//------------------------------//
// Chapter - 11 - Christmas Cheer Is Here Once Again 
// Story: Let's Rock 'n' Roll 
// by Hawker Hurricane 
//------------------------------//

Both Forte and Sunset were kept in hospital for a few more days before the doctor said they were medically fit enough to go. In the meantime they both had more visits from the girls, Rainbooms and Dazzlings, and from Forte's parents. Forte was let in on the idea the Dazzlings had regarding Sunset's housing situation and took a strong liking to it, agreeing to play a part in the surprise.

The damage to Sunset's ribs was less severe than originally thought and she would be healed within three weeks. Forte's rib injuries were more severe given how forceful and how many times Gilda kicked him in them. According to his doctor they would heal in about six weeks though the doctor prescribed him some painkillers, stronger than paracetamol. 

Due to overwhelming evidence and the testimonies against her, Gilda plea bargained with the police. She would plead guilty on all charges in exchange for a lighter sentence. Though the lighter sentence irked Sunset and Forte, they were at least pleased she would be off the streets for a long time. She was refused bail and would be held in custody until her court date the following year, due to the judge considering her a flight risk.

Back at home, he was sitting in the front room watching daytime TV with Sunset.

"How can people watch this?" asked Forte, "Daytime TV is boring."

"I agree. I would go into town with you but you know what the doctor said."

"Yeah, we gotta rest as much as possible. Still," he added, holding up a bandaged hand, "At least our hands are recovering."

"I can't tell you how relieved I was when the doctor said it wasn't as bad as first thought."

"You don't need to tell me, I felt the same way."

"I'm not sure I'm looking forward to going back to school though," Sunset said, looking down at the floor.

Forte wrapped an arm around Sunset, pulling her in gently in a consoling hug.

"I feel the same, but we'll have each other to get through it."

"Yeah, we do," replied Sunset, hugging him back.

Just then they heard the doorbell.

"I'll get it," Forte said standing up.

He walked quickly to the door and carefully gripped the handle with his banged fingers and pushed down and pulled the door open. He was shocked as to who was there and even more puzzled as to why.

"Hey Forte."

"Rainbow? What are you doing here? Has school finished early?"

"No. Actually I was sent here to get you and Sunset and bring you to CHS."

"Why?"

"I can't say."

"Can't or won't?"

"Both. I won't tell you because I can't."

"Why?"

"Because I can't. Look, can I come in? It's a little cold and while this coat is great at keeping me dry it's not so good at keeping me warm."

"Sure, come in," Forte replied, stepping aside.

Rainbow walked in, thanking Forte on the way.

"Is Sunset here?"

"Yeah, she's in the front room. Where you wanting her to come as well?"

"Yeah. You're both needed."

"Hi Rainbow."

Rainbow turned to the source of the voice and smiled upon seeing her friend.

"Hey Sunset, you OK?" she asked, surprising Sunset with a hug.

"I'm feeling better," Sunset replied, slightly shocked by Rainbow's gesture, "Still a few weeks of recovery left though."

"Sorry to hear it. So long as you're OK though."

"I heard you saying to Forte that we were needed at CHS?"

"Yeah. You coming?"

"Sure," she shrugged, "Beats watching daytime TV."

"Great!"

"Just let me switch off the TV."

"Sure, we'll wait here for you."

Sunset walked back to the front room to switch the TV off, leaving Forte and Rainbow in the hallway. Forte reached up to get his and Sunset's coats, returned to them after having them wiped cleaned of their blood. Sunset was back very quickly and took her coat from Forte.

"Thanks."

"You're welcome."

"Do you guys want any help fastening them?" asked Rainbow.

"Yeah please," replied Forte, "I don't want to move my fingers if I can help it."

"Same here," added Sunset.

"Sure thing," replied Rainbow.

She went to Sunset first, fastening the popper buttons in place and tying the belt, before moving on to Forte.

"Thanks Rainbow," he replied.

"No problem. Shall we get going?"

"Yeah, everyone's waiting for us."





After a not too lengthy walk they arrived at CHS, the latter half of the journey in the rain. They entered the school and started following Rainbow.

"Where are we headed?"

"The auditorium."

"Why?"

"You'll see."

Forte and Sunset looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders, still mystified as to what Rainbow was up to. They continued to follow her until they reached the auditorium doors where Rainbow turned around and faced Sunset and Forte.

"Wait here."

Before either Forte or Sunset could respond she quickly went inside and closed the door. Sunset and Forte just stood still, staring at the door.

"They've organised a party haven't they?" asked Forte.

"Yep. That would be my guess."

"We could always make a run for it," Forte said jokingly.

"And lose out on free cake?"

"Well, when you put it like that........" Forte replied, walking over to Sunset, putting an arm around her waist and pulling her in for a kiss, "I think we should stay."

A blushing Sunset smiled, "I'm glad you see things my way in this matter."

The auditorium door opened again and Rainbow poked her head through, "You can come in now guys."

Sunset and Forte looked at each other and nodded, as ready as they could be for a sudden Pinkie party. Rainbow went back inside, making room for them to enter. Forte grabbed the door, keeping it open for Sunset. The door closed behind them, leaving them in complete darkness.

"SURPRISE!"

The only thing that startled Forte and Sunset was the sudden brightness of the lights being switched on. Rubbing the discomfort out of their eyes the looked in front of them and saw a considerable amount of CHS students. Including the Dazzlings. Walking forward to the assembled students, Forte and Sunset both felt a little unease; the last time they were in CHS the very same students targeted them over false accusations.

An awkward silence permeated throughout the room.

That is, until Pinkie bounced up to the pair.

"Well, what do you think?"

Forte and Sunset looked around, taking in all the students, banners, streamers, food and drink and felt conflicting emotions. While it was nice they were doing this, it doesn't change the fact it could have been prevented if they just put aside their assumptions and listened.

"Looks nice, it's quite a spread you've put on," Forte replied.

A jubilant Pinkie went to excitedly hug Forte.

"Hold up Party Queen," Rainbow said holding her back, "Remember their ribs are still healing."

"Oh yeah," Pinkie replied, sheepishly rubbing the back of her neck, "Sorry guys."

"That's fine. What's everyone doing here though?"

Rainbow was the one to respond, "Well everyone felt kinda awful after we found out the truth."

Forte and Sunset shared a quick look.

"Who knows what happened to me and Sunset?"

The students looked amongst themselves, no one willing to talk. That is, until, three familiar looking girls stepped into view.

"Aria!"

Adagio rolled her eyes and turned to her other sister, "Does he even know we exist Sonata?"

Aria continued walking to Forte and Sunset, followed by her sisters. Aria gently wrapped Forte in a hug, eliciting raised eyebrows from the other students.

"You OK Forte?" asked Aria.

"Yeah, I'm OK. What about you?"

"I'm good. To answer your question though, they know."

"Know?" Forte replied nervously, "How much?"

"Everything. We told them. We wanted them to let them know what they, if indirectly, allowed to happen."

Forte and Sunset looked uneasily at each other. It was humiliating enough what Gilda and her friends did to them, but their fellow students knowing just seemed to add salt to the wounds. Forte felt his heart pound faster as everyone looked at him, fully expecting the auditorium to burst into laughter.

After several seconds of uncomfortable silence, Forte heard the sound of footsteps on the hard floor.

"Forte, Sunset," Lyra said, looking ashamed of herself, "We would all like to apologize for our treatment of you both. Looking back it's clear the our behaviour was inexcusable. We all understand and accept if you don't forgive us, all we ask is you give us another chance like you did your friends."

Sunset and Forte looked at each other and held a silent conversation. After a couple of seconds Sunset smiled warmly and turned to Lyra, "We accept your apology, all of you."

The auditorium erupted into a cacophony of cheers and whistles while Sunset and Forte gave each other a gentle hug.

"Don't I get a hug?" asked Aria.

"Oh....sure, " Forte stammered, face red as beetroot.

He and Aria hugged, drawing a few surprised looks from other students.

"So Forte," Aria started, "Ready to party?"

"Party?"

"Yes, party. You know, those social occasions where you eat, drink and generally enjoy and make a fool of yourself?"

"Aren't you confusing that for the office Christmas party?"

"No. Office Christmas parties are NOT fun at all. Having to laugh at your boss's unfunny jokes, pretending you actually want to be there....urgh," Aria shuddered.

"I take it you've been to one then?"

"Just recently. Glad it's over with; anyway come on, we don't want all the food go to waste."

"Sure, coming Sunny?"

"You really think I'd turn down free food?"

Forte and Sunset followed Aria to where the food was set out, arms wrapped around each other's waists. They were soon joined by the other girls, all of whom seemed to be in good spirits.

"So what do you guys think?" asked Pinkie.

"Looks like a typical Pinkie party," replied Forte, looking around.

"Of course it is, I AM Pinkie Pie."

Pinkie bounced away to another group of students, leaving the gang shaking their heads.

"I dare not think what goes on inside her head," Forte commented.

"I don't think any of us will ever know," Sunset replied, "I don't think I'd want to know what goes on inside her head."

"You and me both Sunny."





The party had been in full swing for a couple of hours. Seemingly endless amounts of cakes had been eaten and there'd been plenty of singing and dancing to liven things up. Forte sat all that out though, using his injuries as an excuse a perfectly valid reason for doing so. He was sat watching the girls when Sunset came and sat next to him.

"Enjoying the party pony boy?"

"Yeah, it's been quite fun." 

"Pinkie's parties usually are," Sunset replied. Looking up, she saw Aria approaching, "Oh Forte?"

"Yes Sunny?"

Sunset motioned her head in the direction of Aria. Forte looked and immediately brightened up at the sight.

"Hi Aria, you OK?"

"I'm good," she replied, stopping in front of him.

"Cool, you need something?"

"Not really, only to tell you something."

"Tell me what?" he asked nervously.

"Forte," Sunset said, resting a hand on his shoulder, "Aria, and the others....are enrolling at CHS."

"Really?" he asked, looking to Aria.

Aria nodded, "Really."

The next thing Aria felt was a bone crushing hug.

"That's great!"

Everyone looked at the pair, Sunset stifling a giggle at the sight of Aria being imprisoned in Forte's bear hug, and started walking over. Forte squeezed Aria harder and lifted her up into the air, making a squeeing like sound in the process. He put her down just as quickly and let go of her. Aria caught her breath and balance, taken a little off guard from Forte's reaction.

"What subjects are you taking?"

A still gasping Aria went and sat down next to Sunset, taking the glass of water offered to her. After taking a large mouthful, she finally answered.

"I haven't decided yet, I still have a few days to decide."

"Cool. Well if you want help deciding, just ask."

Sunset smirked, not missing the chance to tease her boyfriend, "Eager to spend time with Aria, are we?"

"Well she is a friend."

"Just a friend now? I thought you had a crush in her?"

Forte began spluttering a response, "Well, I er, well-"

"Do you not have a crush on me anymore?" Aria asked, pouting.

Beads of sweat began forming on Forte's forehead. If he said yes, it could imply he was no longer interested in Sunset. If he said no, it could jeopardize his new friendship with Aria. He couldn't deny he had a crush on her, because he did; but he couldn't admit it to everyone in front of CHS.

Aria smiled sweetly and gave Forte a hug, wrapping her arms firmly around him, “Sunset’s right. You really are cute when you get all panicky.”

Sunset also hugged him, putting Forte in a very comfortable cuddle sandwich.

Forte sighed, “Yay for me I suppose.”

The girls let go of him and began speaking again.

“Don’t worry Forte,” Sunset said, “We’re only teasing.”

“Yeah,” added Aria, “I wouldn’t even think of doing anything to interfere with your relationship with Sunset. And don’t worry about having a crush on me; it’s just that, a harmless crush.”

“Yeah, “ Sunset added, “I’m not worried about you having a fling behind my back. I trust you.”

Forte smiled and hugged his girlfriend, “Thanks Sunny, I trust you to.”





Forte, flanked by Sunset and Aria, were sitting on another bench in the auditorium after having some party food. The party was going swimmingly, with everyone getting along. The Dazzlings got to know a few CHS students and also apologized for their actions during the Battle of the Bands. The CHS students were in a forgiving mood and decided that the Dazzlings should be given the same chance of redemption as Sunset.

“It’s been a good party, glad I came,” Forte said, taking a sip of Apple Cider.

“Same here,” agreed Sunset, “Pity the booze is alcohol free.”

“Yeah but we are on school grounds,” Forte replied, “Besides, people drink cider, and beer, for it’s robust taste; not its alcoholic content.”

Sunset and Aria burst into laughter, causing Sunset’s ribs to hurt in the process.

“Yeah, sure they do,” Aria laughed, “Next you’ll be saying politicians get elected to serve the people and not themselves.”

Forte joined them in laughing, which like Sunset, caused his ribs to hurt also. After a few seconds, the trio had calmed themselves down and were joined by their respective gangs of friends.

“Hey guys,” Rainbow said with a wave, “You up to anything?”

“Not at the moment,” Forte replied, “Why?”

“Well we were going to go into town and hang out at the mall, you coming?”

“Sure, I’ll go. What about you two?” he asked, looking at Sunset and Aria.

“Sure.”

“Great!” Rainbow replied, “We can go over a few things about our performance for the Christmas Party.”

“We can do but I won’t be able to play,” Forte replied, holding up his bandages hands.

“Go on backup vocals then.”

“I can’t sing.”

All the girls looked at him in shock.

“Can’t sing?” Rainbow repeated, “What do you mean you can’t sing? Of course you can!”

“I can’t and I don’t wish to humiliate myself trying to either.”

“Have you ever sang before?” asked Fluttershy.

“Well, apart from nursery rhymes at infant school no I haven’t.”

“Then how do you know you can’t?”

“Err, well...”

Forte looked up and saw the girls surround him like sharks circling their prey. He felt like they were ready to pounce at any moment, and attempt to get him to try singing. It wasn’t so much as he couldn’t, he didn’t know if he could; he had never tried before. A severe lack of self-confidence on the matter prevented him from even trying.

“Have you even tried singing?” asked Fluttershy.

Damn it Fluttershy, why do you start asking questions now of all times?

“I’ve not not tried.”

“So you’ve never actually sang before?”

Forte looked down to the floor, “No.”

The girls’ faces lit up with glee. Forte looked up and felt a sense of dread overwhelm him. It quickly dawned on him he would not be able to get out of this, at least with his dignity intact.

“That’s wonderful darling, you must try, it would be wonderful to have another back up vocalist.”

“I’m not interested in singing though,” Forte retorted.

“Would you try it though?” asked Sunset, “For the band?”

“Maybe, I’ll consider it.”





The Rainbooms and the Dazzlings were walking down the street, Pinkie’s party having finished, making their way to the shopping centre. Forte, walking between Aria and Sunset. The rain had stopped falling by the time the party finished though it was due to fall heavily again in the evening.

“Are we getting something to eat while we’re out?” asked Forte.

Sunset giggled, “Still hungry? Your stomach’s a bottomless pit!”

“Says you,” he replied laughing before turning to the girls, “Did Sunny tell you all that the other day when she came to my house, whilst I was upstairs she helped herself to some cake in my fridge.”

“Indeed she did darling.”

“Well at least that cake is in a better place now.”

“All this talk of cake is making me hungry,” Rainbow said.

“Are you and Forte sure you’re not related?” Sunset asked, “The both of you are always hungry.”

“I’m an athlete, I always need to eat,” Rainbow replied defensively.

“And I’m a avid gamer,” added Forte, “How else can I carry on playing to thee and four in the morning if I don’t eat?”

“Exactly!” Rainbow exclaimed, waving her arms around, “Competitive people like Forte and I need our energy, and we can only get that from eating food all the time.”

“Playing games is hardly a competitive sport,” Sunset innocently commented.

“Not competitive!” Forte spluttered, “NOT COMPETITIVE!”

Forte began getting himself into a frenzy, Sunset’s comments striking the wrong nerve.

“It’s extremely competitive  and challenging! Have you ever played the Halo games on solo Legendary, or Dark Souls II or-”

Forte’s emotional outburst was abruptly stopped by Sunset planting a kiss on his lips. The tongue lashing lasted a few seconds before they let go of each other and Forte regained his senses.

“You were having me on weren’t you?” 

Sunset nodded, “It’s cute seeing you react like that, I mean nothing mean by it though. I’m only teasing you.”

“I know. You will have to play more often though, Rainbow and I could do with another challenger.”

“You have Xbox?” asked Rainbow.

Forte nodded.

“What’s your gamerscore?”

“117,749.”

“WOW! Mine’s a miserable 68,443. I have some catching up to do.”

“My gamerscore is 306,543.”

Everyone turned to the source of the timid voice. Rainbow’s and Forte’s jaws dropped, shocked into silence at thee absurd notion. The competitive duo quickly got their jaws working again and quickly began to question their timid, but huge gamer friend.

“306,543?” Rainbow repeated, “How?”

“I love gaming.”

“So the other night at Pinkie’s you were just pretending to not be interested?” Rainbow asked.

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“To lull my opponent into a false sense of superiority. It seemed to work given that I beat you.” 

“We’ll have to share gamertags,” Forte suggested.

“Definitely,” replied Fluttershy, “I’m looking for new conquests.”

The girls burst into laughter, Forte looking unamused at Fluttershy getting one over him. 

Fluttershy. Who would have thought the timid, bunny loving girl would be a hard core gamer that leaves rivals in her wake?

“This means war, Fluttershy,” Forte replied as seriously as he could.

“Very well. I suggest surrendering now, it will be much less painful for you.”

Rainbow turned around to Forte, grinned and made a hissing noise while touching her arm, “You just got burned.”





Forte was still grumbling as he trudged along, still slightly annoyed shocked at Fluttershy’s enormous gamerscore that was far larger than his. Rainbow was surprisingly blasé about it.

The gangs entered the shopping centre, decorated throughout to fit the Christmas season, and began looking around the shops; splitting off into smaller groups and agreeing to meet in an hour or so at the food court. Forte went with Sunset, Aria, Fluttershy and Rarity whilst the others went of elsewhere. Forte’s groups first visit was the games store.

Forte and Fluttershy wanted to check out the new releases and see if there were any bargains laying around. Forte’s first port of call were the headphones. His current pair, for reasons unknown, stopped working and the headset bundled with the console just wasn’t up to the task for online gaming. He found a pair of high quality headphones with microphone reduced to $60 from $100. Fluttershy treated herself to a few games.

After the games store Forte was dragged around several women's clothes stores for what seemed like an eternity, never coming closer to understanding why women need so many different clothes stores. Or why they enjoyed clothes shopping on the first place. To him it was one of the most depressing and boring, tedious tasks in the world. So long as the clothes fit and the suited him he wasn’t too fussed what he wore.

Aria, Fluttershy and Sunset all bought needlessly bright and sparkly clothes while Forte’s only clothes purchase were some socks.

After an hour of being dragged through Man-Hell it was finally time to meet up with the others in the food court.

“So, are we headed to meet the others?” asked Fluttershy.

“Sure,” replied Sunset.

“I’ll meet you guys there,” said Forte, “I need to go somewhere first.”

“OK, we'll wait for you,” replied Sunset.

The girls and Forte went their separate ways. The girls heading for the food court, Forte headed for the tech store, specifically to get a Christmas present for Sunset.





About twenty minutes later Forte arrived at the food court having being quicker than he thought in the tech store and making a quick trip to the stationary store to wrap Sunset’s present. Arriving at the food court, he saw the girls; all nine of them. He went over and out his bags on the empty seat next to Sunset and gave her a kiss in the cheek.

“Hey Sunny, miss me?”

“Loads,” she replied, stuffing her face with a Bacon Double Cheeseburger.

“Well sit tight a little more while I get myself something.”

“Sure.”

Forte turned around and walked away, addressing the other girls in the process, “I’ll be back soon girls. Juts getting something to eat.”

“We’ll still be here,” replied Applejack.

Forte walked over to the Burger King outlet and ordered himself a Plain Bacon Double Cheeseburger (i.e. no relish), large fries and a coke. Within five minutes he had paid and was back with the girls, sitting next to Sunset.

“Finally I can eat, I’m starving.”

“Nothing new there then,” Sunset replied.

“Says you.....cake stealer.”

“Oh shush, I told you that cake asked me to eat it.”

“I’m sure it did,” Forte replied, carefully picking up fried in his bandages hands and fingers.

“How are your hands?” asked Sunset.

“Still a little sore, but don’t worry. I’ll be fine. What about you?”

“Same. What did you buy by the way?””

Forte tapped the side of his nose and grinned, “You’ll have to wait until Christmas Day.”

Sunset’s blinked in surprised, “You got me a Christmas present?”

“Yep.”

“You didn’t have to.”

“I know, but I wanted to.”

Sunset smiled sweetly and gave Forte another kiss on the cheek, “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, just no sneakily opening it then re-wrapping it.”

“I won’t,” Sunset laughed.

Forte turned to the others, sat on adjoining tables. He saw many shopping bags on the floor, everyone seemingly having bought something, and enjoying their own food, “What did you guys buy? Shopping wise.” 

“Clothes mostly,” Rarity replied, “Plus a few other fashion materials.”

“Some more guitar strings,” replied Rainbow.

The other girls also showed him what they got, most had bought clothes. Pinkie bought some party supplies, Applejack a new hat (precisely identical to the one she already has) and Fluttershy bought some animal toys for the animals at the shelter. 

“What did you get?” asked Rainbow.

“A new pair of headphones for my Xbox and a Christmas present for Sunset.”

“That’s so sweet of you darling, Sunset is lucky to have you.”

“I’m lucky to have Sunset,” he replied, turning around to his girlfriend and holding her hand.

“We’re all lucky to have each other!” Pinkie yelled jubilantly.

“Pinkie’s right, “ Applejack agreed, “Despite a few hiccups it’s like we were all meant to be friends.”

Sunset chuckled and looked to the Dazzlings. The Dazzlings noticed Sunset looking at them.

“Something wrong Sunset?” asked Sonata.

“I was just thinking what Twilight would make of us being friends now.”

Adagio laughed, “I imagine she’ll assume we’re mind-controlling you to do our bidding.”

“Maybe. Do you think I should write to her, or wait until she comes through again?”

“Wait until she comes through and see what her reaction is,” Forte replied, “It’ll be funnier. We could actually do that.”

“Do what?” asked Sunset.

“Pretend we’re under Adagio’s, Sonata’s and Aria’s control.”

“You mean you want to prank Twilight?” Sunset asked him, her voice showing slight signs of concern.

“Yes.”

“You want to prank Princess Twilight Sparkle? A crowned head of state of another world?”

Forte looked at Sunset’s stern expression and blanched, “Well.....when you put it like that......yeah let’s not, I don’t want to be responsible for a diplomatic incident.”

Sunset’s slightly scary expression soon melted into one of delight. She burst into laughter and was soon joined by the other girls. Forte just looked on with confusion evident on his face.

“Have I missed something?” he asked.

“Sorry Forte,” Sunset giggled, “It was too good an opportunity to see you get all panicky and cute again.”

“Yay for me,” he dead-panned, “Seriously though, should we do it.”

The girls stopped laughing and took glances at each other. Swift nods of the head confirmed they too were eager to prank Twilight. 

“The chance to prank our pony princess friend is too good to pass up,” Sunset said.

“Excellent,” Forte grinned in delight, clapping his hands together.

“But you’re coming up with the prank,” Sunset said firmly to him, narrowing her eyes to reinforce the ‘order’.

“Why me?”

“It was your idea.”

“More like so it’ll be just me that cops it when Princess Twilight decides justice is on order.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll come and see you in pony prison,” Sunset said cheerily.

“Thanks,” Forte replied sarcastically, “I’ll be sure to look forward to each visit.”

Sunset giggled, “Don’t worry, I’m only joking. Twilight has a good sense of humour, she’s even pranked Princess Celestia with invisible ink before.”

“Invisible ink? Don’t you bet getting any ideas.”

“Or what?”

“Or I lock away ALL the cakes in my house.”

Sunset recoiled in ‘horror’, “You wouldn’t dare.”

“Wouldn’t I?”

Sunset just shrugged their shoulders, “No matter. I can just get some off Pinkie. Isn’t that right?”

Pinkie excitedly bounced over to Sunset and gave her a tight hug, “That’s right! I’ll never allow my friends to go without cake.”

As if to prove it, she reached into her hair and pulled out of small cupcake covered in orange frosting and handed it to Sunset, “Here you are!”

Sunset took it, “Thanks Pinkie.”

“You’re welcome,” Pinkie replied, bouncing away.

Sunset took the cupcake and took a bite out it, looking directly at Forte when doing so, “Mmmmmmm, this is great Pinkie!”

”Thanks, I always endure each and every cupcake gets the love and attention it deserves,” she replied cheerily.

“If you’re eating that, you won’t want cake tonight at my place.”

“Oh yes I will Pony Boy.”

“What if I don’t have any cake?”

“You do. Your mum baked a chocolate cake last night.”

“Oh.....,” Forte replied, drumming the table with his hands, “Well we’ll have that then.”

Sunset beamed in delight, “Great, I’ll have some cream with mine.”

“I’ll just have it as it is.”

“You don't want cream with it?”

“No, well maybe.”

Forte finished eating his bacon double-cheeseburger and fries and the gang of ten were on the move again, this time going outside to have look in the shops in the high street. Snow had begun falling gently, giving a real Christmasy feel to the place. Christmas lights adorned shops windows and the high street itself. A few people were wearing Santa hats and reindeer antlers, with a few shop splaying festive music.

“It’s a bit cold,” Forte complained, “Glad I remembered these gloves. It wouldn’t have done our frostbite much good.”

“Not at all,” Sunset agreed, “I’ll be glad when our fingers are fully working again.”

“Agreed. I can move mine but they’re very limited in movement. I can grab things, but not play anything.”

“Don’t worry Forte,” Rainbow said, wrapping an arm around him, “You’re still in the band.”

“Thanks. Speaking of bands, are you three still in one?” 

Adagio, Sonata and Aria looked to Forte, grimacing looks on their faces as they remembered their action at the Battle of the Bands and the subsequent loss of their singing abilities. That loss hit the three of them hard as it was the one thing all three of them enjoyed. Fortunately, it was only temporary.

“We are, “ Adagio answered.

“Didn’t you lose your singing voices though?”

“Temporarily.”

“How did you get them back?”

“Naturally. Quicker than I expected actually, though we’re still a little rusty.”

“Good to hear, you three were actually really good.”

The three former sirens went wide eyed in surprise at the unexpected compliment and turned to their new friend.

"Thanks Forte!" Sonata exclaimed, "I bet you're pretty good too."

Forte shook his head dismissively, "Nah, I can't sing."

"You said earlier that you've never tried to," Sunset replied, "How can you be sure you can't?"

"I'm certain."

"But it's literally in your name, Heldentenor."

"Yeah I was hoping no-one would notice that."

"What is a heldentenor?" asked Rainbow.

"A opera singer with a rich, dark, powerful and dramatic voice," replied Rarity, "Their vocal range makes them suitable for heroic roles in opera, hence the name. 'Helden' being Germanian for 'Heroes'."

"Awesome!" Rainbow cheered in delight, "Can you speak Germanian Forte?"

"Ja. Ich habe deutsches Erbe durch die Seite meines Vaters. Sein Vater, mein Großvater, emigrierte in dieses Land, als er achtzehn Jahre alt war. Ich besuche Deutschey mindestens einmal im Jahr, um die Familie zu besuchen, die ich dort habe."

Everyone just looked at Forte, their faces glazed with confusion. 

Even Pinkie.

"What?" asked Rainbow.

Forte repeated what he said, but this time in Equish, "Yes. I have Germanian heritage through my father's side of the family. His father, my grandad, emigrated to this country when he was eighteen. I visit Germaney at least once a year to visit family I have there."

"I've never been to Germaney," replied Rainbow, "What's it like there?"

"Clean and tidy, but serious and unamusing. Did you know it's actually illegal to laugh and tell jokes in Germaney?"

"Really?" she asked.

"Yeah, it's why Germanians are so serious. YOU VILL OBEY ZE LAW OR YOU VILL BE SHOT!"

The girls all looked wide eyed at Forte, taken completely off guard by his sudden shouting and what specifically he said. Forte though, was oblivious to their reactions and was too busy laughing. After a few seconds he calmed down enough and saw the looks on their faces. All looking at him like he'd gone made. 

"Sorry girls, couldn't resist, I was only joking. Seriously though, Germanians aren't as serious as they're made out to be. Quite the opposite actually, many have a brilliant sense of humour."

"Well, you have Germanian heritage so there's nothing wrong with poking fun at yourself," Sunset said, "Think you could teach me a little Germanian?"

"Ja."

"Wunderbar," replied Sunset, " But back to what we were talking about, will you at least have a go at singing?"

Forte looked at Sunset's pleading eyes and warm smile. He was nervous enough about playing on stage but singing in front of others freaked him out no end. Fluttershy had over-confidence compared to him. But he'd be lying if he said he wasn't at all interested in singing.

Forte slowly nodded, "For you I will, but no solos. At least not yet."

"That's good enough for me," Sunset replied happily, giving Forte a hug.

"Speaking of Germaney, isn't there a Germanian Christmas Market tonight in the city centre?" asked Rarity.

Forte's eyes lit up in recognition, the event having slipped his mind with all that had happened. He would be more than eager to go and show the girls some of his Germanian heritage. 

"Yeah there is," he replied excitedly, "I forgot all about it."

"Well, shall we go?" asked Sunset to the group.

Everyone responded positively and nodded their heads.

"Then let's get going."





A few minutes later they had arrived at the market. The snow did little to stop people from visiting, if anything it only added to the festive scene. As soon as they entered the market area, their noses were filled with the smells of food ranging from freshly baked pretzels, Germanian bratwurst, popcorn amongst others. The bright Christmas lights dazzled their eyes as they entered the market.

"All this food is making me hungry," Forte said.

Sunset rolled her eyes, "Imagine my surprise. Are you ever not hungry?"

"Nope," he replied before spotting a food stand of interest, "I think I'll have a large pretzel. Come on Sunny, I'll buy you one as well."

Sunset wasn't hungry, but the smell of them was too good to resist, "Thank you."

"Are you lot coming?" he asked the other girls.

They all looked amongst themselves.

"We'll go off on our own, let you two spend a little time together," Rainbow replied.

The others nodded in agreement and soon left Forte and Sunset together. The two headed over to the pretzel stand and ordered a large pretzel each, Forte paying. They found a bench to sit down on and rest their legs, and to more easily eat their pretzels given all the shopping they had with them left their hands full.

"How are you feeling Sunny?"

"I'm good."

"No, I mean, how are you feeling?"

"Oh," Sunset winced, "You mean, how am coping after being kidnapped, tied up in an abandoned warehouse and beaten?"

Forte nodded.

"I'm coping well, better than I thought I would be. What about you?"

Forte sighed tiredly, "Pretty much the same. At least we have each other to get through it."

"Yeah, that definitely helps."

"And an assurance from the police that Gilda is facing a heavy sentence."

"I can't wait to find out how long she gets."

"A very long time hopefully," he laughed, "Now come on, let's eat these pretzels while they're still warm."





After sitting and chatting on the bench for around 15 minutes, Sunset and Forte were back on their feet and browsing around the market. Sunset did try sweet talking Forte into giving her her Christmas present early but Forte was unswayed. She would have to wait. But telling her caused her to pout, which Forte found cute.

They were walking along when they, or more specifically Forte, spotted a sweet stall selling all kinds of sweet confectionery. Forte half-dragged Sunset over and very quickly bought several large strawberry whips, a tub of white chocolate fish and chips and a large jar of alphabet letters. 

Forte also treated Sunset to some Parma Violets and liquorice allsorts.

After browsing at a few festive crafts at the various stalls, Forte and Sunset ran into familiar looking people outside a stall selling bratwurst hotdogs.

"Mum, Dad!"

"Hi sweetie, hi Sunset," replied Fioritura.

"Hi Fio, hi Travers."

"Sunset, enjoying yourselves tonight?"

"Very much."

"Are you two hungry?" asked Fio, "Do you want a bratwurst?"

"Yes please!" Forte replied quickly.

Sunset looked at Forte in disbelief, "You're still hungry?"

"Yeah."

"How can you still be hungry?"

"What has he had?" asked Travertine.

"Earlier he had a bacon double cheeseburger and fries, just a few minutes ago he a large pretzel, and even they were after all the party food at CHS. It's like his stomach is a never ending void."

"In my defence you've eaten the same as me tonight," he retorted, "Besides, a bratwurst sounds good right now."

"OK I'll have one as well, but then that'll be it for food tonight."

"So no chocolate cake with cream when we're snuggled up in bed together?" he asked with a cheeky grin.

"OK, maybe a bratwurst won't be the last thing I have tonight."

Fio ordered them both bratwurst hotdogs and the four of them went to find a table to sit down.

"So, what have you two been doing today, besides going to a school party?" asked Fio.

"We went to the shopping centre and bought a few things, I also got Sunset a Christmas present."

"That's nice of you. It looks like you've bought a few sweets as well," she finished, noting them in his bags.

"Yeah, well I thought I'd treat myself, and Sunset, to a few treats."

"That's fine. Oh, while you're here, what time will you be back tonight?"

Forte looked to Sunset how just shrugged her shoulders, "Whenever, I don't mind spending a little longer out."

"Then why don't we head back after we finish here?"

"Sure."

"Well we're headed back now," Fio said, "Would you like us to take your bags?"

"Yes please, it'll save carrying them around."

Travers moved around to pick up Forte's bags, "We'll see you both later then."

Fio moved around and gave Forte a hug and kiss on the cheek, "I'll see you later sweetie."

She then moved over to Sunset and surprised her with a hug and kiss on the cheek also, "See you later as well darling."

Sunset swelled up with happiness inside. Fio reminded her a lot about Celestia. Very caring and kind. Forte was exceptionally fortunate to have a mother like Fio. 

"See you later Fio," she replied gently.

Sunset and Fio watched as they walked away and were joined almost immediately by their friends.

"Hey guys," Rainbow said, "Great night huh?"

"It's been really good, the market's definitely got a Germanian vibe to it. Almost like we're in the Fatherland itself."

"So what are we doing now?" asked Rainbow.

"Have a look round a little more?" suggested Forte.

"Sure, plenty more to see."





After another hour of looking around the market it was getting late and the gang decided to call it a night. After saying goodbye to one another they went their separate ways, looking forward too seeing each other again at CHS after the weekend. Given the time of night and the weather, Forte and Sunset decided to get a taxi back to Forte's house. Arriving home in heavy snow the duo entered the house and quickly closed and locked the door behind them, glad to be in a warm environment again. 

"Mum! Dad! We're back!"

Fio was the one to come to the hallway.

"Hi sweetie, you both OK?"

"Yeah, we're good. Could you help us with our coats and shoes please? Our fingers are still a bit stiff."

"Sure."

Fio helped them take off their coats and hung them up on the hooks in the hallway and out their shoes on the rack. 

"I put your shopping in our room."

"Thanks mum."

"Are you two headed straight up?"

"Yeah. Can we have some of that chocolate cake you baked last night?"

"Course you can. You two head up and I'll bring you some. Do you want cream with it?"

"Yeah please, both of us. That OK with you Sunny?"

"That's OK, could I have a cup of tea as well please?"

"Certainly," Fio replied before turning to her son, "I don't think I need ask you."

Forte shook his head, "Nope."

Fio giggled, "Then two teas and cakes coming up."

Forte and Sunset headed upstairs whilst Fio headed to the kitchen. Forte and Sunset went into his bedroom and like his mother said, his shopping was on his bed. He walked over and took the sweets out and put them in a metal tin he had on the shelf of his bedside unit. He took out Sunset's Christmas present and put it on his desk. Sunset would have to wait another week or so before she could open it.

Sunset was temporarily living with Forte and his parents, at least until a more permanent arrangement could be made. Unbeknownst to Sunset, plans had already been set in motion that had gotten approval from Supreme Royal Justicar Amicus Lex. Though the surprise won't be revealed until Christmas day.

"I'm gonna get changed," she said, "Do you think you can not be a pervert and look away for minute or so?"

"I'll try but I won't promise anything."

A minute or so later Sunset was changed into nightwear, Forte having gotten a sock thrown at him for 'accidentally' looking.

Forte too changed into some pyjamas and the two were soon snuggled up together in bed, watching TV, their tea and cake on trays in front of them. 

"Anything good on?" asked Sunset.

"Let's have a look."

Forte had his own satellite box giving him a choice over several hundred channels. And still there was little interesting on.

"How about this, it shows you the development history of the Airbus A380?"

"Sure. Have you ever flown on one?"

"Yep. Usually economy premium but I've flown first class before."

"Is it good?"

"Oh yeah, my favourite thing was your own personal mini bar that raised out of the side at the push of a button."

Sunset giggled, "Boys and their toys." 

Forte pouted, "Girls and their........something."

Sunset giggled and began eating her cake. The chocolate melting in her mouth making her feel euphoric and unintentionally moan in pleasure.

"Would you two like to be alone?" Forte asked her with a cheeky grin.

"Yes, would you mind sleeping in another room tonight?"

"Yes, it's my room."

"Then you're going to have to share."

"It's going to be a crowded relationship with me, you and the cake," Forte teased.

"It's already a crowded relationship with me, you and your car," Sunset retorted.

"Touche."

Forte and Sunset continued eating their cake and watching the documentary, Sunset in particular being really fascinated with the technology and inspirational ideas that went into the design of the Titanic of the skies.

"It's hard to believe something so big can fly. I mean just look at the engines...and the wings! They're massive!"

"Yeah, what would the pegasi from your world think?"

"They'd probably be more shocked than I am."

The topic of Sunset's world brought another thought from Forte, one that had been on his mind on and off for weeks.

"I wonder what type of pony my counterpart is."

"Probably a pegasus, if you growing wings when you pony up is anything to go by."

"Cool. But unicorns are definitely cooler though."

Sunset snorted in amusement, "Brown noser. But yeah, being able to use magic is cool; but Pegasi have the ability to walk on and manipulate clouds and Earth ponies have far greater physical strength and endurance, so things are fairly even between the three races."

"Do you think I'll ever be able to see your world sometime?"

"I'd love to show you, I can hardly say no when I'm in your world. Though we should at least run it by Twilight first."

"I wonder what my parent's counterparts look like."

"Like ponies most likely."

"Ha ha ha," Forte deadpanned, "Speaking of counterparts, have you ever met your human self?"

The question took Sunset off guard. At no point had she ever thought about it. She had no idea what would happen if they ever met, or even if she had a counterpart to start with. 

"I don't know. I've never met her, or even thought about it. That's assuming I have a counterpart."

"What if you don't have one?"

"I don't think I'd be too bothered."

"There is one thing that's bugging me though, how did you get a National Insurance number and official documentation? I mean if you went up to the authorities and told them you were a unicorn from a magical land they'd probably throw you into a padded room complete with straight-jacket."

"I don't know, that's something I've never been able to work out. But, since no problems have arisen I didn't question it."

"What would you do if you did meet your counterpart?"

"I've no idea."

"Twilight's going to try and meet my pony counterpart, though I wonder if he'll believe her."





MEANWHILE IN EQUESTRIA

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA."

Twilight deadpanned as pony Forte just laughed hysterically at her. Forte noticed her expression.

"Wait, you're being serious? Let me laugh even harder!"

Pony Forte burst into laughter again, much to Twilight's annoyance. How hard was it to believe there was a magic mirror that lead to another world where there were pony counterparts who were bipedal talking apes that wore clothes?

Twilight sighed, "Come with me to my castle and I'll prove it to you."

"Really? How?"

"I have several pictures."

Pony Forte shrugged, "Sure, I've nothing else to do."

"Do you want to tell your parents first?"

Pony Forte froze. His face, a moment ago was of uproarious laughter, now was of deep hurt and sorrow.

"I live alone, I am 24 after all; the same as you," he replied, clearly hurt by something.

"Then why do you seem so upset?"

"My parents are dead," he replied bluntly.

"Dead?"

"Yes. My mother died of Horn Rot and my father was killed in a cave in."

Twilight was shocked to her core at the completely unexpected news. Biting her bottom lip, she nervously followed up with another question, "Where your parents called Fioritura and Travertine?"

"Yes. Despite my mother being a Unicorn and my father an Earth Pony, I was born a Pegasus."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I honestly didn't know," she said, placing a sympathetic hoof on his shoulder.

Pony Forte sighed tiredly, "It's OK. My dad died when I was nine, and my mum died just before I turned 16. This is the house they left me. Some unicorn nobles tried to acquire it considering I was under the legal age of 18, but Princess Celestia granted me special dispensation and allowed me to keep the house; though I did have frequent visits from Foal Services to be sure I was OK and if I ever needed help with anything."

"How did you afford to keep the place running at a young age?"

"My parents owned the house outright. My dad was a construction engineer and my mother a songsmith. They were relatively well off and in the will, left everything to me. I do have a job of my own though."

"What do yo do?"

"I play music in night clubs and pubs mostly. It doesn't pay a lot, but I don't really need the money. I could live on the compensation from my father's death alone, but to do so would dishonour and insult his memory. I am trying to put together my own club but prices here in Canterlot are astronomical."

"You could always try Ponyville? The rates are much lower and there's a unicorn DJ-"

"DJ-PON3."

"You know her?" Twilight asked.

"We were in the same music group, but I didn't care much for her style of music."

"Fair enough I guess. But back to the matter at hoof, do you want to come to Ponyville? As my personal guest?"

Forte smiled, "Sure, I'd love to."