner light!” A dark chain then wrapped itself around Summer’s mouth. 

The chains around North Star became tighter. “Must...find...the light!” North Star searched through all of his memories. He saw every important moment in his life. His father Shining Armor, his mother Princess Cadance, the first time he met Summer Haze, the day he adopted Butch. North Star saw every Nightmare Night, Hearthswarming, and Hearts n’ Hooves day. He saw happy times. Times with friends, and times with family. Then, he saw it. He saw the light. North Star reached out and grabbed it. 

The chains around North Star shattered as he became engulfed in a bright, white light. When the light faded, North Star no longer had the horn of King Sombra. He had a regular horn, and the red stripes in his mane and tail were replaced with blue ones. His cutie mark was no longer three red crystals, but now a star made of blue crystal. 

King Sombra could not believe what he was seeing. “No! How is this possible? You’re nothing more than my vessel!” 

North Star looked at King Sombra with his now bright blue eyes. “You’re wrong Sombra. I am more than just some vessel for you. I am my own pony. I have a purpose in this world. And I will not let you destroy it!” North Star then fired a beam of blue and white magic from his horn directly at King Sombra. King Sombra tried to block it with a magic shield, but the shield easily cracked away. As he was struck by North Star’s magic, King Sombra began to vaporize piece by piece. 

“I...will not be..denied...my...DESTINY!!!” In a flash, King Sombra was blown away into nothing. Not even his horn remained. 

The instant King Sombra was destroyed, the Crystal Empire returned to normal in a flash of blue and white light. The dark magic that had imprisoned the darkness soldiers lifted away.  

“She did it!” Princess Cadance cheered. “Summer got through to North Star!” 

Prince Rutherford kicked the dirt at his hooves. “Aw, but yaks were ready to smash!”  

Dragon Lord Ember patted him on the back. “Sorry big guy. Not today.” 

Celestia, Luna, Twilight, and Cadance all flew to the crystal palace. North Star and Summer Haze were waiting for them by the crystal heart, along with Shining Armor and Flurry Heart. Cadance ran up to North Star and hugged him tight. 

“Oh my baby boy! I’m so glad that you’re back and safe!” Cadance said with tears of joy running down her face. 

North Star hugged her back. “I know. I love you too, mom.” He said with a smile. 

Celestia and Luna both approached Summer. “Summer, you have gone above and beyond the call of duty in saving Equestria. We are forever in your debt. Thank you.” Said Celestia. 

Summer knelt before the princesses. “You are most welcome, your majesties.” 

The ponies that had been imprisoned as darkness soldiers were reunited with their families, including the two guards who had disappeared all those years ago. They hadn’t aged a day, and had no memory of their imprisonment. 

“What happened to King Sombra?” Twilight asked. 

“He is no more.” Said North Star. “I have destroyed him for good this time. He will never come back.” 

Twilight scanned North Star with her horn. “I sense no dark magic at all. It’s like you’re a whole different pony.” 

“Let’s just say that I’m my own pony now.” North Star said. 

“You should have seen him confront KIng Sombra.” Summer said. “I dare say that his power rivals the princesses.”  

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far.” North Star said as he blushed. 

“Then we owe you a debt of gratitude  as well.” Said Princess Luna. “You have not only defeated King Sombra, but freed the Crystal Empire and prevented a devastating war.” 

“That’s my boy!” Shining Armor said as he put his front leg around North Star. Flurry Heart then slid down from the back of Shining’s head and reached over to North Star, hugging him around the neck. 

“N-Nowth Staw!” Flurry Heart said with a smile. 

Everypony awwed at the sight. “Isn’t that precious? You’re her first words North Star!” Said Cadance as she beamed with joy. 

North Star hugged Flurry Heart back. “I love you too you little rugrat.” 


> Epilogue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Many years had passed since North Star saved the Crystal Empire. During that time, North Star finally got his own crystaling and was recognized as the prince of the Crystal Empire. He even received his own stained glass window in Canterlot castle. Then came the happiest day of his life. 

North Star stood in front of a full body mirror, adjusting the bowtie on his tuxedo when he heard a knock at the door. “Come in” North Star said. Flurry Heart opened the door and walked in, wearing a pink dress. 

“You feeling nervous there Northy?” Flurry Heart said. 

North Star smiled. Northy was Flurry Heart’s nickname for him ever since she learned to speak properly. “A little bit. It is my wedding day after all. Say, shouldn’t you be with the bride and the other bridesmaids?” 

Flurry Heart waved her hoof. “Summer sent me over to check on you. To be honest, she’s the nervous one.” 

North Star giggled a bit. “Well, it is her big day too. A lot more fuss is usually put on the bride than the groom.” 

“Tell me about it. Pound Cake and I are still just dating but mom already has the everything picked out from my wedding dress to the design of the cake.” 

“Yeah, that’s mom alright. Always thinking about love. Though to be fair mom and dads wedding didn’t exactly go according to plan.” 

Flurry Heart trotted over and gave North Star a hug. “I don’t think you have to worry about changelings replacing the bride. Especially since they’ve all been reformed.”  

There was another knock at the door. In walked Spike, North Star’s best dragon for the wedding. “Are you ready? It’s time for the ceremony to start.” 

North Star took a deep breath. “I’m ready.”  

Citizens from all over Equestria gathered for the wedding. There were ponies, dragons, yaks, griffons, hippogriffs, changelings, and Kirin. Shining Armor and Cadance sat in the front row along with Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Daisy Haze. 

North Star stood at the altar with Spike and the other groomsmen. Across from them were the the maid of honor Flurry Heart and Summer’s bridesmaids. Here comes the bride began playing on the pipe organ. Summer Haze was escorted down the aisle by her father Jetstream. She and North Star held hooves as Celestia began the nuptials. 

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union between North Star and Summer Haze. These two ponies have known each other since they were foals, and in that time they have been through the brightest and darkest of times. But through it all they managed to not only save all of Equestria but discover that they were meant for each other. Now the time has come for these two to be joined together in holy matrimony. North Star, do you take Summer Haze to be your wife, to love and cherish her, for as long as you both shall live?” 

North Star looked into Summer’s eyes and smiled. “I do.” 

“Summer, do you take North Star to be your husband, to love and cherish, for as long as you both shall live?” 

Summer looked into North Star’s eyes and smiled. “I do.” 

“Then it is my honor to pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” North Star and Summer then kissed each other, and the entire crowd applauded. 

The wedding reception was one huge party. Pinkie Pie personally made the wedding cake, which was a whopping ten feet tall and decorated with images of the happy moments from North Star and Summer’s lives. Summer tossed the bouquet and it was caught by Rarity. She and Spike both blushed as they had now been dating for some time. 

Vinyl Scratch and Octavia both provided the music for the event, alternating between loud party music and slow paced dancing music. The time eventually came for North Star and Summer to have their first dance as a couple. As they danced, Shining Armor broke out crying because of how beautiful the scene was. Cadance and Flurry Heart just rolled their eyes at him. 

During their dance, Summer leaned in and whispered into North Star’s ear. “North Star, there is something that I have been meaning to tell you, and I feel that now is the right time.” 

North Star looked happily at his new bride. “Oh? And what is that?” 

“I’m pregnant.” 

North Star was speechless. He then smiled and held Summer tight. Through all the ups and downs in his life, North Star finally felt like he belonged.