The True Meaning of Starlight Part 7
“Gad Zookes. What a horrible mess. I hope everyone is okay.”
Those words came from Yukon Cornelius as he stared down at the Zephyr Ship, having crashed into the snow in a wreck. Wanda, Starlight, Zipp, Minty, Rudolph, Santa, Mrs Claus, Clarice, Hermey and the Winter Warlock all stared in horror as Ponies began to pour out from the wreckage, just as the morning sun shined in the south east.
“I can’t believe what happened,” Zipp said. “It was one thing to be separated from the rest of the crew. But now this? Where’s Pipp when I need her?”
“She’ll be okay,” Wanda said. “We’re just glad the ponies of New Ponyville are alright.”
“I don’t know if she is,” Zipp said as she directed her head to the ground. “She’s not just one of the Princesses of Zephyr Heights, she’s my sister and one of the best ponies I know.”
“Zipp. Is that you?” Zipp looked up at the wreckage of the Zephyr Ship, where Pipp Petals jumped down from one of the exits before she glided down towards the snow and landed right in front of Zipp.
“Sister,” Zipp said as her eyes watered. “I’m….I’m glad you made it.
Zipp and Pipp reached out and hugged each other as tears ran down their eyes.
“I thought you were a goner,” Pipp said.
“I don’t die that easy, sis,” Zipp responded.
As Pipp and Zipp held each other close, Wanda, Starlight and Misty approached the pegasi sibling duo. But Starlight paused for a moment when she heard someone call out her name. She looked to the right, but glared in horror.
“S….Sprout,” Starlight said, frightened.
Sprout Cloverleaf, wearing a towel wrapped out his waist, looked up at Starlight Glimmer with a disappointed frown on his face. Starlight could do nothing, but stare at him.
“I…I’m sorry, Sprout,” Starlight cried. “I didn’t mean….to topple over the tree…and catch you…in your shower.”
“It’s okay,” Sprout said as his frown became a smile. “Besides, I should be apologizing to you. I was too harsh on you back in New Ponyville. I should have never said those mean words to you.”
Though tears ran down her cheeks, Starlight Glimmer ran up to Sprout Cloverleaf before giving him a hug. The stallion did nothing but laugh it off before hugging Starlight back.
“Apology accepted, “Starlight cried.
“Feeling is mutual,” Sprout responded.
But as Starlight and Sprout embraced each other, Wanda walked up to wreckage and let out a sigh. She looked up to see Sunset Shimmer fly down to her with Spike and Abigail on her back.
“Sister,” Sunset shouted. “Sister, I thought I lost you.”
But Wanda barely shifted her eyes towards her pony sister, for she was still focused on the wreckage of the ship. Sunset took notice of Wanda’s depression as she landed on the ground, and Spike and Abigail jumped off her back.
“Wanda, we’ve been worried about you,” Sunset said. “And…”
But as Sunset walked up to Wanda, she saw the look in her eyes before her smile disappeared. Sunset got up on her two legs before she placed her hoof behind Wanda's back.
“You risked nearly everything to rescue Starlight and myself,” Wanda said.
“We did,” Sunset said in a somber tone. “And it's a shame that we're now stranded at the North Pole with the Zephyr Ship now in shambles.”
“At least we're all together,” Wanda said with a smile.
“That I'm proud of,” Sunset said.
But while Wanda and Sunset embraced each other, Spike and Abigail held hands together, watching the fosters sisters embrace each other. Behind them, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Moondancer, Golden Lace, Sunburst, Danged Spell, Thistle Whistle and Starcatcher approached the Dragon and cat duo.
“There is a lesson to be learned from all of this, darlings,” Rarity explained.
“And what would that be?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“No one should feel alone during Christmas,” Rarity said. “And no one should ever feel sad during this time. Sure we're thousands of miles away from New Ponyville. But the fact that we're all together says a whole lot. And that is what matters the most.”
“That I agree with,” Rainbow Dash said. “But I feel really sorry for Starlight Glimmer. Having to go through all that fear of ruining Christmas all because she accidentally tipped over our tree. Even Sprout learned too well not to be that harsh.”
“Sounds like you're full of that Christmas spirit, darling,” Rarity asked.
“Of course I am…..darling,” Rainbow Dash said in a mocking tone.
As Rarity glared at Rainbow Dash with a smug smile, the others laughed hysterically.
“Rainbow Dash,” Golden Lace laughed. “Sometimes, you do crack us up.”
“Well that's Rainbow Dash,” Sunburst said. “Always one to let out the jokes.”
“Yeah,” Danged Spell laughed. “It's not like she can deliver pun-ishment like I can.”
“Danged Spell,” Everyone yelled before their laughter became even louder.
“Nothing like smiles for the holidays,” Danged Spell said.
But as the group of ponies laughed, Wanda and Sunset turned around and walked up to them. Spike was the first to notice and began to regain his composure.
“Princesses,” Spike said. “You both look jollyful despite all we've been through.”
“We have,” Sunset said. “And I think my sister has something to say. So I will need every pony to gather around.”
The ponies gathered around Wanda and Sunset, with Pipp and Zipp flying and landing next to Wanda and Sunset. Taking a deep, yet calming breath, Wanda Young approached the group.
“I want to thank you all for coming out to rescue me and Starlight,” Wanda said. “But as you all know, we are stranded here at the North Pole through no fault of anyone. Which means we won't be celebrating Christmas back in our joyous land of New Ponyville.”
As the ponies heard Wanda speak, Santa, Mrs Claus, Rudolph, Hermey, Yukon Cornelius, Clarice, the Bumble and the Winter Warlock gathered behind their equine guests.
“But no matter the tough times, we can get through this,” Wanda said. “We will figure out a way to celebrate the holidays together. And believe me. No pony will be left out, for as long as we never forget the honesty, loyalty, generosity, kindness and laughter that we bring to each other. For together as one, there is more to the magic of friendship….than meets the eye.”
With that, the crowd of ponies erupted into a holiday cheer together. Wanda smiled gracefully as Sunset Shimmer, Pipp Petals and Zipp Storm walked up to the human princess.
“That was the most hearth warming speech you've told to them,” Sunset said.
“Thanks,” Wanda said before she turned her attention to Pipp and Zipp. “But I'm sorry to hear about your ship.”
“Don't worry about it,” Zipp said. “Mom will be upset. But she'll understand why.”
“And that's something you all shouldn't worry about,” Santa said. “I will let my elves repair your ship so you can depart for home when you're ready.”
“Wait,” Pipp said. “Repair our ship? Don't you have toys to make for the good girls and boy?”
“Well here's the good news,” Santa said. “Our elves are way ahead of schedule, and they're anxious to get to work. Fortunately, they have a lot of experience when it comes to airships. During this time, I hereby invite you all here to celebrate the holidays while they make the repairs.”
Zipp looked at Santa Claus in the eyes before her eyes began to water up. She flew to the jolly old Saint Nick with a smile on her face.
“You really don’t have to do this, Kris Kringle,” Zipp said.
“But you’ve all been through a whole lot,” Santa said. “To be stranded here through no fault of your own and to be away from your hometown of New Ponyville. I will do what I can to accommodate you and your friends, Princess Zipp Storm. You have my word.”
Zipp Storm wiped a tear from her eyes as she flew down onto the ground. A speechless Pipp Petals walked up to her sister, who was still extremely emotional.
“I think you just broke me, Santa,” Zipp laughed. “But I appreciate the hospitality that you bring to us, and we will do what we can to make it up to you.”
“Oh you don’t have to do that,” Santa laughed. “Helping out people, be it human, pony, or otherwise, has always been my thing.”
“Noted,” Zipp said.
But in an instant, Pinkie Pie jumped up from the rest of the ponies and cheered loudly into the air, throwing red and green confetti around the land.
“We’re going to have an awesome Christmas party at the North Pole,” Pinkie Pie cheered. “Christmas is saved for the ponies of New Ponyville.”
“Pinkie,” Moondancer giggled. “You don’t have to announce it to the entire planet. After all, it’s only going to be until the Zephyr Ship is repaired.”
“Oh, right,” Pinkie Pie said in an awkward tone as she floated down to the ground and grinned. “My bad.”
“Well that being said,” Starlight Glimmer said as she and Sprout Cloverleaf walked up to Zipp Storm and Santa Claus. “All of our food and presents were left behind in New Ponyville.”
“Not quite,” Rainbow Dash smirked. “I knew something like this would happen.”
“What do you mean by that?” Zipp Storm asked.
“Follow me, your highnesses,” Rainbow Dash said. “I’ve got a surprise for you all.”
Flapping her wings as fast as possible, Rainbow Dash flew up towards the doorway leading into the Zephyr Ship wreckage. Zipp Storm, Pipp Petals and Sunset Shimmer followed Rainbow Dash from behind.
Inside, Rainbow Dash flew down the darkened hallway in a straight line, bypassing the doors in a flash. Behind her, Zipp Storm, Pipp Petals and Sunset Shimmer followed from behind. Rainbow continued to make her way down until she came across a locked door. Moments later, Zipp Storm, Pipp Petals and Sunset Shimmer landed right next to her.
“Now I understand,” Pipp Petals said. “That was the reason why you chose to use the anti-gravity chamber.”
“And you guys weren’t using it,” Rainbow Dash said. “So I decided to pack all of our presents and food in here.”
“And I take it you got the password from my sister,” Zipp asked.
“No,” Pipp said as she approached the console. “We wanted to surprise you in case we got stuck somewhere. It never hurts to be extra prepared for the worst case scenarios.”
Pipp Petals placed her hoof on the touchscreen of the console. A red light scanned the base of her hoof before it turned green. Instantly, the door leading into the anti-gravity chamber opened up. When Zipp and Sunset looked inside, their faces beamed with excitement.
“Well I’ll be,” Sunset Shimmer said. “You guys do think of everything.”
Inside the room, it was filled to the brim with presents and food floating in the air in clear containers. The only thing keeping them held in place were that they were tied up or anchored in place on the floor or the ceiling.
“Neat, huh?” Rainbow Dash said. “Pipp Petals showed me how to keep them upright.”
“Rainbow Dash,” Sunset laughed. “Next year, I think I should make you the Christmas Host.”
Rainbow Dash playfully gave Sunset Shimmer a noogie on the head before Sunset hugged her. But all the while, Zipp Storm looked up at the goodies and the presents before turning to Pipp.
“So Pipp,” Zipp said. “Think we can make this the best Christmas they ever had?”
“My dear Zipp,” Pipp said with a smug look on her face. “This is what I truly like about Christmas.”
“Very well,” Zipp said. “Let’s get to work.”
Pipp immediately pressed a few buttons on the pad outside of the room. Immediately, some of the presents and food floated downward until they touched the ground. The others dangled on the ceiling, still suspended by the rope. Rainbow Dash, Zipp Storm, Pipp Petals and Sunset Shimmer ran in and began to untie each of the containers where the food and presents were stored.
“You all ready for this?” Zipp Storm asked.
“Yeah,” Sunset Shimmer said. “Here’s to celebrating Christmas at the North Pole. We can handle a few days away from New Ponyville.”
Days later, on Christmas Eve, all of Christmas Town was celebrating with good cheer, as ponies, elves, reindeer and humans celebrated together. Some enjoyed food together. Others played games or sang songs.
But nearby, the Zephyr Ship was hovering back in the air, looking as if all of the repairs were fully complete. Inside, Zipp Storm and Pipp Petals looked at the viewing window where their mother Queen Haven looked down at them. Pipp Petals sat down in the captain’s chair, drinking a cup of coffee.
“So you all went to rescue Princess Wanda and Starlight Glimmer, only to run into a powerful storm and the Zephyr Ship went down,” Queen Haven said.
“Well that was the case,” Zipp Storm said. “Until Santa’s elves repaired EVERYTHING! Hoo boy. These elves put our own engineers to shame.”
“I know it does sound far-fetched to you, mother,” Pipp Petals said. “But you wouldn’t even believe the fact that we spent days up at the North Pole instead of New Ponyville.”
“As much as I do want to question that,” Queen Haven laughed awkwardly, “I’m afraid that we ran into a storm of our own and now our ship is stranded in the middle of nowhere. What a horrible place to celebrate Wishentines.”
“A storm of your own,” Zipp Storm said. “By any chance, did one of your crew members have a terrible sneeze that could knock a tree down?”
“Unfortunately, our captain,” Haven explained. “And hoo boy. We had to isolate him in another room so he wouldn’t do any more damage. But when he sneezed, it was a force to be reckoned with.”
“Well that’s strange,” Pipp Petals said. “Didn’t the Winter Warlock say that the whole Windigo Cold only affected one person a year?”
“Windigo Cold?” Queen Haven said. “Is that what it’s all about?”
“Yeah,” Zipp Storm said. “And it’s a long story we’ll tell you once we rescue you.”
“Oh no no no,” Queen Haven said. “You two go enjoy your Christmas celebration together.”
“But mom,” Pipp Petals whined.
“No butts,” Queen Haven laughed. “I’ll be fine. Besides, I still have some company and supplies to last us into the new year. Anyway, you both take care of yourselves. Hoof to heart.”
“Hoof to Heart,” Zipp and Pipp said before reaching out to Queen Haven.
As Queen Haven disappeared from the viewing window, Pipp Petals got out of her chair and walked over to the doorway leading out of the bridge.
“Bout ready to par-tay?” Zipp asked.
“Not yet,” Pipp responded. “I want to have a word with the Winter Warlock about a second case of the Windigo Cold.”
Immediately, a small cloud of snow bursted in the middle of the bridge, catching Pipp and Zipp’s attention. When the cloud disappeared, the Winter Warlock appeared in its place.
“I heard someone talk about a second individual with the Windigo Cold,” the Winter Warlock said.
“I did,” Pipp Petals said, marching over to Old Man Winter. “My mom had an issue with a captain who possessed that same sneeze. And I also heard that a similar storm brought down her ship. Tell me. Why did we have two individuals with the same cold this year? Why is that? Was there something you forgot to tell us?”
Surprised by Pipp’s words, the Winter Warlock brushed off his robe before clearing his throat.
“Sadly, you are right,” The Winter Warlock said. “I didn’t tell you that it was possible for more than one individual to have the Windigo Cold, because it is an even rarer phenomenon. There is no precise reason why sometimes, two separate individuals can get the Windigo Cold, and thus resort to two Tempest Winter Storms.”
“Actually, he’s got a point there,” Zipp Storm said. “Though he didn’t tell us about this, there was recorded history of the Tempest Winter Storm across the world. They often pop up during Christmas and don’t go away until the one with this illness is cured. But rarely, like a one in three hundred chance, do two individuals carry this cold.”
Pipp turned towards Zipp Storm before her jaw dropped to the ground in surprise.
“You….” Pipp said. “You also knew of the Windigo Cold?”
“I didn’t raise any questions about it because I assumed it was only limited to one,” Zipp responded. “Not two. And like I said, a one in three hundred chance of two people getting the Windigo’s Cold.”
Pipp just stared at both Zipp Storm and the Winter Warlock in total shock, her jaw dropped downwards, her mind looking like it was about to tear itself apart. Pipp dropped her head down in confusion before she shook it.
“I am not going to get that out of my head,” Pipp sighed. “But I think I’ve spoken too much.”
“Yeah,” Zipp said. “I think it’s time we go down to the village square of Christmas town and celebrate. Besides, Starcatcher is gathering the pony choir together for their big show.”
“It is?” Pipp said, jumping with anxiety. “Oh my goodness. There’s no time for me to waste. I’ve got to get going.”
But as Pipp was about to make her way towards the exit out of the bridge, the Winter Warlock teleported from next to Zipp Storm to in front of Pipp Petals. The pink pegasi pony skidded to a stop before she looked up at Old Man Winter.
“Tell you what,” The Winter Warlock said. “To make up for not telling you the whole story, I’ll teleport you over to the party at Christmas Town in an instant.”
“That does sound like a good idea,” Zipp said. “What do you say, Pipp?”
“Very well,” Pipp said. “The faster the better I always say.”
The Winter Warlock pulled a wand out from his sleeve and waved it in the air. In a blink of an eye, the Warlock, Pipp and Zipp disappeared from the bridge, leaving it completely empty.
On the outskirts of Christmas Town, The Winter Warlock, Pipp and Zipp appeared in almost an instant. Pipp looked at her surroundings and let out a hearty laugh.
“Wow,” Pipp said. “Never underestimate magic in general, be it pony magic or holiday magic.”
But Pipp stopped laughing when she heard someone call her name. Pipp turned to her left to see Starcatcher wave out to her with the chorus band, all on top of the stage. Off the stage, a crowd of ponies and elves shouted for Pipps Petals’ name.
“Pipp,” Starcatcher yelled. “We’re about to put on a great show.”
“Coming,” Pipp shouted.
Pipp Petals flapped her wings before she leaped into the air. She flew over to Starcatcher before landing right at the front of the stage. The crowd cheered as Starcatcher handed Pipp a microphone.
“GOOD EVENING CHRISTMAS TOWN!” Pipp shouted into the mic. “Are you ready to cheer because it feels alot like Christmas.”
As the crowd cheered once more, Zipp Storm and the Winter Warlock took a seat and cheered as the choir prepped their voices. Pipp held the microphone and began to sing. Her voice filled the air, catching the attention of the audience.
“Houses decked with light, glowing bright on frost nights, with a wreath on every door,” Pipp sang. “Drifting through the air is the laughter that we share with our dearest friends once more. And that’s what I love about Christmas. Hard to believe that it’s almost here. That’s what I love about Christmas. Have a merry one this year.”
As Pipp Petals and the choir sang to the audience, Zipp Storm sat back, her ears picking up the tunes from her sister and the other singers.
“Your sister is terrific when it comes to songs,” The Winter Warlock said.
“Thanks,” Zipp said. “She got into singing to help cheer her own blues when we were away on separate missions.”
“And that’s something worth having as a trait,” Winter Warlock said. “I’m surprised that she’s a princess instead of a worldwide singer.”
“That I agree with,” Zipp said. “But like me, she’s bound by her responsibilities to the ponies of Zephyr Heights.”
“It’s a shame as well,” The Winter Warlock said. “But as long as she can make them all smile through her voice, that’s what matters the most.”
“I forgot to tell you that,” Zipp said. “That is a part of her responsibilities. And she looks forward to every one since she started singing.”
The Winter Warlock looked up at Pipp before letting out a hearty laugh.
“And I’d say that is the best responsibility your sister could ever have,” The Winter Warlock chuckled.
As Pipp Petals sang with the choir, over at the nearby bakery, Pinkie Pie was helping Mrs Claus pull out some freshly baked goodies from the oven before placing them on the table. She wrapped up a cake in a container before giving it to an elf.
“There you go,” Pinkie Pie said. “One hot cocoa and peppermint cake to go.”
“Thank you very much,” the Elf said. “Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas to you too,” Pinkie Pie waved as the elf made his way out of the crowd and towards the entrance.
“You are an excellent baker and a courteous worker,” Mrs Claus said.
“I’ve had great teachers from Old Ponyville in the Canterlot region,” Pinkie Pie responded as she went up to the oven and pulled out a batch of fresh chocolate chip cookies. “And they happen to share that passion with me. They’re Mr and Mrs Cake.”
“I will keep that in mind, Pinkie,” Mrs Claus said.
Immediately, Rainbow Dash, Danged Spell, Sunburst and Hermey walked up to the front, catching Pinkie Pie’s attention. Next to Hermey was a little girl that held the older elf’s hand.
“New Ponyville’s finest baker with the North Pole’s finest baker,” Rainbow Dash said. “You two make a perfect team.”
“Aww,” Pinkie Pie said. “You don’t have to be that complimentary.”
“But it’s okay to accept a compliment,” Mrs Claus said. “Sometimes it is okay to be humble. But other times, accepting a compliment gives the friend a warmth within.”
“Oh I know that,” Pinkie Pie said as she placed the cookies into a box. “It’s how the magic of friendship grows.”
As Pinkie Pie tied up the box, she held it out to Sunburst, who picked it up with his horn.
“Thanks Pinkie,” Sunburst said. “Now I can deliver this to Starlight Glimmer. After what she’s been through, she deserves a lot of tender loving care.”
”I’ll say,” Rainbow Dash said. “We were worried about her and Princess Wanda when they flew out of control on that hot air balloon. And then that storm knocked the whole Zephyr Ship out of the sky.”
“Now Rainbow,” Sunburst said. “Let’s not turn what we went through into something that’s too cinematic. We have way too many of those for our own good.”
“Sunburst is right,” Danged Spell said. “We don’t need anything to be to the point where they’re overwhelming. Sometimes, a smaller, more thought out story matters more than even a cinematic universe.”
“Whoops,” Rainbow Dash said with a blush on her face. “Sorry about that. I tend to think of everything as awesome as it can be.”
Sunburst nodded to Rainbow Dash before he made his way towards the front door of the bakery. As Pinkie Pie placed a pie into the box and wrapped it up, she looked down at Hermey and the child next to him.
“Hey,” Pinkie Pie said. “I see our favorite dentist has a daughter of his own.”
“This is my daughter, Heather,” Hermey said. “She’s a bit shy, but she’s also friendly.”
Heather looked up at Pinkie Pie before moving her hand into the air and waving at the pony with her head slightly turned away.
“Hi,” Heather said.
Pinkie Pie held the box with the pie to Heather and said “Do you like pie like I do?”
“I…do,” Heather said as she accepted the box. “But I also like teeth as well.”
As Heather held the box next to her, Pinkie turned her head towards Hermey.
“We have a dentist in training,” Pinkie Pie said, excited.
“It didn’t take long for my daughter to take an interest in dentistry,” Hermey said. “So right away, me and my wife decided to teach her the ways of the tooth. And after all, I may not have this job forever.”
“Well why not?” Pinkie Pie.
“That I can explain,” Mrs Claus said. “As proud as he is of his job as a dentist, Hermey wanted to pass his legacy down to a new generation. He got this opportunity with the birth of his and his wife Rose’s daughter Heather. And since her days as a baby, Heather has been fascinated by teeth, how they work and how to clean them.”
“That’s right,” Hermey said. “Even if I do retire from being a dentist, I hope someone can take up my position and look after the teeth of elves, reindeer, and even guests like you.”
“Well Hermey,” Pinkie Pie said. “I’d say your legacy is in good hands with your daughter, and with your wife Rose.”
“Yeah,” Danged Spell said. “When it comes to Pinkie Pie, she’s nothing but the tooth. Get it.”
“Danged Spell,” Everyone in the room yelled before they broke down in laughter.
“What?” Danged Spell chuckled. “I had to say it.”
Meanwhile, outside within the town limits, Starlight Glimmer walked alongside Minty, Rarity, Thistle Whistle, Moondancer, Golden Lace, Spike and Abigail. Starlight levitated a couple of boxes in the air with her magic.
“Christmas town feels dazzling to my eyes,” Moondancer said. “It’s like the whole universe came up to put on an impressive show.”
“I never thought I could see the whole town of Christmas with my very eyes,” Rarity said. “I hate to say this. But it puts New Ponyville to shame, with or without Christmas decorations.”
“Isn’t it beautiful, Rarity?” Spike said.
“Oh it is,” Rarity said. “Too bad after the celebration is over, we have to go back home to New Ponyville.”
“But I think it’s the memories about this place that will always be within us,” Starlight said. “How we all hung out together, met Santa Claus and the reindeer, and even got to share a hot cup of cocoa together.”
But Minty paused for a moment before she turned to the right. She looked at the Christmas Tree that towered the entire town, and noticed something on the branches.
“Say,” Minty said. “Are those the socks I had you place up in New Ponyville?”
“They are,” Starlight said, taking notice of the socks. “But I didn’t hang them up here.”
“Even more so, I only brought in the socks that you didn’t hang,” Minty said as she pointed to a sock with Rarity’s cutie mark on it. “I don’t even recall seeing this sock in my collection when we departed New Ponville.”
“Why…that is the sock that Starlight hung in my house,” Rarity said. “I didn’t expect to see this again.”
“Neither did I,” Thistle Whistle said with a whistle. “Who could have put them there?”
“I have a sneaking suspicion Santa may have caused it,” Spike said. “After all, he does have magic that is beyond belief.”
“Oh Spike,“ Rarity giggled. “Now why did you have to take the mystery out of this?”
Rarity reached over and kissed Spike on the forehead. In an instant, the dragon spun around in a tizzy before he collapsed on the ground, causing everyone to laugh. Even Abigail rolled onto her back and meowed hysterically.
“Rarity,” Golden Lace laughed. “I think you overdid it.”
But as Starlight laughed, she noticed Sprout Cloverleaf sitting on a nearby bench, looking up in the air while sipping some cocoa.
“Will you excuse me?” Starlight said. “I have a gift to give.”
Starlight ran towards Sprout Cloverleaf, carrying her stack of gifts with her. Sprout turned towards Starlight and gagged a bit before swallowing the cocoa in his mouth.
“Starlight,” Sprout yelled. “Don’t scare me like that.”
“Sorry, Sprout,” Starlight said as she pulled out a package from the tower of presents. “But I have a gift for you to apologize for catching you in the shower by accident.”
Starlight handed the gift to Sprout, who placed his cocoa down before accepting the gift. He opened the box up before pulling the lid off. Upon looking, his face looked rather surprised.
“A shower set,” Sprout said, observing the inside of the gift.
Within Sprout’s gift was a new towel, a new scrubbing brush, a set of soaps, shampoos, conditioners and deodorant.
“You always liked the idea of taking those relaxing showers,” Starlight said. “So I decided to get you that.”
“Oh Starlight,” Sprout said. “Thanks. I appreciate the gift. But I’m sorry I… couldn’t find you anything.”
“That’s okay,” Starlight said. “After all, I prefer to give than to receive. It makes me feel all warm and toasty inside.”
“Well speaking of which,” Sprout said as he saw Sunburst on his left. “I believe there is someone who does have a gift for you.”
Starlight turned to her right to see Sunburst run up to the twin-tailed mare with his box.
“Starlight,” Sunburst said. “I’m glad to finally see you.”
“Sunburst,” Starlight cheered. “I’m glad to see you as well. But why do you have a box with you?”
“Oh that’s easy,” Sunburst said as he handed the box to Starlight. “This is for you to enjoy.”
Starlight Glimmer accepted the box before she opened in. Inside were the chocolate chip cookies that Sunburst accepted from Pinkie PIe.
“Cookies,” Starlight said as she pulled one out and took a bite. “Wow. Thanks, Sunburst.”
“And I more than just appreciate that, Starlight,” Sunburst said. “We were all worried about you when you left New Ponyville. We knew you wanted to spread the holiday cheer. But the one thing that matters is that we’re all together again. And I’m especially glad of that, since we’ve both known each other when we were younger..”
“Oh Sunburst,” Starlight blushed as she held the box of cookies out for Sunburst.
Sunburst reached down and pulled out one cookie before biting into it. After he chewed and swallowed, Sunburst licked his lips.
“Those were the best cookies I ever had,” Sunburst said.
“Me too,” Starlight giggled.
Sunburst looked deep in Starlight’s eyes, who turned away and placed her hooves on her cheeks.
“Starlight, “Sunburst said. “I’m glad to have been your friend since we lived in Sire’s Hollow in the Canterlot region.”
“You and I both,” Starlight said.
Suddenly a light shined down on Starlight and Sunburst, catching their attention. The duo looked up to see Wanda Young shining the light down with a flashlight while Sunset Shimmer held a small bit of mistletoe over the duo.
“Come on, you two,” Starlight giggled. “We’re not that engaged.”
“Sorry,” Sunset said as she and Wanda flew down. “We just wanted to add to the moment.”
“Next time, I’ll refrain from using this light,” Wanda said, placing her light in a pocket.
As Sunset, Starlight, Wanda and Sunburst laughed, Sprout looked down at his mug of cocoa before turning towards the four ponies. He then reached over the bench before pulling up a tray carrying four mugs of cocoa
“By the way, guys,” Sprout said as he pulled up the tray. “I lied. I do have something for you to celebrate Christmas with. Enjoy.”
“Thanks, Sprout,” Sunset said as she, Wanda, Starlight and Sunburst accepted their mugs.
“Well everyone,” Wanda said, holding her mug up. “Here’s to what may be ironically the best Christmas ever.”
“To the best Christmas ever,” Everyone cheered before they clanged their mugs together.
As Wanda, Sunset, Starlight, Sunburst and Sprout enjoyed their mugs of cocoa with some fresh chocolate chip cookies, Rarity, Spike, Abigail, Minty and Thistle Whistle watched from next to the Christmas tree.
“It really is a magical time,” Spike said. “Friends together, enjoying the warmth and cheer.”
“Darling,” Rarity said. “That’s what I like about Christmas. It truly is the most magical time of this year.”
“You bet,” Minty said before she looked up at the star on top of the tree. “Though I’ll say, I think that star atop looks a bit crooked, don’t you think?”
“Minty,” Thistle Whistle laughed.
“Sorry,” Minty said. “Old habit.”
“Well as much as I do enjoy being here in Christmas Town,” Golden Lace said. “I do miss the sights of New Ponyville.”
“We all do, Lace,” Moondancer said. “But don’t worry. Once Christmas is over, we’ll be back home getting ready for the New Year.”
“Oooh I can’t wait,” Golden Lace said. “Danged Spell said he wants to volunteer putting together a New Year celebration to remember.”
“Well as much as we want to get ready for the New Year, we still have Christmas to celebrate,” Abigail said. “After all, Santa’s going to get ready to take off soon. We should all get ready to check it out.”
“Now that’s something to look forward to,” Minty said.
Later that night, every pony, every elf, and so many others gathered around a giant sleigh. Next to the sleigh was Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer alongside Clarice, waiting for Santa.
“Are you nervous, Rudolph?” Clarice asked.
“Just like every Christmas, I am,” Rudolph said. “To be able to fly with my father again while helping Santa deliver toys across the entire planet.”
“I know you’ll do great, Rudolph,” Clarice said. “You always do.
Clarice walked up to Rudolph and kissed him on the nose. Rudolph blushed for a moment before looking up at Clarice.
“Thanks Clarice,” Rudolph said. “Guess tonight will be extra special.”
“A night that we will all remember and cherish in our hearts,” Clarice said. “Even so, there’s always tomorrow, and that’s not far away.”
As Clarice made her way back into the crowd, Rudolph stood next to the sleigh, ready and willing, as Santa made his way down to him, carrying a megaphone. Once he approached the sleigh, he turned towards the audience.
“Good evening, all of Christmas town,” Santa announced. “Once again, I will make my route down through all of planet Earth, to deliver gifts for the good girls and boys. And to announce the coming of the reindeer, I give to you my special helper: RUDOLPH!”
As the crowd cheered for Rudolph, who took a bow, Santa turned to the red-nosed reindeer, holding out the megaphone.
“Rudolph, with your nose so bright,” Santa said. “Will you call forth the other reindeer tonight?”
“It will be an honor, sir,” Rudolph said.
Santa Claus handed Rudolph the megaphone, who held it up to his lips.
“Attention all reindeer,” Rudolph said through the megaphone. “Now Dasher, now Dancer, now Prancer, now Vixen. On Comet, on Cupid, on father, on Blitzen. The time has come to make our Christmas trek through the entire world.”
Emerging from the crowd were eight reindeer: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen. They all ran up to the end of the sleigh, where the elves wrapped their harnesses around them.
“Perfect form, son,” Donner said. “You make me prouder than any day I ever had.”
“It’s an honor father,” Rudolph said as he handed the megaphone back to Santa. “It was an honor.”
“That’s my boy,” Donner laughed. “Now let’s get ready to make our rounds, tonight.”
As Rudolph made his way to the front of the pack and Santa made his way to the front of the sleigh, Wanda, Sunset, Starlight and Minty stood there at the front with every other pony next to them.
“I can’t believe we’re seeing this,” Minty said. “Santa Claus is going to take off from the North Pole to make his delivery.”
“I’m glad of that as well,” Wanda said. “Imagine seeing this experience and having it forever set in your mind.”
“And I’m proud of you all for being able to see this.” The voice who said those words caught the attention of every pony, plus Wanda, Spike and Abigail. They all turned around to see a purple alicorn named…
“Twilight Sparkle,” Sunset said.
“Yep,” Twilight Sparkle said. “I didn’t expect to be done with my peace negotiations on Cybertron. But for some reason, Zordon, Alpha Five and I were able to get that done.”
“Oh you have got to show us Cybertron,” Rainbow Dash said. “What are the Autobots like, or the Decepticons? Is it true that Starscream is a big jerk?”
“Or maybe Grimlock is fit to be king?” Spike asked.
“Oh you guys,” Twilight Sparkle said. “I’ll talk about that in the morning. Right now, I came here after I got your message about being up in Christmas town.”
“Say,” Starlight said. “You don’t suppose Santa brought her here when we least expected it.”
“One could say he did,” Twilight giggled.
“That reminds me,” Wanda said. “I still owe him for his hospitality.”
Wanda’s wings sprouted once more as she flew up towards Santa Claus, who looked eager and ready to take off.
“Princess Wanda,” Santa said. “I take it you’ve come to see me off.”
“Actually, sir,” Wanda said. “You’ve done a whole lot for us. So I was wondering if me and a couple of friends could help with the gift delivery?”
Those words caused Santa to pause for a moment while the crowd gasped.
“Wanda,” Pinkie Pie said. “I think you broke Santa.”
“Oh not really,” Santa chuckled. “I’m surprised that you wanted to pitch in and help out.”
“But you’ve done everything to help us out,” Wanda said. “It’s the least I, or anyone could do.”
But as Santa pondered on Wanda’s words, Twilight Sparkle nodded to Starlight Glimmer, Sunset Shimmer and Minty.
“Go with them,” Twilight Sparkle said. “Wanda looks like she wants to help Santa out.”
“Will do,” Sunset said. “But, I will miss you, even though we got to see each other again.”
“Yeah,” Twilight said as Spike jumped on her back. “It’s sad that our reunion will be short lived. But at least we can see each other again.”
Sunset Shimmer gave Twilight Sparkle a hug for only a moment. Once she let go of the purple alicorn, Sunset Shimmer ran up to Santa Claus before bowing to him in respect.
“Santa,” Sunset Shimmer said. “As one of the two princesses of New Ponyville, I would be honored to help with gift delivery.”
Immediately, Starlight Glimmer and Minty walked up next to Wanda and Sunset and bowed as well in respect. Santa looked down at the four with a hearty laugh.
“Very well,” Santa said. “Hop on board, and get ready for the ride of your lives.”
Santa Claus got on the front of his sleigh and held onto the reins. Wanda, Sunset, Starlight and Minty got into the back as the sack full of toys landed in the far end of the giant vehicle.
“Sunset,” Zipp said, walking up to the sleigh with Pipp by her side. “You be careful out there, promise?”
“We promise, Zipp,” Sunset said. “And don’t worry Pipp. When we get back to New Ponyville, I’ll help you get your mom back.”
“That’s okay,” Pipp Petals said. “You don’t have to pitch in.”
Starlight turned towards her right, seeing Sprout Cloverleaf, Sunburst, Danged Spell, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie stare up at her.
“Aww,” Starlight said. “It’s been a while since we all reunited, and now I have to say good-bye for the moment.”
“It is,” Sunburst said. “But I’m glad you get to experience the best thing of your entire life. And you should be proud of it.”
“Yeah,” Sprout said. “It’s like you’re experiencing a gift to the world. Get it?”
“Sprout,” Sunburst, Danged Spell, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie yelled before laughing out loud.
“You stole my thunder,” Danged Spell laughed.
“Careful, Spell,” Sprout said. “I can take it, and I can dish it out.”
“Well,” Rainbow Dash said. “You, Minty, Sunset and Wanda should enjoy yourselves. Maybe in the future, I might ask Rudolph if he wants to become the first reindeer Wonderbolt.”
“Noted,” Starlight said.
Minty had her attention directed to Rarity, Thistle Whistle, Starcatcher, Golden Lace and Moondancer, who waved back to her.
“So Minty,” Moondancer asked. “Will you be able to see all of the stars up in the sky above?”
“Like we didn’t see it back on the Zephyr Ship?” Minty laughed.
“Well, you got a point there,” Moondancer laughed.
“But do take care of yourself,” Golden Lace said. “After all, you’re still our number one sock maker, and the socks you made were the best ones yet.”
“Oh I will,” Minty said.
Wanda looked at all of the ponies who gathered around the sleigh before placing her hands on her heart.
“I’m glad to have you all as friends,” Wanda said. “Though we will be apart again, know that we will be together again when Christmas Day is here. For it is the most wonderful time of the year.”
With that, every pony chanted “HIP HIP HURRAY! HIP HIP HURRAY!” Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie danced together, Spike and Abigail swung each other around in joyous harmony. Pipp and Zipp flew up and twirled together. Danged Spell, Sunburst and Sprout held hooves together and danced in a circle. The reindeer doe Clarice winked to Rudolph, who winked back at her. Even Moondancer, Danged Spell, Rarity, Thistle Whistle and Starcatcher cheered loudly.
“Santa,” Twilight Sparkle said. “Merry Christmas.”
“And Happy Hearths Warming to you,” Santa said.
“Are you ready, everyone?” Wanda asked.
“We’re ready,” Starlight saluted.
“Santa,” Wanda said. “It’s time.”
Santa turned towards his reindeer, who all nodded to the jolly man.
“Santa,” Rudolph said. “We’re primed and ready to go.”
“Okay Rudolph,” Santa said. “Full power.”
With the light of his nose glowing brightly, Rudolph led the other reindeer down the tracks, pulling the sleigh with Santa, Wanda, Sunset, Starlight, Minty and the bag of toys forward. With a mighty leap, the reindeer flew into the air with the sleigh right behind them. Below, everyone gathered around, waving good-bye to the sleigh.
“Good-bye,” Everyone cheered as the sleigh took off from the North Pole.
“Good-bye,” Wanda, Sunset, Starlight and Minty waved as they saw Christmas town behind them.
As the sleigh made its way into the sky, Wanda, Starlight, Sunset and Minty waved to the crowd, as they shrunk down in their eyes, becoming smaller specs in their sight.
“It’s sad to be away from them again, after we reunited with them,” Starlight said.
“Don’t you worry, Starlight Glimmer,” Santa said. “When this is over, they will be glad to see you all again.”
“Santa’s right,” Wanda said. “It’s not going to be forever. But one thing’s for certain, we will never forget this experience.”
“So,” Santa said. “Who wants to do the first honors?”
“I will,” Starlight said.
“All you have to do is hold the gift into the air,” Santa said. “The magic will do the rest.”
Starlight reached into the bag of gifts before pulling one out at random.
“I found one, Santa,” Starlight said.
“Now hold it up,” Santa said. “It will go to a good girl or boy and they will receive their Christmas joy.”
Starlight Glimmer held the gift into the air. A magic aura surrounded it before it dashed off from her hoof. Sunset, Minty and Wanda were amazed as the gift flew off from the sleigh.
“That was amazing,” Wanda said. “Let me try.”
“Go right ahead,” Santa laughed.
Wanda pulled out a gift from the bag. But when she looked down, she saw the words “Twilight Sparkle” on it.
“Hey,” Wanda said. “This gift is supposed to be for Twilight Sparkle.”
“Oops,” Santa chuckled. “Looks like I made a mistake. Why don’t you correct that while you’re at it.”
Wanda held the gift into the air as high as possible. A magic aura surrounded it before it jets off from the sleigh, back to Christmas town.
“Well that’s one problem solved,” Sunset said. “At least Twilight’s going to get her gift this Christmas.”
Back at Christmas town, everyone continued to celebrate as the sleigh flew off in the distance. Twilight Sparkle and Spike walked out of the crowd, watching as the sleigh disappeared into the night sky.
“It’s so beautiful,” Twilight said. “This is what the magic of the holidays truly is about, be it Christmas or Hearths Warming.”
“You said it, Twilight,” Spike said.
Suddenly, the gift that flew out of the sleigh landed right next to Twilight Sparkle, catching the alicorn’s attention.
“A gift for me?” Twilight said. “That’s rather interesting.”
“Maybe Santa made a mistake and put that in the bag before realizing the error he made,” Yukon Cornelius said with the Bumble by his side. “Go ahead and open it.”
Twilight Sparkle reached down and opened the box. She looked inside and pulled out a book, dazzling her eyes.
“I know what this is,” Twilight said. “This is the new edition of the Equestrian thesaurus. Something I always wanted.”
“And it’s something you should treasure,” Yukon Cornelius said as Clarice walked up to Twilight.
“Yukon Cornelius is right,” Clarice said. “The gifts that we get from friends and family are the gifts that we treasure the most.”
“Believe me,” Twilight Sparkle said. “I will treasure this for a long time.”
“She’s right,” Spike said. “After all, books are always Twilight’s thing.”
Meanwhile, in the skies due south of the North Pole, Wanda, Sunset, Starlight and Minty pulled gifts out and held them up as they lit up and flew from the sleigh, flying down to villages, towns, cities, even small farms. Santa cheered as the nine reindeer pulled his sleigh.
“This is more fun than it should be,” Minty said.
“I’ll say,” Sunset said. “Wait till Princess Celestia hears about this.”
“Maybe we should write a letter to mommy when this is over,” Wanda said. “She always likes that.”
“Not on a weekly basis,” Sunset said. “That’d be too much.”
“You’re right,” Wanda laughed.
“As glad as I am of helping Santa,” Starlight said, “I’m more glad we got to spend Christmas together. After all, we’re all friends, and as Twilight Sparkle would say…Friendship is Magic.”
“A lesson we all keep to heart,” Sunset said as she pulled out another gift from the bag.
As the gift magically flew off from Sunset’s hoof and the sleigh, it fell down towards New Ponyville, which had not a single soul within. It landed down underneath a giant tree that was once toppled, where the star shined brightly to light this town.
Back above in the sleigh, Wanda, Sunset, Starlight and Minty looked down to see New Ponyville, and to see the tree standing.
Well I’ll be,” Minty said. “Our Christmas tree is back up and brighter than ever.”
“Wait,” Starlight said. “Didn’t my sneeze knock down that tree?”
“It did,” Wanda said. “But…why is it back up?”
“Guess that is something that a little Christmas magic may have answered,” Sunset laughed.
With that, Santa Claus yelled out “MERRY CHRISTMAS” as the sleigh took off from the skies above New Ponyville.
The End