Arc sits in the back seat with Shelly and Lily as the Jeep makes the long trip home. They lie on his shoulders asleep as Dinky snuggles up to her mother’s side. Hammer looks in the rear view mirror and grins as she speaks.
“You three sure look comfy back there.”
Arc chuckles. “That we are. It’s nice to be able to spend time with them like this.”
“You usually drive though, right?”
“Yeah. Before it was just the three of us, so I never got to hold them like this.”
Hammer grins. “Lucky for you I don’t have a jealous bone in my body.”
“Um… thanks.”
“So what now?”
“We go home and sleep until late morning I would imagine.”
Hammer shakes her head. “No, no. I mean your plans for tomorrow. Sorry if I worded that wrong.”
“Oh. Well, most of the day is spent cooking for Christmas dinner and watching our favorite movie ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’.”
“Never heard of it. What’s the plot?”
“A man who’s done everything right in life is in danger of going to jail for a crime he didn’t commit.”
“Lots of action?!”
“Very little actually.”
“Isn’t he on the run from the law?!”
Arc shakes his head. “Not really. His plan is to kill himself so that his family can cash in on the life insurance policy. With it, they can make everything right. Or so he believes.”
Hammer frowns. “Not sure about this movie, Arc. Sounds kinda… boring.”
“If you don’t want to watch with us, I understand.”
“I’ll think about it.”
She checks the rear view mirror.
“Looks like Cybil’s able to keep up.”
“Good. Try not to let her fall behind.”
Hammer chuckles. “Don’t worry. I’m keeping it under a hundred.”
“Very funny.”
“By the way, not that I mind the extra company, but why did you invite them home with us?”
“Cybil’s really strapped for cash right now, what with having to prove that she’s able to care for Angel. Buying all that furniture along with a modest vehicle to be able to visit her daughter at the orphanage has taken every cent she’s earned. She probably didn’t have a tree set up or much of anything to put under it for that matter.”
“Didn’t want them spending their first day back together alone, huh?”
“There’s that too. We’ll make sure this Christmas is even more memorable for them than last year was.”
“What happened back then?”
“I was able to take Angel home with me after obtaining temporary guardianship of her for the holiday. Cybil was staying with us at the time as she recovered from a long stint of alcoholism.”
“A tough thing to beat if what I’ve heard is true.”
“She’s doing it though.”
Hammer raises an eyebrow. “You got a thing for older women?”
Arc shakes his head. “We’re just friends. That and Angel deserves a bit of happiness after her father died in an apartment fire.”
“Yeah, I was just messing with you. But I am sorry to hear about her old man. It was an accident though, right? The fire, I mean.”
“Yeah. Something to do with burning leaves nearby, I think. Can’t quite remember though.”
“Well, they have a good friend in you, Arc.”
“Thanks.”
He looks out the window as they drive on.
“The roads are a lot better than when we left.”
Hammer nods. “That was a lucky break. It’s hard enough to drive through a blizzard in the daytime. Doing so at night isn’t something I was looking forward to.”
“You did a great job getting us to the orphanage though.”
“What can I say? I’m good at what I do.”
Sometime later they pull into the driveway. Cybil parks behind them as Hammer gets out and heads for the rear hatch. Opening it, Arc turns to her.
“I’ll carry Shelly inside. Can you use my keys to open the door please?”
Hammer nods. “Sure.”
Derpy smiles as she looks down at her daughter. “Looks like I’ll have to do the same for my little one as well.”
Arc looks up. “I can come back to help if you need me to.”
“No thanks. I can carry her.”
Gently nudging Lily, she awakens. Arc motions for her to step out. Following her around the Jeep, he carefully opens Shelly’s door and picks her up. Walking past Cybil’s car he spots her carefully picking up a sleeping Angel as Scootaloo gets out of the back seat with her (it was just safer this way). Closing the vehicle doors for them she takes up the rear of the procession into the house. Arc enters first with Shelly followed by the others. He silently walks upstairs and lays the young woman on his parent’s bed. Lily enters behind him and lowers her voice.
“I’ll get her undressed and comfortable for the night.”
“Okay. Do you need me to send Dawn in to give you a hand?”
Lily shakes her head. “Thank you, but I can manage.”
“Yes, well… I think I’ll hit the hay myself.”
“Good night, Arc. And thank you for taking us with you this year.”
“No problem.”
Leaving, Arc heads downstairs. Returning to the living room he finds Cybil sitting on the couch holding a sleeping Angel in her arms.
“Let me show you to your old room.”
“That’s alright. I can just sleep here on the couch with her. After all, you really do have a full house this year.”
“It’s fine. After all, I want you both to wake up tomorrow refreshed and ready for a day of fun.”
“But…”
“Please, I insist.”
“Well… thank you.”
Arc takes Angel from Cybil’s lap and carries her upstairs as her mother follows. Laying the little girl down on his old bed, Arc steps back and lowers his voice.
“I’ll let you take it from here.”
“Thanks. See you in the morning.”
Arc nods and leaves the room. Cybil removes her coat and shoes. Tossing them over a nearby chair she bends over and carefully removes Angel’s snow boots. The child stirs slightly and opens her eyes.
“Where…?”
Cybil whispers to her. “Hey. Sorry for waking you. Just lie still.”
Angel does as she is told. Cybil removes her daughter’s coat and sets it in a corner with the boots. Getting in next to her, she gives the little girl a kiss on the forehead as she snuggles up to her.
“Go back to sleep, okay?”
“Mom?”
“Yes, dear?”
“Are we… going to be together forever?”
Cybil smiles and nods. “We are, yes.”
“Do you promise?”
“Yes, Angel. I promise I’ll never let you go ever again.”
Angel closes her eyes and falls back asleep. Smiling, Cybil holds her close and listens to her rhythmic breathing for a time before nodding off herself. Meanwhile, Arc finds Derpy and Dinky in the bathroom brushing their teeth.
“Be sure to clean off all the sugar from earlier, dear.”
“Okay mom.”
Scootaloo walks into the room, yawning.
“That was a night to remember.”
Arc nods. “Yes it was. But we should brush our teeth and head to bed too.”
Scootaloo yawns again. “No arguments there.”
Derpy giggles. “Thank you for inviting us, Arc.”
“Yeah dad. We had a blast.”
Sereb calls out from the doorway. “It sounds like it. Can I assume you’ve borrowed little Angel again this year?”
Arc shakes his head. “Not this time. She’s officially allowed to live with her mother again.”
“That is good. A cub’s place is with their parents, after all.”
“Agreed.”
Leaving the bathroom, Arc turns to Derpy.
“Why don’t you head to bed with Dinky and Scootaloo?”
“What about you?”
“I’ll head to the basement and hit one of the bunks.”
Dinky smiles. “We could all share the bed up here, dad.”
“That might be a bit crowded, what with there being four of us.”
Derpy giggles. “I wouldn’t mind.”
“Thanks, but I’ll see you three in the morning.”
“Very well. Come along girls.”
Dinky and Scootaloo follow her to the guest room as Arc and Sereb head downstairs. Heading over to the couch Arc sits down and looks at the tree.
“Are we not heading to the basement?”
“In a bit. Right now I just want to sit and think.”
Cherry calls out to him. “What about?”
“Everything.”
Sereb raises an eyebrow. “That is quite broad.”
“I guess it is. But I… I was thinking that so much has happened thus far. Even just since returning to Earth.”
Cherry giggles. “Never a dull moment with you around, Arc.”
Sereb nods. “Indeed.”
“My grandfather… I can’t believe he fought for Equestria.”
Cherry sighs happily. “It would appear heroism runs in your blood.”
“Maybe. But he… never said a word about it.”
Sereb frowns. “And what if he had?”
“Right. Would you have believed him?”
Arc shrugs. “Probably not. But then again, I think he did.”
“Did what?”
“Tell me.”
Sereb tilts his head to once side. “Oh?”
“When I was a little boy my grandfather would tell me crazy stories about a fantasy land far away. As a kid I just thought they were fairy tales. But hearing what that hologram of him said, I can only assume he was recalling his adventures in Equestria.”
Sereb smiles toothily. “If he was even half as powerful as you were, the land was in good hands.”
“Oh, yes. But I admit that I for one would certainly like to hear more on that part of our land’s history.”
Arc sighs. “It’s ancient by now. Forgotten by everyone except for the sister princesses.”
Sereb shrugs. “Perhaps it’s for the best.”
“Sereb?”
“What good would knowing that chapter of history do? At this point it would only serve to bring about fear and uncertainty for the population.”
Arc frowns. “I have mixed feelings on that. On one hand I would say that it’s best to record important matters for future generations to hear. But I do understand that it might also bring about fearmongering.”
Cherry gasps. “So what should be done?”
“No idea. But I should probably talk to Luna about this when I go back.”
Sereb sighs. “When? Don’t you mean ‘if’?”
“I can’t stay here forever.”
Cherry groans. “Neither can Derpy and Dinky. That and you’d miss your tribe as well, wouldn’t you?”
Sereb nods. “To a degree, yes. However my Life Pact with Arc comes first.”
“That seems somewhat… sad.”
“Miss Cherry?”
“While important, a promise shouldn’t be something that is a burden to either party.”
Arc turns to him. “Admittedly, I do feel kinda bad for keeping you from your tribe, Sereb.”
“Please do not, as I am quite happy with my life as it stands. Thanks to you, Arc, I’ve been able to have so many new experiences and have had contact with numerous different cultures in two different worlds.”
“I mean, if you’re happy that’s great. But I can’t help wonder how things might have been had I made different choices.”
Cherry calls out. “Arc?”
“What if I had never accepted the mantle of Hero of Light? Would my life have been better?”
“Can I assume you mean in regards to Miss Cherry?”
“Y-yeah. I’d never have been in the Crystal Empire during the yak invasion. Therefore Cherry wouldn’t have lost her memory because of General Wind Rider. Nor would she have… have…”
Cherry sighs. “Been killed by him?”
“Right. We’d probably be happily married by now too.”
“That thought has crossed my mind in the past.”
“What do you think?”
“One never knows the destination of the path not traveled, Arc. We shouldn’t spend too much time dwelling on what might have been.”
Sereb turns to Arc. “Perhaps you should look at it another way.”
“Oh?”
“Had you not become the Hero of Light we would not have met. In fact, nearly every individual you’ve met outside of Ponyville would never have had the pleasure of knowing you either. That includes Auriel, presumably Rose, Aurora, the princesses, Trixie, your squad, Minerva, and even Hammer.”
Cherry sighs. “Then again, I do wonder if Equestria would still be standing.”
“No one would have been able to stop Captain Decimus from taking the throne, Dragon Lord Torch from invading, the treaty with the Griffon Kingdom, and diplomatic relations with Abyssinia, Yakyakistan, the Ogre Nation, and now the Demon Kingdom.”
“I do worry that the land would have torn itself apart had you not been there to intervene, Arc.”
Arc frowns. “Someone would have come up with something.”
“Maybe. But if my life had to be lost in order to save an entire world, I gladly accept that.”
“Very admirable, Miss Cherry.”
Arc sighs. “I…”
The front door opens and Hammer walks in. She removes her jacket and hangs it up as she turns to the others.
“It’s snowing again.”
Arc appears surprised. “Is it? Uh… what were you doing out there anyways?”
Sereb chuckles. “She was shoveling.”
“Ah! Thanks, Hammer. I’ve always hated doing that.”
“No problem. It just seemed like the least I could do since you’re letting me stay here rent-free.”
Arc suddenly yawns. He looks to Hammer apologetically.
“Sorry about that. I guess I’m more tired than I thought.”
Hammer chuckles. “We all are. Why don’t we hit the hay for the night?”
Cherry calls out. “She’s right, Arc. You need to rest. After all, tomorrow is another day.”
“Indeed.”
Arc stands. “Yeah, I suppose it is.”
“Might I borrow Eidolon’s Ward, Arc?”
“Sure.”
He calls forth his armor. Stepping out of it he turns to face the familiar helmet.
“I want to be able to watch the snow fall.”
Sereb tilts his head to one side. “Eh?”
“It’s a thing for me. After all, you don’t really appreciate the simple things in life while alive.”
Arc smiles. “Makes sense. In any case, we’ll leave you to it. Good night, Cherry.”
“Night.”
He heads for the kitchen with Hammer as the helmet turns to look at Sereb.
“You aren’t going with them?”
Sereb shakes his head. “No. I too would like to watch the snow accumulate.”
“But you’re usually the one afraid something bad will happen to Arc.”
“Indeed. However I do my best to give him some alone time when the chance to mate presents itself.”
“While he certainly likes Hammer, I don’t think they’re anywhere near that point.”
“Time will tell.”
Meanwhile, Arc and Hammer descend the stairs together. Coming to the bottom she turns to him, clearly confused.
“Something you want to talk to me about, Arc?”
Arc shakes his head. “Oh no. I just came down here to get some sleep.”
Hammer grins hugely. “With me?”
“We’re a little short on beds around here at the moment.”
“Oh, right! Cybil and Angel come back with us!”
“You forgot?”
Hammer nods sheepishly. “Yeah. I guess I was more tired than I thought.”
Arc yawns. “In any case, we should get some rest. It’s going to be quite a day tomorrow.”
“I guess so. Well, I still need to brush my teeth and use the toilet before bed.”
Turning off the lights, Arc climbs into a bunk and lies down facing the wall. A few minutes later he hears the bathroom door open and sees light spilling across the floor before Hammer shuts it off. A few moments later the bed shakes as she flops down next to him and presses her body against his back.
“Hammer? What are you…?”
“I need to ask you something.”
“Oh?”
“What… should I be doing?”
“Huh?”
“I’m just freeloading here. While I appreciate you taking me in, I just feel like I should be contributing something. Like rent money, or at the very least something to make you feel… more relaxed.”
She takes his hand and puts it on her hip.
“What are you…?”
“Anything you want, Arc.”
Pulling his hand back, he shakes his head.
“Hammer, I really like you. But I’m not interested in you exchanging your body for rent.”
Hammer grins hugely in the dark. “I’m okay with that.”
“Well, I’m not.”
“What else of value do I have other than my body though?”
“Let’s talk about this another time. Right now we both need to get some sleep.”
“Okay. But… there is something more I can do for you right now.”
“I just told you…”
Hammer presser her body against Arc’s and sighs contentedly as she speaks.
“I can keep you warm tonight.”
“That… would be fine, yes. As long as it’s all you’re doing.”
Hammer closes her eyes as she gives him a peck on the cheek. “Good night, Arc.”
“Good night.”
Hammer falls asleep quickly. Arc however stares up for wall over an hour. Eventually he sits up and Blinks out of bed. Standing and heading for the stairs, Arc climbs them and heads for the living room. He sees Derpy sitting on the couch looking out at the falling snow. She looks over to him, confused.
“Arc? What are you doing up at this hour?”
“I couldn’t sleep. And you?”
“Same.”
“What happened to Cherry?”
Derpy points to the back door. “She headed to the backyard with Sereb. Said she wanted to lie on her back and watch the snowflakes fall for some reason.”
“Ah.”
They are silent for a time. Eventually Derpy breaks it.
“Arc?”
“Hm?”
“I need to ask you something.”
“What is it?”
“Do you think I’m a good mother?”
“Of course!”
“Why do you say that?”
“Because it’s true!”
“How? I mean, I’ve only been able to get this far in life thanks to you.”
She sighs before continuing.
“You’re the real parent here.”
“I was actually thinking the same thing about you.”
“Me?”
Arc nods. “Yes. After all, you’re the one raising Dinky while I’m off doing whatever I deem necessary.”
“Yes. But you’re the one she gravitates to when we’re together.”
“Do you feel that you’re not doing enough as a parent?”
Derpy sighs. “I really do, yes. But how did you know that?”
Arc looks down at the floor. “Because I feel the same way.”
“We both have feelings of inadequacy it appears.”
“Yeah.”
“So… what should we do about it?”
Arc shrugs. “I don’t know.”
“Neither do I. But… I did have an idea.”
“That’s good. What is it?”
“Us becoming closer.”
“Oh?”
“Dinky just wants a real family. Together with the others, we can make that a reality for her and the other fillies.”
“The herd idea again?”
Derpy nods. “Yes. That is, if you decide to go that route.”
“What if I don’t?”
“Then nothing about our bond needs to change. After all, a relationship is a two way street. It can’t be unilateral.”
“That’s true. But what about the others?”
“What about them?”
“They’re dead set on the herd plan.”
Derpy smiles. “I know. But it’s up to you. Don’t forget that.”
“Yes. But I do really like them all.”
“Then get to know everyone properly. Go out with us one at a time and see who you like, who you love, and who you want to be with.”
“But what if I like everyone?”
“Form a herd then.”
“And what if no one really strikes my fancy?”
“Then we can all just stay friends. But whatever you do, please be honest with all of us.”
“Well… I already know I really like Rarity, so she’s in.”
Derpy smiles. “What about the others?”
“Not fully sure yet.”
He turns to Derpy as she continues to look straight ahead.
“And you?”
“Huh?”
“How do you feel about me?”
“I… would very much like to get to know you better as well. You’re the Kindest, gentlest, most Generous stal… man I’ve ever met.”
Arc smiles. “And you’re the strongest-willed mare I’ve met to date.”
Derpy blushes slightly. “Thank you. But I… don’t really know about all that. After all I couldn’t even bring myself to admit this much to you without first checking with the others.”
“Why’s that?”
“Because I didn’t want to accidently come between you and them. That and back then I wasn’t sure how you felt about me. If I had just been able to ask you directly, maybe then I could have found the courage to… act.”
“Derpy?”
“Yes?”
“What do you want?”
“For Dinky to be happy.”
Arc shakes his head. “I mean what do you want for yourself?”
“Ultimately, my answer would be unchanged, Arc. All I want in this world is for Dinky to be happy. And I believe a loving man such as yourself would do very well at that task. But if I had to make a second choice it would be that I was loved and cared for by someone I felt the same toward.”
Arc smiles and pulls Derpy close. Smiling, she turns and puts her arms around his neck. Pulling herself into his lap Derpy tenderly kisses Arc’s cheek and allows him to hold her. They sit there for what feels like forever just watching the snow and holding each other. Eventually Derpy stands and helps Arc up.
“Thank you for the talk, Arc. But I think we’re both ready for bed now.”
“Agreed.”
“Good night, Arc.”
“Good night, Derpy.”
They part ways. Derpy climbs the steps as Arc descends to the basement. Returning to Hammer’s side he carefully climbs over her and lays down. She immediately lays an arm over his chest and snuggles up to him. Arc sighs contentedly.
“So many care about me. How… how did I ever get so lucky?”
The next morning Arc awakens to Hammer’s smiling face. She whispers happily.
“Well hello there, sleepyhead.”
“Huh? What time is it?”
“About eight, so not too late.”
Arc sits up. “Christmas morning.”
“Guess so. Wanna get up and make something to eat?”
Arc sniffs the air. “Smells like someone else is already doing that.”
Rising, they climb the stairs to the main level. Opening the door at the top they spot Derpy and Dinky at the stove as Cybil and Angel set the table. Dinky runs over to her father and jumps into his arms happily.
“Merry Christmas, dad!”
Arc grins. “Merry Christmas, Daisy!”
Derpy looks over from the stove and smiles. “Sleep well, you two?”
Hammer gives them a thumbs up. “Like a log!”
Arc: looks to his daughter. “You two are up early.”
Dinky giggles. “We get up earlier than this every day, dad! Remember!”
“Oh, I suppose you do.”
Cybil smiles. “Daisy, why don’t you tell your father about the late night visitor we had.”
“Huh?”
Dinky giggles. “I came downstairs last night for a drink about an hour after we went to bed and heard a strange sound. Coming into the living room I saw a large man in a red coat with white trim and a red stocking cap leaving presents under the tree.”
Hammer laughs. “Frank was here?”
“Yeah, I mean, he turned and saw me. Not knowing what else to do, I waved. He just smiled and waved back.”
Arc chuckles. “Santa, huh?”
Dinky grins. “Isn’t that who Mister Frank dressed up as last night?”
Hammer nods. “Yup! Santa Claus! He always delivers toys to good girls and boys on Christmas Eve!”
Angel looks over from the table. “He must’ve stayed a while then. I heard something down here about 4:00 AM as well. Kinda a loud bump. When I came down he was putting presents under the tree.”
Derpy turns to Arc. “We’ll have to thank Frank the next time we see him.”
“Agreed. But right now I’m going to head up and help Lily get Shelly up.”
Going upstairs, he slowly opens the bedroom door to see his friends lying there peacefully. Smiling, he walks over to them and puts a hand on Lily’s shoulder. Her eyes slowly open and turn to look at him.
“Arc?”
“Sorry to wake you, but breakfast will be ready soon.”
Lily yawns and sits up. “Thanks.”
She turns to Shelly and gently shakes her.
“Shelly? It’s time to get up.”
Slowly opening her eyes, she giggles happily.
“Christmas morning?”
Arc nods. “Yes, Shelly. Can I help you up?”
“Yes please.”
Bending down, Arc allows Shelly to wrap her arms around his neck. Picking her up, he carries the young woman to the bathroom. Sitting her on the toilet lid he steps back to allow Lily to enter behind him.
“We’ll shower and be down in a little while, Arc.”
“Okay. See you soon.”
Sometime later Arc and all his friends sit around the kitchen table together. Sereb and Scootaloo have since joined them along with Shelly and Lily. Angel eats hungrily.
“This is great!”
Derpy giggles. “I’m glad you like it.”
Dinky looks to the little girl. “The stuff at the orphanage isn’t too good?”
Cybil puts a finger to her cheek thoughtfully. “Well, I wouldn’t say it’s bad per say. But I suppose a home cooked meal will always be better than mass produced cafeteria food.”
Arc chuckles. “Ironically, that was one of the first things I did when I got out of there. Order a pizza.”
Scootaloo smiles. “So what do we do today?”
Lily giggles. “There’s always the old ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ tradition.”
Dinky nods happily. “That sounds like fun. It was a pretty good movie, after all.”
Cybil looks to Angel. “Yes, it was.”
“Can we watch more movies after that?”
Arc shrugs. “I suppose so. Was there one in particular you wanted to see?”
Angel nods. “Something called ‘Home Alone’.”
Derpy appears interested. “What’s it about?”
Arc chuckles. “I remember that one. My dad showed it to me when I was little. It’s about a young boy about Dawn’s age who accidently gets left home alone after his entire family flies to France for Christmas.”
Scootaloo raises an eyebrow. “France?”
Hammer points toward the window. “It’s a country to the east across the ocean. Real long flight from what I’ve heard.”
Arc nods. “Right. He thinks he wished them away though after getting in trouble the previous evening.”
Shelly thinks for a moment as she turns to Lily. “I remember seeing a commercial for that back at the orphanage.”
“That’s right! It was one movie I had wanted to see back then but never had the chance!”
Arc grins. “Well, we still have the old VHS tape here from when I was a kid. How about we watch it while we wait?”
Hammer raises an eyebrow. “Wait? Wait for what?”
“Dinner to cook.”
Shelly nods. “We spend much of the morning preparing food for dinner and watch a movie while it cooks.”
Lily giggles. “Then after we eat we watch more movies while talking about the past and what’s going on in our lives.”
Angel looks confused. “What for?”
Arc turns to her. “It’s kinda a way to stay close. Setting a day aside to just talk and enjoy each other’s company.”
Cybil sighs as she puts a hand on her daughter’s shoulder. “It sounds like a really good idea. After all, if I’d done that maybe I wouldn’t have made the choices I did in life.”
Dinky walks over to the sink. “Let’s get the dishes done so we can…!”
There is a knock at the door. Sereb looks toward the living room as Derpy looks after him, confused.
“Who could that be?”
Arc chuckles. “Probably Frank. I invited him to join us in the festivities.”
Standing, Arc and the others walk to the front door. Opening it they see Frank standing there with a pie.
“Merry Christmas, old friend.”
“Come on in, Frank. We were just talking about getting started.”
Frank enters as Dinky runs over and take the pie from him. Derpy helps him remove his coat as Dinky looks him over carefully.
“You were Santa Claus last night?”
Frank nods. “Indeed I was.”
Arc winks. “Thanks for the presents, Santa.”
Frank grins. “It was my pleasure.”
He walks over to Shelly and Lily. Giving them each a hug, they make their way to the kitchen and begin meal preparations. Two hours later the food is either in the refrigerator or the oven cooking. Arc and company sit on the couch, in chairs nearby, or on the floor happily as they watch ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, ‘Home Alone’, and ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’. As the third movie concludes Arc turns off the television and looks to Dinky, Scootaloo, and Angel.
“So how did you like the movies?”
“They were awesome, dad!”
Scootaloo nods happily. “Yeah! That Kevin kid was really creative!”
Angel shrugs. “I guess he was. But when he called the police near the end I couldn’t help but wonder why he didn’t just do that in the first place.”
Frank chuckles. “Because it wouldn’t have made for much of a movie.”
Shelly turns to Lily. “Entertainment value?”
“Yup.”
Derpy smiles. “I really liked that last movie with Charlie Brown.”
Cybil frowns. “Where were all the adults though?”
Arc shrugs. “They’re never shown and are seldom referenced. Once in a while there’s a droning sound that’s supposed to represent them talking.”
Scootaloo raises an eyebrow. “I didn’t hear anything though.”
“The movie didn’t have any lines for them. Believe me, you’d have noticed that sound.”
Derpy turns to Arc. “What’s it like?”
“Kinda like a broken kazoo.”
Hammer frowns. “Not sure what that is.”
Arc laughs. “Sorry, but I don’t really know what else to compare it to.”
Sereb raises his head and sniffs the air. Barking once, he looks to the kitchen as Shelly smiles.
“Sounds like Sereb is ready for dinner.”
Lily stands up. “It smells ready. I’ll go check.”
Hammer rises from the couch. “I’ll help.”
They leave the room as Arc looks to Derpy and Dinky.
“Let’s see about getting the table set. I want to be ready to eat as soon as the food’s done.”
“Okay, dad.”
Scootaloo stands. “Can I help too?”
Arc nods. “Sure. Let’s go.”
Pulling dishes from the cupboard, Arc hands them to the girls as they approach him. Cybil and Angel lend a hand as well. In but a few minutes the living room table is set. Hammer pulls the cold food out of the refrigerator with help as Arc and Lily carry the steaming pans to the table. Shelly smiles as she sits down.
“It smells like the roast is cooked to perfection.”
Frank looks to Shelly and smiles. “All thanks to your secret blend of seasonings I would imagine.”
Dinky grins. “A secret recipe?”
Scootaloo thinks for a moment. “Like a formula?”
Arc nods. “Something like that. You see, back in the old days every family had recipes they handed down from mother to daughter. One family might have a recipe for a special cake, while another for chicken. Still others might have the perfect beverage recipe.”
Cybil: And at Christmas time everyone would get together and make their signature dish for everyone to enjoy for dinner.
Frank grins. “A meal filled with secret recipes, like Shelly’s Roast Beef.”
Lily laughs. “‘Secret’ as in written down in the recipe box.”
Shelly nods happily. “Yes, I don’t mind sharing that one with everyone.”
They sit down to eat the meal before sitting back from the table contentedly to talk. Hammer turns to Frank happily.
“That was a meal and a half!”
“Yes! The best I’ve ever had!”
Shelly giggles. “You say that every year though.”
“And I mean it every year.”
Lily looks at Angel sitting in her mother’s lap happily. “So what’s your plan now, Cybil?”
Cybil smiles as she strokes Angel’s hair. “For the moment I just want to hold her.”
Arc nods. “I know that feeling.”
“You do?”
“Yes. I’m away from Daisy a lot, so when I do see her all I want to do is hug her and hold her close.”
Dinky jumps into her father’s lap. “Me too, dad!”
Scootaloo sighs. “It is nice to have someone to love you.”
Cybil looks out the window. “As soon as they’re open, I need to go down to the local school and have my daughter enrolled at Angel Grove Elementary.”
Angel groans. “Aw… do you have to, mom?”
“Yes, dear. You need to go to school, after all.”
“But then I won’t be able to see the other kids from the orphanage!”
“You made friends?”
“Yeah!”
Frank smiles. “While that is commendable, it would be quite the commute for your mother every day.”
Arc nods. “Hours driving daily doesn’t sound like much fun to me.”
Dinky looks to the little girl. “You’ll make new friends too, of course. But that doesn’t mean you have to forget about the old ones.”
Scootaloo grins. “Right. They’ll still be there.”
Derpy turns to Cybil. “Could you go visit them sometimes?”
“Of course. Even though Angel no longer lives there, I was kinda hoping to be able to keep volunteering at the orphanage on my days off.”
“Could I come with you, mom?”
“Yes, dear. We’ll go there when we can.”
“YAY!”
Dinky looks out the window at the falling snow. The sound of children laughing rings out. Arc turns to her.
“Sounds like Mia and Alex are playing outside together.”
“Can we join them?!”
Derpy nods. “Of course, sweetie.”
Angel looks up at Cybil. “Can I go too, mom?”
“Sure, dear. Just be sure to bundle up nice and warm.”
The kids put on their hats and gloves along with their coats and boots before running out the front door together. Arc and the rest of the adults laugh happily. Franks muses aloud.
“Ah, to be so young again.”
Arc chuckles. “A simpler time.”
Derpy sighs. “Before the responsibilities of life take hold.”
Shelly nods. “Indeed.”
Lily turns to Frank. “How are you and the Shards doing?”
“Very well, actually. Ever since we realized our powers, it’s been nothing but learning and studying them.”
Cybil looks to him. “Like in school?”
“Something like that. However this is more than just practical knowledge we’re learning. It’s partially to keep our powers in check.”
Shelly grimaces. “We heard that on the news with Minerva Moore interviewed you a while back.”
Lily appears suddenly nervous. “So are you and the others in any… pain?”
Frank shakes his head. “Not anymore. Originally the pressure inside was more that I could bear. However, thanks to the teachings from a certain book or two we were able to bring that under control.”
Arc nods. “What will you all do now?”
“Make our little corner of the world that much nicer for everyone.”
Derpy appears nervous. “I heard some others at the store referring to you and the Shards as a cult.”
Frank sighs. “That is how we’re known now, yes. But we’re working very hard to try and change the negative image surrounding us.”
Cybil turns to Frank. “How so?”
“For starters, we’ve began organizing various community outreach activities that we’re planning to implement after the first of the year for those of us whom don’t have to work on Saturday.”
Shelly smiles. “Can you give us an example?”
“Certainly. Our first outreach act will be to walk down Main Street with bags and pokers to pick up trash. We’ll also sweep out the gutters and make sure the storm drains are clear to prevent the street from flooding come spring.”
Lily nods. “That should help convince the town you’re not a threat anymore.”
“Hopefully, yes. Another idea was to help out at the local homeless shelter and food bank. We’d serve food at mealtimes, do minor janitorial work, and some basic repairs.”
Cybil smiles at him. “Sounds like you’ve found your place in life.”
“Everyone’s looking to belong somewhere. Although it sometimes takes a bit longer to figure out where that place is.”
Cybil sighs. “I’m still trying to figure out where my life will lead.”
Derpy puts a hand on Cybil’s shoulder. “It wasn’t that long ago that I was in the same place.”
Hammer gasps. “Really? You look to have it all together though.”
“Now I do, yes. But back when I got pregnant with my daughter I literally had nowhere to go. My father threw me out and the one whom I thought loved me left town in the middle of the night. Luckily I found my way to Ponyville and was able to start a new life there among quite a few very supportive friends.”
Cybil bows her head. “That’s what I did when Arc sobered me up. Got away from the old life and people in it whom were dragging me down and started fresh here in Angel Grove.”
Hammer grimaces. “Was it hard?”
“Not really. At least when I figured out that the people in my life weren’t my friends. All they were was drinking buddies. When we didn’t have that in common anymore, I found that we didn’t have any other common ground. Haven’t spoken to or had any of them try to contact me since last Christmas.”
Shelly nods. “That’s probably for the best.”
Lily looks to the young woman. “Yes. After all, Angel needs you now more than ever.”
Cybil smiles as she looks out the window at the children playing. “That’s what keeps me going down this new path. The knowledge that I’m needed.”
They continue talking through the afternoon. Dinky and the others come in several times to change into dry clothes before heading back outside. As the sun sets Arc opens the front door and calls out.
“Time to come in everyone!”
“Okay, dad!”
She turns to Mia and Alex.
“I have to go home now.”
Mia giggles. “Okay! See you later!”
Alex waves happily. “Bye!”
She runs toward the house as Scootaloo and Angel stomp the snow off their boots on the porch. Entering, they hang up their outerwear and shiver. Arc points to the stairs.
“Why don’t you three head upstairs for dry clothes again?”
Hammer heads to the kitchen. “I’ll make everyone some hot chocolate.”
Scootaloo looks confused. “What’s that?”
Angel grins. “It’s really good! You’ll like it, Scarlet!”
Dinky nods. “Yeah! Be down in a few minutes!”
They bound upstairs as Arc and Hammer head for the kitchen together. Grabbing the teapot, Hammer fills it with water at the sink as she turns to Arc.
“Sounds like they had a blast out there.”
Arc nods as he opens the refrigerator. “That they did. I hated to tell them to come in, but the sun’s almost down.”
Hammer looks out the window. “Already?!”
Lily calls out from the living room. “Time flies when you’re having fun.”
Shelly “They enjoyed themselves out there while we had fun in here.”
Frank pokes his head into the kitchen. “Can I help out in there, Arc?”
“That’s okay. I just need to pop these in the oven and wait.”
Cybil appears confused. “You’re making supper?”
“Lily and I prepared it while everyone else was watching the last movie. It’s all ready to go.”
Sometime later Dinky and her friends descend the stairs. Running into the living room, they giggle happily. Angel hurries over to her mother.
“Sorry we took so long.”
Scootaloo appears embarrassed. “Yeah. We smelled pretty bad after sweating all day, so we took showers.”
Dinky points back to the stairs. “I’ll put the coats and snow pants in the wash, dad.”
Hammer chuckles. “No need to do that. I already took care of it.”
A buzz rings out from the basement.
“Sounds like they’re done.”
Cybil heads for the basement. “I’ll go put them in the dryer.”
Angel sniffs the air. “What’s that smell?”
Derpy giggles. “Arc’s cooking pizza for supper.”
Scootaloo appears happy at the prospect. “Great! I’m starving!”
Frank chuckles. “How can you be hungry after such a large dinner?”
Arc shrugs. “Well, they did burn it off.”
Shelly nods approvingly. “That they did.”
Lily smiles. “At least everyone will sleep well tonight.”
The pizzas come out of the oven and are sliced. They eat happily in the glow of the tree’s light. As Derpy collects the empty dishes Arc turns to the presents under the tree.
“Now that the little ones have been so patient, it’s time to open these up.”
Dinky throws up her hands happily. “YAY!”
Angel grins. “Oh boy! I can’t wait to see what Santa left me!”
Arc sits down at the foot of the tree and begins passing out presents. As they open them everyone turns to thank the recipient. Sereb nudges Arc and walks behind the tree. Arc frowns.
“Looks like there’s a few more presents back here.”
Lily appears surprised. “I didn’t see those before.”
Shelly shrugs. “Me either.”
Hammer looks over as Arc pulls them out. “Who are they from?”
“It doesn’t say.”
Hammer grins. “Must be from Santa then.”
Frank chuckles. “Well, let’s pass them out.”
Arc reads off the labels. “Looks like there’s one for Angel, Daisy, Cybil, and Scootaloo.”
Derpy smiles. “You go first, sweetheart.”
“Okay, mom.”
Opening her gift, Dinky reaches into the box and pulls out a small mat. Unrolling it, she gasps.
“It looks just like yours, mom! Just a bit smaller!”
Derpy nods. “That it does! Santa must have good taste!”
Arc chuckles. “Agreed. You go next, Angel.”
Grinning, the little girl pulls the top off her box. She does not move for a long moment. Reaching inside she carefully pulls out a small picture frame. Hammer is the first to speak.
“What is it?”
“I… it’s…!”
Cybil looks over her daughter’s shoulder and gasps.
“Angel! Is that…?”
Angel nods. “Yeah, mom. The family picture of you, me, and dad.”
Arc raises an eyebrow. “Is that good?”
“It is! But it should have burned up in the apartment fire!”
Derpy smiles. “Maybe one of the firefighters found it and gave it to Santa.”
Hammer grins as she turns to Cybil. “One here for you too.”
Cybil smiles nervously. “Let’s see what Santa has for me.”
Opening the box, she pulls out a single piece of paper. Looking it over for a few moments Cybil’s eyes grow wide. Derpy looks over to her.
“What is it?”
“This is a receipt from the bank showing my car loan’s balance at zero!”
Arc raises an eyebrow. “Someone paid off your car?”
Cybil nods happily. “Yes! With the money I’ll save on that I can start to save up for a down payment on a house!”
Lily smiles. “That’s wonderful!”
Shelly looks to Scootaloo. “How about you, Scarlet. What did you get?”
Ripping the top off her box, Scootaloo gasps as she pulls out a worn and faded book.
“My mother’s journal! From our old cottage!”
Lily smiles. “Back in Ponyville?”
Arc frowns. “It’s a lot further than that. But it should have burned up in the fire.”
Scootaloo grins. “Yeah! But I’m still glad to see it!”
Opening the book, a piece of paper falls out. Scootaloo picks it up and looks at it for a long moment.
“Big Brother?”
“Yes?”
“I think you need to see this!”
Arc walks over to her and sits down. Scootaloo hands him the paper.
“This is… the picture you left in the cottage!”
Scootaloo nods. “I know! How did…?!”
Arc shrugs. “I really have no idea.”
Shelly giggles. “Looks like everyone got what they wanted for Christmas!”
Arc sighs. “Yeah. I guess so.”
An hour or so later they stand at the door together putting on coats and hugging. Hammer walks in the back and calls out.
“I got the cars loaded!”
Lily nods to her. “Thank you. Shelly?”
“Yes?”
“Do you want help to the car?”
Shelly sighs. “I think I need it.”
Arc nods. “I’ll carry you out there in a minute.”
He turns to Cybil and Angel.
“Thank you for inviting us! We had a wonderful time!”
Angel grins as she holds the picture frame to her chest. “Yeah! I got the best Christmas present ever!”
Arc chuckles. “Well, it looks like Santa nailed it this year.”
He winks at Frank before turning to Shelly.
“Ready?”
Shelly nods happily. “Yes.”
Picking the young woman up he carries her carefully out the door and to Lily’s car. Setting her down in the passenger seat as Lily takes her place in the driver’s seat, he buckles Shelly in and gives her a quick kiss on the forehead.
“Sleep well, you two. And drive safe.”
Shelly smiles. “We will.”
“Good night, Arc. And thanks again for having us this week.”
“Yes. That was a Christmas to remember.”
“It was my pleasure you two.”
Closing the door, Lily starts the engine and drives slowly down the street. Arc turns and helps Angel over to the vehicle.
“Thanks for the food, Mister Arc! It was great!”
“Glad you enjoyed it.”
Cybil smiles at him. “Hopefully next year I can entertain you and your friends at my place.”
“That would be really cool. Now you two head on home and enjoy the time together.”
“We will. Good night, Arc.”
“Night.”
Arc steps back and watches the vehicles slowly drive away. Turning to head back inside, he almost walks face first into Hammer.
“Woah!”
Hammer smiles sheepishly. “Sorry about that. I… got a call from Stingray just now.”
“You did?”
Hammer nods. “Yeah. She said Christmas just wasn’t the same without me there. I know it’s really late, but could you let me borrow the Jeep?”
Arc nods as he hands her the keys. “Sure.”
“Thanks! I’ll be back tomorrow. And I promise I won’t let them know that you’re… you know.”
“I appreciate that. Um… you’re sure this isn’t a trap, right?”
Hammer grins. “Stingray and Mio are really bad liars. Believe me, they’re being honest with me.”
“Alright. Take care, Hammer.”
Nodding, she steps forward and plants her lips on his. Wrapping her arms around him, Hammer grins and looks him in the eye.
“Have a nice night with the family.”
“You too.”
Turning, Hammer heads for the Jeep. Starting it, she makes her way down the road as Arc heads back inside. Derpy and Dinky are waiting for him on the couch.
“Where’s Miss Hammer, dad?”
“She went to go visit her sisters.”
Derpy raises an eyebrow. “At this hour?”
Arc shrugs. “Apparently they really miss her.”
Frank chuckles. “Do they now?”
“Hammer was convinced so, yes. So we’ll just have to respect her wishes.”
He turns to Frank.
“By the way, great job on those presents, Santa.”
Frank appears confused. “I didn’t give those.”
Derpy frowns. “You didn’t?”
Frank shakes his head. “No. I mean, I gave the first ones, yes. But those last few behind the tree weren’t from me. In fact I was just as surprised as everyone else.”
Dinky looks to her father. “Then where… how did…?”
“I have no idea other than…”
Cherry calls out to him. “Arc?”
“Frank, what time where you here?”
“About 1 A.M or so."
Derpy gasps. “But Angel said she saw someone down here three hours later.”
Sereb frowns. “Are you sure that’s what she said?”
Scootaloo nods. “Yes, completely.”
Cherry sounds nervous. “Who could it have been then?”
Arc shrugs. “The real Santa Claus?”
Frank rolls his eyes. “Very funny, my friend.”
“You got any better ideas?”
“Sadly, no. But at the very least everyone got what they wanted for Christmas. Even some impossible gifts.”
Dinky gasps. “Maybe it was…?”
A strange feeling washes over them as Arc frowns. Derpy appears concerned.
“Arc? What is it?”
“Some really strange energy.”
Sereb growls. “I felt it too!”
Frank clenches a fist. “As did I!”
Dinky looks nervous. “Yeah! What’s going on, dad?!”
“I don’t know.”
A few moments later there is the sounds of snow crunching underfoot and a knock on the back door. Arc turns and looks to it, confused.
“Who could that be?”
Frank frowns. “I don’t know. But I have a bad feeling about this.”
Cherry calls out as Sereb sniffs at the door. “Sereb?”
“Arc should answer it.”
Dinky frowns. “Are you sure?”
“Very.”
Nodding soberly, Arc walks over to the back door. Unlocking it, he turns the knob and opens the door. Gasping, he stumbles back as the visitor come into view. A young woman stands on the steps smiling at him in a blue full body length coat. Arc stammers as he tries to find his voice.
“R-Rarity?!”
Rarity smiles up at him. “Hello, Arc. It’s been quite a while.”
“I… uh… please, come in!”
As Arc closes the door behind her he feels a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he sees Rarity looking at him.
“I’ve come here to tell you something very important, Arc.”
“What… what is it?”
Rarity smiles. “Happy Hearths Warming, my love.”
Arc grins and looks her in the eye. "Merry Christmas, Rarity."
She wraps her arms around Arc’s neck and pulls her body tight to his. The pair kiss passionately as the others look on approvingly.