Christmas Makes a Human Rather Moody

by Heartland Picker

A Heartfelt Gift

Hearth's Warming Eve, Canterlot Castle

Celestia and Luna had decided to invite the Elements along with Starlight and Ben to join them for Hearth's Warming. While the presence of Starlight was warranted for her role in patching up the sisters' relationship, Ben was a bit surprised to receive an invite of his own. Knowing the mares, he figured he could glean some answers from them. Strangely enough, they were just as much in the dark as he was. That is, except for Twilight, who kept looking for a distraction when he would ask about it. Twi, you can't bluff to save your life. Still, he knew her well enough that it wasn't anything nefarious, so he just let it go.

It was evening, and they had just finished with the normal gift exchange in Luna's personal lounge. Ben was at least thankful that he pulled Pinkie's name from the hat, as it simplified things for him. A good recipe will definitely work for her, plus she'll have a good reason for a bottle of whiskey. If there was one thing that Ben could cook that made any species with taste buds drool, it was his bourbon-fried apples. Pinkie was a bit concerned when he made them for breakfast once in September, but that first taste sent her in a whirlwind of excitement, as it had a nice twist compared to using ground cinnamon.

However, they all asked him to stay in the room for a few minutes. Not really all that concerned, he agreed. He took the time to reflect on everything that happened in the past month. He made someone cry, got stupid-drunk, and made a huge mess of things in the span of three days. After getting his head straightened out, he set out to right his wrongs. He spent the whole week tending to Rose, which set his mind back to what was important in life. It was during that time that he started praying again, asking for forgiveness and grace from the Spirit. He was in the middle of a prayer at the moment.

Half an hour later, Starlight had entered the lounge with a gentle smile on her face. When she noticed what he was doing, she stood and waited for him to finish up, as she had become acquainted with this "renewed" practice of his. He made a certain gesture that indicated he was done, and he opened his eyes. "Hey Ben. You okay?"

Ben smiled. "Yeah, I'm fine. What's up?"

Starlight cleared her throat. "I just figured you had something on your mind since you were in prayer mode. Feeling guilty about something?"

He chuckled at that. "Nothing serious, just the usual blessings and thanksgiving." He may be away from Earth, but he was still thankful for what he still had: his health, a roof over his head, and friends to knock sense into him. There was also the added bonus that he was able to explain Christmas from the perspective of the church, which the equines took to pretty well. Weird though. I thought they would have gotten a bit more confused the deeper I went into the historical context, but it seemed like a few of them weren't all that shocked, particularly Luna. It was a strange detail, but decided to let it slide since, aside from Starlight and Big Mac, he didn't know them well enough to guess their thoughts. "Speaking of which, thanks for the new woodworking tools."

Starlight gave him an amused, knowing look. "Oh, don't sweat it. What you were using couldn't be described as anything less than 'cheap iron' by Apple standards. You needed real steel to get done faster." This was especially true when it came to smaller details that Ben occasionally added to his violins. Then Starlight softened her expression. "Still though, if there's ever anything wrong, please don't hesitate to talk to us. We're not human, but you're still a friend to us, almost family." Especially to me. You're like a brother to me now, knowing that.

Starlight took his hand. "However, we still have one more thing to do before we call it a night. Come with me."

Ben was a bit confused at this point, but let it slide. They walked out of the room and spent the next five minutes moving through the corridors of the castle until they found a set of doors that he guessed was a meeting hall at first. However, when Starlight opened the left door, he noticed that it was a darkened theater with the stage curtains closed.

Starlight led him to the fourth row in the viewing area. He realized that they weren't alone: Celestia and Luna were there with a seat empty between them. He posed his first question. "Starlight, wasn't the Hearth's Warmi-"

Starlight cut him off with a shush. "You know it's rude to talk in the theater, monkey. Take a seat."

Ben, not wanting to argue, just did as he was told. Luna had gestured to him with a warm smile to take the place in between herself and Celestia.

Since the hellfire nightmare, he and Luna had kept in touch regularly. They became fast friends, as they enjoyed little things in life, their conversations got deep from time to time, and they weren't always content with leaving things as they were if anything felt a bit 'off'. There was no reason to question Luna's presence alone, but Celestia was a different can of worms. This left him feeling somewhat awkward. He wasn't sure what to make of this. This is strange. What are they planning?

The stage began to light up softly, followed up with the main curtains being drawn. Starlight and Twilight had their horns lit, and the sound of a breeze was present, though there was no wind. Their magic had formed a large orb floating over he stage, some areas of the surface brighter than others, some darker. Then came the sound of a voice in the dark that sounded like.....Fluttershy?

She was stage-left at a podium, yet she wasn't reading off of anything. "In the beginning, before life, the earth was a formless wasteland. Then the Lord God said 'Let there be light', and it was so. Then the Lord made the heavens, the waters, mountains, plains, hills, and all abundance of different living things, all existing male and female for each creature. Among them was the Lord's chosen species, the humans Adam and Eve. They were given dominion over all the creatures after being placed in Paradise in harmony."

As she was speaking, the events of Genesis began to play out from the formation of planet Earth to the events of Eden, including the bringing forth of Adam and Eve (thankfully with some censorship, which would amuse him later). He couldn't make a coherent thought due to what he was seeing.

"Though their hearts were pure and unstained, temptation by an evil being called Devil, who took the form of the serpent, had persuaded them to obtain forbidden knowledge. Thus all were cast out of Paradise to roam the rest of the Earth, and all were doomed to death in both body and soul for their disobedience. Over several thousand years, mankind multiplied, and many continued to do evil. Bloodshed, avarice, lust, drunkenness, and destruction were prominent throughout history. Yet, every generation there were a few who remembered to humble themselves to his existence and power. Thus through flood, fire, bondage, war, exile, and occupation He showed mercy to those who honored and glorified him: the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob."

Ben couldn't believe what he was hearing. Sure, Twilight's friends were constantly asking him questions about his faith when he wasn't, as Rarity would put it, 'in the zone'. To see and hear this much detail, however, he was simply dumbfounded. They only covered the basics of the events in a matter of ten minutes. Not that he didn't appreciate it, but there were details that he knew he never told them: they were touchy about discussing death. He only confided in-

He looked at Luna, who only smirked briefly before directing his attention back to the stage with a shift of her eyes. This was enough for now. Yeah, my questions can wait until later.

"However, they were still tainted by sin. Even though His law was prescribed to them through Moses the Levite, they still faltered due to the strength of sin. In time, they came under oppression by other men through the later ages with the intent of obtaining absolute power over all lands and waters, who in turn imposed their own ways on Israel. In time, they were barely recognizable from their original tribes, thus they had pleaded for the salvation foretold by prophets."

Fluttershy stepped down from the podium and went alongside a few others at center stage. It took Ben a second to recognize that it was the Ponytones along with a few others. The secondary curtain behind them lifted to show a full string orchestra. He immediately recognized more than half of the orchestra members, as he had done repair work on their instruments. Applejack, along with a select few from the orchestra, began to play as the singing began with Fluttershy, Rarity, and Applejack. "O come, o come, Emmanuel...."

Ben had finally caught on to what was happening, and simply resigned himself to not questioning what they were doing. True, he could tell that Fluttershy was nervous as usual, but she was doing it. Rarity had taken over for 'Come Thou Long Expected', which was almost flawless. Ben was touched that she was willing to go along with it.

Starlight had taken the podium at this point. "In time, the prayers of Israel were answered. In the small village of Nazareth there was one couple to be betrothed. One was Joseph, who was a direct descendent of King David from the line of Judah, son of Jacob. The other was Mary, who by unknown circumstance was with child. Though they were fearful for the implications and possible retribution, the Lord sent a messenger named Gabriel to them both to be at peace, for Mary was anointed by the Most High and was carrying the Messiah, who would be named Jesus. Thus, they remained engaged, and they traveled to Bethlehem, thus what the prophets foretold would be fulfilled."

The music began again, this time with the entire orchestra joining in with the Ponytones as they changed the diction. "Could this be the day?"

Ben had a tear in his eye, but he was still wondering how they knew these songs. Also, he couldn't wait for more.

"Joseph took Mary to a small village called Bethlehem, for the...…….Romanes? Romans! The Romans had declared a census on all occupied lands. Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, it was past twilight, and every dwelling was fully occupied. However, an innkeeper took pity on Mary, and took them to a stable. It was there that the Christ was born, wrapped and laid in a manger. It was then that a great light shined through all the land. The nearby shepherds trembled and made to flee, but a voice called out loud and clear:"

Big Mac called out "Fear not! For behold I bring you tidings of great joy! For unto you is born in the city of David, a savior, which is Christ the Lord! This shall be a sign unto you: you will find the child wrapped in swaddling cloths laying in a manger!"

Fluttershy spoke again. "The shepherds began to draw in to see that it was so. Thus they fell prostrate before him."

The music began again, with a full choir joining this time led again by Rarity, loud and clear. One thing that Ben noticed was that Rose was with them. "Oh come, all ye faithful!!!" It was too much for Ben, he couldn't help but join from his seat. Though Celestia didn't know him very well, she couldn't help but smile at it all, since both herself and Luna had to put a hoof over his chest just to keep him seated.

Once the piece ended, Twilight took the podium, and the music changed with Big Mac leading solo with a string accompaniment. Ben's fingers started to twitch, as this was one of his all-time favorites. "Even though Jesus the Messiah was born among the lowly, the signs of his coming were noticed by others from afar. Three wise men had followed a meandering star from the far East. They were kings, each of a different age bearing gifts. The youngest bore gold, for His richness in spirit. The second, a middle-aged man, carried frankincense for his divine origin. The third, the eldest, had brought myrrh as a sign of His sacrifice."

Twilight stepped down and rejoined the choir. Starlight now took the podium. "As all present were on bended knee, the heavens could be heard singing a joyous tune of their own. Yet, among those still on Earth, despite the message, still had questions unanswered, but one being the same in them all, which would remain a mystery for years to come." She stepped down and joined the Ponytones who were congregating again with the Apples, who had instruments in hoof, with Toe Tapper at lead.

"What child is this, who, laid to rest.....". Ben had tears flowing from his eyes, as to him, this carol was the most revealing to those who listened to the very end.

At this, Ben and the two sisters got up and applauded. All on stage stood up and took a momentary bow, followed by the curtains closing. Celestia, Luna, and Ben went backstage to join the crew. Turned out that Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie were just zooming around getting things set from scene to scene.

Ben spoke first. "That. Was. BEAUTIFUL!!!" He rushed in to hug all of them at once, to which he was held up in a telekinetic grip.

Turned out he was being held back by multiple spells: Twilight, Starlight, Celestia and Luna all had control over a different limb. Starlight chuckled and said. "Hold up there, Murdoch. Your hugs are about as painful as Pinkie's. We'd rather not end up in the hospital again."

Pinkie only gave a momentary glare at Starlight, which nopony paid mind to. Ben took the opportunity to speak again. "Okay, that can wait. Now, first off, how did you get all of this put together?"

Twilight spoke up first. "Well, considering your explanation for your holiday, we figured you might like this. We tried to put a production together ourselves, but Starlight had the idea of reaching out to your customers from the area just to get some pointers."

Starlight spoke again. "Yep, but it turns out your instrument skills can put the best native luthiers to shame. They contacted some other performers and asked if they'd like to join." Then she lowered her voice. "I know you'd say you're just meticulous, but they think you have some kind of 'golden touch' in your work. It's strange, but nice."

Ben chuckled for a brief moment and then got serious. "Okay, so I have an unofficial fan club. Truth is I'm just passionate about what I do. There's one question: how did you know all of this material? I never went into detail about how corrupt the human mind can get."

Twilight had a guilty smile. "Wellll…….you'll need to defer to Luna for that."

Luna stepped in to explain. "Mr. Murdoch, you know about my abilities to move into the subconscious. However, another ability that I have is to be able to read your memories. I can see anything that has stuck to your mind over time. The stronger the memory, the more detail I can see. However, I cannot change, erase, or modify it any more than you would be able to move the stars. It is only viewable, unchangeable."

Starlight now spoke. "We know this is important to you, so we figured that we should at least offer you a celebration to remember."

Ben couldn't help but smile at everyone. "You girls are too much. Thank you!" He pulled them all into a group hug, which they returned in earnest.

After he released them, Rarity spoke up. "That music was too beautiful to pass up. I can't explain it, but there was something about it that just......drew me in to learn it, pulling me in. Almost like it was calling me, asking me to understand."

That last bit drew the attention of all within ten feet of her. This was followed by unanimous nods of shock. Fluttershy then spoke "I think I know what she's talking about. Reciting the story only had me wanting for more, begging to ask more questions." Ben raised an eyebrow at that one. Calling, wanting? Could it be possible? I'll have to talk Luna in private about that.

They stood in silence after that. Celestia broke the silence. "All of you girls did well this evening. I have never heard such a beautiful performance in all of my years." Then she turned to Ben. "However, this never would have happened had you not showed up Benjamin Murdoch." Then something crossed her mind. Sorrowing and sighing? Nail and spear shall pierce him through? "This historical root in your beliefs intrigues me. I would like to know more. Not simply to understand your world, but it seems as though this story is...….unfinished, like there's more."

Ben nodded to her. "Well, it's getting late. We probably better turn in." He turned to leave, but paused next to Celestia for a moment. "You're right, there is more. This wasn't the whole story of Christmas. The full story of human salvation comes later in the life of Jesus. However, you look like you're about to pass out. Luna wants to know more anyway, so I'll save it for tomorrow."

He then turned to the whole crew before leaving. "Thank you, all of you! This whole performance was amazing. You have no idea what this meant to me."

Starlight still had some of her own questions, but was feeling her own eyelids start to drop. She just came up beside Ben to give him a hug before the night was out. "Ben, just one more thing. Merry Christmas."

Ben replied softly. "Happy Hearth's Warming, Starlight."

Author's Note:

Here it is, the end of the 'Christmas' installment (life's crazy as usual).

Wanted to find "Adeste Fidelis" in the same key and organization as this version of "O Come All Ye Faithful", but then figured it's too much of a stretch for them to get the Latin down.

Comments

[badninja]

Beautiful, just beautiful. I do agree using O Come All Ye Faithful over Adeste Fidelis as those lyrics are easier to remember and probably a lot easier to sing quickly.

[PaintedPony]

Wow! This was awesome. I sense a sequel. Easter? And a revelation of exactly why Jesus was born? That will have a profound effect on the ponies.

[Heartland Picker]

10135701
I just couldn't find a Latin version that did it justice.

10136519
Question: You're not squeamish, are you?

[PaintedPony]

10136569
Let’s just say that me and another kid were the only ones able to watch the movies the driver’s education class played to scare children into driving carefully and it didn’t bother us. He was taking classes to be an EMT and I started going on fatalities with my dad when I turned sixteen. When we were chastised for not paying attention we grossed the driving teacher out by talking about what it was like to actually be on fatal accidents and the gallows type humor shared by the State Police,Fire Fighters, Ambulance and wrecker crews.

[Destiny Chaser]

Wow, I did not see this coming. How very beautiful and touching
Great job!

[Heartland Picker]

10136941
I see that I didn't disappoint. Thank you.

[Destiny Chaser]

10136964
Not at all!
I could practically hear Big Mac's voice at the angel's announcement and it was the perfect touch

[Heartland Picker]

10135701
10136941
10136519
By the way, I forgot about this one while I was writing.

[Destiny Chaser]

10138407
LOVE that rendition

[LightningStrike34]

That was Beautiful, absolutely Breathtaking. Really Well done!

Can't wait to see what you'll write next.

[karwler]

What a lovely read. As a former Christian, the catholic stuff got a bit much for me but regardless, I love the protagonist. Dude's the perfect mix of crude and very sweet even if the shit he says makes no sense to me. Of course the other characters, especially Twi, Starlight and Rose, were wonderful as well. Thanks for giving me the good feels reading this.

[drFraud]

10758039
To be fair, I know far too little of Buddhism or Hinduism to make a guess. And I don't make a habit of talking about something I know absolutely nothing about. Christianity is something I'm familiar with, even though I haven't touched it since I was young. But, I could make a guess, and based on my meager understanding, a practitioner of Hindi would probably react in a simmilar manner to a devout Christian, and a Buddhist would be far more malleable. Morals are a funny thing though when it comes to religion, people that are utterly devoted to it tend to be very rigid and unyielding to anything that opposes it. Precious few people think beyond it, and what it pertains. As it is though, depending on the person, human individuals, when meeting and alien, sentient, race would react very negatively when introduced to such a society especially if it clashed with their religious beliefs. To me though, that is a sign of weakness, as such a rigid individual, when faced with a situation such as what mlp fans write about, would and will eventually crumble and crack causing social issues at best, and actual mental illness at worst.
I'm probably wrong though.

[Heartland Picker]

10758683
Negative in what matter, though?
There's "this goes against all logic, don't get too chummy" (the wise one), then there's "something is wrong, get ready to fight" (instinct/field training/combat experience) as running is useless against a horse, "don't reveal anything, you don't know them" (recently betrayed/uncertain of trust) or something else entirely.

Also remember, Ben is a rancher's son. Romance with a non-human is a natural die-hard "HELL NO": he'd rather be lynched.

[drFraud]

10759745
Negative, as in, blind rage at beings that some religions on our planet would consider an affront to their deity. Lets say that a being like Celestia existed; sure, there would a fair amount of people that would be accepting of her existence and try a peaceful approach. But there would also be a large amount of people that would either call her an abomination created by the devil or flat out try to kill her. And should a romantic relationship even be attempted, it is a fair assumption that any unfortunate human that would return her feelings would be shunned by society... and that's putting it mildly. Should humans ever come in contact with Ponies (as in an alien race that looks, acts and behaves as their cartoon counterparts) it would be a shit show, because most humans in my experience cannot see farther than skin deep, and the few that do would have massive difficulties accepting a sentient, intelligent beings that looks like and animal in our world. And that's not accounting for magic (or anything similar to it), the societal norms they would carry as an alien race, or their culture.
Your character being a ranchers son ultimately means little if he cant see a difference between an animal and a Pony, in the same sphere that a human can be associated with an ape. Ben is, however, a nice reprieve of the usual spiel in which he gives a different point of view on the trope of HiE stories. A human that sees something more than an animal, but is too blind to see anything more beyond the shape. It was enjoyable to read for this alone.
Edit: I'd like to add, that Ben making a choice to not date (or even attempt) a Pony is understandable (everyone has a choice in such matters, me stating otherwise would be foolish and questionable), but making such choice through the veneer of religion is something I cannot understand... but that's me being weird by human standards more than anything else. I would personally jump at an opportunity to experience an romantic relationship with a non human species, it would be a fun experiment and an enlightening experience... provided their physical appearance is appealing (yes I shallow as well)