There was a comfortable warmth on my back as I returned to the waking world Christmas morning. I felt an arm draped across my chest and I could fell the steady rise and fall of my partner's chest behind me. The sensations were all still relatively new and it still put a smile on my face. I cast my mind back to the morning after the Winter Ball.

Waking up that morning with Twilight and Sunset cuddling me had been pure bliss. We snuggled in bed for an hour, just listening to music on my radio. Sadly, we had to get out of bed all too soon since it was the last day of school. Fortunately, Spike had slept through the whole night and was more interested in the puzzle box than why Twilight wasn't in the room when he woke up.

Before she went back to Equestria, Twilight left us with strict instructions on how to record the operations of the puzzle box. She said it pained her to leave this mystery unsolved but her responsibilities couldn't be left any longer. She wished us luck and then she vanished through that portal. After school on the 23rd, Sunset and I spent that evening working on the puzzle box and managed to identify 25 more moving parts. There were several branching points which were going to make the puzzle an utter beast to sort out thanks to branching potential but Twilight's insistence that we document everything meant it should be only a matter of time.

We gave up at midnight and headed upstairs to our bedrooms. I just about to crawl into bed when there was a quiet knock before Sunset let herself in. She was in her modest purple pajamas with her cutie mark emblazoned on the front. She just took my hand and pulled me to my bed. Before I could even ask what was going on, she had settled in and pulled me down into her arms. Every night since, we hadn't slept alone.

I felt soft lips gently caress the back of my neck, sending shivers down my spine. “Happy Christmas Silver,” Sunset whispered over my shoulder. “Did you sleep well?”

“Yes I did,” I sighed. “You were right there with me all night after all. Plus I almost thought I felt your arms around me while we were poking around the astral plane.”

She squeezed me tighter and I felt her let out a satisfied sigh. “Good, so did I. And you're fine with not going any further than sleeping in the same bed?”

“Leaving aside the fact that we're also waiting until Twilight is also ready, I'm in no rush,” I replied. “I'm actually finding it oddly easy to manage my physical attraction to you and Twilight.”

“Even with me so close?” she said in a husky voice, as she breathed on my neck.

I rolled over to face her and kissed her on the lips. She leaned into the kiss, running her tongue along my lips.

“Well, I'll admit that makes it more challenging, but yeah, I'm managing in spite of your teasing.”

She giggled sheepishly. “Sorry, it's hard to resist playing. I wonder if that's your experience as a pony coming through a bit. Stallions tend to have pretty impressive self-control over their reactions to physical appearance. It's a matter of culture as well but there's a lot of biology helping things along.”

I pondered the possibility and nodded in agreement. “It makes sense. Honestly, with the company I keep, that's probably going to be a useful trait to have.”

Sunset raised her eyebrow at me. “Are you saying you find our friends attractive?”

I rolled over to the edge of the bed and reached underneath to grab a surprise for her. “I'm saying that I tend to spend my time surrounded by some of the most good-looking women I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. So I'm stuck wondering if the beauty next to me would like to leave off teasing me while she opens her Christmas present.”

“I think,- what-?” Sunset started speaking but she broke off when I pulled a box wrapped in some brightly colored paper out from under my bed and placed it on the bed. She stared at it and the label that was on the box.

She struggled to sit up, her eyes blinking away the remnants of sleep. Her hair was disheveled and she didn't have any makeup on. It wasn't necessary; in the morning winter sunshine, she was gorgeous in my eyes. I lifted the box into her lap and sat back to watch.

“You didn't have to do this you know,” she said as she examined the box. “You've given me so much already. Even a new place to live.”

I waved her off. “I told you, that was just the right thing to do. Christmas is supposed to be about giving to those you care for.”

“I suppose,” she replied while pulling at the paper. “Still I feel like I have to . . .”

She trailed off as the gift was revealed. Under the paper was a corporate box with the Wacom logo on the front. It was a medium-sized tablet for digital artwork. A fairly high-quality one from what I had found online. From the expression on her face, it looked like I had made the right choice.

“I've always wanted one of these,” she whispered. “How did you know I would even be interested in something like this?”

“When we were packing your place I tried to put some stuff in one of the boxes you had already partially filled,” I said, a bit embarrassed. “I was surprised to see it was more than half full of painting supplies. You never mentioned art as one of your interests so I didn't say anything at the time but I started paying more attention. You've scrounged up an incredible studio on your limited budget, haven't you?”

“It's one of my biggest secrets since it never fit with the image I was building,” she murmured, running her hand over the box. "All my research after arriving indicated that art didn't mix well with popularity and I've just gotten used to hiding it. I loved it even back in Equestria. Art had a freedom of expression that was lacking in the rigid studies of magic that consumed most of my time. I think the only time I wasn't totally consumed by my plans was when I was drawing or painting. Truth be told, watching people react to my art when they don't know it's mine has always been a small joy.”

“Not exactly . . .” she said sheepishly. “I've never shown anything I've painted on paper but you've probably seen a few of my pieces. I don't sign my own name because . . . can you keep this a secret?”

“Flanksy . . .” I repeated, staring at her. “Where have I- Wait, you're a street artist!? The Flanksy?! Those amazing paintings around town are yours?”

“Yeah,” she said blushing. “The name is an homage to my favorite human street artist and a play on my origins.”

“Well, you do have nice flanks as a pony so I suppose that makes sense,” I chuckled, earning me a light punch on the shoulder. “Ouch! Is that not an appropriate compliment?”

She wrapped her arms around me and planted several kisses on my cheek and neck. We held each other tight, enjoying the perfect moment. She sighed happily and pushed away to look at me.

“This really is a great gift,” she said. “I'm not sure if my computer will be able to handle something this modern but it's still awesome.”

That made me laugh. “Actually, I'd already considered that. There are two nearly new laptops in the office by the front door. I already got Microchips to help me clean them up so you can claim one if you need it. I already owned them but it's not like I can use two of them.”

Sunset shook her head and got out of bed “You're unbelievable. Seriously, come on, I've got something for you too but I didn't wrap it. It's in my room.”

Curious, I got up and followed her. I hadn't actually been inside her room since moving day. In spite of my offer, she had insisted that I keep the master bedroom. Granted we were sharing a bed now so it was kind of moot. The second bedroom had an old-fashioned window seat that overlooked the front yard of the house. She had stocked it with pillows, a blanket, and a few books. Her two guitars, one acoustic and her electric were in the corner with an amp and some headphones. Her bed and a dresser took up most of the rest of the space but there was one other corner.

In the other corner, I was surprised to see an easel with a large canvas on it. The whole thing was covered with a light cotton sheet. Another heavier sheet was spread out on the floor to protect the carpet from the paint. She gingerly walked over and stood beside it.

“The funny thing is, I was actually planning to tell you I was an artist today,” she said nervously. “I've been working on this for a while. So, here you go, I hope you like it.”

She stepped aside and pulled the cover off it. I froze, staring the painting as I tried to take in all the details. It was actually two pictures, almost mirror images of each other. On the left side was an incredibly detailed painting of me, Twilight and Sunset as humans walking with my parents across the courtyard of CHS towards the portal. On the other side, five ponies were trotting down a crystalline hallway past a window overlooking a pastoral scene. Sunset, Twilight and I were easily recognizable but the other two Thestrals were initially unfamiliar. One had dark gray fur and gold eyes with a sleek athletic build. The other Thestral was pale blue and had thick corded muscles. It only took a second for it to click together in my mind.

“That's what my parents might look like as Thestrals,” I mumbled. “How did you . . .”

“It wasn't hard to guess,” she replied hesitantly. “I saw photos of your parents when we unpacked. There are enough common features among our friends and their counterparts to make an educated guess. I think it's a safe bet your parents would both have become Thestrals if they ever visited Equestria. There are exceptions but ponies tend to be from the same tribe as their parents. Since Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy both got wings like their pegasus counterparts, I think I'm on the right track.”

I stared at the picture, gazing into the smiling laughing eyes of the five individuals on each side. Even though she had never met them. Somehow she had captured the vibrant love of life that characterized my parents perfectly. I felt a tear slip down my cheek.

“No, I'm just . . . I am absolutely floored Sunset,” I said, brushing the tears from my cheeks. I took her hand and kissed it. “This is an incredible gift.”

“No, not a demon; not ever again,” I said, shaking my head. “You captured a piece of my parents in paint even though you've never met them. My crimson and gold angel did amazing.”

I wrapped my arms around her and gently kissed her again. It went on and on as I tried to convey how much I appreciated what she had just done. When I broke the kiss, I ran my hand along the side of her face, admiring her stunning eyes. She was blushing furiously.

“So what do you want to do until it's time to head out for dinner?” I asked her gently.

She grabbed her journal with one hand and my arm with the other and started back towards my room. “Snuggling in bed for a couple hours while corresponding with Twilight. Maybe chilling with a show on Netflix as well. Then we can have a late breakfast before we get on with wrestling that puzzle box until it's time to go.”

I grinned and allowed myself to be headed back to bed. “Now that sounds like a nice, relaxing morning.”

Our Principal and Vice Principal lived in a medium-sized home on a large lot on the far side of Canterlot. Even with the snow, it was clear the yard had some lovely gardens and I suspected there was a pool in the backyard. Even though it wasn't a massive house, it looked extremely well taken care of and there were subtle signs that a fair amount of money had

In spite of her earlier confidence, Sunset was more than a bit nervous as we walked up to the front door. Before she could express that nervousness, the door swung open revealing the smiling face of Luna. She seemed much more relaxed than at school as she wrapped an arm around each of us. There was even a Santa hat perched on her head.

“Merry Christmas you two!” she said enthusiastically, escorting us inside. “Kick off your shoes and make yourselves at home in the living room. Everyone else should be here soon.”

Sunset and I crouched down to untie our shoes. We exchanged a bemused glance as we watched her bounce into the next room.

“That's just freaky,” Sunset muttered. “I've never seen Vice Principal Luna this cheerful.”

Before I could answer, Celestia poked her head around the corner with her usual serene smile. “My sister loves Christmas more than any holiday,” Celestia said. “It's good to see you, I'm glad you both decided to come.”

“Really?” Sunset asked, still dubious about her welcome. “I'm probably the worst delinquent CHS has ever hosted.”

“Perhaps, but I'm confident we're past that now,” Celestia replied. “Your actions since the formal have more than proven it in my eyes. Come sit down in the living room. We have something for you and someone we'd like you to meet.”

Sunset gave me a nervous look before following Celestia into the living room. Luna was already settled in on a couch next to Steel Rain who gave me a salute as I walked in. There was one other person in the room who I didn't recognize. She was watching us with cold green eyes as we walked in. She had steel grey skin, sea green hair and was wearing a black business jacket over a white shirt with a medium length black pencil skirt.

“This is Chrissi,” Celestia began as the lady stood up. "She's been a friend of ours since college."

“Chrysalis if you please,” She said sternly as she swayed over to us. “Cutesy nicknames are earned with me. So you're the Miss Shimmer who's given me reams of extra paperwork to burn. Did you really think your various mystical stunts went completely unnoticed?”

Sunset grimaced under her cold gaze. “I was a bit surprised there weren't any investigations. That was your doing?”

“Indeed,” she replied, eyeing us carefully. “You're quite lucky Celestia has friends in high places as it were. Such as someone who works for an . . . influential agency. Someone who could make a few more problematic reports simply vanish or even simply expedite a building permit.”

I stared at her, processing her implication. “Seriously? You did all that? Well then, thank you for helping.”

She grinned. “Oh, don't thank me yet. I haven't gotten to the best part. Celestia has asked for quite the favor recently and it was a trick to pull it off not once but twice.”

We both looked over at Principal Celestia who was holding two folders. She held one out to Sunset and the other to me. I took it but didn't open it right away. I watched Sunset open hers, revealing a stack of official paperwork.

“As of yesterday, Sunset Shimmer is registered as a foundling child, born 19 years ago in Eugene, Oregon,” Chrysalis said smugly. “As far as this world is concerned, you exist now.”

Sunset slumped down in a chair and I crouched down next to her. She pulled out a document that I recognized as a birth certificate. It had no parents listed but it had a date of birth and a location. As far as I could tell it was a real document. Underneath was a social security document also with her name on it, passport application forms, a driver's license application and several information pamphlets about medical insurance and other benefits she could never use before.”

“That's right kid,” Chrysalis chuckled. “You'll be able to get a job, pay taxes, get a real drivers license and even a passport. All the good and the bad that comes with being a citizen. The sooner you get a few of those documents through legitimate channels, the more solid your identity will become.”

Celestia crouched down next to Sunset. “When you told us you were from a different world, it occurred to us you must have been living a difficult life. I hope this will make it easier for you to live your life without fear no matter which world you choose to stay in.”

I looked down at the folder in my hand and flipped it open. To my surprise, there was a similar bundle of documents with the name Twilight Sparkle on them. I looked up at the three ladies who had somehow pulled off the impossible.

“We felt giving her the freedom to travel our world was an appropriate way to thank her,” Luna said. “She will simply have to apply for a passport like any other citizen.”

I crouched down and put my arm around Sunset shoulder. There were tears in her eyes when she turned her face to look at me but she was smiling through it.

“That is wonderful, love,” I said, brushing the tears from her cheeks. “I was more thinking how awesome it'll be if you and Twilight can come with me to Europe in the summer. I think a visit to Lost Haven might be a good place to visit while we're there.”

Sunset looked even more thrilled at the prospect and pulled me into a big hug. When she finally let go, I stood up and looked at the three women who had just provided a proper human identity to my two girlfriends.

“This gift is beyond anything we could have dreamed,” I said, bowing to them. “Thank you very much for taking this risk on our behalf.”

“I'm glad you recognize the value of my efforts,” Chrysalis said, her smile becoming surprisingly warm. “I must admit, it is rare for one in my line of work to receive genuine gratitude in person.”

“I'm sorry we didn't get you anything ma'am,” Sunset muttered. “It hardly seems fair.”

“It is far from necessary,” Celestia replied firmly. “Take this gift and use it to make yourself a life. You have a unique chance to make not one but two worlds a better place. It is our duty as your teachers to help you on that path and seeing you thrive will be the true gift.”

“Speak for yourself Tia,” Chrysalis retorted. “I do have a small request of your fair students.”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Magic obviously. I've seen a number of videos, even a few photos but I want to see the real thing. A small taste as it were. Don't worry, you can trust me.”

“You can,” Celestia sighed. “I don't like it but we need her if something else crops up. Keeping secrets is her job.”

I nodded and called upon Spark who manifested in my mind's eye. He glanced over at Chrysalis and rolled his eyes before nodding his agreement.

“Watch closely, I'm only doing this once,” I said before reaching out and taking his intangible hoof.

Fortunately, Chrysalis was more than satisfied with my demonstration and didn't ask for anything more. She was an odd lady, quite guarded with both her words and emotions. I suppose that came with her career that seemed to be something spy related. There was a great deal of conversation over the next half hour where Sunset and I learned almost nothing about the oddly guarded lady. That was when the doorbell rang.

“Ahh, finally. That must be Cadance and Shining Armor!” Luna said while Celestia walked over to the front door.

“I've looked forward to meeting this mysterious Cadance,” Sunset said to me. “I don't recall meeting anybody by that name back home.”

“There was only one princess when I left,” Sunset said shaking her head. “I mean, there was that other alicorn upstart that was at least part of the reason I started in on the idiocy with dark magic. I went out of my way to avoid talking to her and Princess Celestia didn't make much effort to put us in the same place. Only caught her name once, it was-”

A young woman with yellow, pink and purple hair walked into view, interrupting Sunset who had gone rigid. As usual, Cadance closely resembled her pony counterpart. She had a casual dress on and a friendly smile on her face.

“My goodness,” Cadance exclaimed as she looked over at Sunset. “I haven't heard that name in years! How on earth did you know it?”

Sunset was at a loss for words so I took her hand in mine. She was actually shaking with utter terror. I gave her hand a squeeze while she tried to come up with an answer. Fortunately, Luna had been listening to our exchange and came to Sunset's rescue.

“That was my fault,” Luna said cheerfully. “I was just telling them about your adoption and how you prefer your nickname over your legal name. Of course I had to tell them your real name. This is Sunset Shimmer and Silver Spark.”

“Y-y-yes,” Sunset stuttered. “I just thought I recognized your full name for a moment but it's clear I was mistaken. It's nice to meet you, ma'am.”

Cadance showed no sign that she recognized Sunset. “It's a pleasure to meet you as well dear. Please just call me Cadance. Sorry to spring this on you Auntie Luna but we had to bring one additional guest. Shining's parents had to drive up to Seattle to take care of Velvet's mother. She slipped on some ice and broke her leg.”

“Oh dear!” Luna exclaimed. “I hope she'll be ok, breaking a bone at her age is no joke! One more guest is no problem; we always have extra food for Christmas dinner. Who is it?”

At that moment a girl walked around the corner and I had to fight to keep my jaw from dropping like Sunset's had a moment earlier. The lavender-skinned girl looked like she was about our age. She was wearing a school uniform, complete with a long plaid skirt and a burgundy vest over a pale blue shirt. She had thick black rimmed glasses framing her purple eyes. Her navy blue hair was done up in a tight bun but the streaks of purple and pink were still quite visible as was the pink and white star that was pinning it in place.

“This is Twilight Sparkle,” Cadance said cheerfully. "She's Shining Armor's sister."

Twilight Sparkle of the human world waved to us nervously. Her posture almost reminded me of Fluttershy for a moment. Her shoulders were hunched a bit and her knees were twisted inwards. She didn't speak and didn't really look directly at us either. Stranger still, I was almost certain she was an inch or two shorter than Princess Twilight.

Hooo boy, this just got even more awkward.
No kidding. This is surreal.
We are sure lucky Twilight couldn't come.
Gonna have to think of her as a different person so we don't make any mistakes.
It might help if we think of her as Sparkle for now.
It's a start but we're gonna have to be careful.

Fortunately, dinner was served only a short time after Cadance, Shining Armor and Sparkle arrived. It gave me and Sunset a bit of time to come to terms with the unexpectedly complicated dinner guest. Sparkle was a quiet girl and the conversation mostly flowed between the adults in the room. Sparkle, Sunset and I kept off to one side, only answering the odd question when it was directed at us. It wasn't as awkward as I had feared but it wasn't exactly an easy meal either. I honestly had no idea what to say to Sparkle.

After dinner, Sunset and I excused ourselves to let the adults catch up without a pair of students listening in. Besides, Sunset and I needed to talk before things got out of hand. After we grabbed Sunset's bag from the front door we headed towards a relatively private corner in the backyard. There were a conservatory and greenhouse there that would be a good spot to chat. Unfortunately, someone else had the same idea and had beaten us to the punch. Sparkle was sitting at the table in the conservatory busily writing in a notebook with a steaming mug next to her. She slammed the book shut when we walked in.

“Hi,” Sunset replied, waving nervously “Sorry, I didn't realize someone was in here. We'll leave you be.”

She turned to leave but Sparkle suddenly turned to look at me. Her purple eyes were pleading behind her glasses. The same eyes as the girl I would be picking up at CHS in the morning. The sorrow in her eyes made my heart skip a beat. This was already getting a bit confusing.

When Sunset stopped, Sparkle pushed her glasses up her nose and sighed. “Please. I know CHS and Crystal Prep students don't get along as a rule but I've never seen any value in that attitude. I'm willing to forget about the whole rivalry thing if you are.”

Sunset and I exchanged a surprised glance. Sparkle raised an eyebrow at me when I shook my head and let out a quiet chuckle.

Twilight stiffened as I walked over and sat down in the chair across from her. That reaction was worrisome. It suggested this invitation was way out of her comfort zone and she was expecting me to throw it back in her face. It broke my heart a little seeing those frightened expressions on a face that so closely resembled our princess.

“I've only been at CHS for a few months,” I told her gently. “I wasn't even aware there was a rivalry significant enough to cause such distress.”

“The obsession over Crystal Prep at CHS hasn't really loomed large in my life either,” Sunset added as she pulled a chair of her own up. “Honestly it all seems just a bit counterproductive.”

Sparkle blinked a few times and sighed. “Well, that's one theory out the window. It seemed like the most logical explanation for your reaction when I entered the room. I'm not that weird looking, am I?”

“Oh, I'm so sorry for making you think that!” Sunset said quickly. “I . . . umm wasn't expecting to see anyone else our age at the dinner tonight, let alone someone in a CPA uniform. PlusI had already been caught off guard by Cadance who has an oddly familiar full name.”

I nodded my agreement, though I was slightly afraid to open my mouth and contribute to the story. Sunset was better at social interaction than I ever would be so it was best if I just followed her lead without messing up her narrative. A fancy word for a lie but it was necessary to keep our secrets. Sparkle was watching the two of us carefully and she finally just nodded. Her expression seemed wary but a tiny bit of tension seemed to leave her shoulders.

“Very well, I can accept that as a reasonable explanation,” Sparkle said quietly. “For the sake of a conversation with someone my age. At least you two are polite so far.”

“With pretty much everyone,” Sparkle said nervously adjusting her glasses again. “I don't like to boast but I'm at the top of every one of my classes. I mean nobody really gets along well a CPA because it's a competitive school but being at the top means everyone wants to bring you down. It's every student for themselves but it's really hard when you're the one in the lead.”

“That sounds awful,” I sympathized. “I had a similar experience when I started at CHS but I can't imagine living like that all the time.”

“Being isolated is no fun,” Sunset agreed. “I don't know what I would have done without my friends.”

Sparkle looked at the two of us, seeming surprised. “Wait, really? You don't have a problem with my intelligence?”

“Well, you didn't want to boast, right?” I asked cheerfully. “Seriously, why would that be a problem?”

“There better not be,” Sunset said, nudging me again with her shoulder. “Otherwise you are cut off from tutoring buster.”

“Never been a problem my love and never will be,” I replied, playfully squeezing her hand before looking back at Twilight. She was looking at us with wide-eyed surprise.

“W-wow,” She murmured. “That was really sweet. How many years have you two been dating?”

Sunset and I exchanged a look as I cast my mind back over the past weeks. As I began counting the days I felt my eyebrow raising. I looked over at Sunset with wide eyes.

Sunset looked equally surprised as she looked back at me. “Yeah, that's actually right. I asked you out on November 17^th, during the sleepover after the Battle of the Bands.”

If anything Sparkle looked ever more shocked than before. “How is that possible?” she asked in a stunned voice. “I'd swear you've been going out for a year or more.”

“Well, it's been a bit of a crazy fall for CHS,” Sunset said evasively “I guess we just clicked.”

Sparkle was looking at us quite curiously now. “You mean like when the front got blown of your school?”

I was desperate to change the subject before it started getting to specifics. The secret about magic and the portal was already getting spread far enough without bringing more complications in. At least not until Sunset and I had time to sort this out privately and confer with our friends.

“Yeah, kind of like that,” I said nervously. “So is there anything you can do to get away from the people bothering you at Crystal Prep Twilight?”

“I-I- Well I'm ummm, working on a theory that will p-potentially provide a new energy source,” Twilight stuttered while blushing a bit. “If I can refine my tools and theories on this energy, it should be enough to get me admission to the Everton Independent Study Program.”

She added something else under her breath but it was too quiet for normal humans to hear. Spark clearly heard her mutter “so I can get away from those embarrassing doppelganger jokes.” That little comment made the hair on the back of my neck prickle as I thought back to the unfortunate encounter with Sugarcoat. I found myself quietly praying Sparkle hadn't connected those rumors to me and Sunset.

“I've heard about that program, it's quite exclusive!” Sunset agreed, unaware of what I had heard. “I hope that will solve your problems. What's the nature of this energy you're looking for?”

“Oh . . . ummm, well I can't really share yet,” she said, covering her notebook protectively. “It's not that I don't trust you, it's just well, it could be huge and I can't . . . uh, risk the math getting out, even by accident. It's too important to my future.”

“Hey fair enough,” I said, trying to reassure her before Sunset could protest. “Everyone has a right to secrets. Seriously, I wish you the best of luck.”

Luna poked her head into the conservatory. “Oh, there you three are! We're going to start desert in a minute, so come join us before Tia eats all the cake!”

Sunset chuckled and shook her head. “I still can't believe how different she is away from school. It is so weird.”

“We'll be leaving right after dessert,” Twilight sighed. “This whole thing was last minute and I have to get home to feed Spike. It's terribly unfortunate because to my surprise I've actually enjoyed talking to you both. I wouldn't mind talking to you again but I don't know if it's worth the risk with how awful some of the CPA students can be about CHS.”

“I'm sure technology can rescue us,” Sunset smiled gently at her. “We can chat privately online or through texts. Plus, we'll see you at the Friendship Games. You going to participate or just watch?”

“R-right, the games,” Sparkle said nervously. “I'm going to watch. I'd probably just be a liability.”

“Don't sell yourself short,” I said as I pushed my chair away from the table. “You might surprise yourself. I think you should do what you're comfortable with. If the competition doesn't make you happy, then don't join in. I'm probably not going to join the CHS team either.”

“Really?” Sunset asked, surprised. “I thought you were going to try out for the CHS team with me and the girls.”

“Yeah, there's a reason you're tutoring me, love,” I sighed. “My strengths lie in the forge and in combat. Honestly, there's not much else beyond that these days.”

“I think you're selling yourself short as well but whatever works for you Silver,” Sunset said. “Come on Twilight, let's go get some dessert. Celestia is supposed to be quite the cake fiend so we'd better hurry.”

Sadly, that was all the time we really had to talk with Twilight Sparkle of the human world. She seemed even more reluctant to talk with the adults around. As she said, right after dessert she was on her way with Shining Armor and Cadance. We did exchange phone numbers with her and promised to get in touch in the New Year. It was going to be weird balancing any sort of friendship with Sparkle against our romantic relationship with Twilight.

Our brief conversation did have me worried about her life and about the behavior of students at Crystal Prep. It sounded like a toxic environment similar to the state CHS was in when I arrived. Actually, it might be even worse if the situation was being condoned or encouraged by the faculty. Sadly there wasn't much I could do other than being there to support her a bit.

We headed home a short time later after chatting briefly with everyone about the surprising personality differences between Princess Twilight and her human counterpart. We thanked Celestia, Luna, and Chrysalis again for giving Sunset a real chance to live in our world and promised we would put them to good use as soon as we returned from our trip.

We also promised to try and keep our magic under wraps as best we could for the sake of Chrysalis' sanity and ours. She warned us that covering up more magical incidents would be increasingly difficult. There were limits to what she could do to discourage unofficial investigations. Worse still, there was always the risk of a conspiracy theorist investigating in secret. If enough evidence was released all at once, there would be very little she could do to get the genie back in the bottle.

With that delightful worry added to the growing complexity of our lives, we made our way home.

Sunset and I had arrived at Applejack's place mid-morning with Princess Twilight. It was the Apple family's Boxing Day open house and it was an absolute zoo. In a flurry of greetings and introductions, we met Rarity's parents, Pinkie Pie's mother, father and her two sisters and Applejack's Aunt and Uncle Orange from New York. Even Aria, Adagio and Sonata were there, the former arm in arm with Big Mac much to Applejack's unspoken disgust.

Fortunately, the freezing weather had broken overnight, giving way to warm temperatures and sunny skies so the party could spill out on the back porch. When it came time to do the gift exchange with our friends, we took over the basement where we would be able to talk. It was absurdly crowded between the three Dazzlings, the Crusaders, Big Mac, Twilight, Sunset and the other Rainbooms but we somehow managed to squeeze in.

Gifts had changed hands in surprising numbers. Fluttershy had knitted wool hats for everyone, Pinkie had vouchers for everyone's favorite treat from the Sweet Shoppe. Even Adagio and Sonata had picked up some little things for everyone. Twilight stood up when there was a lull in the destruction of brightly colored parcels.

“Thank you all for your gifts and for inviting me to join you today,” she said. “I have a small gift for each of you that comes with an explanation.”

She handed a small box to the Crusaders and the other Rainbooms. She didn't hand anything to me or Sunset since Twilight had already told us she would be giving us our Hearthswarming gifts back in Equestria. The girls all tore into their parcels with great enthusiasm. Each box contained a simple silver necklace with a small pendant with a small colored gemstone that seemed appropriate to the person holding it.

“These are exquisite,” Rarity gushed as she lifted her necklace out and examined the sapphire gem. “I'm no expert but these look incredibly clear. I still find it hard to believe these are common in your world.”

“They're so common there's a complex evaluation scale for them,” Twilight explained. “Your counterpart actually gathered these for me. These are called enchanting grade gems.”

Rarity hummed curiously and slipped it around her neck. When she closed the clasp, everyone gasped with surprise. Her skin had turned silver and a hot pink streak appeared in her purple hair. She still looked mostly like herself but it was a startling change.

“Whaaaat?!” Rarity gasped as she dug through her purse for a mirror. “Oh my goodness, what have you done!”

“Excellent, it works in this world as well,” Twilight said with a satisfied look on her face. “Each of the pendants contains a minor disguise spell. It will adjust the color of your fur and manes when you wear it. It also ensures you will have a different cutie mark should you choose to accept my invitation. I have made the arrangements so each of you can visit Equestria should you desire.”

“Unfortunately, we have had several incidents with Changelings and other types of doppelgangers over the years. This will simply prevent any misunderstandings or unwarranted panic in Ponyville, particularly given the inevitability of you spending time with your counterparts. I can't allow any of you to visit without a guide and they will probably jump at the chance to take on that role. Since they work in this world, I believe I would be comfortable with you inviting your counterparts to this world as well if you feel so inclined. I leave that choice up to you.”

Twilight sighed but nodded. “Sunset believes you would benefit from the experience and I have to agree. Of course, you will have to travel with your siblings.”

There was quite a bit of excited conversation among the Rainbooms as the implications of the offer were discussed. Skin color shifted as pendants were put on and taken off. The color shifts were subtle, leaving each person recognizable but different enough to avoid looking like a twin. Meanwhile, the three Dazzlings exchanged melancholy glances with one another. That didn't go unnoticed by Twilight and she stepped over to face them.

“Sadly, I cannot offer you three the same gift,” Twilight said regretfully. “Not because you wouldn't be permitted to return but because I have yet to figure out if you can return safely. Since you weren't sent here through the mirror, I need to determine what spell Starswirl used to banish you. I will have to beg your patience until I figure out if there are any hazards left behind that could hurt or kill you if you try to travel through the portal.”

Adagio looked genuinely surprised. “You would truly allow us to return? Even with our history?”

“I haven't had much luck finding your whole history so I can't comment on that,” Twilight replied. “I know far more of Discord's questionable history and he is considered a reformed ally now. As far as I'm concerned, if you continue on the path you have chosen here then the answer is an unequivocal yes.”

“That is an unexpected surprise,” Adagio said as a grin appeared on her face.

I rolled my eyes as she rubbed her hands together like she was scheming. A toothy grin appeared on her face but there was a touch of mirth in her eyes. She really just couldn't help herself sometimes. Twilight also just rolled her eyes and pulled a scroll out of her bag. She held it out and watched Adagio's eyes with a serious expression on her face.

“This is a copy of a document I recently discovered buried in the restricted section of the archives. It's heavily censored but I've determined it's the record of a trial for a group of soldiers. They were charged with the destruction of a civilian town on the delta of the Canterhorn River shortly after Luna was banished to the moon.”

Sonata's eyes went wide and she gasped. “You told her Dagi!? Why couldn't you just leave the past buried.”

“Because you both want to know their fate as much as I do,” Adagio snapped. Her hand was actually shaking as she reached for the scroll. “For better or worse, these are the first answers to the one question that has haunted us for centuries.”

“According to the document, they were dishonorably discharged and given ten years in prison,” Twilight said as she handed it over. “The only reason they didn't get longer is the absence of evidence they actually killed anypony. I found it particularly fascinating that the leader of this unit blames a rash of arguments and minor mutinies for delaying their attack. According to him, those failures of discipline were the only reason they didn't get to execute any of the 'Nightmare loving sea monsters' as he called them. The city was completely empty when they torched it.”

Sonata stared at Twilight for a moment before jumping to her feet and pulling her into a big hug.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” Sonata whispered over and over again while Twilight gently patted her back. Adagio and Aria were looking over the document with wide eyes.

“It worked,” Adagio whispered quietly. “They all made it out in time. I wish we knew what happened to them after they left”

“I'm not done searching, especially now that I've found such an enticing clue,” Twilight reassured Adagio. “I will find the rest of the truth about what happened. When I do, I expect to be hearing from you.”

“Ah'm sorry, but what are ya talkin' about?” Applejack asked. “Ah' feel like ah'm missing something important here.”

“Not today apple girl,” Aria said in a surprisingly emotional voice, while Mac gave her hand a squeeze. “This was an incredible gift Princess but we need to digest this before we talk more. But we will talk.”

Applejack looked incredibly uncomfortable so I decided now was an appropriate time for a distraction. Fortunately, I had a perfect one considering the circumstances.

“So, would it be ok if I passed out my gifts next?” I asked. “You ready as well Aria?”

Aria wiped her arm across her face and nodded, so I walked over to the corner and pulled the blanket off a pile of boxes I had brought down here earlier in the day. Each box was a fairly long rectangular shape and I passed each one of the five Rainbooms and the Crusaders. Mac and the three Dazzlings only received envelopes but there was a good reason for the difference. Aria in the meantime handed out an envelope of her own to each person in the basement except me and Twilight.

“Wow Sivly,” Pinkie exclaimed as she ran her hands over the paper. “What is this!?”

There was a flurry of tearing and ripping noises as my friends tore through the paper. I was nervously waiting to see their reactions. The presents were a risk and I wasn't sure if they would appeal to the girls. Still, I had high hopes.

Rarity reached in and gingerly lifted a rapier with a classic bell guard. She held it up and rotated it to examine the design. There were etchings of a trio of diamonds in three equally spaced locations around the guard. The etching was intended to match her cutie mark and I was pleased to see them glitter in the basement light.

Fluttershy lifted up a similar rapier but this one had an open ring guard with the loops modified into the shape of several butterflies. Pinkie Pie's rapier was similar but with the metal shaped into a series of balloons. Rainbow Dash and Applejack each pulled out longswords with lightning and apple tree designs etched on the blade. Dash looked particularly excited as she ran her fingers over the etching on the blades.

“These are technically from me and my father,” I explained. “These are all swords he was building on before he passed on. I've been working on finishing them up for the past month and that's why I skipped all the sleepovers last week.”

“This Is AWESOME!” Dash finally exclaimed, holding the sword up high. “Thank you so much!”

“Ummm, Silver, what's with our swords?” Scootaloo asked. “These are really cool but it seems a bit odd.”

The three Crusaders each received smaller rapier appropriate to their smaller build and hands. The tip was blunted and the blade edge was slightly rounded instead of sharp. They each had a small etching on them identifying the owner but it wasn't nearly as elaborate as the ones I gave to their sisters.

“Those are training rapiers,” I explained. “You're a bit young for fully functional blades but those will let you practice safely.
Speaking of practice, I suggest everyone opens the gift from Aria.”

Everyone suddenly turned their attention back to Aria's envelopes. She glanced over and winked at me. I already knew what was inside since I helped her get the gift. I held up my fist to her and she bumped it.

“Oh mah goodness!” Applebloom exclaimed as she pulled out the piece of paper. “Eight free sword fighting classes with Steel Rain at the new dojo?!? Steel Rain was yer' mentor, right Silver?”

Aria had a predatory grin on her face. “I'll be helping with the class, so hope you can handle it!”

“You?” Dash asked incredulously. “You think you can teach me how to use a sword?!”

“Oh, she can teach you all right,” I replied before Aria could. “I've already learned a few tricks from her. If you show up on the first day the dojo is open I think you might get a hint at how lucky we were when they were our opponents.”

Rainbow Dash blinked a few times and looked at Aria again. “Well, alright then. Thank you for the gift Aria.”

I looked over at the three Dazzlings and Macintosh. “Those aren't quite I.O.U's but I suppose it's close enough. I did run out of time in spite of my best efforts and I wasn't entirely sure if a sword was appropriate for the four of you. Instead of simply making you a sword I'd like to offer some custom work. Whether it's finishing up one of the other swords in my shop or something else is up to you. We can talk after I get back from my holiday.”

“Sword fighting?” Fluttershy asked in a worried voice. “Oh my, I don't know if this is right for me, I'm not a warrior.”

“Think of it more like a sport like fencing or karate,” I reassured her. “The training session is a full body workout just like any martial arts. It's good for balance, core strength and agility. I think you'll like the rapier, it's a weapon that focuses on elegance and strategy over brute strength.”

“It sounds like it will be a lovely experience darling,” Rarity said. “Thank you, Silver and Aria!”

After we finished opening the presents the girls settled into an intense conversation focused on girl things. After a few minutes, Macintosh caught my eye and tilted his head towards the door. The two of us quietly made our escape and headed out to the back porch for some air. The late afternoon was warm and the snow was quickly melting away. Mac handed me a bottle of cider, then cracked one for himself. He leaned on the railing of the porch, staring out at the orchard and took a deep breath of the winter air.

“Funny we ain't talked much,” Mac said quietly. “You seem like you've got a sensible head on your shoulders.”

“Sometimes it feels like that's more an act than anything,” I snorted. “But yeah, it is odd we haven't chatted. Considering we both spend our lives surrounded by the same group of ladies, we might have something in common. Might be something to change going forward.”

“Suppose that could be a decent resolution for the New Year,” Mac chuckled. “Spend time with mah' brother seems like a good plan.”

I opened my mouth to ask him who his brother was but then I saw the look on his face. He was watching me and I felt a touch of shock overtake me as I realized who he was talking about.

“Y'all did your damndest to protect mah kin when I couldn't be there for 'em,” he said firmly. “Halloween, the Battle of the Bands and even the Formal. Every time, you stepped up and fought to protect AJ and Bloom. Y'all might not be an Apple by blood but you bled for mah kin. That makes ya mah brother in every way that really matters. If ya want that is.”

“I'd do it again in a heartbeat,” I mumbled, feeling quite self-conscious. “I've always wondered what it would be like to have a big brother.”

“Ya got one now,” Mac chuckled. “We'll hafta talk about your relationship choices some day. Yer a nut goin' out with two headstrong girls.”

“You're one to talk bro,” I laughed. “You're really going to date Aria?”

“Why?” I asked curiously. “Don't get me wrong, Aria's turned out to be pretty cool. Just seem like a surprising choice for you.”

Mac looked out over the orchard for a while, his eyes distant. Then he sighed and looked over at me. “Yah hafta understand, I wasn’t intendin' to be a farmer. Ah was away from home pursuin' a different life when ma and pa had their accident. I didn't hesitate to come back and pull mah' weight so Granny wasn’t alone in taking care of things. Ah’ settled into a nice routine and Ah've been pretty content just takin care of business.”

Mac was quiet for a moment so I took a sip of the cider, savoring the sweet flavor. As he continued staring at the orchard a small smile appeared on his face. He looked over at me with a small flicker of amusement in his eye.

“Aria sees things differently. Not just cause she's a thousand years old and from another world either. She just about drove AJ crazy when she visited but ah' felt like she was a breath of fresh air. She questions everything, 'specially if it don't make sense to her. Gotta be able to defend yer views with her.”

He chuckled. “Eeyup. Ah' can respect a girl who don't back down till she's had her opinion heard. She always says what she means and never avoids the truth even if she's a mite rude. Honestly, it reminds me a bit of Granny sometimes but only with me and AJ. She respects Granny well enough and is nice to Bloom. Doesn't hurt that's she's easy on the eyes either. We'll go out on a few dates and see what happens.”

We clicked our bottles together and took another drink of the cider. We both just watched the orchard quietly. At that moment the world seemed so peaceful, my heart felt the lightest it had been since before I lost everything. There would be more chances to connect with my new brother when the New Year rolled around. Right at this moment, it didn't feel like any words were needed.

For about fifteen minutes we just enjoyed the cool winter afternoon. The silence was finally broken by the back door opening. We turned to see who it was and I felt my worries spike when I realized it was Pinkie's father. He had a frown on his face and his eyes were stern. He looked quite imposing in his suit and tie. Maud's warning a few days earlier suddenly came to mind and I realized the moment had come.

“Macintosh Apple, would you please step inside?” he said coolly. “I need to speak with this boy in private.”

“Yessir,” Mac replied deferentially. He gave me a worried glance and then hurried into the house, leaving me facing the stern, cold face of Mr. Igneous Rock Pie.

I looked at him, trying to treat him as I would Steel Rain while in training. “Sir, Pinkie is a dear friend who helped me pull my life back together when I was in a bad place. I intend to do everything in my power to treat her and our friends with the same kindness they have shown me.”

“Hmph,” he snorted. “So according to Maud, you have spent several nights under the same roof as my daughter and her friends. Have you been sneaking peeks at the young ladies or taking advantage of them, boy?”

“No sir, I would never disrespect any of my friends by doing such a thing!” I said firmly, never breaking eye contact. “I owe them my life. To dishonor the incredible trust they have given me for a moment of crass voyeurism would be reprehensible. I swear to you, I have never and will never disrespect your daughter.”

He looked slightly mollified, possibly because I didn't back down. Unfortunately, he didn't seem completely convinced.

“Very well but I will be verifying your words,” he grumbled. “This all goes against everything I believe in. Maud has already spoken positively of your character but a boy spending time among so many young ladies . . . It's not appropriate."

He glared at me for a moment and I feared I had overstepped my bounds for a moment. Then his eyes softened and he sighed. “When my work forced us to move across the country, she was devastated. I truly feared I would lose my daughter at that time. Fortunately, Maud was already planning to stay and attend college here so she offered to allow Pinkamena to say here with her. It saved my family but in a way, I still lost Pinkamena. I fear she resents me for choosing my career over keeping my family together.”

“As far as I can tell, Pinkie's goal in life is to share the happiness she feels with everyone around her,” I said. “She misses you Sir but I have never heard one word of resentment when she speaks about you. Pinkie is far wiser than her bubbly exterior lets on and she knows you did what you had to do.”

“Indeed she is and it is fortunate that you recognize that fact,” he grunted. “Very well. I am still displeased about the inappropriate closeness you seem to share with my daughter but I will not press the issue. Still, we will have words if you violate my daughter's trust, boy.”

I didn't reply immediately. Instead, I watched the orchard for a moment, contemplating what I would do if I really messed up. It was an easy conclusion to come too even if I wasn't entirely thrilled about the implied threat.

“If it comes to that, I will accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate, Sir,” I murmured. “I doubt it'll come close what I'll do to myself if I mess up and lose their trust.”

Mr. Pie didn't say anything and I didn't turn to look at him. I just watched the snowy orchard, keeping a calm face until he turned and walked back into the house without another word. Once I heard the door slam, my hand went up to my eyes and I wiped away the moisture that had begun to gather there. I almost jumped out of my skin when an arm snaked around my shoulders. A pink bundle of cotton candy hair brushed against my shoulder and a hand brushed a tear off my cheek.

“Oooh, he was mean to you wasn't he?” Pinkie huffed. “You look sad, I don't like it when daddy makes my friend sad. I should go give him a piece of my- eeek! That tickled!”

She seemed uncharacteristically angry so I wrapped my arm around her waist while she was ranting. She let out a cute little squeak of surprise and then leaned against me.

“Your father didn't say anything that I disagree with Pinkie,” I said to calm her. “I might not have liked his approach said but his concern was entirely for you. I respect that. You know you have a father who loves you very much, right?”

“Yes but it's nice to hear from you,” she replied, more calmly now. “Daddy is such a stickler for propriety and proper relationships between boys and girls. He's all, hands to yourself, don't wear short skirts, don't sleep in the same room as boys, blah, blah, blah. I'm not going to do anything dumb; I just wish he'd relax and let me have my friends.”

I hugged her gently and leaned my head on top of hers. “I think he knows that Pinkie. Fathers worry. Besides, it's not like he told me to stay away from you. Just got a 'treat my daughter and her friends with respect' lecture. Let me know if I'm ever crossing a line.”

“I will Silvy,” she promised. “Now come on silly! Your girlfriends were wondering where you went!”

She broke out of the hug and dragged me back inside before I could protest. Not that I was really annoyed with her. Pinkie was a good friend and it was about time I got back to spending some time with all of them. In just a few short hours I would be heading to another world.

Finding a Place

by Battlecat

Chapter 43 - To Celebrate