//------------------------------// // 6 // Story: Dragon's Anon-a-Miss // by Anonomis //------------------------------// Monday saw CHS being closed for the start of Winter Vacation; which would end in January around the 15th. The unspoken unanimous decision of the students were to spend as much of time playing games and relaxing before to class. “Brian; what did you have planned for Hearth’s Warming, err; Christmas,” Sunset asked curiously “I honestly didn't have a plan. If you want; we could get each other a gift with free reign.” “What do you mean by that?” “Instead of us going to the mall together; we go separately and look for something for the other. That way neither of us get an idea as to what areas the other went to.” “If that's the case; I'd like to return home temporarily. I haven't seen Equestria in quite some time. Since you've seen my contact book with Twilight; I'll send you a message through it to let you know when I'm on my way through the portal,” she commented “That's fine with me. Be safe when you go over there.” “I will; but thanks for caring. I'll leave tomorrow and will probably be gone two or three days,” she said, hugging him ● SUNSET’S VACATION ● The next day; a simple breakfast of omelets and sausage was made before Brian escorted her to the school to use the portal. A quick message to Twilight was written; so she knew what was happening. “Alright; Brian. I'll see you in a few days.” “Have fun. I hope one of these days I can visit your home,” he said “You will. Take care and don’t do anything too crazy.” “I can assure you that's not going to happen. See you soon.” After saying her temporarily goodbyes; Sunset finally headed through the portal. Once on the other side; it took a moment to remember she had four hooves to get used to. Looking around; the room was one of the umpteen crystal rooms in Twilight’s castle; but as to which one, she couldn't answer. “It's been so long since you've been here,” a voice said, entering the room “I'm sorry for my actions years ago; mom.” “You have made up for that already,” Celestia replied, hugging her “You have made friends over there and survived for years.” “Well; my friends have changed slightly.” “Speaking of; what's been going on since I left,” Twilight asked “The five tried to make up to me by throwing a party at Brian's house. I'm still not happy about them abandoning me without reason.” “At least you have someone close,” Twilight teased “My daughter has a hooman coltfriend,” Celestia inquired “It's pronounced ‘human’ mom. But I'm not sure about him being my boyfriend.” “I had to have a joke; my little Sunshine. But I am curious as to why you don't like him.” “It's not that I don’t; but I just haven't said anything about it to Brian.” “You're afraid he's going to say that he doesn't like you back,” Discord mused, popping into the room “Yeah. With our version of Hearth’s Warming approaching soon; I'll confess to him and hope for the best,” Sunset said with a sigh “What exactly brought you back to Equestria,” Twilight asked “I wanted to get a gift for him that was truly unique. I thought about something with gems might do.” “Gemstones? I'll take you over to Carousel Boutique. Rarity has made a few outfits with gems sewn in,” Twilight said cheerfully “I'm glad to have someone showing me around because I am lost in this castle. It'll be worse in town wondering around without a clue.” “I'm glad to help out,” Twilight said “Follow me.” “We'll leave you two alone for now. It's good to see you again; sweetheart,” Discord said, before he and Celestia left After her parents were gone; Twilight led Sunset out of the room and towards the main portion of the castle. “Why'd you have to place the mirror on the fifth floor?” “Originally; I thought it was easier to keep it out of the way. Anyone wanting to use it has to head further into the castle; making it easier to get lost,” Twilight replied “What about teleporting oneself to their destination?” “There are spells that prevent that from happening. Any teleportation results in returning to the ground floor.” Now armed with that knowledge; Sunset stopped for a moment on the step she was on. Concentrating on the ground floor; her horn ignited as she cast the spell. “Why didn't I think of that,” Twilight said out loud “I'll just fly down.” Seconds after Sunset made it to her destination; Twilight was just starting to lower herself to the ground from the short flight. “I forgot about taking the easy way. Especially when the bedrooms are on the second floor,” Twilight said “It's alright. I'm glad to get a chance to work on spells after being a human for so long.” With no other distractions; Sunset would finally be shown around Ponyville. She found herself constantly looking around at the difference between worlds as wood buildings took the place of brick and mortar. “That's Sugarcube Corner where Pinkie works,” Twilight pointed out “Good to see some things are similar.” “Well; we've reached our destination. Rarity’s Carousel Boutique. I'll help out if you need it,” Twilight commented “Thanks. I just might need it; as this is likely to be complicated.” “Welcome to Carousel Boutique. Where everything is chic, unique and magnifique,” Rarity said as the two entered “What can I do for you Sunset?” “I was wondering if you could help me with creating a few necklaces to be a gift.” “A necklace? That is something I can do; but it is uncommon. What would you like for it,” Rarity inquired “I was hoping the two could be made out of gemstones. The first is to be based on my cutie mark; but the other is just an idea.” “The pony you're wanting it for doesn't have a cutie mark,” Rarity realized “No; or at least not one I know of. It's for the human male I'm staying with on the other side of the portal. I'm creating it based on what I'd believe it to be.” “That's fine. I have boxes of stones that have never been used. I'll be happy to make you the necklaces,” Rarity said “To make things easier; I'll summon two big sheets of paper to use as a template,” Twilight suggested “Thanks Twi. I'll start getting that drawn.” Sunset summoned a mirror to see her own cutie mark as Twilight summoned the paper. Drawing her own was easy as simple notes of color was placed inside the areas. From what she knew of her friend; Brian played music and wrote little observations about what he'd seen or learned. Starting slowly; an old fashioned scroll was drawn that could represent his notes or drawing as a pencil was added as a writing utensil. After hearing him play; a musical note was drawn to recognize that ability. “I'll start with yours first; Sunset. I take it you'd want two necklaces each? One set for yourself and the other for your friend,” Rarity commented “Yes please. I'll help as much as I can.” “Thank you. With us working together; it should go faster,” Rarity said “Just curious; but how's this going to work?” “We'll use the paper templates and fill them in with stones. Afterwards; I'll fuse them together with my magic and shrink them to a more manageable size,” Twilight answered “When we finish both of them; I'll make the necessary copies.” “I'll grab the cases of gems,” Rarity said After leaving the room momentarily; a series of boxes were levitated inside and placed in a corner. Each were marked with their contents on the side. “We'll use amber and ruby for your necklace,” Rarity decided Over the next couple hours; the three managed to completely finish the entire design. Upon reaching the pointed areas on the design; Twilight had to cut the gems to fit using her magic. She used a spell that would fuse the stones together into one seamless mass before it was shrunk. In the end; the final design had a length of three inches and width of two inches. “One down; one to go.” “Indeed. I suggest we take a break in the meantime,” Rarity suggested “I will see you two later. I'm going to return to the castle,” Twilight said “See you later Twi.” “So tell me; how did you meet him,” Rarity asked “Your friend; I mean.” “Brian saved me.” “I'd have to have a little more detail than that; darling.” “Long story short: your counterparts had secrets posted about them and thought I did it. Dash shoved me to the floor while other students looked on. Brian stuck an arm out and helped me to my feet. Later on; he took me to his house and let me stay. The younger sibling of the counterparts were the culprits.” “Gabby Gums again. Such a shame that it happened in the first time,” she mused “I'm trying to forgive them; but it still hurts.” “I know how you feel. We abandoned Twilight during her brother's wedding and I still get reminded of it. In hindsight; we really should have listened to our friend we've known for years over the stranger we came to see,” Rarity said, hugging Sunset “There's a human saying that time heals all wounds; and I'd like to believe it's true. Broken trust isn't going to mend itself overnight. I'll forgive them eventually when they've proven I can trust them.” “When you're ready; let's get the other design done. We can't mope all day. It's unladylike,” Rarity decided with a determined look on her face “You're right. Thank you for the confidence.” “Since this design is a bit more challenging; how do you want to start this,” Rarity asked “The music note will be black.” “So; onyx for that,” Rarity mused, a box opening up automatically “Anything else next?” “The pencil is mix of colors. The top will be pink; followed by a gray section under that; while the main shaft is yellow. Finally; the very tip will be black.” “What about the section between the tip and shaft? You didn't mention that.” “I don't know. We can use white there.” “Alright. We'll get the center done first,” Rarity decided Wanting to use her magic a bit more; Sunset levitated some of the onyx pieces from the box and set to work. Rarity removed a few pieces of rose quartz to place as the eraser. Hematite became the metal securing band as amber was used for the body. Rarity left the room to retrieve a much smaller box. A single white stone was removed and placed near the bottom, before a piece of onyx was the sharpened tip. “What's that white one?” “Moonstone. Princess Luna gave us a few pieces and they,” Rarity started “They contain a very small portion of actual moon rock,” a voice finished “Twilight said I'd find my niece here.” “Aunt Luna. It's been quite a while since I've seen you.” “I'm sure your coltfriend will like that necklace. Just promise me I'll get to meet him,” Luna joked, hugging Sunset “I promise Brian will visit Equestria. It will probably be in the future after school ends. That will be when we graduate high school. “That's fine. We'll wait for your visit to occur. Take care girls,” Luna said, teleporting to Twilight’s castle “Now that the center's done; we can tackle the hard part.” “I was thinking about that. This is a scroll; right,” Rarity inquired “Yes. What are you thinking about?” “Tiger's eye stones for the center area. As for the coiled parts; there's a similar one known as cat's eye scapolite. The handles will be bronze,” Rarity suggested "It'll give the illusion of aged paper with the lines in it." “Are you sure about using bronze in the necklace?” “Sorry for the interruption girls. Here are some custom pieces that will do,” Discord said, popping into the room with Twilight “Thank you for bringing me here; Discord. I needed to get away from stupid ponies,” Twilight said, letting out a sigh While the others were talking; Rarity set out placing the stones on the diagram. She used a spell to resize pieces of similar design to make sure it felt seamless. Almost an hour later, the last piece was placed. “Finished. And if I do say so myself; both look beautiful,” Rarity said “They certainly are. Thank you for allowing me to help; Rarity.” For a second time; Twilight used the spell to fuse the design before shrinking it to exactly the same dimensions as the other. Both necklaces were placed together and they were copied flawlessly. “And four chains to hang them on,” Discord said, pulling four pieces from his mouth “These of course are special.” “Special how,” Twilight and Sunset asked together “Once they have been put on by the wielder; only that person can remove them. In other words; think of it as an anti-theft system,” Discord explained “We can't forget a box to put them in as well.” “Thank you so very much; dad. Twilight, Rarity; I can't thank you enough for making these necklaces.” “I'm happy to make them with you. Your friend will love these,” Rarity said cheerfully “What do you want to do now,” Twilight asked “Actually, if it's alright with you my dear Twilight; Celestia and I would like to spend some time with our daughter before she leaves,” Discord answered “Tomorrow is Hearths Warming after all.” “I actually forgot when it happens.” Discord placed a hand on Sunset’s back and teleported the two away as she clutched the box. They ended up inside Canterlot’s throne room in front of an ongoing meeting with a noble during night court. “We need to do something about excess,” the noble started “I'm sorry; but I object to your complaint,” Discord said, snapping his fingers “Where did you send him,” Celestia inquired “His home. Besides; family comes first,” Discord answered casually “Due to the lateness of the hour; we suppose a family gathering should take place tomorrow. Court has been canceled on account of Hearth’s Warming,” Luna suggested “You did it again Lulu. Using the royal ‘We’,” Celestia joked “I did; but it is true. Your room is upstairs Sunset,” Luna replied Once Sunset was led to her room; she had to look around. In one corner sat the shell of the phoenix she hatched for a test as her mom had Philomena in her room. Another wall was dedicated to books as she remembered all the studying she did. Being in there caused her to burst into tears. “I'm such a bucking screw-up,” she cried, burying her face in a pillow After releasing the pent up sadness; she rolled over and fell asleep as Luna decided to check on her dreams. ○DREAMREALM○ Luna watched an unfamiliar area form and what she figured were the human counterparts of her niece's friends emerged as they surrounded Sunset. Sunset appeared in her demon form against her friends, before their faces morphed into twisted versions of themselves. “Please. I've tried to change,” Sunset begged, on her knees “You're a demon. We could never be friends with the likes of you,” was the collective reply in a monotone voice “Come on. I've got you,” a male said reassuringly Luna watched as a male cloaked in black helped Sunset to her feet. To her surprise; the cloak changed into black angel wings that surrounded Sunset as she reverted back to her human self. “Aunt Luna,” the real Sunset mused “I didn't expect you to see that.” “I'm sorry you went through that; but I'm curious as to how long this has been going on for? You may have made mistakes; but you've grown up. Look at the good things that have happened.” “Thank you. It's hard to see the good things through the fog of mistakes. The dreams have persisted for a couple weeks; but this version was recent.” “You see him as a friend?” “Outwardly; I do see Brian as a friend. But honestly; he's my dark-cloaked savior. An angel with black wings that's not a Fallen.” “Make sure you tell him about these feelings. You'll never know what he thinks if you don't ask.” “I promise. When I get home; I'll tell him on Christmas. It's the human version of Hearth’s Warming.” “If you've gotten rid of your sadness; may you have sweet dreams. I won't influence them, but hope you create them.” “Goodnight Aunt Luna.” □THE NEXT DAY□ “Wake up Sunset,” Celestia said, knocking on the door “Sleep well,” Discord asked “Not really. Just being back here reminded me of how much I screwed up. I thought I knew everything when I was a filly; only to know nothing. I left when I didn't get my way in becoming an alicorn and had to survive in another world for years.” “It's alright. I made mistakes with my daughter as well. I should have explained that you had potential to become an alicorn and tried to prepare you for it. I only saw you as a student the entire time; and never once as my daughter,” Celestia replied sadly “What about Twilight? Did you ever feel she was my replacement?” “I told her about the fact I had a previous student; but couldn't tell her it was my daughter. Twilight understood that she wasn't there to take your place but to learn,” she added A puff of smoke appeared around Discord before he vanished. In his place was a green earth pony with black and white hair and mane. His cutie mare consisted of a clockwise spiral that became counter-clockwise at the end. “I haven't taken this form in some time,” the pony mused “Just who are you?” “I'm still your father. This was what I looked like some time ago,” Discord answered “What happened that…?” “That caused me to change? I honestly don't know. It's been thousands of years since I was turned into the epitome of Chaos to remember,” he added “You look dashing either way,” Celestia said, nuzzling her husband “How's Philomena?” “She missed you after you left. Wouldn't leave your room for weeks until she realized her mom wasn't returning,” Celestia answered “On another subject; let's enjoy the day,” Luna said “You're right; sister. This should be a day of celebration,” Celestia replied “Happy Hearth’s Warming.” “To you all as well. I don't have anything to give you for a gift.” “Just you being here is plenty,” Discord countered “He's right. Family is more important than any gift,” Celestia added “Make sure you keep your promise when you return,” Luna chimed in “I will. I'll be returning home tomorrow.” For the reminder of the day; all four spent time however they wanted as Celestia and Luna decided to teach Sunset some new spells so she wouldn't forget how to cast them. Discord returned to his usual form and started to make simple pranks in order to cheer his daughter up. That evening; she was flown to Twilight’s castle to spend the last bit of time before returning. “Sunset; welcome back,” Twilight said with a hug “So you're heading home soon,” Fluttershy asked “Twi told us about what happened. I'd like to give the human me a piece of my mind,” Dash said with a scowl “As much as I'd like to see it; I'm going to have to reject your offer; Dash. It's enough that Twilight has come over even though I haven't seen her counterpart; but the rest of you might cause major problems.” “Plus; we don't know what you girls would look like,” Twilight added “The wrong one could pass through unintentionally.” “Do you happen to have a spare room? I was hoping to stay here before I leave in the morning.” “Of course. You are planning on letting him know right,” Twilight asked “Will y'all quit playing games and tell us who you're talking about,” an indigent Applejack asked “A male friend I'm staying with; Brian Dragnov.” “I hate to be rude; but I need to get home and feed my animals,” Fluttershy said “Take care girls.” “I'm gonna get home myself. There's plenty to do on the farm tomorrow,” AJ said “And the clouds need to get cleaned,” Dash added “Have a good night everyone. I'll see you tomorrow,” Twilight said before they left “Hiya Sunset. I'm Starlight Glimmer; Twilight’s student,” she commented “It's nice to meet you; Starlight. Reformed villain; I'd guess?” “Yeah. I ruled over a village in which all the citizens were equal. Wanting more; I tried to change time and sent Twilight through various versions,” Starlight answered, rubbing the back of her head “Big mistake.” “Damn. And I thought trying to take over another world with the power of teenagers was bad. At least nothing bad happened and everything was fixed.” Sunset found herself having a dreamless sleep as she didn't want to be reminded of her mistakes. All that mattered was the fact that she had changed whether anyone saw it or not. The next morning she got ready to head home as she clutched the box with her gift. “Twi; can I use the book for a moment?” “Of course. Here you are,” she replied Brian: I hope you've been alright these past few days. I wanted to inform you that I'm heading through the portal and will wait for your arrival -Sunset Shimmer Thanks for informing me. I'm just about to leave now. Is there anything you'd need me to bring? My backpack if it's not a problem “Thank you for everything these past few days; Twilight. I'll return to Equestria some time soon.” “Take your time with school. Keep me informed of the goings on,” she replaced “Just don’t wait so long to answer.” “Unless it's a major emergency; I'll try to write back soon,” Twilight joked Not wanting to wait any longer; Sunset headed through the portal. Once on the other side; she had to remind herself to stand on two legs. She was lucky that it wasn't too much of a wait until Brian got there. ● BRIAN’S VACATION ● After Sunset headed through the portal to Equestria; Brian waited a moment before leaving the school. His first stop was to the bank to withdraw the money necessary. Before his parents died; it was agreed to have his name added to their bank account in the event something happened. With the amount of money saved away; his mom didn't need to worry about much. He figured that $500 should be enough for anything he bought and still leave plenty in reserve. Having finished the easy part of the day; the next thing was to head to the mall. “Damn. I honestly don't know all that much about her,” he muttered to himself “This'll be a pain in the ass.” “Excuse me good sir,” a voice called “My brother and I couldn't help but notice your predicament,” another added “I'm Flim and this here's my brother Flam. If you're looking for a gift for a special girl, you've come to the right place,” Flim said “Now just head inside here and we'll relieve you of your money,” Flam added, “Err; help you with your gift problems.” Out of the corner of his eye; Brian watched Flim placing one hand on his shoulder while the other started reaching for Brian's wallet as it gently moved his trench coat away. “Remove your hands from me or you'll find them broken. I'm not letting a pair of con artists steal from me.” Knowing the threat to probably be genuine; Flim did as he was told as Brian walked away. Neither brother expected any retaliation from a potential victim. In fact; the idea was to steal their wallet and try to sell it back to the customer for however much might be in the wallet. Once Brian left the area; a security guard was notified about the potential theft from the brothers. It would be dealt with quietly so other guests aren't alerted. “Now that's done; I'm still at a damn loss,” he muttered “Need help,” a voice asked “Brian; isn't it?” “It is. I'm all for help Flash.” “Although we were together for a short time; I could probably offer some advice. Since you're an observant fella; think about what you've seen,” Flash answered cryptically “See you around. And good luck.” Wanting to get an idea; he made his way to a store locator. Clothing and shoe stores were eliminated due to not knowing Sunset’s measurements for either. The few toy stores were a possibility depending on if there was something of interest or not. Flash’s hint reminded him about a habit Sunset has. On numerous occasions in school, she would hum songs to herself while drumming her fingers. After a while; he noticed the drumming wasn't random; but the actual pattern the guitarist was playing. Now armed with an actual destination; he made a beeline towards the shop. “Welcome to Melodys. How may I help you,” the cashier inquired “You're a student at CHS. I've see you with Sunset a lot. The name's Vinyl Scratch.” “Brian Dragnov. I was interested in getting a guitar.” “Acoustic or electric?” “Acoustic for now.” “Back left side. Let me know if you need anything,” Vinyl added In front of the area was an inventory guide with everything inside and cards to designate which item was desired. While flipping through the book; one guitar stood out to him. The paint job consisted of a white top that blended into a blue bottom. Seeing that one; the card was immediately removed and handed over. “This one? It's definitely beautiful; in fact it was a limited edition paintjob,” she commented “Give me a moment to retrieve it.” Vinyl headed into the storage room and returned a few minutes later with the case in hand. “It'll be $150. I could add a little decoration to this if you'd want,” Vinyl said as she rang it up “If it's not too much trouble. I wanted to add ‘Sunset’ on the fretboard and have a clear coat added over the design.” “None at all. I'll have it finished by tonight and wrapped up for you. Could I get your address so I can give it to you?” Brian wrote down his address down as Vinyl slipped it inside the case. Once her partner arrived; she would head into the mall's workshop and start. “Sorry I'm late,” Octavia apologized “It's alright. Just helping a customer now,” Vinyl replied “Brian; this is Octavia Melody; my partner in the store. This was opened by our parents and we help on the weekends.” “A pleasure to meet you miss Melody.” “Just ‘Octavia’ is fine. I'm glad that whole Anon-a-Miss mess is over,” she commented “Same here.” “Tavi; I'm going to be in the workshop. I'll be back soon,” Vinyl said “Alright. Brian; when did you start playing music,” Octavia asked, as Vinyl left “When I was ten years old; so nine years now. I was at CMA when I was taught cello.” “I've heard rumors about the school being one of the toughest around,” Octavia commented “It's not a rumor. The Academy's curriculum set everyone above the rest. None of the students bragged about it since it's unnecessary and most will probably enter the military.” “That's quite a surprise that you transferred to our humble school. I am curious as to why; though,” she added “Personal reasons; I'm afraid.” “Fair enough. Would you mind showing some of your skills? Vinyl should be done shortly.” “If it won't be a problem. I don't want to get in trouble for using a store instrument.” “I'll grab the spare from storage. Besides; many visitors to the mall actually don't mind the impromptu concert,” she countered “My sister has used the store as influence for her records. In fact; her persona is DJ Pon-3.” “I'm sorry to say; but I've never heard any of her music. I guess I was raised on old school classic rock.” “To each their own.” A black cello case was removed from the storage room and handed over to him. The endpin was raised to a slightly higher level to allow Brian to stand up and play. A tap on his shoulder from Vinyl a half hour later caused him to stop. “That really was beautiful playing. I'll have this delivered to your house this evening if you don't mind,” Vinyl said “Thank you for working on the guitar and to you, Octavia; for allowing me to play for you.” “You're welcome for both. The writing was done in ‘Old English’ font in white before a clear coat was added down the length of the neck and body,” Vinyl explained Now that he had finished shopping for Sunset; he wanted to enjoy the visit in the mall. True; they were there about a week ago; but that was just for her benefit to go shopping. This time; even closer to Christmas was a bit different with small pop-up stores just for the occasion. A toy store caught his attention with a display of a six foot tall teddy bear. While looking around; he decided to stop by a section containing plush toys out of curiosity. Seeing a horse gave him a chuckle before being set back down. “Nah. That definitely wouldn't be a good idea.” Not wanting to insult her; he found a couple bears she might like instead. Although he didn't have any himself; a third was picked out to keep in his room. “These all for you,” the cashier asked “Yes.” “Your total is $20. Have a nice day.” “To you as well. Merry Christmas.” With everything taken care of; his stomach signaled it was time to get something to eat. The walk to the food court was slow as many other visitors had the same idea. Not wanting to stay too long; a sandwich place was chosen before heading home for the day. “At least everything's done. Tomorrow I'll set up the tree.” He decided to relax and take a nap for an hour or two. Around 7pm Vinyl came by to drop off the guitar as she promised. The case was inside of a cardboard box and covered in wrapping paper with a blank label on it. He stored it inside his room for the time being, along with the bear he chose as the other two were on Sunset’s pillow. The next day was a bit easier on what to do. Heading into one of the rooms used for storage; a few boxes were removed containing a small artificial tree and some ornaments to go with. Deciding on the best place for it; the tree would sit on a corner table with her gift close by. “At least that's done. I'd head to the dojo; but I know it's closed for the upcoming holiday. I'll just train downstairs.” After a few hours of training; a quick peek at the clock revealed the time to be around 6pm. Dinner became a cheese omelet and potatoes. Remembering the fun in the music shop; the cello was removed and played for a little while. “It's funny. Sunset’s only been gone a couple days; and I already miss her. I don’t think I've noticed it before.” After having a bowl of cereal for breakfast; Brian remembered the journal in her room and grabbed it. Once it was on the table; the book began to glow as he flipped to the last page used to find the newest message. Brian: I hope you've been alright these past few days. I wanted to inform you that I'm heading through the portal and will wait for your arrival -Sunset Shimmer Once he'd read the message; he wrote back an acknowledgement of his own. Thanks for informing me. I'm just about to leave now. Is there anything you'd need me to bring? My backpack if it's not a problem He quickly ducked into her room and found the backpack sitting by the foot of the bed. The journal was stuck inside as the bag was slung over his shoulder for the walk to school. ■■CURRENT TIME■■ “Hey; short time no see,” he joked “What's that you have there?” “You'll have to wait a until tomorrow on Christmas,” Sunset countered “In the meantime; let's store it in here for now,” he said, handing over the bag “What happened while you were there?” “I reunited with my family and made a realization about myself. And you?” "Trained and relaxed a bit." “Shall we get home and warm up,” she suggested “Sounds good to me.” To his surprise; Sunset hooked an arm around him as they started walking home. With the new clothing she bought; a jacket wasn't one of them. “Here. You need this more than I do,” he said, removing the jacket and draping it over her shoulders “Don't you need it? You'll catch a cold.” “I should be telling that to you. Besides; I'll be fine for now.” Once they headed home; Brian started getting water ready to make tea to help warm them up. Sunset saw the gift in the corner and carefully placed hers on the table. “This is the first time I've really celebrated Christmas,” Sunset mused “I hope this is enough.” “It's plenty. Besides; for years I would sit in a nearby homeless shelter for the couple days before returning to the factory. I guess I was lucky about not getting sick for the years I spent there.” “You don't have to worry about that any more. I won't let anything happen to you.” “Thank you for worrying about me. The water's done, by the way,” she mused With the notice; he set up a set of cups as she helped herself. The drink helped to take away the chill from the long walk home. “That was delicious. Wouldn't have taken you for a tea drinker,” she joked “My parents used to make it as a regular drink. Most often it was made hot and stuck in the fridge to become iced tea. It just popped into my head.” A bit later; the two decided to retire to their rooms. Brian had to hide a smirk as he pictured the look on Sunset’s face when she saw the surprise. “This was so sweet of you,” she said heading into his room holding the bears “I thought you'd like it. I saw a stuffed pony and thought against it for obvious reasons.” “I'm not against it; but it would feel awkward. Just out of curiosity; what color was it?,” she mused “Three different ones. One black, one brown and the last design was white.” “That's actually better for them to be modeled after real horses. Otherwise it'd feel like I was sleeping with one of the girls. Not that I have any issues with others doing that; but I just don't see myself that way,” she added sheepishly “Whatever you decide is your business. I can't offer any advice on the subject.” After their conversation; it was late enough for them to head to bed early. For breakfast Christmas morning; Brian decided to be a little festive with the meal. Crushed peppermint and extract would be added into the mix along with chocolate chips. To go with that; sausage and bacon were starting. “Care for some help?” “If you'd like. Peppermint chocolate chip pancakes were a holiday tradition with my family.” “Perhaps afterwards we open our gifts,” she suggested "Sounds good to me." “These are delicious. I'm glad to help out with this,” she said “Thanks. This'll be the first holiday since my mom died in August.” “Your parents wouldn't want you to mourn; but celebrate their life instead. They're at peace now.” “Thanks. I just try not to think about it. I'll wash the dishes.” Without a chance for argument; he set to work cleaning up. It took his mind off the loss and brought it back to the current time. Sunset wiped up the table in the meantime, although it wasn't necessary. Once both were finished; they sat down in the living room to open the gifts. “Go ahead and open yours first,” he suggested She decided to enjoy the anticipation and lifted each corner off the box. This was the first gift she had, which was why it took so long. A few minutes later; the wrapping paper was removed leaving a sealed box next. “Could you cut the tape on this,” she asked Heading over to the nearby cabinet; a pocket knife was removed and snapped open. Brian casually flipped the blade over, giving it to Sunset. She quickly slit the center tape and popped the box flaps open. “This isn't what I think it is; is it,” she asked in awe “Why don’t you take a look for yourself.” “Oh my goddess; it is! Thank you so much,” she exclaimed, kissing him on the cheek “You're welcome; but I can't take all the credit. Flash helped a bit.” “What did he do; if you don't mind me asking?” “He gave me some advice I used. That's all I'm going to say on that subject.” “The design is amazing. It reminds me of home,” she added “That's why I chose it. I figured you'd love it.” “It's your turn to open up my gift,” she said, handing over the box as he opened it “These are amazing! Actual gemstone necklaces. I recognize the sun as the same from your backpack; but the other is new to me.” “For one thing; I'm sure you've noticed there's two of each, so both of us get a set of designs. The scroll was an idea for your cutie mark in Equestria. I figured the scroll and pencil were for note taking; and the musical note is obvious,” she explained “Thank you for these. I'll wear mine as often as I can.” “You're welcome. The Rarity from Equestria played a huge role in the creation of these necklaces.” “I do have to ask you something. Yesterday you mentioned something about making a realization. What did you mean by that; if you don't mind me asking?” “It was actually about you; Brian. Ever since you helped me; I've been having dreams of the others turning on me as I stood in my demon form. My aunt; Luna, saw a version where you helped me to my feet and your jacket change,” she explained “Changed how? I'm intrigued by you dreaming of me.” “It became black angel wings that wrapped around me. I didn't think about it; but you mean so much to me. I love you; but I just couldn't bring myself to say anything,” she finished “You're my black-cloaked savior.” “It's taken me a while to see the same thing. You're the first person I've ever been with; so I am completely unsure about relationships. We've both been hesitant to tell the other; due to fearing what the other might say.” “At least we've admitted our feelings to each other and know they're mutual. What do you think the others would say,” she mused “Honestly; it doesn't matter. I wouldn't be surprised if some believed we were together as it is.” “I know I've asked this before; but if your parents were still around (no offense); would our circumstances be the same?” “I'm sure they would. Hell; if they found out you were homeless; they probably would have adopted you as their daughter to give you an official home.” “Thank you so much for everything. I could never repay you for the kindness you've shown me,” she said, hugging him; before kissing him on the lips “You're welcome. When we return to school; we'll have to keep the PDA to a minimum. Public display of Affection; in case you didn't know.” “Thanks for the explanation; I've never heard the term before,” she promised “ I Pinkie Promise not to do anything in public. Cross my heart and hope to fly. Stick a cupcake in my eye.” "Just don't actually stick a cupcake in your eye. It'd be embarassing to explain that to a doctor."