Breaking the Ice
Princess Celestia laid low, trapped within a lone food booth that is surrounded by a mound of ice, with her horn still frozen. She stared at Princess Luna, who was outside the ice dome, still frozen in ice. Celestia let out a deep sigh as she stared helplessly at her chilled sister.
“Luna,” Celestia said as a tear fell down her cheek. “I’ve relied on you so much since you freed me from being Daybreaker. And since then, I’ve been wanting to repay what you did for me. But now, I sit here helplessly, seeing you frozen in form as if you have accepted your fate. My only wish is to see you free.”
“It will be alright, your majesty,” Chancellor Cinch said as she put her hoof on Celestia’s shoulder. “We will find a way to break out of this ice prison. And when we do, we will make Coldnelius Snap and his Windigo’s Guild pay dearly for this. You have my word.”
“I can only hope that Wanda and Sunset are alright,” Princess Cadance said as she clutched her Hippogriff doll. “I swear I would slug any of those cultists if anything bad happened to my sisters.”
“Have faith, Cadance,” Princess Celestia said. “If they have escaped, then at least they will have a better life outside what we’re going through.”
But as Celestia lowered her head, she heard a knock on the ice. The Princess looked up and saw Rainbow Dash outside.
“Hey you guys,” Rainbow Dash said. “I’ve got tons of good news.”
As Celestia got up, Chancellor Cinch and Princess Cadance walked up right next to the great alicorn with their eyes focused on the rainbow-maned filly.
“Did you find Wanda?” Princess Celestia asked.
“Are both my sister’s safe?” Princess Cadance said.
“Are they hurt at all?” Chancellor Cinch said.
“Oh we managed to save them,” Rainbow Dash said. “But that’s not the only thing we found out. Turns out their ice is weakened by the one thing they didn’t expect. And here’s a hint: It’s tied to the Windigos.”
Those words caused Princess Celestia’s face to burst with excitement. “That’s it,” The Princess of the Sun said. She turned to Cinch and Cadance and announced “It’s the magic of friendship.”
“The what?” Chancellor Cinch said, confused.
“Long ago,” Princess Celestia said. “Our ancestors realized that the warm flame of friendship was the one thing that kept the cold magic of the windigos away. The Windigo’s Guild base their magic off the cold hearts of the winter spirits. If we can channel the very flame of friendship, we can melt the ice and even save Princess Luna.”
“But how can we do so?” Chancellor Cinch asked. “We don’t have anyone but ourselves to hug.”
“It’s not just that.” Princess Celestia said as she closed her eyes. “Focus your mind on who your close friend really is. Be it family, or someone close to your heart. For me, it’s Princess Luna, and everything she’s done for me.”
As Celestia sat there with her frown turning into a smile, Chancellor Cinch and Princess Cadance watched on with confusion on their faces. But right next to Celestia, they noticed small droplets of water forming right next to the ice barrier. Atop Celestia’s horn, the ice surrounding it was starting to shrink.
“It does sound like a silly thing to be doing,” Chancellor Cinch said in a hesitant tone. “But it appears the ice is beginning to melt, and that filly may be right. So I guess it’s worth a shot.”
“Actually,” Princess Cadance said as she hugged her plushie tight. “I still dream of hanging out with my sisters Wanda and Sunset again, maybe to help them feed their cat Abigail, or another date with Shining Armor, and foal sitting Twilight again. She’s like a third sister to me.”
As Celestia and Cadance were in a warm trance, Cinch just looked at the two before turning her head towards the droplets of water that were forming on the ice at a faster rate.
“I’ve been more harsh since having a rough fillyhood,” Chancellor Cinch said to herself. “And I’ve buried this in my head since losing her as a youngling. But I still remember the fun times I’ve had with my sister. Back when Princess Celestia raised us together. I still remember the good times I’ve had with the one I truly called friend: Fizzlepop Berrytwist.”
As Chancellor Cinch closed her eyes and her scowl turned into a beam, the ice wall began to melt away as the solid surface shrank, and water poured out from the cold. Rainbow Dash watched as a hole formed in the ice surrounding the booth, growing bigger and bigger as the ice shrank down. Furthermore, the ice surrounding Celestia’s horn also shrank further and further till it completely dissipated.
“It’s working,” Rainbow Dash said. “Now all we need is to….”
“Get me free?” Rainbow Dash turned around and saw Princess Luna, now only half-frozen by the ice. Her upper-torso and head, despite being soaked, was freed completely.
“Princess Luna?” Rainbow Dash said, completely surprised.
“I’ll help out my sister,” Princess Luna said as the ice around her lower half was melting away. “Find the others and give them the news. And don’t worry. We’ll be okay.”
Rainbow Dash gave a salute to Princess Luna before turning to her side and taking off into the air. Princess Luna turned towards the ice dome, seeing her older sister’s face as the hole grew bigger.
“Sister,” Princess Luna waved. “Out here.”
Princess Celestia opened her eyes to see Princess Luna still half-frozen in ice. The elder sister’s face beamed with excitement as she jumped out of the hole and ran up to the moon pony before giving her a hug.
“Princess Luna,” Celestia cried. “I thought you were a goner.”
“I said the same thing when you became Daybreaker,” Princess Luna replied. “But we never lost hope, and now we’re together again.”
“I hope nothing like this ever happens to us again,” Princess Celestia said as she and Luna snuggled together.
“And I’m glad to have you back as well, Aunt Luna,” Princess Cadance said as she and Chancellor Cinch stepped out of the melting ice dome, looking a bit wet, but in good spirits.
“I suggest we find the other younglings for their sake,” Chancellor Cinch said. “Especially the man’s cub and her sister.”
“No problem,” Princess Luna said as she turned her face to Princess Celestia. “Big sis, you may want to stand back.”
Princess Celestia took a few steps back as Princess Luna bent down a bit. With a lift of her legs, the ice surrounding her lower half shattered to pieces. She shook off the excess water and stood tall.
“There,” Princess Luna said. “That’s much better.”
But as Princess Cadance breathed a sigh of relief, she turned to her side and saw Shining Armor, now with only his legs frozen. The young alicorn teen bursted out with delight.
“Shining,” Cadance yelled as she leaped onto Shining Armor and gave him a big hug, all while still holding her Hippogriff plushie in her right arm.
“What happened?” Shining Armor said, confused. “Did we beat 'em?”
“We’re about to,” Princess Cadance said as she faced Shining Armor. “We know their weakness. We can turn the tables on those cultists.”
“First things first,” Shining Armor said as he looked down at his frozen arms.
“Whoops,” Princess Cadance said as she stepped back. “Go right ahead, Romeo.”
Shining Armor pulled back on his arms as hard as possible, breaking them free from the ice that held it down. He landed his arms on the ground before pulling on his hind legs, freeing them from the ice as well.
“Shining Armor is back and better than ever,” Shining Armor said.
Chancellor Cinch took a few steps forward and said “That is fine and dandy. But if we don’t find the younglings soon, that delinquent is going to take them all away.”
“Then we better find Wanda, Sunset and the others,” Princess Celestia said. “Before the Windigo’s Guild recaptures them.”
Meanwhile, inside the frozen tent, Spike, still being held onto by Rarity, looked at the ice surrounding Mr Bovine’s right arm as it began to melt. Right next to the baby dragon was Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, Sunburst, Starlight and Trixie. Mr Bovine looked at his arm as more and more water fell from the icy cast.
“This is a rather interesting scenario,” Rarity said as Spike reached out to the ice that was melting from Bovine’s arm.
“If this place is as cold as the winter north,” Twilight said. “Then why is the ice melting this fast?”
“That’s what I’ve been trying to figure out,” Mr Bovine said. “I have never seen this phenomenon before in my life. Ice melting in the freezing cold.”
“Once you told me about this,” Fluttershy said. “I began to worry less about you. I never thought this was possible.”
“It’s okay to worry about these things, Fluttershy,” Mr Bovine said. “That’s why you were sad.
“I think I might be able to explain this,” Sunburst said. “I did some reading about Equestria’s founding before.”
“It’s about the Windigos and their cold magic, correct?” Twilight asked.
“Exactly,” Sunburst replied. “And the fact that its weakness is the warm flame of friendship.”
“So if we gave out hugs to each other,” Starlight said. “Does that mean the bad ice will go away?”
“Worry not for the ice, my friend,” Trixie said as she gave Starlight a big hug. “The Great and Powerful Trixie will keep you warm with my epic snuggles of great power.”
“Trixie,” Starlight giggled. “You’re very ticklish.”
As Starlight and Trixie hugged each other, Mr Bovine looked down at his right arm, watching as the ice melted and shrank down until it disappeared completely, leaving his arm drenched, but freed up.
“That’s it,” Mr Bovine said as he turned to Fluttershy. “This is why the ice was melting. You cared a lot about my well being that somehow, it helped out more than it hurt. It’s something that even I can’t explain.”
“I don’t think explaining is needed, Mr Bovine,” Rarity said. “Perhaps if we all gathered around and embraced each other like we’re the best of friends, then maybe it will break the ice.”
“Well if the founders of Equestria relied on that idea to keep the windigos away,” Sunburst said. “Then I’m fine with that. Besides, even if it doesn’t work, then at least we’ll keep warm by being together.”
But before Sunburst could react, Starlight reached out and pulled Sunburst in, giving him a big hug while Trixie joined in as well. The nerdy colt struggled to break free.
“Hey come on you two,” Sunburst yelled. “Not like that.”
“But he said embrace each other,” Starlight said with a coo.
“Yeah,” Trixie said. “Besides, better to cuddle together than to freeze in the cold air.”
Sunburst let out a sigh and said “Alright. Guess it’s better than the worst case scenario after all.”
As Sunburst allowed Starlight and Trixie to hug him, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity and Fluttery giggled at the hugging trio, with Spike cheering. Mr Bovine was right next to them, lying down, but still in good spirits.
“Has La Maresa been like this?” Twilight said.
“Oh we’ve known each other since before you all came down here,” Rarity said. “I never knew the ponies of Canterlot were similar to us.”
“Not everyone,” Twilight said as she pointed to Sunburst and Starlight. “But when you two meet Wanda, I bet you’ll make a friend in her as well.”
“I hope Wanda has a cute animal companion like Spike,” Fluttershy said. “Whoever she is.”
“Let’s just say there’s truly more to her,” Twilight giggled. “Than meets the eye.”
And with that, Twilight, Fluttershy and Rarity turned around and gave Mr Bovine a big hug. Spike jumped out of Rarity’s arms and landed on Bovine’s bag, snuggling up to the thin fur of the big bull.
“Already ahead of the game plan, are you younglings?”
“Mr Bovine,” Fluttershy said. “You’re already part of the family regardless if you like it or not.”
Mr Bovine let out a jolly laugh and said “This is why your parents entrusted me with you, Fluttershy.”
“Well you’re not the only grown up here, lad.” Mr Bovine, Fluttershy, Twilight and Rarity turned their heads to see Granny Smith only partially frozen at the legs. She was soaked in the water that came from the melted ice. But was active and aware of her surroundings.
“Granny Smith,” Mr Bovine said. “You’re alright.”
“All except for one part,” Granny Smith said as she looked down at her legs. “I’m still stuck in this icy trap.”
“Allow me,” Twilight said as she jumped out of Bovine’s fur and walked up to Granny Smith. The filly closed her eyes and fired off a small blast of magic, shattering the ice surrounding Granny Smith’s arms and legs. Granny Smith got on her hind legs and cheered into the air.
“WAAAHOOOO!” Granny Smith yelled, attracting the attention of everyone in the cold tent as she danced around. “Bout time I’m freed from that horrible prison.”
“Well we’re not out of the woods just yet,” Twilight Sparkle said. “We still have that ice dome that’s surrounding us. All it will take will be a bit more snuggles and…”
But before Twilight could finish talking, the ice surrounding the entrance shattered open completely. Outside, Rainbow Dash lowered her legs and turned towards Granny Smith and Twilight Sparkle. Right next to the pegasi filly was Filthy and Spoiled Rich.
“Filthy, Spoiled,” Granny Smith said as she gave the couple a big hug. “You’re both alright.”
“The same can be said of you, oh matriarch of the Apple family,” Filthy Rich said.
“Whoever those jerks are,” Spoiled Rich said. “They have a lot of nerve to ruin our fun time.”
Rainbow Dash landed right next to Twilight Sparkle. Behind her, Starlight Glimmer, Fluttershy, Sunburst, Rarity and Trixie walked towards the duo, with Spike riding atop of Fluttershy.
“Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said. “Did you find Wanda and the others?”
“Did we?” Rainbow Dash said. “Thanks to a little help from Moondancer, Pinkie Pie and Danged Spell, we were able to rescue them all.”
“That’s great,” Starlight cheered. “Now we can all be one big happy family.”
Suddenly, Granny Smith let go of Filthy and Spoiled Rich and said “Did those varmints do anything horrible to my son?”
“Unfortunately yes,” Rainbow Dash said. “That’s why we had to give chase and save Wanda, Sunset and Applejack.”
“MY BABY!” Spoiled Rich yelled. “Did they take away my baby?”
“Relax ma’am,” Rainbow Dash said. “They’re safe. We even got Applejack’s big brother to pitch in.”
Granny Smith breathed a sigh of relief and said “Good ol Big Macintosh. He’s always the most reliable when it comes to these tight spots.”
As Granny Smith took a few steps forward, a blast of ice landed right next to her, startling the senior pony. She, along with Filthy and Spoiled Rich looked up and saw cultists run right towards them.
“Those hooligans again?” Granny Smith snorted as she stared down the cold fanatics. “I’m not going to let the likes of them ruin the spirit of La Maresa, or all of Ponyville.”
“Hold it,” Filthy Rich said as he pulled Granny Smith back by the tail. “We can’t just face them head on.”
“No way,” Granny Smith said as she tugged forward, trying to pull her tail out of Filthy Rich’s hoof, all while the cult members laughed at her. “Not after what they did to the fair and my son.”
But as Filthy Rich pulled Granny Smith backwards, the elderly pony turned to her left and saw the inside of the tent. Her frown turned upside down into a devilish grin.
“Filthy Rich,” Granny Smith said as she stood up. “You’re right. As a matter of fact, why don’t we let these hoodlums come up close and personal if they want to laugh in our face.”
“Wait, what exactly do you mea…” Filthy Rich said before turning to his left and saw the inside of the tent. He then added “Ohhhh. I see.”
The Windigo’s Cult members marched forward towards Granny Smith, Filthy and Spoiled Rich as the three adult ponies took many steps back, slowly inching away from the entrance of the tent.
“Look at you,” One of the approaching cultists said. “Nothing more than a bunch of inferior weaklings who deserved to be frozen solid. We can feel the fear in your bones. The only way out is to return to your frozen coffins.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure about that,” Granny Smith said as she, Filthy and Spoiled Rich stood right in front of the cold zealots. “Compared to us, you’re about to be on the receiving end of a bull in a porcelain shop.”
“A what?” One of the cultists said in confusion. But before they could react, Mr Bovine ran out of the entrance of the tent, knocking over two cult members and sending another one flying. Riding on his back were Starlight Glimmer, Trixie, Sunburst, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity and Spike. Flying right behind them were Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.
“Don’t you EVER, mess with little kids again,” Mr Bovine said as he came to a stop.
Fluttershy flew up to the big bull and said “I hope you didn’t overdo it, Mr Bovine. Remember what happened early ago?”
“Don’t you worry, little lady,” Mr Bovine said. “I can do these stunts in short bursts. That way, the pain won’t be as dreadful.”
Granny Smith, Filthy and Spoiled Rich ran up next to Mr Bovine, with Rainbow Dash flying right beside them. The cult members were knocked out from Mr Bovine’s charge. But there was a sense of dread in Filthy and Spoiled Rich’s eyes.
“Young Lady,” Filthy Rich said to Rainbow Dash. “Do you know where we may find our child Diamond Tiara?”
“Do I?” Rainbow Dash said. “I was sent to scout out what those jerks did to this fair. But since we got all you freed, I know where to find the others, which includes the foals.”
“Take us there,” Spoiled Rich said. “I just want to see my baby again.”
“Your wish is my command, ma’am,” Rainbow Dash said as she took a bow before pointing in the direction of an open pathway. “And if any cultists get in our way,” she added. “We’ll knock them flat.”
“Better than standing around all day and making ourselves a sitting target,” Granny Smith said.
Mr Bovine looked up at the fillies, colt and baby dragon on his back and said “You kids ready to ride out?”
Starlight said “Yes. Just get us away from here.”
Mr Bovine dug his hoof into the dirt before taking off down towards the open path, with Twilight Sparkle, Starlight Glimmer, Trixie, Rarity, Sunburst and Spike holding on. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Filthy and Spoiled Rich and Granny Smith followed suit from behind the big bull, running as fast as possible away from the melting ice dome.
As they ran as fast as possible, Twilight Sparkle caught something to her left. It was a glimpse of Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance, Shining Armor and Chancellor Cinch running forward as fast as possible.
“They’re alright,” Twilight yelled. “Princess Celestia and most of the others are alright.”
“Princess Celestia?” Rarity said as she looked to her left side. Her eyes caught the elder alicorn princess running as fast as possible, alongside Luna, Cadance, Shining Armor and Cinch.
“She’s my mentor,” Twilight said. “And like I said, she’s also Wanda and Sunset’s adopted mother. And apparently, she’s also with my big brother Shining Armor.”
Rarity glanced over at Celestia and said “She is so divine. It’s everything I can imagine in royalty.”
“You think that’s impressive?” Granny Smith yelled. “Well you ain’t seen nuttin yet, little lady. There’s way more to the Princess of the Sun, than meets the eye.”
Meanwhile, near the back entrance of the fair, Wanda, Abigail, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Moondancer and Danged Spell walked up to Bright Mac and Buttercup, still frozen in place. Applejack looked at her parents and a tear fell from her eyes.
“I...can’t bear to see this,” Applejack said. “It’s like they were taken away from me too soon.”
“Don’t say that,” Wanda said as Abigail jumped down from the child’s shoulder. “We broke free from the ice. We can do the same for them.”
“She’s right, Applejack,” Pinkie Pie said as she walked up to the apple filly. “I bet Rainbow Dash told them that the magic of friendship would free them from their icy cold windigo prison. In fact, look at what’s forming off the ice.”
Applejack took a close look at her parents, still frozen in ice. Water was trickling down from the frigid cold and falling down onto the ground. That gave Applejack a reason to smile.
“I get it,” Applejack said. “If the magic of friendship freed us from our icy bonds, then maybe it will help save mah folks from their cold doom.”
Moondancer put her hoof on Applejack’s shoulder and said “You care a lot about your parents as much as you care about us. I’d say, go for it. Do it for them.”
“No argument there,” Danged Spell said. “If that was my folks in the cooler, I would have done the same thing. And it’s all because of those blasted windigo’s guild creeps.”
“And I have no argument against that,” Moondancer said. “In fact, I would have done the same thing if that was my parents.”
“I thank you all for your support,” Applejack replied. “But this is my gig. I should be the one to free them.”
“But your daddy’s also been a part of my life as well,” Wanda said as she stood by Applejack. “Sunset and I refer to him as uncle because of the warmth and comfort he brings to the both of us, to Big Sister Cadance, Aunt Luna, and Mommy. To see him in that state is just...sad. And I don’t want you to be without a mommy, or a daddy. Or even your granny. Please let me help you free them.”
Applejack wiped a tear from her eye. She turned towards Wanda and said. “Alright. Do this not just for mah pa, but also for your two sisters, your aunt and your ma.”
“Thank you,” Wanda said as she and Applejack looked at the frozen state of Bright Mac and Buttercup.
Applejack walked up to her mother Buttercup and glanced at the horrible look on her face. She struggled to look away, but she couldn’t keep her eyes away at the horrible image. She faced upwards and looked at her mother in the eyes.
“Ma,” Applejack said. “If you can hear me, I just want to let you know, you and pa are the best parents I’ve ever known.”
With tears flowing out of her eyes, Applejack got on her hind legs and gave Buttercup a big hug, not minding how cold her mother felt to her fur. Nearby, Wanda looked up at Bright Mac, still frozen solid.
“Uncle Bright Mac,” Wanda said. “I just want to see you alive again, like you were when you came up to Canterlot to deliver apples for me and Sunset to get for mommy. In fact, I hope you, Aunt Buttercup and mommy see me grow up into what she calls a woman.”
Wanda wasted no time grabbing onto Bright Mac and giving him a big hug. Even though the surface of the ice was slippery, Wanda held on tight and wouldn’t let go.
“Please,” Wanda said. “For Mommy’s sake, wake up.”
But as she held herself close to Bright Mac, someone came up behind her and gave her a hug. Wanda opened her eyes and looked behind her. It was Sunset Shimmer.
“Sunset,” Wanda said. “How come you decided to join me in hugging Uncle Bright Mac?”
“No one’s being left behind, sis,” Sunset said. “Not on my watch, and especially not as long as I’m your older sister.”
“But what about Big Mac?” Wanda asked.
Sunset pointed to Applejack and the frozen Buttercup, who was showing signs of thawing out of the ice. But right next to them, Big Macintosh was also giving Applejack and Buttercup a big hug, all while carrying Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara in the saddlebag’s pouch. The two foals were giggling as the ice around Buttercup melted away.
“Guess we’re all in this together,” Wanda said. But as she watched on, she felt a pair of arms wrap around her and Sunset Shimmer. They both looked up to see Bright Mac staring down at them with a warm smile. Though his lower half was still frozen, Bright Mac was at least free to move his arms, torso and head.
“How long has I been a frozen popsicle?” Bright Mac said.
“Far too long, uncle,” Wanda said as she and Sunset embraced the apple stallion. Abigail jumped on top of Bright Mac and rubbed her head against the stallion’s neck, purring gently.
“Guess little Abigail really loves the affection,” Bright Mac said.
Right next to Bright Mac, Applejack looked up to her mother Buttercup, who was now only half-frozen. She could now move her head, torso and arms. But barely her rear end and legs. She looked at Big Mac, still carrying the two foals.
“Ma,” Applejack said as she looked up at Buttercup. “I don’t wanna lose you. Not at this age.”
“Don’t you worry my sweetie,” Buttercup said as she kissed Applejack on the forehead. “I’m not ready to leave this world yet.”
“Not only that,” Applejack said as she pointed to Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara. “But we kept the foals safe. Big Mac pitched in to protect his younger sister and her close friend.”
Big Mac blushed as he said “Eeyup.”
Buttercup looked at Applejack and Big Mac and said “You two are still growing up. And at the same time, you’ve both proven to be capable of handling yourselves. I’m proud of both of you.”
Pinkie Pie. Moondancer and Danged Spell watched as Wanda, Sunset, Bright Mac, Abigail, Buttercup, Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara embraced each other. Ditzy Doo was right next to him, smiling at the group, but at the same time shedding a tear.
“It’s great to see them reunite after all they’ve been through,” Ditzy Doo said.
“What’d I tell ya?” Pinkie Pie said. “That’s the beauty of the magic of friendship. It can keep you warm, even in the coldest of scenarios.”
“And we’ve all been friends for a long time,” Moondancer said. “It was only yesterday that I introduced myself to Twilight Sparkle. Can’t believe that I’m feeling that kind of warmth again.”
“Well you could say that when it comes to friendship, we’re like…..pigs in a blanket,” Danged Spell joked, causing Moondancer, Pinkie Pie, and Ditzy Doo to laugh.
“You know,” Pinkie chortled. “You have the makings of a future comedian.”
“Thanks,” Danged Spell replied. “But I’d rather work to become a future soldier of Equestria.”
As Moondancer recovered from the laughing, she turned to her right and saw Rainbow Dash flying towards them. She reached out and waved to the filly pegasus flying towards them. Right behind Rainbow Dash was Fluttershy, Granny Smith, Filthy Rich, Spoiled Rich and Mr Bovine riding on in. Riding atop Mr Bovine was Twilight Sparkle, Spike, Rarity, Trixie, Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst.
“Hey guys,” Moondancer yelled towards Wanda, Bright Mac, Abigail, Sunset Shimmer, Buttercup, Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara. “The cavalry's arrived.”
Rainbow Dash flew on in, landing right next to Ditzy Doo and a still laughing Pinkie Pie. Granny Smith ran on up towards Bright Mac and Buttercup as Wanda, Abigail, Sunset, Applejack and Big Mac let go of the two adults. Filthy and Spoiled Rich spotted Diamond Tiara in the saddlebag and wasted no time running up to the little foal.
“MY BABY!” Spoiled Rich yelled as she approached the saddlebag and pulled Diamond Tiara out. She held the foal into the air with a smile on her face and a tear falling from her cheek as she gave her baby a hug. Diamond Tiara giggled as she hugged her mommy back.
Granny Smith approached her son Bright Mac and said “Thank Celestia you’re alive. I’d fear you were put in an early grave.”
“I’m not one who’s ready for that, Ma,” Bright Mac said as he pushed back against the ice covering his flank until he freed himself with a kick into the air. “Besides, I’m one to put others before me.”
Granny Smith and Bright Mac walked up to Buttercup as the ice surrounding her flank was melting away. Bright Mac gently tapped on the ice, causing it to shatter completely. Buttercup turned to her husband and gave him a hug, with Granny Smith joining in.
“It feels like the whole family is back together,” Buttercup said.
“After all we’ve been through, honey,” Bright Mac said. “I’m glad of that.”
“And it’s a miracle we didn’t lose a single soul,” Granny Smith said. “Even the kiddies are alright.”
“Especially the kiddies, lady Smith,” Mr Bovine said as he walked up to Granny Smith, Bright Mac and Buttercup before lowering his back down, allowing Twilight, Spike, Starlight, Sunburst, Rarity and Trixie to slide off to the ground. The younglings ran around the big bull and towards the other youngsters.
“Twilight,” Sunset said as the lavender unicorn approached her. “You’re alright.”
As Twilight gave Sunset a hug, she said “Oh what we’ve been through was a nightmare onto itself. But ironically, the ice melted when we embraced our friendship with each other.”
Pinkie Pie hopped up to Twilight and said “That ice was done by pure windigo magic, which was beaten down by the magic of friendship.”
Sunset faced Twilight and said “It’s true. In fact, it was what freed Wanda, Applejack and myself from our icy bonds.”
Twilight giggled and said “I think I need to make a note of that.”
As Sunset and Twilight bonded, Starlight and Sunburst ran past the two unicorns as they embraced Moondancer, who waited with open arms.
“You guys are alright,” Moondancer said as she hugged Starlight and Sunburst.
“It was hard out there being trapped in a prison of ice,” Sunburst said.
“And there was a part where we almost lost hope,” Starlight cried.
“What matters is that you’re both safe,” Moondancer said. “I’m glad of that.”
As Moondancer, Starlight and Sunburst hugged each other, Trixie walked up to Danged Spell, who only smiled at his friends embracing each other.
“So how hard was it out there?” Trixie asked.
“In some cases,” Danged Spell replied. “It was as if we were the last ponies in Equestria, especially after seeing Wanda, Sunset and Applejack get taken captive by those goons.”
“Sounds like something out of a horror film,” Trixie replied. She paused for a moment before saying “By the way, you’re not much of a hugger, are ya?”
“Not really,” Danged Spell replied.
“Well then,” Trixie said with a smirk. “Maybe what you need is a GREAT AND POWERFUL HUG!”
Danged Spell yelled out “NO NO NO” as Trixie tackles the arrogant colt and gives him a big hug. Spell struggled to break free, but Trixie held him down tight as Fluttershy and Rarity walked past them and approached Rainbow Dash.
“Can’t believe we’re all back together,” Rarity said.
“Tell me about it,” Rainbow Dash said. “It was like we were living some kind of nightmare to see family and friends get taken away.”
“Well at least that part is behind us,” Rarity said.
Fluttershy looked to her left and said “Speaking of which, it looks like Princess Celestia is coming up to us. And she’s got company.”
Fluttershy pointed to her left as Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance, Shining Armor and Chancellor Cinch ran up to the group. Everyone stopped what they were doing and approached the three alicorns and two unicorns. Granny Smith walked up to the front of the pack, as humble as she could be.
“Princess Celestia,” Granny Smith said as she breathed a sigh of relief. “I can’t believe you made it.”
“You can actually thank Rainbow Dash for helping us out on this one,” Princess Celestia said. “But it looks like everyone is here.”
“I still can’t believe they attacked us while we were enjoying ourselves at the fair,” Princess Luna said. “How did they even know we were going to be here?”
“The Windigo’s Guild has been pulling some of the nastiest stunts since that incident back in Canterlot,” Chancellor Cinch said. “I’ll never forget what they tried to do to me and the man’s cub.”
“”But what matters is that we’re all together again,” Filthy Rich said as Spoiled Rich gently rocked Diamond Tiara. “The Windigo’s Guild tried to break us. But our bonds were what kept our spirits alive.”
“That’s true. Mr Rich,” Princess Celestia said. “And I think there is a certain someone that misses her mother.”
No sooner does Princess Celestia finish talking than Wanda and Sunset both yelled out “MOMMY!” as they ran up to the big alicorn and gave her a big hug.
“Don’t you worry,” Celesetia said as she snuggled her adopted daughters. “I won’t be lost to you again. That’s a promise.”
As Celestia cuddled with Wanda and Sunset, Twilight Sparkle ran past them as she yelled out “Princess Cadance. Big Brother.” Princess Cadance ran up to the lavender unicorn as they both did a dance together.
“SUNSHINE SUNSHINE, LADYBUGS AWAKE! CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!” Cadance and Twilight chanted in their dance as Shining Armor ran up to his little sister.
“No nasty little cult member is going to keep your brother on ice, Twili,” Shining Armor said as he scooped up Twilight Sparkle and held her in the air as they both laughed together.
“It’s good to see you again, big brother,” Twilight said as Shining Armor pulled her close and they hugged each other. Princess Cadance walked right next to Shining Armor, got on her hind legs and cuddled the teen stallion.
“We’re one big happy family,” Princess Cadance said. “And I hope it stays that way.”
As Wanda and Sunset hugged their mother Celestia, Wanda looked up and saw a somber tone on her adopted mother’s face, like she was depressed.
“Mommy,” Wanda said. “What’s wrong?”
“Wanda,” Princess Celestia said as she looked down at Wanda and Sunset. “There is something I have to talk to you about. Especially after all we’ve been through today.”
“Is it about La Maresa?” Wanda asked.
“Yes,” Celestia replied. “But I’m afraid I have some bad news.”
But before anyone could speak, ice began to form around the group in a big dome, covering faster and faster until they were sealed in. Everyone began to freak out as the ice dome sealed them up.
“The Windigo’s Guild,” Chancellor Cinch said. “They lured us into a trap.”
“Correct you are, Governor.” Everyone turned around to see Coldnelius Snap at the far end of the dome. Circling around the group were nothing but zealots, outnumbering them three to one. Many of the younglings began to panic, with the exception of Rainbow Dash, Danged Spell, Moondancer, Sunset Shimmer, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie. Danged Spell was hunched over, growling like a wolf with his eyes glowing white.
“You,” Princess Celestia said as she held Wanda and Sunset close to her. “First you attack us in Canterlot, then the mining group in Sire’s Hollow that cost the life of Meteor Flare, then you siced a Roc on us, and now this? You’re nothing more than a sick little monster.”
“Flattery will get you nowhere, Princess,” Coldnelius Snap said. “Besides, you owe me for weakening our Windigo magic.” He slammed his hoof on the ground and said “Do you know how hard it was to get that kind of power?”
“None of us care how you got that kind of power,” Granny Smith yelled. “What matters is that you had the audacity to attack us while we were having a good time at the fair.”
“Like I care about your happiness, you rotten apple?” Coldnelius Snap said as Granny Smith snorted in a huff. “What matters is seeing you all frozen in eternal winter, and that Man’s Cub in our possession. Equestria will freeze and you all know it.”
Coldnelius Snap looked downwards and saw Pinkie Pie, Moondancer, Danged Spell, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Starlight Glimmer, Abigail, Spike, Sunburst and Trixie look upwards at him. Some were afraid. Others were undeterred.
“Ahh, precious kids,” Coldnelius Snap joked. “So precious. so innocent. so full of hope and promise. They’re so adorable when they cry. Especially the foals that accompany them.”
“You better back off, bucko,” Moondancer snarled.
“What a smart mouth you have, young lydy.,” Coldnelius Snap said. “But you ain’t worthy of freezing over.”
Coldnelius Snap glanced over and saw Buttercup holding Apple Bloom close, Right next to her was Spoiled Rich, who was holding Diamond Tiara close.
“Maybe being careful with those babies was too much,” Coldnelius Snap said as he charged up his horn and aimed it at Buttercup and Spoiled Rich. “How about I freeze them along with their mothers.”
Buttercup and Spoiled Rich stared in horror as Coldnelius Snap charged up the cold ice surrounding his horn, aiming to fire right at them.
“Spoiled,” Buttercup said as she put one arm around Spoiled Rich. “Whatever happens, I’ll be by your side.”
“The feeling’s mutual,” Spoiled Rich said as she and Buttercup watched helplessly as Coldnelius Snap charged up his horn.
Suddenly, Danged Spell leaped out of the crowd and sunk his teeth right into Coldnelius Snap’s arm, causing the big stallion to yell into the air and shoot his magic upwards. The cold magic collided with the roof of the ice dome, creating an ice stalactite. Coldnelius Snap looked downwards at his arm, watching as Danged Spell kept his teeth sunk into the cult leader’s arm.
“YOU FLEA RIDDEN MONGREL!” Coldnelius Snap yelled as he violently shook Danged Spell off his arm.
“SPELL!” Moondancer yelled as the Wolf’s Breath-addled unicorn colt landed on his side.
Danged Spell quickly got up and jumped out of the way as Coldnelius Snap tried to blast him down with ice magic. The colt quickly grabbed the back cloth of Coldnelius’ coat and pulled back on it.
“Let go, you filthy mutt!” Coldnelius Snap yelled. “You’re ruining my gown.”
Coldnelius Snap swung Danged Spell as hard as he could, attempting to shake the young colt off his coat. Spell hung on as tightly as possible as Coldnelius Snap spun as fast as possible, creating a whirlwind of pure cold.
“SPELL, NO!” Sunset said as she attempted to run up towards Coldnelius Snap and Danged Spell, only for Princess Luna to grab her.
“It’s too dangerous,” Princess Luna yelled.
“But Danged Spell is in there,” Sunset yelled.
“We’ll try to catch him if he lets go,” Princess Luna said as she looked down at Sunset Shimmer. “You have my word.”
As Coldnelius Snap spun faster and faster, Danged Spell held onto the coat really tight. WIth a loud rip, nearly all of the coat was torn away as Danged Spell flew backwards towards the ground, with most of the coat still in his mouth.
Bright Mac leaped out of the group and grabbed Danged Spell with his arms. The unicorn colt spat out the cult and barked madly at Coldnelius Snap as Bright Mac held him back.
“Princess Celestia told me how feisty you are,” Bright Mac said. “I didn’t know it was the Wolf’s Breath Curse.”
“Honey….” Buttercup said as she tapped Bright Mac’s shoulder. “Look at the cult leader.”
Bright Mac looked up at Coldnelius Snap, whose coat was now reduced to a mere hood attached to the neckline. On his sides were two icy-cold wings that flapped with a winter’s chill. And his cutie mark resembled that of a windigo. Princess Celestia looked at Coldnelius Snap’s wings and her face turned to complete shock.
“You….you’re an alicorn?” Princess Celestia said.
“But that’s impossible,” Princess Luna said. “There aren't supposed to be other alicorns besides myself, my sister, Princess Cadance, Magistrate Creme Dream and her daughter Majesty."
Coldnelius Snap turned to the group and said. “It seems the cat’s out of the bag. But I can assure you, Princess. What you see is only a portion of what you get.”
To Be Continued in….
Bedlam at the Fair.