Prologue
It was cold and very merry Hearth's Warming Eve as the ponies of ponyville prepared for a huge celebration hosted by The Mayor herself. Everypony radiated a warm glow of sunshine and excitement as they filled the roads with their clopping hooves and filled the air with endless conversation. The Cakes were setting out Hearth's Warming treats for all to admire and enjoy while various store owners advertised to the passing villagers hoping to make a few good sales before closing. However, there were others that filled the busy crowd as well: yaks, buffalo, and travelers from different parts of Equestria were even there and in the spirit of the glorious upcoming holiday. While not every creature there celebrated the merry holiday, Twilight herself figured it was only fair to send invites elsewhere in hopes to not only bring every pony together....but every able creature as well.
But hidden in the mist of all the jolly bodies that swarmed the town, there was one figure who didn't seem in the spirit whatsoever. Her peach-colored eyes were glazed with worry as she took a few paranoid glances about and trotted close to the side of the roads as her white mane brushed along every building. Her ears were flat against her skull and her head lowered suspiciously as she reached her supposed destination: Rarity's Boutique. A nervous smile would blossom upon the her face as she proceeded to scurry up to a window and peak inside in hopes it'll clear out soon:
"Darling, if you would please be so kind to hold still! I just have to apply a feeeeew finishing touches!" the white mare would squeal with excitement as she began to place jade stones and red rubies neatly along the hem of snow white dress that was worn by the one and only Applejack. The orange earth pony would release an irritated sigh; vivid green orbs following the movement of her dramatic friend as she applied her finishing touches to the dress she was trapped in.
"Rarity, ah ain't gonna stand here all day fer you to make a frufru dress ah might not even wear!" AJ complained with a deep frown. Rarity would merely roll her cobalt blue eyes with exasperation towards her friend.
"Now now darling, the Hearth's Warming party is only a day away. I refuse to have you attend looking like--er--how shall I put this" she wondered aloud purposely ignoring the green daggers that were shooting at her. "A flowered printed fadora in the fall" she concluded cheerfully; figuring that was the nicest way to put it.
Suddenly a certain pink earth pony would bust through the doors enveloped in wintry holiday decorations and small chocolates. "OOHH HEARTH'S WARMING EEEVE! OH HEARTH'S WARMING EVE! OH HOW I LOVE YOUR CANDIIESS!" she sang as she skidded to a halt and wildly shook her puffy mane. Out flew the chocolates as they neatly stacked in front of the two rather shocked ponies. How were they stacked so neatly from a mane shake? The world would never know since there was never a solid explanation when it came to the ways of Pinkie Pie. Wearing a joyous smile, the party pony skipped in without an invitation and took a dramatic bow. "Sweet treats from yooouuurrrs truly!" she beamed despite the fact that neither AJ nor Rarity were amused. However, their shock and irritation was short-lived as both released a sigh and offered their sugar-hyped friend a genuine smile as they accepted the treats with appreciation.
"Ah thanks sugarcube" AJ would say as she bent down to take one of the chocolates but was intervened by Rarity herself
"Oh gracious no! I will not allow you to ruin your dress to that chocolate!" she huffed as she peered dangerously through her red glasses. However, guilt would wash over her as AJ grumbled unhappily. "Ugh....well....fine. We can take a little break I suppose. But come with me now, let me put the dress away someplace safe before you go ruining it" she added. Pinkie giggled gleefully as she turned tail and shouted back to her two close friends. "SEE YA! This pony has a lot of candy to deliver!" as she stuffed a few pieces in her mouth and hopped away.
"Yes, if she doesn't devour them all first" Rarity joked as she led AJ into the back. The room was now empty....perfect!
The female would slowly creep into the boutique and peer around nervously as she tried to keep herself calm and her presence unnoticed. "Breath steady....don't get caught....you've done this countless times before...." she whispered to herself as her eyes fell on the chest of jewels that were carelessly left out. She would stretch her neck to get a better look and nearly gasped aloud as she gazed upon the jade stones, rubies, and sapphires. This would be more than enough for her! Smiling wickedly, the filly would conjure up a spell and both her and the chest of jewels disappeared from within the boutique.
Chapter 1: Change of Plans!!
"PIXEEELLLL ARE YOU DONE YET?" shouted the little periwinkle filly who was slumped in a corner watching the alicorn tinker with a strange little device within Rarity's boutique. Pixel, Buffy, Rarity, Applejack, Viola, Pinkie, Viridian and Twilight were all gathered in the shop brainstorming on what happened to Rarity's jewel chest. When returning to the main room, both her and AJ were bewildered as to where the chest was. At first, Rarity figured she had misplaced them before they left, but the mere fact that strange magical residue was in the same spot her chest was and it was never found alerted the two to tell Twilight and Pixal Wavelength; two ponies who were best fit to solve such a mystery.
"And this isn't the only report we've gotten today." Twilight mused with a deep frown as she watched Pixel work her magic (figuratively) on the small remote-like device. "Other ponies have been coming short on their treasures too. Keep saying they are disappearing and all scenes have the exact same magical residue in their place." she explained.
"Well I don't see why we have to watch Pixel build a device to track down some missing jewels when we can easily allow Rarity to track them herself. She has the talent for it ya know" Viridian chimed in as she tried to peer over Pixel's shoulders. "It'll be much easier don't you think? Rarity tracks the jewels, it leads us to the thief, everyone is happy, and then we can finish the day preparing for the Ponyville Hearth's Warming party! There, problem solved and all is well" she concluded with a wave of her hoof.
"But there's a few problems with that my friend" Pixel murmured though her eyes were glued to her work. "This device is not for tracking jewels. It's for tracking the unique mana within the energy that is left in the magical residue. That way it'll lead us to whatever pony or other magical being that did this.Besides, the earth contains too many jewels to count..if Rarity even attempted to track the jewels, she'll only be led to various places." she explained gently.
Viridian would fall silent and simply shrug not liking the fact her plan was heavily flawed. Applejack nodded solemnly as she fell in beside Pixel tipping her hate back to get a better view. "Pixel's right....this here would be the better option to find whoever has been stealin' from the town. There seems to be strands of white fur here too....but they wouldn't be Rarity's....they seem too dusted and dirty which we all know ain't her cup of apple cider" she added.
"WHITE HAIRS?" Pinkie shouted as she bounced up to Pixel. "THIEF CAUGHT!" she screamed as Viola squeezed her eyes shut and released a low growl. "Pinkie! Honestly have you ever heard of inside voices. Besides, Pixel is not the thief. Does her flank look dirty to you? And she's trying to catch the thief so if you would be so kindly not throw accusations especially in such an obnoxious manner?" she huffed with a flip of her mane. "Agreed" Rarity added with an eye roll as stood beside Viola though both weren't really angry.....you get used to it.
"Oh. Right. BUT I have my eye on you" Pinkie warned as she narrowed her ice-blue eyes and slowly stepped out of Pixel's space. The alicorn merely remained silent as she tweaked with her device a bit more and stomped her hoof on the floor with a wild spark in her eyes. "Done!" she huffed as she leaned back to allow the others to look at her work.
Buffy would prick her eyes as she raced over to get a closer look. "UMMMM how do you even WORK this thing Pixel?" she asked with genuine curiosity.
"It's simple really." Pixel began as the explanation alternated between her and Twilight:
"This device will lock on to the mana within the magical residue..." Twilight started
"And with it, when we teleport, we will teleport to the next place the thief had telported to....lead-"
"-ing us to the thief and hopefully the treasures they took from ponyville and who knows what other places" the purple alicorn concluded.
Everypony would fill the room with low murmurs of "ah okay that make sense" as both alicorns stood at their places. and switched on the device which buzzed and beeped wildly. "You could have made that thing a little less noisy ya know" Viridian joked as she took a step back beside Buffy who was staring in awe.
"We'll stay here and finish preparing for the party. Celestia knows this here problem is taking up too much of our time already. There's folks countin' on us" AJ pointed out as the others gathered behind her.
"BUT I WANNA GO TOO!!" Buffy whined as she attempted to leap forward but was blocked by Viridian. "Nah I think they can handle it themselves. Besides, I'm sure it won't take long for them. I am setting up a small film festival for tonight anyways. Might as well give this town a good Hearth's Warming movie to enjoy before the big celebration tomorrow. It's going to be grander than anything you've ever seen. You can bet all the stolen jewels in the world on that" she boasted proudly but paused as Viola gave her an incredulous look. "What?.....not funny enough?" she asked with a lopsided grin.
"ARE YOU KIDDING? That's hilarious mmhahahaha" Pinkie giggled as she fell on her back and rolled.
"Uh....okaaaay then. We'll get to the bottom of this. You guys stay here in Ponyville and keep things smooth." Twilight instructed as she nodded over to Pixel.
The white alicorn responded with a brief snort and pressed the red button to the device as it grew louder. With their magic combined, the alicorns teleported out of the Boutique....in hopes to reach the culprit
Chapter 2: The Chase
Threading through the snow was both Twilight and Pixel as chattered between each other with their heads low and device floating above yet another magic residue they were led to the fifteenth time. It hadn't been long since they had teleported out of the Boutique to follow the creature who was most likely behind all the stolen treasures. However, the device did not lead them to the culprit as they had expected......only to "checkpoints" that seemed to lead to other towns as well such as Appleloosa, Las Pegasus, and Canterlot. Between each place, they had did their best to ask questions and it seemed all the stories were the same.
Whoever this was...ponyville was not it's only victim. But why? And why on Hearth's Warming Eve? Pixel would gaze over to Twilight with a face laced with mild frustration. "It doesn't make any sense" she sighed. "Why go through so much effort especially if this constant long distance teleportation will clearly tire any pony out? Maybe this is being done out of spite?" she guessed. "I recall Wordplay mentioning a story similar to this one....about a grump who tried to steal things to ruin the holidays for everyponyelse" she explained knowing the writer was familiar with many fictional literature and did well in creating his own.
"Maybe.....but it doesn't explain why they'd strike so many places and only places where there are a lot of jewels and stuff. This could be for selfish gain?" Twilight inquired.
Pixel would shake her head. "Regardless of the motive, we should keep going, I am not sure how much longer my device will last out here....don't want the wires to freeze up on us." she reasoned before both gave a mutual nod and teleported again. Suddenly they stood at the rusted gates of Griffonstone. Twilight was the first to take a step forward as she peered about noticing that not much had changed for the city; crumbling stone towers and worn nests were everywhere with stray bits scattered within the snow. The Griffons didn't look any better as they trudged about with their heads hung and feathers ruffled from what Pixel and Twilight could only guess was from lack of self grooming.
However, there was something different.....despite the dreary scene, the Griffons would still greet each other kindly before going their way. Their eyes possessing a small twinkle of what looked like hope. It was clear that Rainbowdash's and Pinkie's last visit had left Griffonstone on a positive note though much couldn't be said about everything else.
"Griffonstone? You think the thief would strike here?" Pixel asked in a low voice as her eyes took in the sad scene.
"Maybe....but Griffonstone really isn't known for being a town of riches. Not sense the fall of their last king. Unless..." she thought aloud not really wanting to finish her sentence though Pixel had no troubles finishing it for her: "Unless the thief is from Griffonstone though I never heard of Griffons practicing magic.."
Both ponies would cast each other a worried glance before they walked further into the village. Pixel's device would repeatedly beep and buzz as nearby Griffons threw bewildered glances their way but surprisingly enough welcomed them to their town. "We should teleport one more time...if they are here, we could pinpoint their location with my machine. Besides, it won't last any longer after this last attempt" Pixel advised.
"You're right, let's do this" Twilight agreed as they both teleported for the final time with the device affecting their magic to follow the mana of the culprit. With a flash of white they disappeared again only to drop in front of a griffon Twilight had no troubles identifying. "Gilda?" she gasped as both her and Pixel stare in horror at the griffon surrounded by stolen jewels.
"N-now wait a minute! I can explain...." she stammered taking a few steps back.
"You're the one who's been stealing? But why? I thought RD and Pinkie taught you that there is more than just gold and jewels" Twilight stressed clearly upset the deed was done by her friend. Pixel shook her head in disbelief as her mane brushed over her face. "Sweet Celestia.....did you really do this Gilda?" she asked hoping it wasn't true. It couldn't be. Not only would it be bizarre and impossible for a griffon to use magic, but she would have assumed Gilda of all griffons was pass this already.
But the feathered creature would quickly straighten her shoulders as her expression went from sad shock to a hard glare. "Y-yeah? So what? No one ever bothered to get me a gift on Hearth's Warming....why not take some instead?" she challenged.
"Are you serious? Gilda you know this is wrong! If anything, Rainbowdash is definitely the pony who wouldn't forget to give you something for Hearth's Warming. She's your best friend" Twilight countered aggressively. "She's right" Pixel added stepping forward solemnly "And we have no choice but to turn you in and return all of the stuff you sto--" she began before she was interrupted by a loud screech.
"NO DON'T TAKE HER AWAY!" a small white filly would plead as she stepped out of the shadows with watery peach-colored eyes. "Don't take her away" she repeated ore softly as she trotted further into the light with her head hung low and blended tail of blues and purples dragging on the ground. "Gilda didn't take any of it....I did" the unicorn confessed as both alicorns frowned with ultimate confusion.
"And who are you?" Pixel asked.
"An orphan...Gilda adopted me as her little sister sometime last year. My name is Silver Stream" she murmured with shame laced in her tone.
Chapter 3: Party Prep Ponies
"A little to the left. NO NO! A little to the right.....PERFECT! WAIT NO MAYBE A LIIIIIIIITTTLE HIGHER" the pink pony shouted as she tried to guide Rainbowdash and Derpy to hang up the large banner on the ponyville hall building.
"PINKI PIE WOULD YOU PLEASE TELL US WHERE TO HANG THIS DARN THING?" RD shouted impatiently while Derpy simply smiled her sweet grin. Pinkie Pie would smile apologetically as she released a nervous giggle. "Hehe...soorrry. Okay that's perfect. I swear this time!" she promised as she crossed her hoof across her chest and pulled a cupcake out of nowhere to smash it in her right eye.
"You do realize that didn't even need a Pinkie promise?" came the smart remark of Nova as he trotted over to look at the progress. "Lookin good ladies" he added up to the two pegasi as he flashed them a harmless wink.
"Yes well, not too bad yourself, handsome" Wordplay would joke as he too appeared on the scene trotting over the snow. Both stallions would merely laugh at each other before returning their attention onto the rest of the town. It seemed Pinkie was doing well with preparing for the huge celebration party that was to be thrown by the Mayor though they wondered where she was among all the preparations. They had heard that Twilight and Pixel had set out for what ponies were now calling the "Hearth's Warming Bandit" so it only made sense Pinkie would take charge with the two gone.
"What do you think they'll do about the bandit anyway?" Wordplay asked quietly glancing over to Nova who responded with a slight shrug. "Who knows? That pony will be in big trouble regardless. Stealing from others especially around this time of year is freaking unforgivable. If I ever catch that....that whoever it is of a bandit.....stealing my treasure?" Nova huffed as he reared on his hind legs and swung his front hooves in the air. "I'll give that dragon-breath bandit an A, double X, R2, Left twice, triple O combo!" he finished confidently.
"And what in the hay is that?" came the curious voice of Applejack as she approached the small party pulling large cart consisting of apple fritters, zapplejam-filled donuts, apple fruitcake and other apple-tastic treats that she and granny smith had prepared for the celebration.
Before Nova, could respond with sharp remark (as if every pony knew game combos) Pinkie Pie would interrupt as she incredibly performed the moves Nova implied and recited them at the same time.
"DUH! Upper-cut, double jump, drop-kick, left side-step twice finishing with rainbow-wave!" she chimed. Nova, AJ, and Wordplay would flinch bracing for impact; expecting a blast of rainbows to blow them backwards, but was relieved when they witnessed nothing happened once Pinkie wildly demonstrated a hoof wave. At times they had to remind themselves that even PINKIE had limits to the unexplained things she could do.
Soon Rainbowdash and Derpy flew down to join them. "Hey what's goin on? Talking about game combos without me?" she challenged though her dark pink eyes landed only on Nova who only grinned and flashed the Pegasus a wink. "Of course not. I would never start that sort of conversation without you. I'll just use the combos on you instead the next time we play so I can beat your HORSEHIDE!" he countered playfully dodging RD's lunge of attack.
"Aye quit it you two! RD how bout ya go help Nova set up his gama-a-jig stand. Weren't ya planning on hosting a game session for the town ta watch before they settle in with Viridian's Hearth's Warming film festival later" the mare suggested briskly. "Fiiiiine" both RD and Nova whined sarcastically in sync as they went their way further into ponyville to set up the mega game station.
"Now now Applejack, it was just starting to get goooood" came the creepy amused of trickster himself. Slowly the banner that RD and Derpy had worked so hard to hang up slithered down the building and fell upon the earth slowly changing into the embodiment of chaos: Discord. "Surpriiise!" he cooed mischievously as the others shot daggers towards his direction.
"Whaaat? I was just hanging around" he joked darkly as he snapped his fingers making a small letter appear before their very eyes. "Besides, I received an invitation that you ponies were throwing a little celebration! And I thought; how wonderful that my dear friend Twilight would be so kind to invite me to a celebration during the most wonderful day of the year.. You didn't think I'd miss that did you?" he inquired with a twisted grin as he suddenly transported behind Wordplay suddenly covered in rags and a broken candy cane in his mouth.
"Or would you rather this poor old soul to spend such a merry holiday alone!? In the cold.....no friend to warm his freezing heart" he sobbed dramatically leaning on Wordplay for support.
"Of course not Discord" Wordplay would say with an eyeroll and shrugged the creature off who fell limp on the snowy earth. "Pleasure to see you" he greeted halfheartedly.
"Oh no the pleasure is all mine my dear friend! How goes the writing? Still have a block? I see you're still depending on old hearth's warming tales to fill the void. Shame you can't think of one on your own. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you made something original about this day? Ah well...such accomplishments should be expected from greater minds right?....OH AND PINKIE PIE HELLO!" he gasped ignoring the warning glare of Wordplay. "Always nice to see the marvelous party pony herself. Though Ponyville hall does seem to lack mmmm...what is the word I am looking for? The holiday spirit? Perhaps some lighted garlands would do nicely. And a large welcoming banner as a final touch?" he suggested despite the fact it was his doing that caused the banner's disappearance in the first place.
Oblivious to the fact it was his fault, the pink pony would gasp in horror as she hopped a few feet into the air and landed on all four hooves. " YOU'RE RIGHT! Thanks Discordy buddy ole pal! I need to finish putting up these banners. DERPY LET'S GO!!" Pinkie screamed as she grabbed the genuinely reluctant Pegasus and sped away to gather more supplies.
That only left Applejack, Wordplay, and Discord standing alone before the town hall as they watched the many visitors continuously swarm the roads further ahead of them. Wordplay would cast the orange mare a worried glance as he continued to ignore the spirit of chaos' presence who always found ways to get under his fur. "Do you think Pixel and Twilight will catch them?" he asked quietly
"Ah don't know Wordy..." she murmured with mild frustration laced in her tired tone. "Ah don't know. But we gotta keep this going and have faith that our friends will"
"Dear old AJ is right!" Discord would butt in as he delivered a heavy pat on the mare's back. "I'm sure two of those brilliant minds will get to the bottom of the bandit. After all, what's Hearth's Warming without your precious possessions?" he inquired with large puppy-dog eyes. "Well, tata....I have a celebration to prepare for! See you around friiiends" he added darkly before he disappeared with a snap of his fingers.
"I'll never understand nor will I ever like that guy" Wordplay grumbled bitterly not appreciating the sly insults he had received. "You and me both partner. Come on....we might as well keep up wit the preparations. We already got our hooves full. Ain't no room for Discord's shenanigans" Applejack reasoned as they both trotted their own way
Chapter 4: A Flutter Awakening
Standing within the backyard of Fluttershy's cottage, stood Fluttershy herself along with Big Mac, Toe-Tapper, and Torchsong. Each were wearing matching Hearth's Warming sweaters that were decorated in music notes with the words "Ponytones" stitched across it's chest. The beautiful shy mare would softly paw at the snow beneath her hooves as she bravely faced her members and began to speak.
"Alright Ponytones. Let's try this one more time from the top! We promised Rarity we could pull this off while she is busy elsewhere...and we don't plan of failing a friend, right?" she encouraged wearing a bright smile. "Yyyyyep!" was all Big Mac said as the others nodded with profound anticipation.
They had been practicing all day in hopes to perfect their new carol songs to sing for Ponyville during the huge party tomorrow. Rarity had reluctantly declined to join her friends this time around due to the many demands of her elsewhere with the preparations such as the wintry decor and many dress orders. Fluttershy had agreed to take charge while Rarity was absent. After all, she was much better with dealing with stage fright....though Ponyville was NEVER this crowded before. Would she be able to in front of all those busy bodies and watching eyes? She shivered with a tight head shake. This was no time to scare herself now....they needed to practice.
Taking out the harmonica, the Pegasus would blow just once as she sat it aside and took a deep breath: "Five, six seven eight"
"Let every voice rise as the snow falls on this special holidaaay (Bum bum bum)
Warm all frozen hearts and give gifts that they cannot even repaaay (Bum bum bum)
And the only gift that special (OH-AHHH)
Is---"
"FLUTTERSHYYYYY"
Suddenly the Ponytones were cut off short by a loud wail as Buffy stumbled onto the scene with her eyes wild with fear and body enveloped in film strips. Fluttershy could only star in horror as she quickly turned to the others. "Um....take 5 guys...i-if you please" she added before turning tail to race at the little filly's side.
"Oh dear. here let me help you. What in Equestria happened?" she asked in her soft-spoken voice as she proceeded to rip the film from around Buffy. The filly would only pant as she spun in circles to speed the process of unwrapping herself and then collapsed at Fluttershy's hooves.
"V-Viridian.....would't....stop talking about HEARTH'S WARMING CLASSIC MOVIES" she panted as she looked around wildly. In attempt to keep herself distracted, Buffy had agreed to accompany Viridian to set of the film festival that was to be held later tonight. However. she found herself making the wrong wish as Viridian went on and on about the stuff she knew when it came to classic Hearth's Warming films. Three "Windigos break wind on ponies" puns later, Buffy made her daring escape.
Since Fluttershy's place was the obvious solution to getting peace, Buffy came here. Fluttershy wasn't sure how to take the news, but she made no attempts to really question it either. "Oh my...I'm sorry I guess? Would you like to watch us practice?" she offered figuring it'll help to both Buffy and herself. She suppose it was silly to practice a performance in front of one filly friend for a performance in front of thousands of creatures from across Equestria. But it was better than nopony right?
"SURE THING!!! YOU WON'T' EVEN NOTICE THAT I'M THERE!" she promised loudly as she skipped off to the sidelines as the rest of the ponytones returned. With a bashful smile that could put kitten videos to shame, Fluttershy blew in the harmonica a second time. "Five, six, seven eight...."
******timeskip******
"Go rest up on your voices. We got a b-big performance tomorrow ponytones" Fluttershy reminded them though it was mostly a reminder for her. "You got it honey! See you tomorrow. Bye to you too Buffyboo" Torchsong added towards the little filly who was still stomping her hooves in the snow yelling "ENCORE ENCORE" in the air. With a few giggles and head shakes, all left to go their separate ways which left only Flutteshy and Buffy to themselves outside the cottage.
"Would you like to come in and have a cup of hot tea? You must be freezing" Fluttershy guessed with a sad expression though Buffy merely shook the lose snow from her flank and galloped towards Fluttershy with a more calm gleam in her eyes. "I would love that Fluttershy! Though we better be careful. No telling where that nasty BANDIT might be" she sneered with her head low as she glanced around her suspiciously.
"Oh well nasty is a rather strong word. I hope they don't give the bandit too much of a hard time" Flutters wished softly in a nonchalant manner as she led them both into her living. Buffy could only stare in shock at her kind-TOO KIND-friend. Had her ears deceived her? Was Fluttershy defending this unknown thief?
"BUT WHY WOULD YOU HOPE THAT? They stole so much stuff from us on Hearth's Warming eve! All our jewels, and special things we hold dear to us! Don't you care about that stuff?" she asked trying to make sense of what she had heard.
"W-well of course I do. I'm just not angry about it" she breathed as she prepared their tea. "I'm mostly sad. I mean...it could be a big meanie who simply wants all those things for themselves. But then again....it could be a spike-raid" she reasoned with a small shrug.
"Spike-raid?" Buffy echoed now genuinely confused while half of her was deeply considering calling a mental institute. "Yes. A long while ago, Spike had made the grave mistake of becoming too greedy. The more stuff he got, the meaner he became and the more stuff he took. It was just aaaaweful" Fluttershy squeaked with a little shiver before she sat their tea down along with some small sandwiches. "But then things got better. It turns out....Spike simply never got a lot in the past. The only gifts he would receive was from Twilight. He simply wanted to know what it was like to have more...to get more...and went out of control. Sometimes it's not about what's being given or taken but the lack of it. Who knows if that bandit simply doesn't have a friend to exchange gifts with and simply wanted to take some instead? I-t's still no good excuse but y'know, um, I was only wondering and felt bad" she concluded.
Buffy would only remain silent as she took in the surprisingly wise words of Fluttershy. She did have a point. Not every pony or creature out there was as lucky as them; to have friends that they could exchange gifts and memories with. Suddenly, the little filly had an idea. SHE FINALLY HAD A PLAN HOW TO HELP! But she couldn't do it alone.
"FLUTTERSHY YOU'RE BRILLIANT!" Buffy cheered as she grabbed the Pegasus without warning and raced out the cottage to gather the others. "Oh my! B-but the tea will get cold!" Fluttershy pleaded with confusion plastered all over her face.
Angel Bunny slowly emerged from his little indoor hut as the smell of tea and sandwiches reached his nostrils. With a wicked grin, he hopped onto the table and began to pig out. Happy Hearth's Warming Day to him!
Chatper 4: The Magic of Friendship
"Silver Stream?" echoed the ivory Alicorn as she examined the small filly with a dissapointed expression. She couldn't quite tell whether she was angry that such chaos was created by a child, or sad that they nearly wrongly accused Gilda. She should have known better than to jump to accusations, but what else were they to think? At least it made more sense that it was a unicorn behind the magical thievery than a Griffon. She wasn't sure how she'd compute had it been Gilda instead.
Noticing the odd silence coming from Twilight, Pixel took it upon herself to speak further. "Why would you do this though? Did you make a decision like this on your own or..? she drifted off feeling another wave of guilt. The last thing the nice mare wanted to do was inquire Gilda had something to do with all this. Or worse.....this whole town was behind it. Would that make her such a terrible pony if she suspected that was the case? No.....it was only fair to consider all the possibilities even if you saw it easier to ignore them.
Gilda must have caught on quickly because her eyes would narrow with irritation as she took a step forward and extended a wing to shield her sister. "What does it matter to you?" she sneered "I'll give the stuff back. We don't need it anyway. I never liked Hearth's Warming and the last thing we need are some privileged ponies scolding a little filly for making a mistake" she countered but her tone came out more pained than angry.
Finally, Twilight would speak seemingly more calm and capable of handling the situation. "Gilda we didn't mean to accuse you....and we're sorry for coming on to your ....er...sister. It's just you guys have to realize the damage that was done from this" she stressed as she levitated countless stolen items. "And today of all days too?"
"It doesn't even matter about when it was done either. What matters is that what was done: was done. This in general is wrong" Pixel interrupted with a tired sigh. "The true meaning of Hearth's Warming is the friendship each species have for one another....and how it was Friendship among the ponies that created Equestria. It's not about the gifts or the--"
"SHUT UP!!" screamed the white filly as she jumped from behind Gilda's wing and glared angrily at both alicorns with mild hatred in her peach-colored eyes. Tears would form as she countered Twilight's spell with her own and took hold of the stolen treasures; levitating them back towards her as she closed her eyes shut.
"That's all you dumb ponies ever PREACH about! Friendship this and friendship that! But guess what? FRIENDSHIP IS NOT ENOUGH!" she cried as she lost control and dropped the stolen possessions. "I was left alone...abandoned out here to perish but Gilda was the one who took me in. Griffonstone was and is my only home. What did you see when you got in here huh? My town...my family living in filth. They walk around here trying their best to give th-this STUPID friendship a try. To rebuild what they had lost. But even with all the hope in this world, it still doesn't do anything for us.!" she huffed painfully before flopping down defeated.
"When was the last time you ponies ever tried to physically or financially aid those lesser than you huh?" she asked more bitterly. "You can fool my sister and everyone else about how far Friendship will go.....but good thoughts and wishes can only go so far. Sometimes action that can actually benefit others are needed to save the day. I was tired of watching my home be in ruins....no matter what the griffons tried, it takes money and aid to rebuild what was destroyed. Friendship sermons are great and can plant hope in others....but that can only go so far. I-I...." she stammered with a shaky voice. "I wanted to help."
"I wanted us to be great again. To be happy and have a nice home. For us to exchange gifts like what you guys do. I-I was only going to trade this stuff elsewhere for supplies and goods and a gift for my sister" she sobbed glancing over to a sad Gilda who could only shed silent tears. "She's been so good to me....and I wanted to return it. But when Gilda saw what I did, she was only going to take it all back and keep it a secret that it was all my fault. I only wanted to help" she repeated as she then fell silent.
Both Twilight and Pixel would stare in awe from Silver's rant; unsure of how to respond or whether they SHOULD respond. It was certainly a lot to take in. And there was no denying the raw battle the filly was going through. Pixel was the first to speak as she gazed apologetically down at the small unicorn. "I'm sorry" she would say softly as both Silver and Gilda snapped their eyes over to her with confusion.
"I'm sorry you felt as though you had to steal just to give Gilda and Griffonstone a good Hearth's Warming....but you don't." she said carefully before glancing over to Twilight. "You are right about one thing. Friendship lessons can only go so far with certain situations. And we're at fault for not realizing that"
"It's true" Twilight spoke up as she nodded to Pixel appreciatively and stepped forward. "We should have realized that we should have done more to help Griffonstone. But I honestly thought you guys would be okay. Griffons are a strong race and I was expecting things to go well without us. But that was my first mistake. But here's yours Silver..." she added as she stepped closer. "Maybe Friendship lessons can only go so far....but that's why you have friends. Sometimes we all need reminders. Nothing is wrong with asking for help. But then again.....it's nothing wrong with offering it either. And that's where we went wrong. We knew how bad things were, but it never occurred to me to help any further. We will forgive you since you obviously had pure intentions. But we will only forgive you..." she trailed off as Pixel finished her sentence
"...if you forgive us."
Sniffling, Silver would look over to Gilda for confirmation. The Griffon wore a hard expression, but one could easily tell she was only redeeming herself from crying earlier. Gilda briskly nodded with a twinkly in her eye as the little mare timidly stepped forward with her head lowered and gaze full of regret and understanding. "I-I'm sorry for what I did. I'll take any punishment you think I deserve. But first....I'll like to give this stuff back and apologize to the others before the day is over. There are others out there wanting a great Hearth's Warming" she added with a hopeful smile
Chapter 5: Change of Plans....Again
"Have you lost your mind?" Viola would ask as the others echoed her question in hushed tones. All of the town had gathered due to the urgent call of Buffy who was momentarily the center of attention and target of Viola's question.
Rarity would step up from the thick crowd waving around a dazzling silver dress that seemed unfinished. "Buffy darling, I'm sorry to say but I'm with Viola on this one. We can't cancel the Eve celebration! I have a dozen more orders to complete in a few hours just for the occasion!" she whined
"Uh, maybe that isn't such a bad idea" Applejack would interrupt as she revealed herself wearing another fancy dress. She would immediately regret her own words thinking it was foolish to suppose canceling the celebration just because it would save her from being Rarity's "dress dummy". It was only a moment of weakness after all. "But what's this all about anyway?" she demanded in a serious tone as she shook herself out of the dress ignoring the horrid screech of the fashionista yelling "IT'S RUINED" behind her.
Buffy release an irritated huff as she tried to quiet the crowd. "WOULD EVERYPONY PLEASE JUST LISTEN FOR A SEC?" she yelled as the growing squabble within the crowd turned to hushed murmurs of curiosity. "I didn't mean to cancel the whole thing! I just think there's something even better when can do than to celebrate in the big festival and party" she reasoned with urgency.
"And what would be better than a super awesome gaming session followed by a chill Hearth's Warming film under the moonlight drinking hoooot apple cidar?" Rainbowdash challenged as she drooled to her own words.
"And what about the Hearth's Warming ball dance tomorrow?" BonBon would shout.
"And the evening play after that?" Wordplay added with a worried expression. After all, he had been working hard on short ponyville play he had planned based off an old Carol.
"DON'T FORGET THE GIFT EXCHANGE!" Spike hollered but was quickly silenced as all eyes went on him.
Buffy would stare hopelessly as the random shouting grew louder and louder. Pleadingly she would look over to the Mayor in hopes she could regain their attention for her since they were obviously not taking the little filly seriously. The Mayor would release a small sigh hoping whatever reason behind Buffy's suggestion was a good one.
"EVERYPONY QUUUIIIEEEETTT!" she yelled as all those within the crowd gave her their full attention. "Ahem....thank you. Now I am just as confused as you are, but little Buffy here deserves some respect. It's Hearth's Warming Eve....we must set good example for our guests to show every voice is allowed to be heard from all of us" she briefly advised before nodding to Buffy reassuringly.
"SWEET CELESTIA THANK YOU FINALLY!" Buffy exclaimed as she took a few steps forward. "Now I was thinking about the recent events and stuff with the bandit and all. And thanks to Fluttershy..." she began as she pointed to the shy pegasus who shuffled behind Bulk Biceps when the crowd glanced in her direction. "...it made me realize that maybe we've been too focused on the materialistic things. I mean sure.....we value friendship and all. But we rarely set out to do things for others. Not everyone is able to buy gifts or have special treasures. To drink apple cidar at a nice film festival or enjoy awesome games. Or watch classic plays and attend fancy dances...so I was thinking....instead of doing these things to benefit ourselves....LET'S TURN IT INTO A HEARTH'S WARMING CHARITY DRIVE!" she squealed.
"VIRIDIAN AND NOVA!!" Buffy yelled as she called out the now two astonished ponies. "Yeah?" they answered in union as the crowd parted to reveal their forms.
"You know everything there is to know about entertainment techy stuff right? Films and games are your specialty among other things. You're a collector of them and if anyone is able to raise enough old games and films that can be given to those less fortunate than us, it's you guys!" she suggested as they both gave a smug expression and offered a determined nod.
"VIOLA AND FLUTTERSHY!" Buffy yelled. "Viola you bring the best classical music I know! You're the perfect....and might I add too perfect.." she added more bitterly under her breath with a roll of her eyes "...pony to host a wonderful performance to raise money! And Fluttershy, I've seen you and the ponytone in actions! Why not be another ACT?"
"WORDPLAY! You're a great writer with knowledge on many written masterpieces. Who's to say we can't have a book drive after your wonderful play which should be open for all!?" she suggested
"And Rarity! You're always making lovely clothes! Why not create extras for others out there no matter their race? Maybe even have a clothes drive so ponies won't have to throw away their old stuff. MAYBE EVEN RECYCLE THE FABRIC AND STUFF" she suggested as she grew more and more excited.
"AND APPLEJACK....uh....uh.....you can uh....give away free apples?" she stammered as she found herself running out of ideas.
"Or better yet, how about she helps us out on a little project." came a vibrant shout. Everyone would pause as they caught on to the familiar voice of the Princess of Friendship who stood at the back of the crowd with Pixel beside her. Above them circled the remaining treasures that were stolen from the bandit and a small white unicorn standing shyly behind Gilda who was present also. "We've seen you raise barns before Applejack....think you can raise a whole village?" Twilight challenged with a bright smile.
Chapter 6: Hearth's Warming Day
"There! All done up here AJ!" Rainbowdash would yell from above. It was Hearth's Warming Day as a warm welcoming streams of light lit village of Griffonstone. If you think Ponyville was crowded with all walks of life, Griffonstone was twice as crowded as ponies, griffons, buffalo and more swarmed the the paths among the mountains with various objects in tow and merry decor decorating nests and building. Everything was renewed as well as rebuilt. Applejack had took on the "project" that was suggested by Twilight and gathered every hardworking creature available to gather supplies and fix up the town of Griffonstone. RD had took it upon herself to lead the pegasi to gather up fresh hay and various objects to rebuild the nest homes to the griffons while Pinkie Pie took charge of decorating the whole place to brighten up those sad Griffon faces.
Thanks to the brilliant ideas of Buffy, every other pony upheld to their part: hosting the many events mentions right outside of Griffonstone raising enough books, bits, films, games, and other things for them to use and help get back on their claws. Further at the base of the mountains, Pixel, Buffy, Applejack, Twilight, Fluttershy, and Wordplay were all gathered with Gilda and Silver Stream.
"But there is one thing that I've been meaning to ask" Pixel inquired with a frown as she turned to the small white filly. "How were you powerful enough to pull off such a heist anyway? And what in Equestria led you to do it this year?" she asked.
Silver Stream would hesitate before she spoke; unsure if she should even say. She had only built enough courage to apologize to all those she had stole from.....and speaking further on her own mistakes wasn't really in her best interest. But considering all she had put Equestria through, she figured it was only fair they got the whole truth behind what she had done. "I-I am not sure honestly. I always sort of thought about it. But I am not that good with magic just yet since no one in Griffonstone are experts on it" she explained with embarrassment.
"But then this funny looking creature visited me days before Hearth's Warming Eve and insisted I do what I thought was best for Griffonstone and my sister. And he was even nice enough to lend me some of his magic so I could pull it off. His magic is.....very strange though" she added with a deep frown.
Applejack and Wordplay would instantly exchange glances and narrow their eyes with suspicion. "Funny lookin guy huh?" AJ inquired as she stomped her hoof. "Did he happen ta have weird lookin antlers, mismatched limbs, and the head of a pony?" she asked
Silver would blink with genuine shock as she shook her head. "Woah...yeah. Do you know him?"
"Unfortunately..." Wordplay huffed. Buffy would bounce with anticipation knowing all too well who they were thinking about. "DISSSSCOOOOORD" she shouted gleefully wanting to witness the scolding unfold. Not too soon after she shouted his name, the spirit of chaos appeared out of thin air with skiing gear and one of the scarfs that were being given to the Griffons. "Someone rang?" he asked only to jump when he saw Silver Stream and the rest of the gang.
"Oh dear. It seems you've caught me red-handed" he sighed dramatically as he waved large red rubber hands in the air.
"Enough with the puns Discord, did you cause all of this? Why?" Fluttershy demanded softly as she tried her best to glare down her mischievous friend. With a droopy face Discord leaned upon Wordplay once again as he conjured up a dunce cap and sat it upon his head. "Oh Fluttershy my dear Fluttershy it's true. I've been such a naughty boy this year. And I knew Hearth's Warming was just around the corner." he began before he suddenly transported behind Gilda and Silver Stream embracing them in a bear hug.
"But then....I thought what better way to redeem my unforgivable behavior with one selfless act to give certain less fortunate critters the best Hearth's Warming Day ever? But of course, I also noticed how baaaad you ponies had been neglecting your so called friends" he added in a disappointed tone as he slithered away from the struggling pair and settled between Applejack and Buffy. "So why not come with this elaborate plan in which fates tie together and lessons are learned? You all learned the error of your ways, Buffy came up with this wonderful charity to help Griffonstone, Silver got her Hearth's Warming Wish, and Colt-Cuddler here..." he murmured darkly as he waltzed back over to Wordplay who couldn't hide his sneer towards Discord. "Gets inspiration!" he finished.
With that said, Wordplay would suddenly blink in confusion. "Wait what?" he asked not sure what Discord was getting at.
"INSPIRATION MY GOOD LAD!" Discord repeated with a large wave of his hands as a small wave of firecrackers erupted from above him. "Is this not the perfect original Hearth's Warming story? Imagine the heart warming meaning behind this little tale that has occurred only within 2 days. Only a genius such as yourself can jump to the opportunity" he praised.
Twilight would only stare at the Trickster unsure of what to say or how to feel. What she hated most was that he had a good point...even if his so-called "pure intentions" were a load of parasprites. Before she could say anything, Pixel would speak. "I think we all know you can't be that generous Discord" she countered with a small smile. "Nevertheless.....I guess things did work out in the end. It is Hearth's Warming Day after all." she sighed.
Fluttershy would nod in agreement. "E-exactly. Though do try to not be so devious with these things next time" she scolded softly as Discord embraced her in a genuine hug. "Yes yes yes....I'll remember next time. SOOOO! WHO'S READY TO PARTY!" he cheered as he shop of the snowy path towards Griffonstone. "HAPPY HEARTH'S WARMING EVERY BODEEEH!" he bellowed crashing into a screaming crowd.
"HOW RUDE!!!" Viola and Rarity would scold in union
Epilogue
"Hey lil brat.....why the long face?" came the light-hearted tone of Gilda as she approached Silver Stream who was gazing at the horizon. Many of the long travelers that had came to celebrate Hearth's Warming in Griffonstone had slowly left while only a few Ponyville civilians had remained. It had been such a long and quite fulfilling day for the little filly as she witnessed other contribute everything they could to make her home a home again. Gazing around the village, she witnessed many Griffons happier and merrier.....something she never thought she'd see happen. The Charity Drive certainly helped a lot.....more than what stealing never would have done. She never meant to hurt anyone nor did she ever felt right for taking so much stuff. But she had learned her lesson.
She cuddled closer underneath Gilda's feathered wing as a bright smile blossomed upon her face. "Nothing....just thinking. I'll miss this place while I'm in Canterlot" she murmured with a hint of sadness. It was true....she was going to leave a bit after Hearth's Warming. Pixel and Twilight offered her a spot in magic school in hopes to find better ways to get better with magic and gain her cutie-mark. Gilda insisted she go for it, suggesting to visit Griffonstone every once in awhile. Silver was excited to take such an opportunity, but it was still sad to go despite it not being a "goodbye forever"
"Oh don't sweat it too much. A lot of guys helped us today while also having a good time. Things will be looking up soon. Buffy plans to make this a yearly thing. Running a Hearth's Warming Charity Drive thing for not only Griffonstone but others in need as well. No worries" she reassured as she ruffled the filly's head playfully.
"Yeah.....OH!!! I got you this!" Silver exclaimed as she concentrated hard and conjured up a small gift. Gilda would frown slightly as she took hold of the small gift box with her claw and gave it a delicate shake. "Rainbowdash said you'd love it.....I got it from the charity drive" she mumbled as she shuffled nervously on her hooves.
Slowly, Gilda rip away the wrinkly paper and open the box gently. In it, there bronze metal that seemed to have been thousands of years old. There was clearly something engraved in it, but it was blocked by a glued circular paper with new words written on it: "MOST AWESOME SISTER EVER"
With a tearful smile, Gilda would embrace Silver Stream. "Thanks lil sis.....this has been the best Hearth's Warming ever" she murmured. Both would then fall silent allowing the warm song of the performing Ponytone fill the air:
"Let every voice rise as the snow falls on this special holidaaay (Bum bum bum)
Warm all frozen hearts and give gifts that they cannot even repaaay (Bum bum bum)
Know the only gift that special (OH-AHHH)
Is the good thoughts and contribution you briiiing (OH-AHHH)
Because that's what friends do for each other
So let us come together and lift our voices to siiiing"
THE END