This story is a sequel to Three Wishes: The Cutie Mark Crusaders Before They Changed The World

Twelve years after the Crusaders discovered their true nature, an ancient evil has returned. Celestia is hurt, magic is weakened, and Equestria is nearly lost. Now our heroes must find a way to fix things before time runs out, and the world falls to darkness forever. They'll join forces with friends they've made around the world, utilize amazing new breakthroughs in science and magic, and get help from some of the most unexpected of sources as they try to fix The Hole In The Sun.

Gracious prereading and editing help provided by: Dusk Watch, totallynotabrony, Mares Guyver, CMC4TW, SeaponyLover65, and Web Of Hope.

A minor injury leads Apple Bloom to learn that she and the other Crusaders aren't like normal ponies. Not having their marks has always been their common bond, but as the trio uncover their unique nature, it becomes clear that their lives are intertwined on a much deeper level. As they learn the secrets of their shared past, it leads to revelations about their friendship, families, and their long sought after talents. What they discover and accomplish along the way is beyond what anypony would have thought possible.

There is now a sequel! Three Wishes: The Hole In The Sun

And a (more or less) standalone Christmas Special set between this and the sequel. Cinder Claws: The Caribou Legend Of Kol-Klor

Big thanks to totallynotabrony, Dusk Watch, AugieDog, and Piquo Pie for prereading and editing help!

For ponies, Hearth's Warming Eve is a joyous time. Caribou though... their legends are darker. They know what threats await in the long, dark nights of winter, and what evils can lurk in the hearts of those who dwell there. Join the Cutie Mark Crusaders, as they hear one such tale told by the High Chieftain of the Caribou, on the longest night of Winter's Eve.

This story takes place in the years between the first Three Wishes story, and the start of its sequel. Reading those first is not necessary. This story is a stand-alone tale for the holidays, though there are several tie-ins with the larger stories.

Also note, this tale was written in about 5 hours, from 2am to 7am Christmas morning. It was a crazy, last minute idea for a holiday story, and has not had the benefit of the usual editors and prereaders. As such, blame me (and my lack of sleep) directly for all mistakes and stupidity.