Chapter 1

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It was calming winters afternoon at Canterlot High School. The grounds were completely blanketed in heaps of snow, accompanied by a constant whistling cold breeze that could just about be heard through the frosted windows. The school term was coming to a close and the holidays were rapidly approaching. Unfortunately not soon enough, as Sunset Shimmer was sat completely bored in Mr Doodle’s geometry class. She wore a cherry red coat, parakeet green gloves, lapis blue snow boots, a strawberry pink scarf and a reindeer-antlers headband that she had been wearing all week. She sat there practically half-asleep before being suddenly awoken by the sound of the school bell and her fellow classmates all spiriting for the door like the room was on fire. Sunset let out a small yawn as she packed her things away and promptly left the now empty classroom.

She looked around to see the whole school beaming with the holiday spirit. There was tinsel in every color imaginable, reefs attached to all the classroom doors and the sounds of popular Christmas tunes being sung were almost inescapable. As she walked through the halls, she could the sounds of her fellow students all discussing their plans for the holidays, most of which were spending it with their families. Sunset secretly felt awkward hearing stuff like that but never told anyone as continued strolling with a gleeful smile upon her face. She made her to the science classroom, where she found Twilight Sparkle in a lab coat and goggles reading a chemistry book & Spike fast asleep on the desk next to her.

“Hey Twilight!” Sunset called, startling her friend in the process.

“Oh, hi Sunset!” Twilight stumbled, closing the book and placing it back upon the teacher's bureau, "How was class?"

“Long, very long. But on the plus side, at least he didn't give us any homework for winter vacation. Is it just you here?”

“Yeah, well me and Spike. Class ended about half an hour ago, I asked to stay behind to catch up on my studies. After all, it’s not long until we graduate.”

“Okay, Just don’t be too long. We’re supposed to be meeting the girls at Canterlot Mall in ten minutes.”

“I know, I’ll be there in just a moment!”

Sunset was about to leave, but she could sense that Twilight might be hiding something or at least had something on her mind. Sunset didn’t want to have to use her geode powers to find out, but also wasn’t sure if she could get her friend to simply speak out about whatever was troubling her.

“Twilight, is everything okay?” She asked as Twilight paused, her smile dropping and letting out a sigh.

“Yeah, everything’s fine.” Twilight awkwardly grinned, knowing full well that she couldn’t fool Sunset. “Okay, I'll bite.” she confessed, “I’m just going through some problems with Timber at the moment.”

“Why’s that, are things not going well for you guys?”

“Oh no, things are going great. Timber’s a really sweet guy and we have a lot of fun together.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

“Honestly, I’ve just been kinda wondering lately if I’m good enough.”

“Good enough? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I don’t know! It’s just he’s thinking of all these romantic and fun things to do and I want to do them too, but I just don’t feel like I can. I keep messing things up and I’m worried that we’re not connecting as much as we used to and...”

“Twilight listen! He’s your first boyfriend, it’s perfectly normal to feel things like this. But don’t ever think you’re not good enough. You’re smart, you’re funny, you’re beautiful. Trust me, any guy would be lucky to have you.”

“Thank you Sunset, I really needed that!”

“No problem, you can always come to me whenever you need advice on this kinda stuff.”

“Wouldn’t Rarity be more qualified to tackle relationship problems though? No offense!”

“None taken, I guess she would be more knowledgeable on the romance topic. Still, I’m happy to help out however I can!”

The conversation was then interrupted by the sound of Sunset’s phone ringing, retrieving the device from her pocket to see an image of Fluttershy Iight up the screen before quickly answering the call.

“Um, hi Sunset, everything okay?” Fluttershy softly spoke.

“Hey Fluttershy, I’m fine! What’s up?”

“Oh not much, uh...where are you right now?”

“I’m in the science classroom with Twilight, why?”

Before Fluttershy could answer back, she was cut off by the sound of Rainbow snatching the phone and responding in a much louder tone. “Sunset, the bus is almost here and there won’t be another one for hours!” Dash yelled as Sunset hung up the phone and informed Twilight, who then awoke Spike as the three of them sped out of the classroom.

Luckily, they made to the bus-stop just in the time to meet their friends as Twilight joined Fluttershy and Rainbow on the crowded bus while Sunset decided to follow them on her motorcycle instead. She ran to the school's parking lot as she grabbed the keys to out of her pocket and hopped onto her bike. It was almost entirely red, except for a black seat with a picture of a sun stitched into the leather. She removed her antlers, placing them in her school bag, and put on a motorcycle helmet as she turned the keys and raced off.

Sunset carefully pulled into the parking lot of the Canterlot Mall as a brief but beautiful snowfall began to emerge. After she finished parking her motorcycle, Sunset stared up at the sky in wonder before looking down to see her friends walking towards her, including Applejack, Pinkie & Rarity, who’d decided to meet them there.

“There ya are Sunset.” Applejack greeted in a green clio-down jacket, as Sunset put her helmet away and readjusted her antlers.

“Wowee, it’s so beautiful!” Pinkie beamed with pure childlike joy, a single snowflake landing in the palm of her gloved hands.

“I agree darling, it truly is de…truly is dev.. ACHOO!” Rarity sneezed. “…Truly Devine!” she finished, quickly wiping her nose with an elegantly designed tissue pulled from her pocket before she sneezed again.

“We should probably start heading inside.” Sunset suggested, being greeted with instant agreement as they all entered the building. The festive sounds of jingle bells joyously rang as the doors opened. The girls stood in amazement and simultaneously wowed at the gigantic Christmas tree in the center of the mall. It was probably the biggest tree any of them had ever seen. Multicolored tinsel glittered across the railings with presents on strings dangling from the ceiling, glowing up the room with their radiant colors and red and green lights shined off the fountain, where Rarity recognized her fellow Wondertones cheerily singing carols around the mall in Santa-like outfits.

“It’s amazing!” Fluttershy smiled, admiring the festive view.

“I think I’m gonna cry!” Pinkie sniffed emotionally, with Applejack letting out a small chuckle at her friends’ overreaction and playfully patting her on the back.

“Where is it? Where is it? Where is it? Where is it?” Rainbow Dash repeated, using her geode to speed rapidly around the mall.

“Where’s what?” Sunset questioned curiously.

“The book store! A.K Yearling is doing signings of the latest Daring Do book! And today is the last day before she’s doing it!” Dash yelled directly in her friend's face, before reaching into her backpack and pulling out her copy of Daring Do and the Crystal Kingdom, carefully dusting it down like it was a priceless artifact.

“Oh yeah! that’s today!” Twilight exclaimed, “I was supposed to bring my book with me but I completely forgot!”

“A.K Yearling doesn’t make a lot of public appearances, does she?” Sunset remarked, wiping Rainbow’s spit off of her face, “What do you think she’s doing half the time?”

“Probably writing the next book, they usually take a while to make.” Twilight suggested.

“Maybe she really is Daring Do in real life!” Pinkie exclaimed, as her friends began to laugh at her ridiculous statement.

“Haha, maybe Pinkie!” Sunset chuckled.

“Perhaps the place you’re looking for would be the building with the Darin’ Do cosplayers standing together?” Applejack said, pointing Rainbow in the right direction.

“Thanks AJ!” Rainbow beamed, using her geode to speed off once again, as the rest of the girls noticed what the Applejack had mentioned.

“So, is there anywhere in particular that anyone wants to go?” Sunset asked, not sure where she wanted to start.

“I need to buy some traveling supplies! Granny Smith suggested the four of us fly out to Appaloosa and spend the holidays with my cousin Braeburn and his folks. I don’t travel a whole lot so I’m not sure what to bring with me?” Applejack responded.

“I need to pick up some supplies for the school Christmas party!” I really want to outdo myself for the one I threw at Halloween!” Pinkie announced.

“Well after what happened this year, that shouldn't be too hard!” Sunset joked, cringing at the unpleasant memories of what had occurred the previous Halloween.

“I’d like to pay a visit to the animal shelter to see if they're offering anymore volunteer work? This year, I’d really like to try and do something special for Christmas time!” Fluttershy adorably grinned.

“I wouldn’t mind another one of your ‘animal shelter’ style baths” Spike barked, snuggling Fluttershy’s leg as she leaned down to pet him.

“I suppose I could look for something nice to wear for my next date with Timber?” Twilight pitched, gaining an enthusiastic look from Rarity.

“Darling, why didn’t you suggest this sooner? Let’s go find you something fabulous!” she eagerly squealed as she grabbed Twilight’s arm and began dragging her away to one of the dress shops, barley giving either of them enough time to say goodbye to the rest of their friends before disappearing.

“I’ll start heading over to the animal shelter and then maybe I’ll go see how Rainbow Dash is doing, come on Spike!” Fluttershy smiled, skipping away with the dog happily following closely behind.

“We’ll probably be able to find both your things at the dollar store over there!” Sunset explained, drawing her attention towards her remaining friends.

“That’s good, I’m not particularly high on cash this year” Applejack awkwardly chuckled, as the three of them set off.

“I don’t think any of us are, most of the money we made of our summer jobs has been spent and they’re usually kinda hard to find around this time of year since everybody wants one.” Sunset agreed.

“Hey! I have an idea! Let’s all do Secret Santa for this year and then we only have to get each-other one gift!” Pinkie Pie suggested enthusiastically.

“That’s a great idea Pinkie, we should tell the others about it!” Sunset agreed. They reached out their phones and began texting their friends about the idea. Soon enough, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow and even Flash Sentry heard about the proposition and agreed to take part.

“Looks like everybody’s onboard!” Applejack informed.

“Fan-tizzy-astic!” Pinkie exclaimed, “I’ll assign everyone their targets later today!”

“But then wouldn’t you know who’s gonna get you?” Sunset questioned.

“Now that’s why I always think ahead Sunset!” Pinkie smugly smiled, patting Sunset on the head as they entered the store.

Rainbow Dash felt like she was about to burst with excitement for she was next in the line to not only see A.K Yearling in the flesh, but also get her Daring Do book personally signed. Costumed fans of all ages and genders could be seen walking away, smiling ear to ear and crying tears of joy after their encounter with their icon. Before Dash knew it, it was her turn as she walked up with a childlike smile across her face and the book clutched tightly in her arms. She then came face to face with the author herself, who smiled at Rainbow as she placed the book on the table.

“You’re very excited, aren’t you? What’s your name young lady?” A.K Yearling grinned, opening the book and picking up a dark blue pen. Rainbow was completely speechless at first, freaking out internally, before clearing her thought and answering the question.

“My name is Rainbow Dash and I am your biggest fan! Daring Do is the greatest book series in the entire world!” Dash practically shouted, barely able to contain her excitement.

“I get that quite a lot Miss Dash.” A.K chuckled as she began writing on the back of the cover.

“it’s true, I mean that part in The Curse of the Pharaoh's Tomb where Daring Do had to make a leap of faith of the top of the ancient pyramid over burning hot lava in order to save the entire city! I mean, how did you even come up with something so awesome?” Rainbow rambled on, much to the authors' amusement.

“Let’s just say it came to me one day, here you go Miss Dash.” A.K smirked, handing Rainbow’s book back to her.

“Thank you so much!” Rainbow beamed as she sped to the front of the store. She continued to fangirl before opening the book as she began to read what was written.

Dear Rainbow Dash

Thank you so much for being such a big fan and avid supporter of the Daring Do series. I find it truly extraordinary how many people can enjoy her stories and can look up to the character as a role model. It's the dedication of fans like you that really helps inspire me to make more. You seem like a very lively young woman, much like Daring Do herself. I’m sure that you would get along quite well with her.

Much gratitude

A.K Yearling.

Rainbow dash smiled wider than she had ever smiled before and it had no intention of leaving her face anytime soon.

Pinkie was carefully scanning each shelf of every aisle they walked past. She wanted to make sure she purchased the best party products she could buy, even on such a low budget. Applejack and Sunset couldn’t help but smirk at each-other, due to their friends' melodramatic actions.

“Okay, so the main thing you’re gonna need is a suitcase!” Sunset suggested, as she could tell that Applejack was uneasy about going abroad.

“I know that much sugarcube! Applejack smiled, "Actually, I think I can handle this stuff okay by myself so why don’t you try giving Pinkie a helping hand? If I need a hand, I'll let ya know.”

“Okay, if you insist.” Sunset jested as she went to approach her party fanatic friend. She turned around to see Pinkie up to her shoulders in cased ornaments, bags of cake mix and packs of seasonally colored balloons. “Hey Sunset, could you give me hand?” she muffled, her mouth covered by a pile of Santa hats she was carrying. Sunset offered her a helping hand, only for Pinkie to dump almost the entire load in her arms.

“Pinkie, is all of this really necessary?” Sunset grunted, struggling to hold onto everything.

“Yeah! That’s only half of it!” Pinkie stated, pulling a list out of her pocket and joyfully reading it aloud to her friend. “Pinkie’s Party Planning List: Christmas edition! Written by Pinkie Pie, trademark Pinkie Pie!” she began, clearing her throat and taking a deep breath before continuing. “For this party Pinkie, you will need lots of cake mix, big red balloons, big green balloons, festive candles, baubles, mistletoe, plastic gold stars, reefs, stockings, gingerbread mix, plastic snowflakes, hot cocoa mix, homemade mince pies, candy canes, homemade eggnog, pancake mix, snow-globes, little plastic snowmen, lots of candy and enough Santa hats for the whole school!”.

“That sounds like a lot of stuff to buy and lots of baking to do considering the party’s tomorrow!” Sunset sighed.

“Huh, I guess you’re right! Maybe I will have to cut down on a few things, I did go a little bit over-budget with the last school party!” Pinkie accepted. She went to take her party equipment out of Sunset’s hands before she became distracted by some familiar faces behind her and started galloping off towards them instead.

“Pinkie, Wait!” Sunset called before the weight of Pinkie’s Purchases became too heavy and collapsed on her, as Applejack ran over with a white plastic bag in her hand.

“Ya need some help?” Applejack chuckled, dropping her bag using her geode enhanced strength to lift most of the items off Sunset without any struggle. Sunset thanked her as they two of them saw Pinkie coming back with two other girls beside her. “Look who I ran into!” She grinned, her arms around her sisters Maud & Marble.

“Hey Maud, long time no see!” Sunset greeted, rubbing her arm which hurt from the impact of Pinkie abandoning her.

“I saw you the other day at the museum, I was working at the geology exhibit and you passed by.” Maud responded in her usual monotone voice.

“Oh, Sunset!” Pinkie interjected, “I don’t believe you’ve met my sister Marble! she doesn’t leave the house a lot, she’s very anxious!”

“It’s nice to meet you Marble, my name’s Sunset Shimmer.” Sunset introduced, offering a friendly handshake.

“Mm-hmm.” Marble nodded, nervously reaching out her hand in return and shaking Sunset’s quickly before backing up and hiding behind Pinkie’s back.

“So, what you two doin’ in here?” Applejack asked.

“I’m looking for a Christmas gift for Boulder” Maud blandly explained, “I asked Marble to supervise him so he wouldn’t find out.” Marble silently nodded, pulling out the small grey rock out of a pocket in her hoodie.

“Well, good luck with that!” Sunset smiled as Marble put boulder back in her pocket and the two sisters set off.

“Sorry about leaving you like that Sunset!” Pinkie awkwardly chuckled, taking half her party equipment out of Applejack’s arms.

“It’s fine, you girls got what you need?” Sunset replied, picking up Applejack's plastic bag.

“Yep, pretty much!” they both answered.

“That’s good, I wonder how everyone else is doing?”

"Um Rarity, I don’t know about this” Twilight uncomfortably commented from inside one of the fitting rooms.

“Oh come on out darling, I’m sure you look fine!” Rarity responded, before sneezing again. She stood outside the changing rooms with one of the store assistants she’d recently befriended, who kindly offered her tissue.

Twilight stepped awkwardly out from behind the curtains to reveals herself in a small glittery silver dress. “I don’t think I like this one.” she commented, feeling especially embarrassed at the amount of skin this outfit seemed to reveal.

“If you want, I can find you one in another size?” the assistant offered.

“That would be lovely Miss Saddles!” Rarity sniffled, “Maybe it’d look better in a ruby red, what do you say Twilight?”

“Oh, no thank you! That’s okay, I think I'm done for today!” Twilight smiled before disappearing back into the changing rooms and reverting back into her regular outfit of a navy blue coat, black leggings, brown winter boots and a cream woolly hat.

“Very well then, I’d like to purchase one of those green dresses she wore earlier.” Rarity requested.

“Of course Miss Rarity, I’ll get one in your size right away!” Miss Saddles agreed, walking away as Rarity sighed disappointingly and turned to Twilight.

“You know, I’d thought the fourth store would be the charm!” she quietly sighed.

“I’m really sorry Rarity!” Twilight apologized, “I just don’t think I’ve found anything that really suits me yet.”

“Twilight’s, it’s alright.” Rarity reassured her friend, “we’ll find you something even…eventu…ACHOO!”

“Rarity, are you sure you’re okay?” Twilight worried, “I think you might be sick!”

“Oh please darling, I’ll be fine.” Rarity coughed, as the assistant from before approached them with the requested shiny green dress.

“Your dress, Miss Rarity.” she grinned, standing behind Twilight. Rarity thanked her as she briefly stopped coughing and paid for the dress before she and Twilight exited the store. As they continued their quest, Twilight decided to investigate her friends' state as she put her and across Rarity’s forehead.

“Rarity, you’re starting to burn up a bit!” she commented, “we should really get you home!”

“No!” Rarity assertively sniffed, “Not until we find you an outfit!”

“What’s wrong with the one she’s wearing now?” a familiar voice commented from behind them as Twilight & Rarity turned around to see Juniper Montage standing there in her usual theater uniform. The girls happily ran over to their friend and greeted her with a warm hug.

“Hey Juniper, long time no see. How have you been? Still working at the movie theater?” Twilight greeted.

“Yeah, it’s gotten much better though. I’ve patched things up with my uncle and even managed to get a few promotions here and there.” Juniper replied.

“So, does that mean you can get us any discounts?” Rarity joked.

“Actually, I did receive these free extra tickets to the new mega-blockbuster Galactic Battles: The Final Warrior this weekend if you’d like them?” she offered, reaching into her pocket and pulling out two movie tickets.

“This'll be great, Timber loves these movies and he wanted to take me to see the latest one for our next date.” Twilight exclaimed.

“I love them too! Well, except for the prequels.” Juniper agreed, handing the tickets over to Twilight.

“Are you a fan of the series Twilight?” Rarity pondered.

“Sure they’re good, though I’ve always personally preferred the Galactic Voyage series.” Twilight responded. “Still, thank you so much Juniper! Is there anything I can do in return?”

“Well don’t spill too much popcorn, it makes my job easier!” she jokingly requested, causing the three of them to laugh. “I best be getting back to work, I’ll see you girls around!” Juniper finished.

“Okay, see you around!” Twilight replied as she and Rarity waved goodbye to Juniper who began walking back to work.

“Guess you know when your next date will be then.” Rarity grinned before sneezing again.

“Yeah, this'll be perfect!” Twilight smiled to herself.

Spike was being pleasantly groomed by the staff at the Canterlot Animal Center as a special treat for all Fluttershy’s help during her summer shift. Because of all the money she helped raise, the store had been able to get refurbished, expanded and was now more popular than it had ever been before as customers came and went all day as many children wanted new pets to love during the holiday season. Fluttershy felt truly warm inside to know how many young animals could be given new homes and families thanks to her as she was watching Spike with delight when the animal center's owner, Dr. Fauna, walked in.

“He seems to be really enjoying himself,” Fluttershy giggled, noticing her old employer beside her, “Thank you so much for this Dr. Fauna, you didn’t need to do this!”

"It’s the least I can do Fluttershy!” Dr. Fauna warmly replied, “after everything you’ve done for us, sales have increased by a milestone!”

“Actually, I wanted to ask you about that. Are there any extra shifts available I can do for you?”

“Oh, Fluttershy dear. I’m flattered but I’m afraid we don’t have any open positions at the moment. I’m terribly sorry.”

Fluttershy was crushingly disappointed, but she didn’t want to hurt Dr. Fauna’s as she continued to muster a cute smile. “Oh well, that’s okay!” she said softly, “maybe some other time?”

“Of course Fluttershy, you’re such a sweet girl. The animals here really love you!” Dr. Fauna complimented as Spike’s grooming wrapped up and he happily strolled over. Fluttershy picked him up as she said goodbye to Dr. Fauna and left the store. As soon as they exited the doors, the innocent smile on Fluttershy’s face dropped as she miserably sighed and her eyes began to water. She was sure this would her perfect opportunity to do something extra special for the holidays, but was now back to square one.

“Hey, are you okay Fluttershy?” Spike asked, sensing that something was wrong.

“Oh yes Spike, I’ll be fine!” Fluttershy smiled, placing Spike carefully on the ground and wiping her eyes, “Did you enjoy your little spa day?”

“Oh yeah, it was glorious!” Spike barked happily, “where are we going next, squirrel enclosure?”

“I don’t know Spike.” Fluttershy quietly chuckled “I suppose we could try and find the others?”

“Okay then, where do we start?” Spike yapped. Fluttershy looked around, not knowing where to begin when she noticed Pinkie, Sunset and Applejack approaching, each of them carrying about a brown dozen paper bags from the dollar store.

“Oh, let me help you with that!” Fluttershy called as she and Spike ran over to them.

“Thanks Fluttershy.” Sunset replied, clear hints of strain her in voice as she began passing some of the bags Fluttershy's way, when one of them suddenly ripped. The four of them gasped, Blue and Red baubles began slipping out and falling towards the floor. Luckily, a purple glow emitted around them just before they smashed to the ground as they all looked up to see Twilight holding them using her geode powers with Rarity standing behind her.

“Boy, that was a close one!” Twilight called, as everyone sighed with relief as the ornaments were slowly lifted into one of the other bags.

“No doubt about that, thanks for the hand Twilight!” Sunset smiled with relief, as she finished passing the bags Fluttershy’s way.

“Anyone seen Rainbow Dash?” Applejack questioned, realizing she was the only one of them unaccounted for.

At that moment, Dash sped over and surprised them. “There you guys are! Look what she wrote! Look! Look! Look!” Rainbow said enthusiastically, shoving her Daring Do book in Twilight’s face, with everyone else looking over her shoulder. All her friends read the author's message and everyone found it quite cool, though Twilight was incredibly jealous.

“So, did everyone else’s shopping trips go well?” Fluttershy asked.

“I got pretty much everythin’ I needed!” Applejack nodded.

“Me too, I’ll start on the baking tonight! This party's gonna be awesome!” Pinkie squeed.

“Our trip could’ve gone better but I found a few things for myself!” Rarity smirked before letting out another small sneeze.

“I got these free movie tickets from Juniper, I’ll ask Timber out later tonight” Twilight smiled.

“What about you Fluttershy? How did things go at the Animal Shelter?” Sunset inquired, getting a less than enthusiastic reaction in return.

“Oh, not too well.” Fluttershy frowned, “there weren’t any jobs available.”

“That’s a shame, I’m sorry Flutters!” Rainbow comforted.

“It’s fine, I’ll just need to find something extra special to do!” Fluttershy replied confidently, not ready to give up just yet.

“Anyways, did you all the message about my Secret Santa idea?” Pinkie asked.

“Yeah, sounds like fun!” Rainbow agreed, with everyone else nodding along.

“I told Flash about it and he wants in too, hope that’s fine!” Sunset added.

“Yeah, the more the merrier! I’ll assign everyone tonight so keep your phones on!” Pinkie beamed, barely containing her excitement.

“But then wouldn’t you know who you’ll..?” Fluttershy questioned before Pinkie interrupted. “I’ve got everything under control my shy little friend!” she smiled smugly before saying a quick goodbye as she sped off home. The day became later as the girls all went their separate ways, had their individual dinners and awaited for their Secret Santa assignment.

Twilight told Timber about the movie tickets and he eagerly accepted the date. They also planned to grab dinner at a new cuisine restaurant that recently opened up nearby and Timber had offered to take her to a romantic Christmas dance. She was hesitant at first but decided to accept the offer. She was staying at her parents’ house for the holidays, with her brother Shining Armour also planning to come stay too along with her soon to be Sister-in-Law, Crystal Prep’s Principal Cadence. They were planning to surprise the family with the announcement of their engagement on Christmas day, but Twilight noticed the information had been leaked early on Crystal Prep’s website. She decided to keep it a surprise for her parents and pretend she didn’t know anything about it, but was still thrilled about the news and beyond happy for her brother.

Applejack went back to her home and began to pack her suitcase. There were still a few days before they left but she decided to start anyway. She also decided that Apple Bloom’s suitcase also needed to be repacked as she and her friends from the CMC, now tilted the Canterlot Merriment Club, had attempted it earlier in the day and made nothing but a huge mess.

Rarity continued her work on some Christmas outfits for her internship at Prim Hemline’s boutique, hoping her constant dedication would help her get promoted, but couldn’t go five minutes without sneezing.

Fluttershy laid down on her bedroom floor with her notebook, puzzling new ideas for her ‘special Christmas deed’ but couldn’t come up with anything. She had managed to get a couple of shifts at her mother’s florist and offered to assist Pinkie with decorating the gym for the party the next morning. She didn’t feel like it was enough, but she was on the right track.

Rainbow decided to hide her message from A.K yearling from her parents, knowing their tendency to overreact joyously at almost everything their daughter did. She instead spent most of the night playing holiday songs on guitar, as she awaited for her friend’s text.

Sunset decided to pass the time by making her place slightly more festive with some decorations she found at the dollar store earlier that day. She hung some tinsel up by her bed, a few red and yellow baubles in her bathroom and even bought a tiny Christmas tree to put in Ray’s cage, who seemed to like it.

It was getting quite late when finally, everyone got their mission assignment from Pinkie. The texts were brief but efficient, with a couple of rules set in place. The deadline for giving the gift was Christmas Eve at the latest and couldn’t be a repackaged possession that the giver no longer wanted. Nobody else knew who each-other got, just their own targets. Sunset was Flash’s Secret Santa, Flash was Pinkie’s, Pinkie was Fluttershy’s, Fluttershy was Rainbow’s, Rainbow was Applejack’s, Applejack was Rarity’s, Rarity was Twilight’s and lastly, Twilight was assigned to Sunset. Everyone received their messages around the same time as the eight of them began to ponder the perfect gift for their target and what they may get as their own.

Chapter 2

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It was the day of the school’s annual Christmas party that night and the last day of term before the students had a few weeks off for the holiday season. Because of this, Pinkie knew that this party had to be something truly special to act as a festive fun note to go out on. She had woken up in the early hours of the morning to bake the cakes and make gingerbread people in her kitchen. She would save the making of the mince pies and other holiday treats for later that day, along with making plans with Applejack to bake a special Apple & Cinnamon Christmas Pie. Once the first baking batches were completed, she put the gingerbread into plastic bags, which she then stored in her hair, and asked Maud to drop the cakes off later in the day. Pinkie quickly changed into her regular festive outfit of a rose-pink Santa hat, a cream fur coat, a long baby-blue scarf, cinnamon-brown fluffy leggings, a shamrock-green sweater and coal-black winter boots as she quickly grabbed the day’s chocolate from her advent calendar for a quick breakfast and merrily skipped off to school. She soon arrived to find Applejack, Fluttershy, Big Mac and Flash all waiting for her outside the school doors.

“Hey guys!” Pinkie yawned, “Thank you all so much for coming!”

“It’s no problem Pinkie, Granny Smith would always cook us our families traditional Apple & Cinnamon Christmas Pie and we all figured that everyone should get a taste this year!” Applejack responded.

“Eeyup” Big Mac agreed, who’d come to assist with getting the family recipe perfect as he knew it best out of the three siblings.

“Um Pinkie, are you okay?” Fluttershy asked, noticing her friend's face showed an obvious lack of sleep.

“Yeah, I’m just a little tired!” Pinkie stretched, before pulling the bag of Gingerbread out of her hair and offering the snack to her friends, who accepted and immensely enjoyed the treat.

“So, when should we get started with the decorating?” Flash asked, as the school bell rang and many of the other students began turning up.

“Now sound’s good, Let’s go!” Pinkie smiled, as the five of them headed to the gym. Pinkie had managed to persuade Principal Celestia to close off the room just for her and the rest of ‘Pinkie’s Christmas party crew’ so they could spend the whole day decorating. In order to keep it a surprise, they were the only ones allowed inside throughout the day and anyone else had to get Pinkie’s direct permission first. The only times' anyone left the room were to use the cooking class for baking party food or to go to the bathroom. It was exhausting work for all of them and the absence of the room had caused some hassle in the class schedules, but Pinkie could feel in her bones it would be well worth the wait.

Most of the classes that day were playing Christmas themed pop-quizzes that the teachers had created for the classes, in which the questions were usually either holiday-themed, based on the class subject or basic pop-culture knowledge. They ranged from incredibly easy to surprisingly hard but Sunset managed to do reasonably well on most of them. Her favorite one was the last one of the day, Miss Cheerilee’s mega-quiz, as she got the most of the answers right on them. Granted most of the questions were relatively easy and she was lucky enough to be paired with Twilight for the harder ones, who seemed to know the answers like the back of her hand. She also had Dash on her team, who didn’t really help much and just sat back shouting out incorrect answers in the hopes another team would write them down and lower their scores. In the end, her team came first place and each of them won a small box of chocolates as a prize.

After everyone’s classes were over, Pinkie had texted the gang to wait for her to come and collect them for an exclusive look at the newly decorated gym before the party. The three of them wandered the halls, unsure of where to go next, when Twilight noticed Rarity standing beside her locker with a box of tissues. Her hair was surprisingly messy, her eyes bloodshot and her nose was slightly redder than usual. “Oh, hello girls!” Rarity called in very nasally voice before letting out a big sneeze, grabbing a tissue and blowing her nose. The three girls could tell it was beyond obvious that their friend was sick as they cautiously approached her.

“Hey Rarity, you okay there?” Sunset asked, “you don’t look very well.”

“Relax Darling.” Rarity sniffled, pulling a magenta purple beanie out of her locker and using it to cover her disordered hair, “I’m completely fined!”

“Are you sure? Because I don’t think you’re supposed to put a d on end of ‘Fine'?” Twilight corrected.

“I’m fined, I’m fined.” Rarity struggled, “you know, it’s a hard word to say!”.

“Whatever you say Rare’s, sure you’ll be alright?” Rainbow sighed.

“Yes, no need to worry ACHOO! Anyway, where are you girls all heading?” Rarity sniffed.

“Not sure?” Sunset shrugged.

“We’re still waiting for Pinkie to come collect us.” Twilight added.

“Maybe we’ll get some early samples for the party food?” Rainbow hoped, fondly remembering the taste of Pinkie’s homemade eggnog from last Christmas.

“Right, the party! I’ve got a brand-new dress I’ve been working on that I can’t wait to show you girls.” Rarity coughed. Her friends all gave worried looks her way, as Rarity chose to ignore their concerns and continued to rummage through her locker.

“That’s it!” Rainbow snapped, “We’re taking you to the school nurse, maybe then you’ll stop being so stubborn!”. Before Rarity could refuse, she found herself being suddenly dragged away by her scarf. “We’ll catch up with you guys later!” Rainbow called, as Rarity demanded she be released and continued to insist she was perfectly well between the occasional sneeze. They soon disappeared into the crowded halls as Twilight and Sunset remained in place. Sunset figured it would make sense to wait for the rest of their friends in one location instead of aimlessly wandering the school as they noticed the band room close by and headed towards it. The room looked the same as usual, with a few stockings on the wall and a small Christmas tree in the corner.

“So, looks like it’s just the two of us.” Twilight spoke as they walked inside.

“Guess it is.” Sunset replied, closing the door behind them.

“Hopefully, we’ll be able to go see the gym soon enough.”

“Yeah, you excited for the party?”

“Yeah, it’ll be fun! I did go to one or two at Crystal Prep, but I’d usually leave to go read in the library instead.”

“That’s not very surprising, are you inviting Timber and Gloriosa again?”

“Not this time, they’re out of town visiting some family tonight but they’ll be back this weekend.”

“That’s good, so did ask him to go see the movie?”

“Yeah, we’re both really looking forward to it. We’re also planning to grab dinner at this new restaurant called The Tasty Treat which I’ve heard really good reviews about!”

“That’s great, sounds like fun!” Sunset congratulated, before she noticed an anxious look starting to grow on her friend’s face. “Is there anything else?” she asked.

“Well, he did also ask if I would go this Winter Waltz dance thing.” Twilight sighed, sitting down beside the drums.

“Well, what did you say?”

“I agreed, but I’m very nervous. I’ve never been very good at dancing and it’s supposed to be very romantic and…”. Twilight was silenced by Sunset placing her finger across her lips.

“Look Twilight, I’m gonna help you out with this. Now pretend that I’m Timber!” Sunset spoke, before clearing her throat and ruffling her hair to look more like that of Twilight’s boyfriend.

“Hey Twilight, would you like to dance?” she asked in a fake deep mannish tone, reaching out her hand as Twilight chuckled at Sunset’s poor attempt a male voice.

“What’s so funny, wasn’t that a good impression?” Sunset smirked jokingly, restoring her voice to its usual tone.

“It was uncanny, for a second I believed you were really him.” Twilight sarcastically retorted.

“Okay, maybe I’m not the best impressionist, just go with it!”

“Okay, let’s start over.”

Sunset cleared her throat again, returning to her ‘manly’ voice and asking the question again.

“Sure Timber” Twilight accepted, trying her best not to laugh at her friend, “I’d love to dance!”. Sunset grabbed Twilight's hand and pulled her up off the floor. She then withdrew her phone from her pocket and began playing some traditional ballroom dance music, placing the device down on the piano lid and walking back over to her friend.

“Let’s dance!” Sunset smiled as she pulled Twilight close, catching her off guard. She then stepped back and forth in time with the music, with an occasional spin here or there. Twilight was undoubtedly impressed with her friends' unexpected dance skills as she began to catch on with the steps, even incorporating a twirl or two into the mix. “There you go, now you’re getting the hang of it!” Sunset complimented as Twilight smirked sweetly in return, clearly enjoying their time together. Sunset then put her hands around Twilight’s waist, soon moving them quickly towards her back and lifting her up. Twilight squealed in surprise as she was let down as Sunset dipped her down and leaned over. The two of them were face to face, practically within kissing distance. The two of them looked at each other, awkwardly chuckling when Sunset began to feel something strange. She felt warm, her stomach began fluttering and her heartbeat slowly increasing in speed as felt like she couldn’t wipe the smile off her face. She felt a bizarre urge as she began to lean in closer towards her friend, with no idea what was overcoming her.

“Anyone want Mince Pies?” a sudden loud squeaky voice interrupted, startling both the girls and causing them to collapse onto one another.

“Oh dear! are you two okay?” a familiar softer voice spoke, as Twilight looked up to see Fluttershy and Pinkie stood in the doorway holding trays of freshly baked mince pies. Or at least, two blurs that looked like her friends as she had lost her glasses in the fall.

“Has anyone seen my glasses?” Twilight puzzled, as Sunset dizzily leaned up with them upon her face instead.

“Looking for these?” She blushed, removing the glasses and passing them towards Twilight who then readjusted them back onto her own face. The two of them then stood up and walked over to their friends, the scent of the mince pies entering their nostrils as they happily drew closer.

“Hope you like them, they’re made fresh from scratch!” Pinkie offered, as Sunset noticed Pinkie’s voice seemed to be in a much higher octave than usual. Twilight was the first to try one, as she grabbed one from Fluttershy’s tray and took a large bite.

“These are delicious!” she praised, the taste unlike any mince pie she'd had before. Sunset followed, taking one from Pinkie’s tray and taking a smaller bite to try. Sunset could only express a delightful ‘mmm’ as she felt the mix of warm flavors tenderly tickled her taste buds.

“Great, there's more where that came from. Got over a dozen more ready for the party!” Pinkie squeaked.

“Um, Pinkie?” Sunset asked, “why do you sound more high-pitched than usual?”

“Oh right, I forgot to mention” Pinkie answered, clearing her throat to restore her voice to normal, “Flash got me a helium tank for my secret Santa gift! We couldn’t resist a little fun with it while we were decorating.”

The blue-haired guitarist then walked up proudly behind her carrying a silver canister and some uninflated balloons, which Pinkie then took off his hands and hid away inside her hair for later.

“So anyway, how’s the decorating coming along?” Sunset asked.

“It’s almost finished if you wanna see?” Flash replied.

“We should probably wait for Rainbow Dash and Rarity to get back from the nurses’ office first.” Twilight insisted, just before their familiar voices could be heard bickering from down the hall.

“Okay, I’ll try out some remedies and make sure to get plenty of rest like Nurse Redheart asked. But I am still coming to the party tonight!” Rarity sniffed, her voice assertive but still as nasally as before.

“Hey, there you guys are! Mince pie?” Pinkie strolled over, sticking her tray in their faces as the others followed close behind. Rainbow eagerly took one and ate the whole thing in one delightful bite while Rarity felt it best to decline, insisting she’d have one later as not to hurt Pinkie’s feelings.

“These are amazing Pinkie!” Rainbow swallowed, attempting to grab another one before Pinkie batted her hand away and gave a threatening look.

“Nah-ah Dashie, you can have some more at the party!” Pinkie instructed, as Rainbow slowly backed away embarrassed and Rarity let a little chuckle before sneezing again.

“So, can we see the gym yet?” Sunset requested, she and the rest of the

“Okay!” Pinkie shouted excitedly as she sped off with Fluttershy worriedly rushing after her, afraid her enthusiasm might cause her to drop the mince pies or get herself hurt. Twilight and the rest of them soon followed behind them, excitedly anticipating what Pinkie had in stock for them this time.

The entrance to the gymnasium sported a shining reef as Pinkie pushed the door open and everyone walked in. String-held Paper Snowflakes, Crimson Red balloons and authentic green garlands all filled the space above a beautiful beribboned 9ft Evergreen Fir tree directly in the center of the room. Glittering Golden Yellow Tinsel, Ruby red ribbons, vibrant lights and Multi-colored baubles decorated it from top to bottom, with numerous boxes underneath that were customized to look like wrapped up presents. The walls were entirely ornamented with bright red stockings, colorful fairy lights, shining plastic stars and a mistletoe that dangled sneakily above the stage on a red ribbon. Transparent bowls filled with Homemade Candy Canes, Mince Pies, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Miniature Pancakes and Gingerbread people sat appetizingly above a snowflake patterned cloth across the table along with multiple pint-sized model snowmen, a 'Christmas Spice' scented candle and emerald-green Helium-filled balloons attached. There was also a homemade chocolate cake, various brands of candy bars, profiteroles, snowflake white paper plates, cans of whipped cream and many festively designed purple plastic cups which would later be used to consume the many beverages offered at the party, including the Apple Family’s beloved Cider, Hot Chocolate and Pinkie’s delightful homemade Eggnog.

“So, what do you think?” Pinkie grinned proudly as her friends just stood there, completely astonished.

“Pinkie, this is incredible!” Twilight beamed.

“You got all this at the dollar store yesterday?” Sunset puzzled.

“Well, I may have brought a few things from home.” Pinkie chuckled, as she and Fluttershy placed their trays of mince pies on the food table.

“Well Pinkie, you’ve certainly outdone yourself.” Rarity complimented before letting her loudest sneeze of the day, startling some of her friends in the process.

“Oh no Rarity, you don’t sound very well. Are you sure you’re gonna be able to make it to the party tonight?” Pinkie worried.

“I’ll be....okay Pinkie.” Rarity sniffed, choosing her words carefully as to avoid another ‘Fined’ debate.

“Does anyone know any remedies for a cold?” Sunset asked, knowing Rarity’s determination and stubbornness would not let her miss the party.

“Oh actually, I remember Rainbow’s mom making me something when I had a cold once” Fluttershy recalled, “I think it involved honey or lemons? I’m not sure, it was a few years ago”.

“Do you think she could make it again for Rarity?” Twilight asked, as all attention soon turned towards Rainbow. Rainbow really didn’t like her friends meeting her family, but she knew Rarity would be devastated If she had to miss Pinkie’s party.

“Okay, I guess it’s worth a shot.” Rainbow sighed, “you can drop by my place after school.”

“Thank you Rainbow Dash.” Rarity sniffed gratefully before releasing a series of unsettling coughs.

“Maybe we should go now before she gets any worse!” Fluttershy recommended. Rainbow agreed with her remark as the three of them set off.

“We’ll see you guys later tonight, good luck Rarity!” Pinkie called after them, getting three goodbyes and a sneeze in reply.

“So, is there anything we could do to help out?” Twilight asked.

“I guess there are couple things left to do” Pinkie replied, reaching into her hair and pulling out some several piles of fluorescent orange flyers. “Could you hand these out to remind people about the party?” she requested, handing a huge stack of them over to Twilight.

"Whoa, how many of these did you print?" Twilight grunted, struggling to hold onto the surprisingly-heavy weight Pinkie had suddenly unloaded unto her.

"Oh, not that many, only a couple.....hundred or something." Pinkie stuttered innocently, "Maybe I went a little overboard, but I really want people to come!"

"I understand Pinkie." Twilight cheerily sighed, "It's just gonna take me a while, that's all."

"Tell you what, I'll take half" Flash offered. Twilight accepted as Flash divided the pile evenly between the two of them, making the weight much lighter. Sunset was about to offer her assistance until she remembered that she wanted to go back to the mall before the party, in hopes of finding at least an idea for Flash's Secret Santa present and maybe pick up a few more decorations for her house while she was there.

"I've gotta be going now, I'll catch up with guys at the party!" Sunset called.

"Okie Dokie, bye-bye Sunset!" Pinkie waved as Sunset smiled in return before exiting the room and heading off to her bike.

"We're here!" Rainbow sighed happily, speeding up towards her front door. She turned around to see Rarity and Fluttershy exhaustedly running to catch up. She had run there surprisingly fast without her using geode enhanced speed, wanting to get this over with quickly. While her friends already knew how enthusiastic her parents could be, their attitude around the Christmas season was something else entirely.

"Did we...really...have to run.....so fast?" Fluttershy panted, with Rarity coughing heavily behind her.

"Yeah! We wanna get Rarity feeling better soon, right?" Rainbow answered almost instantly, turning her key and opening the door. "Hello, is anywhere home?" she called out.

"I'm just in the kitchen honey, I'll be out in a minute!" another woman's' voice responded, which Rainbow recognized to be that of her mother. The three of them walked in as Rainbow closed the door behind her. The house was almost as festivity decorated as the gym, with reefs and tinsel hung up all along the hallway. The girls made their way into the lounge where a flashy Christmas Tree shined up the room, decorated in various shades of blue tinsel, baubles and lights. Homemade paper snowflakes dangled from the ceiling and the families stockings hung nailed to the wall above an authentic fireplace.

"Wow, your parents could give Pinkie a good run" Rarity commented, as she began admiring and smirking at the many adorable framed photographs of a younger Rainbow Dash mantled above the fireplace. They were almost all winter-themed, including pictures of her snowboarding, looking roughly around twelve, and another of her around the age of six, building a snow-fort with her dad. "Oh darling, you look so cute in this one." Rarity playfully chuckled, garnering an embarrassed blush and grumpy expression from Rainbow in return.

"Oh, I wanna see!" Fluttershy approached, running past as Rainbow's groans were soon overshadowed by the sounds of Fluttershy gushing over the photographs.

"Okay! We've established I was an adorable kid, can we please move on now?" Rainbow grumbled, as her two friends continued to chuckle when Rainbow's mom, Windy Whistles, entered the room wearing a festively designed apron and oven mitts, greeting her daughter with an extremely tight bear hug.

"Hi.....Mom.....Can't.....Breathe!" Rainbow grunted, feeling like she was about to suffocate.

"Oh, sorry dear" Windy apologized, releasing Rainbow from her tight grip.

"Excuse me, Mrs. Whistles?" Fluttershy addressed, gaining an enthusiastic grin from Rainbow's mom.

"Fluttershy, It's so great to see you again! It's been so long, you've grown up so much!" Windy grinned widely, pinching Fluttershy's cheeks in delight as Rainbow Dash simply face-palmed at her mother's actions.

"Um, it's nice to see you again too" Fluttershy smiled politely as Windy quickly hugged her and then walked over to Rarity, leaving Fluttershy rubbing her cheeks which now hurt from being pinched so tightly.

"Oh, and Rarity! Wonderful to see you, looking fabulous as usual!" Windy flattered, shaking Rarity's hand vigorously.

"Why thank you." Rarity chuckled, before snatching her hand back just in time to cover up her mouth before erupting into a marathon of sneeze.

"Oh dear, sounds like you have a nasty cold there Rarity." Windy acknowledged, generously handing her a box of tissues.

"Actually, We were wondering if you could make some of that Honey Lemon medicine for Rarity. like the one you did for me when I was little?" Fluttershy asked.

"Of course I can!" Windy agreed, disappearing into the kitchen. "It'll take me some time, so you three best get comfy!" she called, as the girls all sat on the couch and began to discuss what fun things they could do that night at the party. Rainbow had suggested an idea for a game of truth or dare, though preferably more focused on the daring element. While Fluttershy and Rarity were hesitant to the idea themselves, Dash knew that Applejack wouldn't turn down a challenge like this. After around ten minutes went by, Windy Whistles finally returned with a jar containing her special Honey-Lemon-Ginger medicine and a teaspoon before handing them over to Rarity.

"Thank you so much for this." Rarity praised, opening the jar and taking her first spoonful. The taste was bizarre but satisfying at the same time.

"Oh, it's no problem. I'm always happy to help, any friends of My Little Dashie is a friend of mine!" Windy chirped, rubbing Rainbow's head in noogie-like fashion. "Yeah, thanks mom." Rainbow awkwardly grinned, gently pushing her mother's arm away.

"These really are some lovely pictures of Rainbow Dash" Fluttershy compliment, scanning the fireplace as they waited for Rarity to finish her medicine.

"Thank you Fluttershy!" Windy replied, walking over to the mantelpiece and searching for one photo in particular. "This one is my favorite!" she recommended, picking up one of the framed images and handing to Fluttershy, who then sat down next to Rarity as they admired it together. The picture showed Rainbow Dash, Windy Whistles and Rainbow's father, Bow Hothoof, all standing together happily in-front of the fireplace, each wearing a traditional Christmas character costume. These included Bow dressed up as Santa, Windy as Mrs' Claus and a much younger Rainbow adorably dressed as Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer.

"Awwww!" The two of them swooned simultaneously.

"It's adorable, isn't it? We used to call her Rudolph Dash." Windy reminisced.

"Mom!" Rainbow whined in embarrassment.

"Oh, That reminds me!" Windy ecstatically exclaimed as she joyfully skipped out of the room, much to her daughters' confusion and slight worry. Just then, Bow Hothoof walked in the door dressed in a rather authentic-looking Santa Claus outfit, eerily similar to the one he wore in the photograph.

"Ho! Ho! Ho!" He cheerfully bellowed, before tiredly making his way into the lounge where he then plummeted onto the sofa. "Hey Dash, how was school today?" He sighed happily, trying to maintain his yuletide joy despite feeling completely exhausted from work.

"School was fine dad." Dash replied, before unexpectedly being pulled into another hug as her father waved hello to her friends.

"Pardon me asking, but what's with the costume?" Rarity questioned curiously, before letting out a small sneeze.

"Dad's been working as a part-time Santa at Canterlot Mall" Rainbow answered, handing Rarity a handkerchief.

"Oh really? that sound's lovely." Fluttershy smiled, "the feeling of bringing joy to so many children must be something truly amazing!"

"It really is. In fact, I remember back when Dash was a little girl she thought that I was the real Santa! She was so overjoyed that I wasn't allowed to take off the costume for weeks!" Bow pleasantly reminisced as Rainbow uncomfortably chuckled at his story.

"Wow, sound's like you've been doing this for quite a while Mr. Hothoof." Fluttershy smiled.

"Indeed I have Fluttershy, but it does get quite tiring after all these years." Bow smirked. "We've actually been running a little short recently due to some of the elves catching the same bug as your friend there" he explained, pointing towards a sniveling Rarity. Then, an idea flew into Fluttershy's head. If she could help out as one of the elves, that could be her 'something special'. Granted it wasn't anything spectacular, but it'd still something really nice she could do for not only her friends' father but a bunch of sweet little children too.

"Do you get to keep the costume?" Rarity asked.

"Yes Rarity, I get to keep the whole thing." Bow answered, "I've only got the shift tomorrow and then I'm pretty much relieved of duty until next year!"

"Oh." Fluttershy quietly muttered, remembering she'd already promised her mom to help out at her florist then. However, as she only had to work around late afternoon time, she was felt it still worth asking, just in case there was some way she could accomplish both. "Um, excuse me Mr. Hothoof?" She inquired nervously, "would it be at all possible to get some part-time work as one of your elves? I mean, if it's not too much trouble?"

"That would be lovely Fluttershy, are you free tomorrow morning?" Bow agreed.

"Oh yes, thank you so much!" she answered aesthetically.

"No problem, meet me at the mall tomorrow at nine and we'll find you an elf uniform in your size." Bow requested.

"Okay Mr. Hothoof, or should I say Mr. Claus?" Fluttershy joked, causing both of them to let out a small giggle.

"So, what do you do with the costume when your shifts up?" Rarity asked curiously.

"It'll probably go back in dad's wardrobe until next Christmas, maybe he'll wear it around the house for a couple of days first." Rainbow answered.

"I'm guessing your mother hasn't told you yet?" Bow chuckled.

"Told me what?" Rainbow asked worriedly.

"Ta-da!" Windy stepped out wearing a Mrs. Claus costume, much similar to the one from the photograph. "How do I look?" She asked, as she began showing off her costume by humorously posing like a fashion model.

"You look beautiful!" Bow answered sweetly, walking over and kissing his wife's cheek.

"You look...great...mom." Rainbow hesitantly complimented, unsure of what to make of it.

"That's not all!" Windy declared, quickly revealing a Rudolph costume. It was almost identical to the one from the photograph, but this one was in a size that would be fitting for Rainbow Dash's current form. The outfit consisted of a detailed brown suit with a cream patch around the stomach area, black shoes designed to resemble hooves, a pair of realistically designed antlers attached to the suit and a bulbous plastic glow up red nose.

"This is for you!" Windy announced gleefully.

"What?" Rainbow asked bluntly.

"Well, your mother and I got to thinking and we decided since it's been ten years since the photo was taken, it'd be fun to recreate it this Christmas!" Bow explained.

"What do you say honey?" Bow proposed enthusiastically. Rainbow thought the idea sounded utterly humiliating, especially if anyone at school found out, but she could see the enthusiasm and childlike joy on her parents' faces and didn't want to disappoint them.

"Uh..sure, yeah." she reluctantly agreed.

"Oh that's great honey, we were so worried you'd be against it!" Windy cheered.

"What? No, it's great, can't wait for it." Rainbow continued, noticing that Rarity had finally finished her medicine. "Uh, we gotta go now!" Rainbow called to her friends, "We don't wanna miss the party". Rarity and Fluttershy decided to follow her lead as the three of them began heading towards the front door.

"Okay then, maybe you can try the costume on when you get back?" Windy suggested.

"Yeah, maybe. Bye guys!" Rainbow said, stepping outside and closing the door as they left.

"Rainbow, the parties' not for hours yet!" Fluttershy mentioned, looking at the time on her phone

"I know, I just had to get outta there!" Dash exhaled, acting like she'd escaped a hostage situation.

"Well, I feel I better already." Rarity proclaimed, before sneezing again and releasing a disappointed sigh. "So, where do we go now?" she sniffled.

"The mall's just down the road, we could head up there I guess?" Fluttershy pitched.

"Sure, why not?" Rainbow shrugged, "listen, please don't tell anyone about the 'reindeer costume situation' okay?" Fluttershy and Rarity both pinkie-promised to keep Dash's secret as the three of them headed off.

Sunset stressfully paced around the mall, her efforts to find a Secret Santa gift for Flash had so far come up fruitless. Luckily, most of the stores were open later than usual, but this didn't change the unfortunate fact she had no idea what kind of gift to get him, let alone where to look for it. However, she had managed to purchase some more seasonal decorations for her and Ray to help their place feel more festive, so the shopping trip didn't feel completely wasted. Sunset attempted to ease herself as she sat down beside the fountain for a quick break. "What am I going to do?" she thought, "What kinda gift would mean a lot to Flash? What if I can't find anything in time? I wonder if Twilight is doing okay? I hope she's having fun, she's kinda cute when she's happy. Wait, why am I thinking about Twilight again?" It had happened a few times now. Ever since they danced in the band room, the thought of Twilight would randomly pop into Sunset's head throughout the rest of the day. Whether it was the odd memory or daydreams, Sunset couldn't get her out of her mind and had no idea why. What else was bizarre was she'd often finding herself twirling her hair at the thoughts, which she'd never done before, and she'd often find herself feeling warm. After calming herself down, she decided to continue her surprisingly difficult task. She'd know Flash for years now, they used to date, how was it this hard to find something for him?

"Okay Sunset, if you were Flash, where would you shop?" Sunset asked herself, scanning the mall trying to figure out the best place to go. Much to her surprise, she managed to spot Flash himself, standing outside of one of the dress stores of all places. Only, he wasn't alone. He seemed to be talking to someone else who Sunset didn't recognize. They were wearing a large grey hoodie that covered most of their face, so it was harder to identify them.

Desperate to know more, Sunset quickly hid behind one of the large potted plants and began to examine the hooded person. After closer inspection, it became clearer that they were a female roughly around the same age. Their voice also appeared to carry a familiar quality, but Sunset was still unable to put her finger on it. She watched as Flash leaned in and kissed the mysterious woman, before the two of them walked into the store holding hands.

"Flash has a new girlfriend!" Sunset concluded, before letting out a small quiet cheer. She'd been trying to help Flash get back out in the dating world for a while now and she was beyond happy that he'd finally found someone. This gave Sunset an idea, perhaps this new girlfriend could play a part in her Secret Santa dilemma. Sunset decided to try and peek into the store window to help discover more about the situation. "Okay, where are you lovebirds?" she pondered, "I wonder if he's buying her one of these dresses? Maybe they're going to that Winter Waltz thing with Twilight and Timber? Twilight would look really pretty in that yellow dress." There she was again, Twilight! Why couldn't she stop thinking about Twilight? "I'm gonna have to talk to her about this, this is weird! Who knows, maybe she's going through the same thing?" Sunset decided, as she began to head away from the dress shop where she soon bumped into Rainbow, Fluttershy and Rarity.

"Hey Sunset, what are you doing here?" Rainbow asked.

"Oh nothing, just a little late Christmas shopping as all" Sunset replied, "Did you get the medicine from your mom?"

"Oh yes, I'm feeling much better darling." Rarity proclaimed before she sneezed again.

"Are you sure you're going to be okay?" Sunset questioned.

"I told you, I'll be fined" Rarity insisted.

"Um, Rarity you said...." Fluttershy commented.

"I know what I said!" Rarity interrupted, startling Fluttershy in the process. "I'm sorry Fluttershy, but I'll be okay." she reassured, "Now I have to go home and change, I'll see you girls at the party!"

"Okay then, we'll see you at the party!" Sunset waved, as Rarity headed off as Rainbow followed close behind, hoping there would something leftover for her to wear so she wouldn't have to return to her parents just yet. Fluttershy and Sunset decided to stay at the mall a little longer, with Fluttershy buying a small picture-frame for unknown reasons, before they too parted ways and went home to get ready themselves.

Sunset began making her way to the school, merrily humming holiday tunes to herself and admiring the scenic atmosphere of the festively decorated area. A small snowfall began to emerge under the illuminating moonlight and starry night sky as Sunset began to ponder what she would do when she arrived. Obviously, she would have to take some more of Pinkie's delicious mince pies and was eager to try many of the other treats that would be on display. Perhaps there would be some games set up to play, after recalling Fluttershy mentioning Rainbow's truth or dare proposition at the mall earlier. She probably wouldn't participate herself but was almost certain it would be fun to watch. Maybe she'd get to meet Flash's new girlfriend, or at least find out more about her. On the subject of Flash, try and gather an idea of what to get him for a secret Santa gift. Who knows, she could receive her own gift tonight. It wasn't too long before she reached her destination and began making her way inside.

She paced through the halls and made her way towards the gymnasium, seeing the flyers Pinkie made from earlier that day pinned on every wall in sight. Twilight and Flash certainly did a great job with the advertising. Apart from passing the odd student going to the bathroom, the hallways seemed to be mostly abandoned as everyone had already arrived at the party by now. Finally, Sunset arrived at the gym as she opened the door. The room somehow looked even better than before, despite not much changed since she saw it last. The only major differences included the room being filled with almost the entire school's population and a few changes to the dessert table, those being added food & drink and the absence of a couple of helium balloons. Sunset quickly made her way to there, hoping all the mince pies weren't all gone, where she bumped into Rarity & Twilight. That reminded Sunset, she should ask Twilight about the weird feelings she'd been having throughout the afternoon and see if she'd experienced anything similar. It's not something she wanted to bring up, but felt it was important to do so.

"There you are Sunset!" Twilight called, after devouring a plate full of profiteroles.

"Here I am." Sunset replied, making sure to grab as many mince pies as she could since there were hardly any leftover, "Sorry it took me so long to get here, the town's always so beautiful this time of year and I just love the view!"

"It is a lovely sight darling." Rarity agreed, when Sunset noticed her new outfit. It was the typical seasonal shades of Red and Green, but the dress had been cleverly constructed to have the stitches resemble miniature Christmas trees. There was also a garland colored scarf and a beautiful poinsettia flower in her hair.

"Wow Rarity, you look amazing!" Sunset compliment.

"Why thank you Sunset, I've been working on this one for a quite a while!" Rarity appreciated, showing off the outfit. The medicine Rainbow's mom had given seemed to be taking effect as her voice had now become less nasally and the redness around her eyes and nose had begun to fade. However, she did let out the occasional sneeze and sniffle throughout the night.

"Oh, that reminds me." Rarity recalled as she reached under the dessert table and pulling out a glittering black cardboard box with a red bow attached, elegantly tied as only she could do. "Twilight Sparkle, Merry Christmas from your Secret Santa!" She cheerfully announced, handing the gift over to her friend who's face lit up with excitement. Twilight quickly took hold of the package and began to open it, revealing a new dress inside. The outfit was moderate-purple with sapphire-blue and brilliant-raspberry striped patterns and a small moderate-violet jewel at the top.

"Rarity, this is beautiful!" Twilight smiled, lifting the dress out of the box.

"Well, after our little endeavor at the mall yesterday and Pinkie assigning you to me, I decided I'd make you something fabulous for your date with Timber!" Rarity explained, "I'm afraid I didn't have much time to work on it, so it's not my best work but..."

"I love it, thank you so much Rarity!" Twilight beamed gratefully, carefully folding the dress back into the box before pulling Rarity into a thankful hug.

"So, Is it just you and Pinkie who've revived their Secret Santa gifts so far?" Sunset asked.

"Actually, Rainbow Dash gave Applejack some personalized weights before you arrived." Rarity replied.

"Oh, whereabouts are they? I've only seen you two since I arrived, is everyone else here already?" Sunset questioned.

"Fluttershy hasn't arrived yet but Rainbow, Applejack & Pinkie are by the stage playing truth or dare or something like that?" Twilight answered, pointing in their direction. Sunset peaked over as she could vaguely make out the sight of Pinkie & Dash snickering to each-other from across the room. Not wanting to disturb their antics, she decided to watch from afar and continued to raid the dessert table with the others.

Applejack took one of the green balloons the three of them previously acquired from the dessert table earlier that night, putting the end of it in her mouth and inhaling the helium from inside after being dared to do so.

"Come on, do it!" Rainbow tittered excitedly, her and Pinkie giddy as children. The three of them unanimously could agree the best part of this game was daring each-other to do whatever humiliating things they could come up with. If the victim didn't go through with the dare, they would be mockingly branded a chicken for the remainder of the night. Applejack then rolled her eyes and pursued with the dare that Dash had given her.

"Howdy, I'm Applejack! The tiniest cowboy in the Wild Wild West, Yee-Haa!" She spoke in a hilariously squeaky voice, to which Rainbow and Pinkie chortled like hyenas. "There ya go, y'all happy now?" She smirked, retaining her high-pitched tone.

"That was a good dare Dash." Pinkie laughed hysterically, "I think it's your turn to dare her AJ!"

"Alright, I gotta think of a good one." Applejack plotted, wanting to make Dash do something she'd find truly embarrassing.

"Ho Ho Ho Rainbows!" A rouge male voice interrupted, as the girls all recognized who such an annoyingly laid-back sound belonged too.

"Oh no, I know that voice!" Rainbow cringed, as Zephyr Breeze leaned over and a seductive look her direction.

"Hey Zephyr, what are you doing here?" Rainbow uncomfortably simpered.

"Well, my big sister Flutter's offered to bring me along and I just couldn't say no to seeing you again." he obnoxiously flirted.

"Hello girls, sorry I'm a little late." Fluttershy appeared, giving her brother an aggravated stare before turning back to her friends in her regular kinder fashion.

"Hey Fluttershy, glad you made it." Applejack greeted, her voice still influenced by the helium.

"Hehe, your voice sounds funny Applejack!" Fluttershy chuckled, as Applejack realized and cleared her throat, restoring her voice to normal. "I'm going to quickly grab a bite to eat, but I'll catch up with you guys later." Fluttershy smiled at her friends, before she began heading towards the food table. Zephyr sent a flirtatious wink towards Dash, before following his sister as the three of them decided to continue their game.

Applejack puzzled and pondered for what would be the most mortifying thing she could dare Rainbow to do. Then she got an idea. An awful idea. Applejack got a wonderful awful idea. "Okay, I've got one." she grinned cheekily, "there's way Dash'll do this!"

"Is that so? Bring it on cowgirl!" Rainbow cockily leered, taking a quick sip from her cup of apple cider.

"Alright." Applejack gloated, "I dare you to kiss Zephyr Breeze under the mistletoe!"

"WHAT, I'm not gonna kiss that creep!" Rainbow spat, her apple cider spilling all over Pinkie.

"What's the matter, are ya chicken?" Applejack taunted, "cheep cheep cheep cheep."

Rainbow growled in frustration as she got up and went to locate Zephyr, leaving Applejack and Pinkie giggling with expectations. She had never lost this game and was not about to this time, even if it meant living out one of her worst nightmares.

"Hey, Zephyr!" She called aggressively, wanting this dare to be over and done with as soon as possible.

"Yeah?" Zephyr responded, catching up on his way to the dessert table. Rainbow grabbed him by the wrist and dragged him up onto the stage. The two of them soon stood closely together under the mistletoe as Applejack and Pinkie cheering her on. Fluttershy, Sunset, Twilight and Rarity had also taken notice, unsure of what was going on. Rainbow swallowed her pride, puckered her lips, leaned in and kissed him.

"Woo-hoo, go Rainbow dash!" Pinkie cheered, with Applejack clapping and chuckling along.

"Oh my." Fluttershy gasped, covering her mouth out of pure shock.

"Well, that was unexpected." Sunset stated, as Twilight and Rarity just stood there with their mouths wide open.

Rainbow quickly released herself and rapidly backed away from the mistletoe. Suddenly, the reindeer costume didn't seem so bad.

"Whoa!" Zephyr commented happily, to which Rainbow awkwardly chuckled and returned to her now cackling friends.

"Well done Rainbow, I guess you're our champion for tonight." Applejack congratulated.

"I hate you." Dash snarled in return.

"Maybe it's time we take a break and go join the others, seems like a pretty good note to end on anyway." Applejack suggested, as the three of them wrapped up their game and began to head over to the food table.

Meanwhile, Sunset grabbed one of the cans of whipped cream and sprayed a small portion onto her plate, when Twilight suddenly began to emit a small adorkable laugh. 'She looks so cute when she giggles.' Sunset thought to herself, before cautiously shaking the idea out of her head with a minor blush on her cheeks that thankfully went unnoticed.

"What's so funny?" Fluttershy asked.

"Oh nothing, this just reminds of something I used to do at Christmas when I was little." Twilight explained, "every year I would spray whip cream around my mouth like a beard and impersonate Santa Claus and it would always make my family laugh!"

Her friends all chuckled at the idea of the memory and even asked for a demonstration, which Twilight declined.

"Hey guys!" Pinkie called as she, Applejack and Rainbow approached them.

"Oh, Rainbow." Fluttershy said sweetly, "Zephyr just left but he wanted me to tell you that your kiss really made his Christmas!"

Applejack & Pinkie both mockingly awed, as Rainbow sunk into a pit of complete embarrassment. "So, you all saw?" She blushed profusely.

"Yes! And might I say, it was very romantic." Rarity teased before letting out a small sneeze and Twilight & Sunset quietly chuckled to each-other.

"This might make you feel better?" Fluttershy sympathized, reaching into her coat pocket and pulling a small gift in blue & yellow wrapping paper. "Rainbow Dash, Merry Christmas from your Secret Santa!" She announced, handing the present to her friend. Rainbow quickly unwrapped the gift, revealing a framed photograph of the two of them as children, roughly around 5-7. "This was taken the day we first met, the day you saved me from those nasty bullies." Fluttershy explained, "ever since that day, you've been like my sister and this is my way of showing how much our friendship means to me!"

"Wow Fluttershy, this is incredible. Do you really mean all that?" Rainbow smiled.

"Of course I do!" Fluttershy replied, to which Rainbow gave thanks and pulled her into a warm hug.

"Ya gonna kiss her too?" Applejack teased.

"I'm gonna kick your butt, that's what I'm gonna do." Dash jokingly retorted.

"Hey, you guys wanna go dance?" Pinkie offered, breaking up the potential fight as most of the girls agreed and began to walk with her towards the dance-floor. However, Twilight and Sunset decided to stay put and planned to join them later.

"Oh yeah, I never thanked you for the dance lessons." Twilight remembered.

"It's fine, you were pretty good." Sunset replied, thinking it might be time to bring up the inevitable awkward subject. "Hey Twilight, can we talk about that?"

"Okay sure" Twilight agreed, "I didn't know you could dance like that, you were amazing!"

"Thanks, but that's not what I meant." Sunset elaborated, "After we danced, have you felt weird?"

"Weird how?"

Before Sunset could explain, she was interrupted by the arrival of an unexpected guest. "Guess who's back early?" He said happily, as Twilight excitedly turned around after recognizing that voice. "Timber!" She beamed, leaping into her boyfriends' arms and greeting him with a quick kiss. "I'm sorry Sunset, what were you saying?" Twilight asked, her attention moving back towards her friend.

"It doesn't matter." Sunset replied, deciding to drop the subject for now as she went over to instead make small talk with Gloriosa, who'd also arrived with her brother. After they were done talking, Gloriosa left her to socialize with the others whilst Sunset decided to grab one of the balloons off the dessert table out of boredom and suck up some of the helium to amuse herself. That was until someone caught her eye, someone she'd been looking for since she arrived. She had located Flash, standing by the Eggnog stand as she began to approach him.

"Hi Sunset, enjoying the party?" he greeted happily.

"Yeah, tonight's been fun!" she replied happily, briefly forgetting her voice was squeaky from the helium and causing the two of them to burst out laughing.

"I see my gift for Pinkie was a good idea" Flash chuckled.

"Yeah, it was." Sunset agreed, releasing a small intentional cough to return her voice back to its usual tone, "Anyway, I've been meaning to speak to you!"

"You have?"

"Yeah, when were you gonna mention the new girlfriend?"

"Oh, you know about that?"

"Yeah, caught you two sweethearts at the mall today, in the dress shop."

"Right, she doesn't have that many outfits so I offered to treat her to one."

"How sweet, did you invite her to the party?"

"No, she's really nervous and didn't want to come."

"Fair enough, do I get to meet her?"

"Gee, I don't know Sunset."

"Come on, wouldn't it be nice for her to get to know at least one of your friends?"

"Okay, I'm meeting her later tonight after the party. I'll talk to her and see if she's okay with you coming?"

"Great!"

The two of them continued to celebrate with their friends during the rest of the party. Many gifts were exchanged, food was devoured and even a few pranks were pulled throughout the remainder of the night. Flash managed to contact his mystery girlfriend who was hesitant to Sunset meeting her but decided to go through with it for Flash. Sunset was thrilled with the news as she headed home and agreed to meet Flash at the agreed location and time he would send to her later.

Sunset sat on her bed, staring at the Christmas lights she'd stuck to her wall earlier that evening and finding various ways to entertain herself as she patiently waited for Flash to call her. She checked her social-media, played video games, watered her house plants, fed Ray and even sung him Christmas songs with helium from some of the balloons she'd stolen from the party. Finally, her phone began to ring. Sunset lept for the phone like a fish out of water and answered in a matter of seconds.

"Hey Sunset." Flash talked on the other end, "You ready?"

"Yeah, whereabouts do I get to meet your new lady?"

"Do you know the Sandwich place by the Everything Under The Sun Emporium?"

"Yeah, I'll meet you there!" Sunset hung up, grabbed her coat and headed out the door. After a relatively short drive, she parked her motorcycle across the street from the emporium and began walking towards the sandwich place where caught Flash standing outside waiting.

"Is she inside?" Sunset questioned.

"Yeah, before you meet her, there's something I forgot to mention." Flash informed

"What's that?"

Let's just say, you haven't had the most pleasant run in's with her or her family."

"Her family?"

"Well more specifically her and her sisters, just try to be open and don't freak out, okay?"

"Um, okay then."

"Great, thanks Sunset."

The two of them opened the door and walked inside. The cafe looked bleak and rather colorless, seeming mostly empty apart from the odd customer and the working staff. Flash and Sunset soon located the girlfriend at a table near the back, wearing the same mysterious hoodie she wore at the mall., Flash waved at her as she noticed and began to happily approach them.

"Okay, here we go." Flash said, "You ready Sunset?"

"Yeah, I'm ready." Sunset exhaled, feeling more skeptical after what Flash had said earlier. The girlfriend soon caught up with them as Flash cuddled up to her.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you miss!" Sunset addressed politely, offering a handshake.

"It's nice to see you again Sunset!" the girl replied in a giddy voice that Sunset could've sworn she'd heard before, accepting the handshake before removing her hood and revealing her identity to be former CHS student and dazzling Sonata Dusk.

"You remember Sonata, right?" Flash smiled, his arm around the blue-haired siren.

Sunset stood there speechless, still trying to piece together the situation. She didn't know what to say, she did not see this coming.

"Sunset, are you okay?" Flash asked concernedly.

"Oh yes!" Sunset responded awkwardly, "Sonata, Right! Hi, how....how are you?"

"Oh, I'm okay." Sonata replied, "I've stopped doing that whole feed of negative energy with evil singing thingie, I don't do that anymore!"

"That's...good." Sunset stuttered, "It's..been a long time!"

"It has! I'm sorry about that whole thing back in the battle of the bands, but I'm changing my ways now, like you did!" Sonata smiled innocently.

"Isn't that great?" Flash beamed, snuggling up to his girlfriend.

"Yeah, It's great." Sunset smiled kindly, "It's getting quite late so I best be going, but I'll catch up with you tomorrow?". They agreed to meet up another time before Sunset said her goodbyes and began exiting the cafe. "Wow, what a day!" She sighed to herself as she started heading home.

Chapter 3

View Online

It was a chill winters morning in Canterlot City. A mild snowfall had blanketed the town overnight and another was scheduled later that day, the chances for a white Christmas seemed higher than ever before. Snowmen were visible on the end of every other house-front and children of all ages were out in the streets, partaking in snowball fights with their friends after having recently broken up from the school for the remainder of the year. Not to mention that today was Christmas eve, so there was that to be excited about.

Sunset Shimmer awoke from her bed, having not slept much the previous night. Between the party, her bizarre feelings for Twilight increasing and the sudden reveal that one of her closest friends and ex-boyfriend is currently dating a siren, it was lot of things to process in one night. She stretched out of bed and opened the last box of her Tirek's Revenge themed advent calendar, revealing a miniature chocolate replica of the games primary antagonist.

After eating that, she fed Ray and decided to change into her usual winter attire, before saying goodbye to her pet, heading out the door, hopping on her motorcycle and driving to the mall. Honestly, after going there for three days in a row, the mall was beginning to feel like a third home for her.

Today was the deadline, she had to find something good for Flash and fast! She'd hoped perhaps Sonata could help play a role in this but she knew very little about the former dazzling. Sunset wanted to be able to trust her and be happy for Flash, but this wasn't like other cases with previous foes reforming. They were usually innocent or misguided people who were consumed by Equestrian magic, well as the sirens were infamous mythic creatures from her homeland. Sunset soon pulled up to the mall and parked her bike before making her way inside. Still feeling quite hungry, she made her way towards the food court where she'd agreed to meet her friends, who she hadn't seen since the party. They all had their own plans for the day, from Twilight's date with Timber to Applejack flying out to Appaloosa with her family. Sunset purchased a strawberry smoothie and made her way to one of the tables, when she saw some of her friends approaching.

"Come on, pretty please with cupcakes on top?" Pinkie begged childishly, walking alongside Dash, Twilight and Spike.

"No Pinkie, we're not going helium caroling!" Rainbow told her.

"But it'll be fun!" She moaned, turning her puppy dog eyes towards her other friend.

"I'm sure it will be Pinkie, but I'm afraid I'm busy tonight." Twilight said, "Maybe next year, okay?"

"Oh alright then." Pinkie frowned, as the three of them sat down at a nearby table. Pinkie looked over to Sunset, who was deep in thought. "Psst, Sunset?" She pestered, "Hello? Sunshim? Anyone home?"

"Oh, right, that's me!" Sunset returned, "yeah, hi Pinkie!"

"You okay Sunset, a lot on your mind?" Twilight questioned, petting Spike as he jumped up onto the table.

"More or less" Sunset responded, unknowingly twirling strands of her hair.

"Well, what's up?" Rainbow queried, the subject being shortly dropped as Applejack began to approach them.

"Okay, I'm packed up n' ready to go!" she proudly smirked, carrying a metallic orange suitcase with a bright red apple symbol. "Got everythin' I need!" She boasted, "Passport, clothes, toothbrush, PJ's, a present for my cousin Braeburn, and I'll just need to pack my phone and bass before I leave."

"Sounds like everything." Twilight congratulated, "What time are you leaving?"

"Oh, not 'til tonight." Applejack responded, sitting down at their table, "I got a good few hours of the day left before Big Mac's drivin' us to the airport."

"Then why'd you bring your suitcase to the mall now?" Sunset puzzled.

"I dunno?" Applejack shrugged, "Guess I just wanted to brag. Oh, I wanted to say goodbye to ya'll now in case I don't get a chance later."

"Hey, how about we all come see you off at the airport?" Pinkie suggested.

"Yeah, that'd be great!" Applejack nodded, "y'all know where it is?"

"We'll find it." Rainbow replied, trying to disguise the fact she had absolutely no idea where the airport was.

"Great, hopefully I'll see ya'll there tonight?" Applejack smiled, as everyone else nodded in agreement.

"We'll have to message Fluttershy and Rarity about the idea, i'm sure they'd love to come too." Sunset pitched.

"I don't think Rarity will be coming after last night." Pinkie alerted.

"Why not, what happened last night?" Sunset inquired.

"It was after you left the party, Rarity and I were walking home and she kinda sneezed a bunch of times and then threw up all over the place." Rainbow answered, "It wasn't pretty."

"Apple Bloom says that Sweetie Belle told her she'd been coughing in bed all morning, I'll have to pay her a quick visit before I leave tonight." Applejack said sympathetically.

"Oh no, poor Rarity." Sunset pitied, "At least Fluttershy might still be able to make it?"

"Speaking of which, where is Fluttershy?" Rainbow wondered, "I thought she'd be here by now?"

"Hello girls, I thought I'd drop by before I head off to work." Fluttershy strolled over happily, showing off her newly required elf uniform. She wore a traditional pointy pear-green hat with jingling bells attached, matching tights, candy-red curly jester shoes, a red & green suit and some rubber latex elf ears.

"Looking good Fluttershy." Pinkie complimented.

"Thank you, I'm really nervous." Fluttershy worried.

"Don't be, y'all do great." Applejack encouraged, "you're gonna be an amazing elf!"

"Thanks Applejack" Fluttershy chuckled, "I've actually got a couple minutes before work, do you mind if I sit down with you guys?" The girls agreed and continued their conversations as Fluttershy learnt of Pinkie's airport idea and ecstatically agreed to it. However, Pinkie was disappointed that nobody else was on-board with her helium caroling idea, though Sunset did say she'd think about it. Pinkie figured that she would probably save that idea until next Christmas and just go regular caroling tonight instead. However, the pleasant atmosphere seemed to die down when Sunset hesitantly brought up the Sonata topic.

"So, what are you gonna do?" Rainbow asked.

"What can I do? This is his relationship, it's not supposed to any of my business." Sunset said uneasily, "I just have my doubts about her, like I don't feel like we can trust her!"

"Sunset, are you sayin' they shouldn't date because she was once our enemy?" Applejack inquired, "Cos that's kinda hypocritical, no offence."

"I might not know as much about these Dazzlings as you guys do, but she doesn't sound like she's really up to anything that bad. Maybe she really has turned over a new leaf!" Twilight added, "I mean look at Gloriosa or Juniper or Wallflower or even us?"

"I know" Sunset sighed, "maybe she really has changed and they really seem to like each-other, I just can't shake this feeling."

"Sunset, Flash is your friend." Fluttershy comforted, "If you really feel this way, you should talk to him about it."

"Or maybe you could try talking to Sonata, get to know her before we jump to any conclusions!" Pinkie recommended, "maybe you could bond over tacos or something, I think she likes those?"

"Okay, thanks you guys." Sunset smiled, the weight of the situation feeling much lighter.

"Oh my goodness, I have to go!" Fluttershy gasped, noticing the time on a nearby clock, "Wish me luck."

"Good luck Fluttershy!" they all called in unison as Fluttershy waved goodbye and headed off to find Rainbow's dad.

"Well, I've got late shopping to do." Sunset declared, getting up from her table, "I'll catch up with you all later"

"Oh yeah, I also promised my mom i'd help with some of the cooking for tomorrow." Twilight remembered, with Spike drooling at the thought he may steal some of the food whilst they weren't looking. One by one, the girls all thought of something to do as they all said their goodbyes and went their separate ways.

It was around Midday when Rainbow reluctantly turned her keys & opened the door to her house, which she hadn't returned to since she and her friends visited to collect Rarity's medicine and having slept on Fluttershy's couch after the party the previous night. She slowly entered the lounge to see her mother still wearing the Mrs. Claus outfit from yesterday, "Hi Mom, I'm home!" she called out.

"Rainbow honey, there you are!" Windy beamed, running up to her daughter and entrapping her in another tight hug. "How was the party? Did you have fun? You didn't get hurt did you?" she continuously questioned, as Rainbow tried to escape from her mothers' gripping embrace.

"Mom...I'm..fine!" she grunted, finally managing to break out of Windy's grasp and collapsing onto the sofa.

"Oh, I'm sorry dear, I've just missed you so much." Windy apologized, sitting down next to her daughter and placing down a plate of mince pies onto the coffee table which Rainbow quickly took from.

"So anyway , did you enjoy the party?" Windy asked.

"Oh yeah, the party was so much fun." Rainbow swallowed, as a concerning question popped into her mind. "Mom, have you been wearing that outfit since yesterday?"

"Oh yes, this outfit makes me feel so warm and festive! Speaking of which, what do you say we try yours on?"

Rainbow squirmed at the thought of seeing that humiliating costume again as she tried to think of an excuse. She knew deep down that sooner or later she'd have to wear it, but wanted to postpone such an event as long as possible. "No thanks, maybe later?" she bargained, slowly backing away from her mother and heading towards the staircase in the hallway.

"Oh, okay honey." Windy agreed, following her daughter, "But we'll have to try it on before your father gets home, so we can still exchange it if it doesn't fit. These outfits are specially designed!"

"Yeah, I'm..just...really not feeling it at the moment."

"How about maybe just the antlers and nose for now?"

"No thanks."

"Okay, well come back into the lounge and you can tell me more about the party? Did you play any fun games? Get any nice presents? Kiss any boys under the mistletoe? Or girls if that's what you're into?"

"Actually, I'd rather just be in my room for a little bit."

"Sweetie, it's Christmas eve. Can't you spend a little time with your family?"

"Look, I just want some time to myself! Am I not allowed that anymore?"

"Of course you are, I just want to spend some time with my little girl on Christmas eve."

"Mom I'm seventeen, I'm not a little kid anymore!"

"I know that, I just miss spending time with you! You're always either out with your friends or stuck up in that room and I'm starting to feel like you're avoiding us, I feel like I've barely seen you! " Windy called out, the two of them just staring at each-other tensely. Rainbow almost at the top of the stairs and her mother nearer the bottom. Windy's eyes were filled with sorrow, while Rainbow flipped out and began to aggressively stomp down.

"Well, don't you think there's a reason I avoid you and dad?" She snapped, months of pent-up frustration unknowingly revealing itself in a sudden outburst, "Don't you think there's a reason I don't like inviting my friends around here? Maybe I'm a little sick of you and dad still treating me like a kid? I'm sick of being embarrassed every chance you guys get?" Rainbow stormed passed her mother and grabbed the reindeer costume off the lounge door. "It's things like this that show that you guys are still clinging onto the past, you'd rather have me be your little trophy forever!" She sneered, backing into the lounge, "It shows you don't accept the fact that I'm growing up!"

"Rainbow Dash, I'm sorry" Windy sighed sadly, "It's just I know you're growing up, but it's happening so fast and I don't think I'm ready to let you go."

"Maybe you need to learn to let go!" Rainbow exhaled, "Maybe you need to realize that..."

Rainbow's rant was unexpectedly interrupted as she tripped over the coffee the table, the reindeer costume flying out of her hands. The room felt like it went into slow motion as it flew into the fireplace. Rainbow gasped as the outfit was slowly consumed by the flames. She hated that outfit and had no desire to ever wear it, but she knew how much it meant to her folks. How much they wanted to do this. How much they probably spent on it. Rainbow's eyes quickly caught sight of Windy, her hands covering her mouth out of disbelief and tears streaming down her face. Rainbow quickly activated her geode and sped into the kitchen. She grabbed a cleaning bucket, filled it up with water and sped back into the lounge, distressedly throwing it onto the flames. The fire died out as Rainbow reached in and pulled out the now charred remains of the costume, it was completely black and crisp, unrecognizable and unwearable. She'd never meant for this to happen.

"Mom, I'm sorry! It was an accident, I didn't mean..." Rainbow stuttered regretfully, as her mother removed her hands and began wiping her tears.

"No, it's okay." Windy insisted, her crushed spirit visible for all to see, "You were right, you're not our little girl anymore." Windy walked over to the fireplace and noticed the old picture of the three of them in costume had fallen off the mantle above the fireplace. She picked it up to see the frame now had a large noticeable crack across the glass. "Well, if you want to go up to your room, you go on ahead" Windy smiled, the usual joy in her voice now vanished.

"Mom, are you gonna be okay?" Rainbow worried, she'd never seen her mother so depressed.

"I'll be fine honey.... I mean Rainbow Dash." Windy replied, "I'm just gonna go get changed, I don't feel like wearing this anymore." Windy slowly walked up the stairs, her head down trying to hold back her sadness. Rainbow stood back as her guilt began to eat at her like a swarm of piranhas she her mothers sniffles and sobs began to fill the house. Rainbow ran out the front door, what had she done?

Sunset continued her quest around the mall when her stomach began to rumble and she decided to head back to the food court and grab some lunch. On her way there, she passed by Santa's workshop and managed to locate Fluttershy at work besides Rainbow's dad as Santa Claus. Sunset had met Mr Hothoof before but he was almost unrecognizable here, completely encompassing himself in the role. Fluttershy seemed to be doing a good job too, she was very friendly to all the children and parents who walked in and seemed to fit in with the kind atmosphere that surrounded her. Sunset smiled happily before she noticed a surprised expression come across Fluttershy's face. Things soon fell into place when Sunset noticed that the next child in line wasn't a child at all, It was Pinkie Pie.

"Pinkie, what are you doing here?" Fluttershy said curiously.

"Duh, I'm here to see Santa!" Pinkie grinned, "I've been an extra good girl this year!"

"Um, Pinkie?" Flutteshy whispered, "you know that's not the real Santa right?"

"Of course Fluttershy, I'm not stupid." Pinkie chuckled, "He just works for the real guy and helps delivers the message of what everybody wants, probably went to some super advanced Santa school! But you still gotta act like he's the real deal to get the good books, I know how this works!"

"Ho Ho Ho, who's next?" Bow bellowed in a deep but heartwarming voice as Pinkie skipped over and jumped onto his lap. "Oh, hello Pinkie Pie!" Bow chuckled, Pinkie remaining oblivious to the fact it was one her best friends' fathers behind the beard, "have you been a good little girl this year?"

"Of course Santa!"

"Wonderful, now what would like for Christmas this year?"

As Pinkie rambled on enthusiastically for what felt like hours, Sunset chuckled under her breathe at her pink-haired friends childlike innocence as she continued her walk. She soon reached a fast food joint called Bueno Taco, noticed a rather short line and stepped in when she recognized the person in front, or at least their hoodie. Now this would be a perfect opportunity to try Pinkie's idea and try to get to know their former enemy, she really wanted to like and trust her. "Sonata?" Sunset asked anxiously, as the hooded girl turned around to notice her.

"Oh, Sunset hi!" Sonata smiled rather unnaturally, clearly desperate to make a good impression. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm here for the tacos."

"For realzies, me too! What do you want? I'll get it with my order and we'll get a discount."

"You don't need to do that."

"It's fine, this is what friends do! At least I think is it?"

Eventually, Sonata ordered herself the triple large taco meal with a side of nachos and a large soda whilst Sunset simply ordered a burrito and small soda. They did indeed get a rather good discount as the two of them sat down at a nearby table. "That was really nice of her." Sunset thought, "She didn't need to do that, maybe she really does want to be friends? Unless, she might just be trying to win me over and let my guard down, the sirens are said to be quite seductive creatures."

"So, what brings you to the mall today?" Sonata asked kindly, digging into her meal.

"Oh, just a little late Christmas shopping" Sunset answered, trying to think of something to ask to help her discover more about her or what she could planning. "If you don't mind me asking, how are you sisters? do you still talk to them?"

"Oh yeah. They're okay, Aria's still the worst though! The three of us all live together in a small apartment downtown, Dagi pays most of the rent with her job at the supermarket, Aria and me are trying to help out too but it's hard to find a job when most of the town hates your guts for trying to brainwash them."

"Yeah, I know what that feels like."

"I've done a couple shifts here as a Janitor at Bueno Taco, but they let me off last week unfortunately."

"Wait, if you're not working than how'd you pay for lunch? did you steal the money?"

"No, I don't steal money!.........well, not anymore! I've been saving up from my shifts." Sonata reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out her purse, showing Sunset about fifteen dollars worth of coins as well as several coupons. "Actually, I'm saving up to buy something special for Flash after everything he's done for me." she explained, "but I'm not sure what I should get him, do you have any ideas?"

"Actually, I'm kinda in a similar situation" Sunset smirked, as her and Sonata chuckled. Sunset remained resilient with her judgement but she could feel herself slowly being won over.

"Sunset, do you trust me?" Sonata asked wholeheartedly, Sunset caught of guard by the sudden question.

"What..what..do you mean?" Sunset stuttered.

"Well, it's just you seemed uncomfortable when you met me yesterday and asking me if i stole the money, it feels like your intorgating me or something?"

"Intorgo....what?"

"You know, like what the policemen do."

"Oh, You mean interrogating?"

"I think so, i just heard Aria mention the word when she was arrested a few weeks ago."

"Arrested?"

"There it is again, that tone! Sunset, I know we've had our past trouble but i'm trying my best to change for Flash, for you. I really want a fresh start! So, can you trust me?"

Sunset went silent, what could she say. She really didn't know if Sonata could be trusted yet, but she really did want to. She seemed like she'd really changed but it felt to easy. But what if she was all playing them, she couldn't do that to Flash. She had to he honest.

"Sonata, I'm really sorry but I don't think I trust you yet." Sunset sighed.

"Oh" Sonata muttered, dropping her last taco.

"I'm sorry, but....."

"Don't be, what was i thinking? I can't change, I'm still...i'm still a monster! Adagio's right, I am an idiot!" Sonata hyperventilated before running away abruptly. "Sonata, wait!" Sunset called, but she'd already gone.

It was the late afternoon, as Applejack sat besides her brother Big Macintosh in his crimson pick-up truck as they drove to Rarity's house. It was only a hour until the apple family had to leave to go the airport but Applejack wanted to say goodbye to all of her friends before she left. She had already arranged to meet most of them there earlier that day but since Rarity was still sick, she wasn't able to go. Applejack was also Rarity's Secret Santa and hadn't been able to find the time to buy her anything fancy, like Rarity would probably want, so this was the least she could do. The only news she'd heard about her health was from Apple Bloom after she'd met up with Sweetie Belle earlier that day, who'd been taking care of her big sister all day since their parents were out of town. They, along with Scootaloo, all had met up earlier in the day to say their goodbyes to each-other. Finally, Big Mac pulled into the driveway outside Rarity's house.

"Don't worry, I won't be too long" Applejack reported, carrying a brown straw basket as she exited the vehicle.

"Okay, I'll be back in a few minutes." Big Mac acknowledged, waving goodbye to his sister before driving off in his truck.

Applejack walked up and knocked on Rarity's front door, to which Sweetie Belle opened it wearing pink procedure mask and an over-sized winter coat. "Hi Applejack, what are you doing here?" She asked, her voice slightly muffled by the mask.

"I'm here to see Rarity." She responded, "Why are dressed like a surgeon?"

"She's contagious, I'd recommend you do the same." Sweetie Belle answered, reaching into her coat pocket and pulling out blue mask which she forced onto Applejack. The size difference between them led to much struggle and the mask being put on lopsided.

"Thank you for that Sweetie Belle" Applejack muffled, slowly removing the surgical mask and handing back to Sweetie Belle, "But I think I'll be okay, where is she?"

"She's in her bedroom." Sweetie Belle replied, "what's in the basket?"

"A few things that I think might be able to help." Applejack explained, entering the house and walking towards the bedroom. The door creaked opened, as the room was almost pitch-black with all the curtains pulled and the only source of light was the static of the TV. It looked like something out of a horror movie. "Rarity?" Applejack called.

"Who goes there?" an extremely nasally but still recognizable voice sneezed in reply.

"Relax Rarity, it's only me."

"Applejack? What are you doing here?"

"I came to check up on ya."

"Leave me be, I can't been seen in such an state!"

"Rarity, you have a cold. You're not dying!"

"I know, but I look absolutley hideous!"

"I'm sure you're overreacting, it can't really be that bad."

Rarity switched on a bedside lamp, revealing herself in a sullen state. She was up to neck in her multiple bedspreads, her eyes were almost completely bloodshot with chaotically messy hairdo, which had a few tissues stuck in it and an ice-pack on her head. Her nose was now almost as red as Rudolph's, constantly dripping snot and there were used tissues and handkerchiefs all over the duvet, beside table and floor. She wore a crumpled blue Pajamas and fluffy pink socks with a hot water bottle on her feet. "Look at me, I'm a mess!" Rarity complained, before lunging back into her pillow. "This is certainly not how i wanted to spend my Christmas Eve." She sniffled miserably as Applejack walked over and dusted some off the used tissues off of the bed before sitting down next to her.

"I brought ya a little somethin'." Applejack offered, presenting the basket to Rarity.

"What's that?" Rarity sniffled curiously.

"Well I thought about what my family would do when I caught a cold and so I made you this special 'Get Well Soon' kit!" She declared, opening the basket to reveal it's contents. "We've got some home-made chicken soup, some freshly made apple juice, a brand new box of the softest tissues that I could find......" she listed, "I do hope that's okay, I didn't have a lot of time to..."

"Applejack, that's so sweet." Rarity interrupted graciously, "you didn't need to do all this!"

"Sure I did." Applejack insisted, "Now here, try some soup." Rarity grasped the plastic cup and carefully began to sip from it. "Oh careful, it's hot!" Applejack remained, as Rarity let out a tiny squeal after burning her mouth a little. Applejack quickly snatched back the soup and blew on it to cool it down. "Sorry 'bout that" She chuckled, handing the soup back to Rarity. Applejack reached into her box of super soft tissues, labeled Rembourré Tissu, and used one of them to wipe some snot that was dripping from Rarity's nose. As Rarity continued to drink the soup, Applejack took it upon herself to tidy up the bedroom a little. She tossed away many of the used tissues into the rubbish bin, turned on a couple more small lamps in the room and refilled Rarity's hot water bottle, having removed it from her feet while she wasn't looking. Finally, she rummaged to find the TV remote and changed the channel from the inaudible static, managing to find a channel showing Rarity's favorite Christmas movie 'Actually Love'. Rarity stopped sipping her soup and looked around to Applejack had transformed her disaster of a bedroom into something, well, less messy. "How's the soup?" Applejack queried tiredly, sitting down on the bed next to her.

"The soups is lovely" Rarity complimented, " Did you make it?"

"Yeah, well me and Granny Smith."

"Why are you doing all this?"

"It's the least I can do for my friend, Merry Christmas from your secret Santa!"

"You're my Secret Santa? Well I must say, this was a simply brilliant Christmas present. Thank you Applejack!"

"It's fine Rarity. I've better be goin' so you get some rest, it'll do ya good" Applejack recommend, standing up and heading for the bedroom door.

"Oh right, you're leaving today. How long will you be gone?" Rarity yawned.

"About a week, might be back in time for new years."

"I guess I'll see you then, Have a Merry Christmas Applejack!"

Applejack went to reply but as she turned around, Rarity had already fallen fast asleep. "Merry Christmas Rarity!" she whispered as she left he room. Applejack walked down the stairs where she again bumped into Sweetie Belle again. "Hey, so how is she?" The sister questioned.

"She's asleep at the moment, you take good care of her." Applejack smiled, as she said goodbye and left the house. Big Mac was outside but Granny Smith was sat beside him with Apple Bloom squeezed in-between them and all the luggage in the back of the truck.

"Hurry up, we're gonna be late!" Apple Bloom yelled.

"Sweet Nelly, is that the time?" Applejack freaked, quickly jumping into the cargo bed before Big Mac promptly began driving off.

Fluttershy sorrowfully sat in her mothers florist, staring down at the steaming mug of hot chocolate on the counter she worked at. She had finished her shift as an elf, which while fun and made feel good, was not the something special she'd hoped for. Business had been rather busy at the flower shop that afternoon, many flowers being bought as late gifts for loved ones. The place was much less crowded now, as they were closing soon and Fluttershy had to leave to meet her friends at the airport to say goodbye to Applejack. She felt incredibly disappointed in herself, she'd probably missed her chance to do anything truly special now. She continued to lean her head on the counter as her mother noticed her uncharacteristic behavior.

"Oh, cheer up dear" she softly consoled, "you haven't even touched your hot chocolate."

"Oh, I'm sorry mom!" Fluttershy forcefully smiled and began attempting to chug down her mother's hot chocolate, which was now ice cold, before she almost choked on it. Her mother immediately took action and began to pat on her daughters back while Fluttershy uncomfortably coughed. "There, there, you're okay baby, you're okay!" Mrs Shy comforted, as tears began to swim down Fluttershy's face as she began to hyperventilate.

"I'm okay." Fluttershy reassured, giving her mother a thankful hug, "I'm sorry mom!"

"Don't apologize, It's not your fault." Mrs shy sympathized, pouring away the hot chocolate. "I'm sorry you didn't get to do your something special Fluttershy, but it's Christmas eve. You shouldn't be sad on Christmas eve."

"You've been a great help for all of us here today, if it's any consolation?" Daisy, one of the employees, complimented.

"I guess so, I just really wanted to do something special that really makes a difference to someone." Fluttershy sighed.

"I know sweetie, but you're still the same wonderfully kind young girl you've always been and maybe you'll be able to do something next year." Mrs Shy cuddled, "Now, I've got to close up here so why don't you head home and your father will drop you at the airport."

"Okay, I love you mom!" Fluttershy brightened up a little, giving her mom a quick kiss on the cheek.

"I love you too Fluttershy!" Mrs Shy waved as Fluttershy exited the florist.

She innocently skipped along the sidewalk to her house humming to herself while, as expected, a small snowfall began to emerge. Lights on every store front lit up the street as many stores began to close up shop for the night, with bosses and employees wishing each-other a happy holidays before leaving to be with their families. Fluttershy started to shiver in the cold weather as the snowfall began to increase to the point it almost felt like a blizzard was starting. Realising she'd probably catch a cold like Rarity or something worse walking home in this weather, she decided to run into the nearest open establishment she could find and would ask her dad to collect her from there.

She then made her way into a hairdresser, which she'd recognized from visiting with Rainbow and Rarity in the past, where she was instantly greeted with merciful heat to contrast the freezing cold outside. None of the hairdressers or clients took any notice of her as she text her father who agreed to meet her there, though it would take him a while to get there in this weather.

She decided to take a seat in the reception and find a way to pass the time. Not wanting to waste any phone battery, she decided to pick up one of the hairstyle magazines and began reading it.

She scanned through the pages, thinking nothing much of it, when she laid eyes on an advertisement that peeked her interest. This was it. This could be her something special, it was perfect. But did she really want to do this though, it was quite a big decision.

"Can I help you miss?" One of the hairdressers, named Vidala Swoon, approached her.

Fluttershy began to think of all the people this could help and decided to follow through, "Oh yes, could you please help me with this?" She asked kindly, showing the hairdresser the advertisement in the paper who read it and gave a respectful smile Fluttershy's way.

"I'd love to." Vidala agreed, pulling out a shiny pair of scissors, "If you'd like to follow me?"

"Thank you so much!" Fluttershy beamed.

Sunset had arrived at Canterlot Airport terminal and began searching the area for her friends' whereabouts. Throughout the evening, the thought of what happened with Sonata earlier couldn't leave her mind. Should she have really said she didn't trust her, granted she was only being honest but was really the right thing to tell her and what if she's in the wrong.

Sunset managed to put those thoughts aside for the moments as her main goal was seeing off her friend. Problem was, Canterlot Airport was very big and very busy place, so finding her friends could be no more easy then finding a needle in a haystack.

At last, she located them by the boarding gate and began to approach them. Luckily, Big Mac had managed to get his family there early as Applejack had already said her goodbyes to Twilight & Rainbow before Sunset arrived and was currently saying her farewells to Pinkie Pie, who wasn't taking it the best.

"I'm gonna miss you so much!" Pinkie wept, clinging onto the apple sisters like she was never going see them again.

"Pinkie Pie, we're only gonna be gone about a week." Applejack reminded her.

"Yeah, we'll be back before ya know it." Apple Bloom added, as Rainbow finally managed to drag Pinkie away.

"Hey, you're not gone yet." Sunset puffed, finally having caught up to them.

"Nope, not yet." Applejack smiled, bringing Sunset into a friendly hug.

"I hope you have a wonderful time." Sunset kindly wished, to which Applejack thanked her.

"Hey, we're gonna be boardin' soon." Big Mac informed his sisters.

"You can't leave yet, you still need to say goodbye to Fluttershy!" Pinkie pointed out.

"You and Apple Bloom go get seated, I've got my own passport so I'll meet you there in just a minute." Applejack advised her brother, as her two siblings agreed and went to board the flight.

"Speaking of which, where is Fluttershy?" Rainbow asked.

"She should be here soon, she said she had something to tell us." Twilight answered.

"Hello, I'm sorry I'm late!" Fluttershy hurriedly arrived with a gleeful smile across her face, wearing her usual attire of a raven-black hooded duffle-coat, flamingo-pink gloves, black leggings, a cream scarf and a grey snowstar winter beanie. However, something seemed different. Her hat was pulled down further than usual, like she was trying to hide something.

"It's fine, we're just glad ya made it." Applejack smiled, greeting her with an enthusiastic hug.

"So, what did you wanna tell us?" Sunset asked curiously.

"I've finally done my something special for the holiday." Fluttershy answered pleasingly.

"That's great" Applejack congratulated, "What did you do?"

Fluttershy removed her beanie revealing her regular long soft locks had been restyled into a simple pixie haircut. It was the same color but the length was much shorter than usual. Her friends were speechless at the unexpected sight.

"Fluttershy, your hair!" Pinkie gasped.

"I know" Fluttershy smiled, running her hands through it.

"What happened to it, where'd it go?" Rainbow questioned.

"I decided to donate it to charity." Fluttershy humbly explained, "Now it can be used to help make wigs for people who've suffered hair loss due to terrible illnesses and many other good causes!"

"That's a very generous thing to do." Applejack praised.

"Thank you! So, does it look okay?" Fluttershy asked nervously, her head feeling much lighter than it used to be.

"Yeah, you look great." Applejack replied cheerfully.

"I really like it." Twilight complimented.

"It is pretty cool." Rainbow added, with Pinkie agreeing.

"It's gonna take some getting used to, but it does kinda suit you." Sunset commented.

"Last call for the flight to Appaloosa, leaving in ten minutes." A voice announced over a speaker.

"Oh, that's me! I'm really gonna miss y'all, bye girls." Applejack smiled, her friends waving her off as she showed her passport to the gate attendant and began boarding the plane. The five of them continued to wave and shout goodbye before the gate attendant closed the door. Applejack strolled down the isle of the plane in search of the correct row, when she relocated her family and her seat along with them. She packed her suitcase into the overhead compartment and sat down next to her brother.

"So, where'd you guys wanna go now?" Fluttershy asked, as the five of them began exiting the gatehouse.

"I've got my date with Timber in half hour, I already dropped Spike off at my parents place and Rarity said I could borrow the boutique to use it to try on my new dress so could we maybe head there?" Twilight replied.

"Sure?" Pinkie shrugged, they all began to set off when Sunset thought she saw Flash strolling through the terminal. "You all go ahead, I'll meet you guys there!" She told them before beginning to pursue the familiar figure. After much chase, she caught up to him.

"Flash, what are you doing here?" Sunset questioned.

"I was looking for you actually, i heard you'd be here" He frowned.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

"Sonata broke up with me."

"Oh no, what happened?"

"I don't know, she said all this stuff about trust and the past and how we shouldn't be together because who she used to be!"

"I'm so sorry." Sunset sighed guiltily, was this her fault? Unfortunately, It would make perfect sense.

"I Just don't know what got into her?" Flash reminisced, "When we going out before she was always so cheery and carefree, she almost never had a second thought about this kinda thing."

"I think it might be my fault."

"What?"

"We were talking earlier and might of accidentally said that I didn't fully trust her..."

"What! how could you do that?"

"I'm sorry, I didn't know this was gonna happen."

"Do you know what it's like to feel that way about someone? To have someone who makes you feel warm and happy inside whenever you're around them? Someone you can't go a day without thinking about them? Someone who everytime they say something bad about themselves, you wanna grab hold of them and tell them every little thing you love about them?"

Then something occurred to Sunset, she had experienced all of these. Everything started to add up. "Yeah, I think I might know what that's like." She sighed, "Flash, I am so sorry."

"I'll be fine, I just need to be left alone for a while." Flash exhaled, "Now, you should go catch up with your friends."

The two of them parted ways as Sunset as she headed towards the airport car park to find her motorcycle, she still had to meet her friends at the boutique. But she had to somehow find a way to fix this, but what could she do? Despite these new dilemmas, one of the many questions that had been on her mind was answered, the strange feelings for Twilight were finally explained. Sunset had a crush on her, and she had it bad.

Sunset arrived at the carousal boutique, the sound of Pinkie practicing her carols could be heard from down the road. Sunset mind had been puzzling the whole way there, was this definitely a crush? or something even stronger? and if so, should she tell Twilight about these feelings? All of her instincts told her no! Twilight has a boyfriend, who she's going out with tonight. She's already quite nervous, she could become a total wreck if something so huge was dropped on her doorstep just before a big date. Plus, why would she ever go for someone like her? What if things became to awkward and they couldn't even remain friends?

Thoughts began to build promptly which caused Sunset to agitatedly headbutt the door, to which Pinkie opened it mistaking it for a knock.

"Hey, there ya are Sunset. What took you so long?" Pinkie addressed, wearing a victorian-era suit and top hat ready for caroling later that night.

"Something came up, has Twilight already left?" Sunset replied, rubbing her noggin in mild pain.

"She's just getting dressed, you coming in?" Pinkie offered, to which Sunset agreed and entered the building.

"Um, where is everybody?" Sunset puzzled, the place seeming abandoned apart from the two of them.

Meanwhile, in one of the dressing rooms, Rarity had left an instruction manual of sorts for Twilight, notifying her on how she should style her hair, what color nail polish she should use and shoes she should wear to match with the outfit.

Since Rarity was the resident fashion expert of the group, they chose to follow her directions as closely as possible. Fluttershy and Rainbow had decided to help out, but this was no easy task.

"Ouch, Fluttershy that hurt!" Twilight grunted uncomfortably.

"I'm sorry, I'm only doing what Rarity said." Fluttershy apologized.

"Hold still!" Rainbow instructed, yanking a string on the corset that caused Twilight to emit a high-pitched yelp.

"You know what, I think I can take it from here." Twilight decided, as Rainbow & Fluttershy left the her to it. A few minutes passed by as they patiently waited for her to finish.

"Okay, I'm ready." Twilight announced as she stepped out graciously in the dress, along with a pare of violet ballroom dance shoes. Her nails had been painted lavender and her hair now let down and straightened, similar to her other word counterpart.

"Looking good." Pinkie praised.

"You look lovely." Fluttershy complimented, taking a picture on her phone to show Rarity.

"I think Rarity would be proud of what we pulled off." Rainbow bragged.

"Sunset, what do you think?" Twilight asked.

"You're beautiful!" Sunset blushed, her heartbeat increasing rapidly and her face feeling completely flushed.

Twilight thanked her friends for the overwhelmingly positive feedback when there was a knock at the door that caught their attention.

"Oh, that's probably Timber." Twilight figured, "Can you get that? I've gotta go to the bathroom quickly"

As Twilight disappeared into the restroom, Fluttershy opened the door to reveal Timber standing nervously outside holding a bouquet of roses. He was wearing an elegant tuxedo and his hair combed and styled more fancily than its usual rugged form.

"Hello Timber" Fluttershy greeted, "that's a nice suit."

"Thanks Fluttershy, love the new haircut." Timber replied.

"Thank you Timber." Fluttershy appreciated, "Twilight will be out on a minute, why don't have a seat?"

"Okay, sure." Timber agreed, sitting down next to Sunset and temporary placing the flowers on a nearby table.

"You excited for your date?" Sunset began to chat.

"Yeah, I've been really looking forward to it."

"That's great. So, how are things going between you too?"

"They're going well, Twilight's such an incredible person. I really love spending time with her!"

"Yeah, she's great."

"Hey, can I ask you something?

"Sure, go ahead."

"I'm worried Twilight and I might be hitting a rough patch in our relationship, like we're not as close as we used to be! So I want tonight to be perfect, do you have any advice for like how I can ensure she has fun?

"Well firstly, she's quite nervous so be sure to be patient and take your time with her. Then, you should try to make her feel special, make sure to remind her how wonderful she is, but not to an annoying degree. Make sure to listen to her and read her emotions, always her make her feel appreciated. And when you kiss her, make sure you remind her how much you really care. Always show her how much she means to you!"

"Wow, sounds like you should be going on this date." Timber joked, Sunset responding with a playful but false chuckle.

"Hey Timber." Twilight smiled excitedly, entering the room.

"Wow Twilight, you look amazing!" Timber flattered.

"Thanks, you look great too." Twilight crimsoned and greeting him with a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Oh, I got you a little something." Timber offered, presenting the flowers to his girlfriend.

"Timber, They're beautiful!" Twilight gushed, smelling the roses.

"Not as beautiful as you." Timber flirted, gaining an a gleeful chuckle in reply, "So, are you ready to go?"

"Yeah, I can't wait! Bye girls." Twilight waved, linking arms with Timber as they began their date. Sunset watched back as the two of them left the building, tears unknowingly swelling in her eyes. She looked so happy, but it hurt her so much to see her with someone else. Why? It's not like Sunset would ever have a chance!

"Sunset, are you crying?" Pinkie asked, to which Sunset quickly wiped her eyes and put on a fake but convincing smile.

"Oh no Pinkie, just something in my eye." She insisted, desperately trying to change the subject, "Where's Rainbow Dash?"

The three of them looked around to see that she was nowhere to be found. That was until they heard noise coming from one of the dressing rooms. The three of them walked in to find Rainbow digging through piles of Fancy-Dress costumes and props, much to her friends' confusion.

"Um Rainbow Dash, what are you doing?" Fluttershy questioned.

"I need to find a Rudolph costume and fast!" She sighed exhaustedly. She explained the situation with her parents picture, the unfortunate accident that occurred earlier that day and why is was so important to her to find a replacement costume. The four of them continued to scan the boutique but most holiday related outfits were absent being so close to Christmas.

"Hey, why don't you try making one?" Pinkie suggested, "I'm sure we can find a few things around here for a passable homemade one."

"Yeah, only problem is I don't know the first thing about costume design!" Rainbow panicked.

"That's why we're gonna help you out!" Sunset declared, removing her reindeer antlers and offering them to Dash.

Twilight and Timber arrived at the Winter Waltz as the first part of their date. The event was very sophisticated, taking place in an large dance-floor with a large Christmas tree in the center. many couples on the floor dancing professionally and there was a live orchestra playing classical dance music, like something out of a fairy tale. Twilight became incredibly worried, what if she ended up embarrassing herself at such a high-class event. However, she surprisingly noticed many familiar faces in the area, from fellow Canterlot High students to the odd duo from Crystal Prep.

"Hey, are you okay?" Timber asked.

"Yeah, I'll be fine." Twilight breathed, calming her nerves.

"Then may I have this dance?" Timber smirked, offering his hand. At first, Twilight let out a small chuckle from remembering Sunset's poor male impersonations from yesterday before she cleared her mind and adjusted herself.

“Yes, you may." She graciously accepted, taking his hand as they walked onto the dance-floor. The music was very calm and subdued, as the two of them prepared to dance. Timber put his hands on her waste as they the two of them stepped back and forth in time with the music, with an occasional twirl. They seemed to fit in rather well.

"Am I doing okay?" Twilight questioned anxiously, really wanting this date to work out.

"You're doing great." Timber complimented. Then the music started to pick up it's pace and the atmosphere became much less calm.

"Here goes nothing." Twilight thought to herself, recollecting her dance with Sunset and began to improvise some of the steps. Their feet movements sped up accordingly, with Twilight incorporating a spin and looking Timber in the eyes with complete confidence.

She put one hand around his neck and leaned in close, a whispered to Timber to grab her back and lift her, which he did. The music kept building as the dancing became more and more intimate. Finally, Twilight attempted to end the dance with the same dip that she'd done with Sunset, leaning back and pulling Timber close to her. Timber wrapped his hands around her waist to stop her falling as he leaned in close, the two of them face to face as the two of them locked lips. They released each-other from the kiss and instantly puffed with exhaustion, as many of their fellow dancers began to applaud for Twilight's impressive moves.

"Thank you for the dance." Twilight sighed happily as the two of them began to exit the dance-floor.

Windy Whistles turned the keys and opened her front door. She had changed out of the Mrs Claus outfit and was instead wearing black sequined dress, with matching-color heels and some golden earnings that Bow Hothoof, who had changed from his Santa costume to a regular black suit, had given to her as an early Christmas present at dinner. The two of them had just come back from a romantic restaurant date, Bow feeling his wife needed cheering up after he learnt of what happened to reindeer costume. Luckily, it had mostly worked as she seemed much more like her happy go lucky self. However, he was equally disappointed but could understand his Daughter's attitude.

"Thank you so much for dinner, it was delicious" Windy smiled, closing the door behind them, "I'm sorry we won't get to do the picture."

"It's fine Honey." He returned, the two of them sharing a kiss, "Speaking of which, do you think Dashie is home yet?"

Windy was about to answer when something caught their eyes, It was the Santa and Mrs Claus costumes hung up on the door with a note attached.

"Sorry that I destroyed the costume, hope we can still take the picture - RD" Windy read, as the two of them grabbed the outfits and walked into the lounge to find Dash standing nervously besides the tree, wearing a brand-new homemade Rudolph costume.

She wore a brown Lycra-spandex suit with two pairs of coal-black tap dance shoes to act as hooves, Sunset's reindeer antler headband and Pinkie's red clown nose leftover from Halloween. It was obviously much less glamorous and detailed than the original and she felt completely ridiculous wearing it, but the thought and effort shined through regardless.

"Dash?" Windy smiled, still in disbelief. Dash took a deep breathe and stepped forward to talk to her parents.

"Mom, Dad, I'm sorry I've been so selfish lately because...this is your Christmas too. and Christmas is a time for family and to think about others. I realize that no matter how much you might embarrass me, you're still incredibly supportive and you helped make me the awesome person I am today! and I know i don't say it enough but I really love you guys!" She sincerely apologized, clearly having rehearsed none of it. Bow and Windy's eyes began to tear up as wide grins arrived on their faces.

"We love you too Rainbow Dash!" Windy cried joyously, the two of them practically tackling their daughter for a loving hug. "I'll go get my beard!" Bow wept happily, running off to change into his Santa costume.

"I'm sorry the costume isn't all that, we kinda had to make one from scratch." Rainbow chuckled.

"I think it's even better, you didn't have to do this." Windy sniffed.

"Yes I did, because it means a lot to you and I take you for granted and I really want to make up to you guys." Rainbow explained, "Now why don't you go get dressed Mrs Claus?"

Windy kissed her daughter gratefully on the forehead and eagerly left to get changed. They soon both returned into the room dressed in their costumes, which looked almost identical to the ones from the original photograph, with Bow carrying a camera and tripod and placing it in-front of the fireplace. "It feels so good to wear this again!" Windy beamed, as she and Dash stood next to each-other as Bow adjusted the camera.

"Would you like me to duck down a little? I'm a little taller than I used to be." Dash jested.

"Yeah, maybe just a little bit." Windy giggled, as Rainbow crouched slightly and Bow joined them in front of the lens.

"Okay ladies, say cheese!" He bellowed in his Santa voice, as the three of them smiled and the picture was taken. It wasn't nearly as bad as Rainbow had built it up to be and the look of pure joy on her parents face made this all worth it. Bow quickly kissed them both and took the camera to his computer to print he picture off.

"Thank you Rudolph Dash!" Windy hugged, not too tightly for once, "You can take the costume off now if you want?"

"Great, It's hard to eat anything with these hooves and the nose is kinda itchy." Rainbow sighed, as Windy helped her remove parts of the costume. She managed to take off the shoes on her hands and the nose, which accidentally honked as she grasped it, when Bow walked in with the printed picture.

"Well, what do you think?" he asked, as the three of them took a peek at the image. It was much like the original, despite Dash's age difference, but this one somehow looked happier.

"Oh, I love it!" Windy whimpered cheerfully, "It's even better than the old one."

"Yeah, it does look pretty good." Rainbow agreed, as Windy framed the picture and placed it above the fireplace.

"So, now what should we do?" Bow asked curiously, hugging his wife.

"Wanna take another one?" Dash shrugged, as she readjusted her red nose. Her parents looked at one another excitedly as Bow grabbed the camera.

Timber and Twilight arrived at The Tasty Treat and were seated almost immediately, Timber having made reservations a few days ago.

"I still can't believe you back there!" He raved, "your dancing was amazing!"

"Thanks, you were pretty good too." Twilight blushed, "I would've never taken you for someone who'd want to go slow dancing on a date."

"Usually I'm not much of a dancer, but I thought it'd be something fun and romantic that we could do together."

"Well, it was certainly a lot of fun and quite romantic." The two of them continued to chat and chuckle when a young woman in a chefs uniform approached their table.

"Hello, my name is Saffron Masala." She introduced herself, "I'm the head chef here at The Tasty Treat, are you ready to order?"

Twilight and Timber read the menu and placed their orders as Saffron disappeared into the kitchen, having to also work as a waitress due to the short service on Christmas Eve. Neither of them had ever been to this restaurant before but Twilight had heard it being praised all around school, including Rarity and Pinkie praising it as the most exotic cuisine in Canterlot. So she figured this would be a great place to go.

"So, where'd you learn your dancing?" Timber asked, trying to pass the time as they awaited their meals.

"Actually, Sunset taught me it the other day." Twilight answered, when something occurred to her. "Oh no, I was supposed to get Sunset a Secret Santa gift!" She recalled, "I think everyone else got theirs, how could I have forget?"

"Okay look, the movie theater is at the mall so we can look for something when we go to see the movie?" Timber comforted, "everything will be okay."

"You're right, thank you Timber." Twilight settled, as Saffron returned with their meals. The two of them dug in to discover the praises were correct, it was incredibly delicious.

Sunset and Fluttershy were quite exhausted from helping Rainbow construct her costume earlier but the night wasn't over just yet as Sunset still had to make a mends between Flash and Sonata. She'd explained her situation to Fluttershy who had offered to help set things right. It was just the two of them as Pinkie had left to go caroling and everyone else was preoccupied with their own plans. The two girls had begun wondering around the mall looking for Sonata, but their efforts thus far had been fruitless.

"Are you sure she'd be here?" Fluttershy asked, sitting down by the fountain and catching her breath.

"I don't know?" Sunset sighed, sitting down besides her, "I just need to find her and apologize, I made a mistake and I need to fix it!"

"You said you were having lunch earlier today, did she tell you anything that can help us?"

"Let's see, they all live in an apartment downtown."

"I guess that's something, anything else?"

"Adagio works in a supermarket? Sonata worked here and Aria got arrested?"

"Well, if she worked here than they can't live that far?"

"So, that's means the supermarket Adagio works at should be close by."

"And the closet supermarket would be Mega-Market!"

The two of them looked at each-other like they'd had an epiphany as they two of them stood up and ran off. While the mall was open late tonight, most other stores in the area were closing at their regular time or even earlier so Sunset and Fluttershy had to make it there fast if they wanted to get there before closing time. Eventually, they found the Mega-Market which had literally just closed for the night before they'd arrived.

"We're too late!" Fluttershy worried.

"No, she might still be here." Sunset denied confidently, as a bunch of staff began exiting the store wearing coats and hoodies so they were harder to identify.

"Adagio Dazzle?" Sunset called aloud, catching the attention of one girl in the purple fleece who turned around to reveal herself.

"Sunset Shimmer, what do you want?" Adagio snapped rudely.

"We're looking for Sonata." Fluttershy explained.

"What could you possibly want with her? Actually, I really don't care." Adagio groaned.

"Look, can you just tell us where she is?" Sunset sighed, "It's really important that I talk to her!"

"Back at our apartment with Aria probably, I try to avoid that place as much as possible." Adagio answered, "fortunately for me, unlike those idiots I can actually maintain a job!"

"Is it close by?" Fluttershy asked.

"Why should I help you out?" Adagio fumed, "You and precious friendship brigade humiliated us and ruined our lives!"

"I thought you said you didn't care?" Sunset smirked sarcastically, to which Adagio roared in frustration. She pulled out a pack of post-it notes out of her pocket and began to squiggle on it before aggressively sticking the note onto Sunset's face. "There's the address, now go do whatever you want and then I don't want to have to see you idiots again!"

"Believe me, we have no intention of coming back." Sunset replied, ripping the note off her face as her and Fluttershy began to follow the directions written on it.

They soon arrived at a grey & cheap motel at the end of the street and began looking for the right room. Adagio didn't have the best handwriting so reading the notes had proven quite a challenge. They walked along until they found the right numbered door and two voices could be heard bickering from the inside.

"Come on Aria, I wanna put up the tree!" Sonata whined.

"I'm busy right now, can I ignore you some other time?" Aria sassed.

"I think you should maybe try to help out more around here."

"Hey, remember when I cared what you thought? Oh wait, That was never!"

"You're the worst Aria!"

A knock at the door interrupted their argument as Aria opened the door to reveal Sunset and Fluttershy standing outside.

"Ugh, What do you want?" She groaned.

"Is Sonata home?" Sunset asked.

"Sunset, what are you doing here?" Sonata puzzled, pushing passed her sister to get to the doorway.

"Can we talk?" Sunset hoped.

"Yeah, Talk out here." Aria grinned, shoving Sonata outside and slamming the door behind her.

"Hey, no fair!" Sonata angrily bashed on the door, but Aria had already plugged in her headphones and delightfully ignoring her sisters' complaints.

"Well I'm not getting back inside for a few hours." Sonata sighed, "what did you wanna talk about?"

"Sonata, I was wrong about you!" Sunset apologized, "I think you're a nice person and I know you want to make a fresh start. You make Flash very happy and I'm really hoping we can put our differences behind us and maybe become friends?"

"Thank you Sunset, but It's too late." Sonata frowned, "I already broke up with Flash and I don't think he'll want me back!"

"Then let me help you get him back." Sunset smiled determinedly, as Sonata thanked her and gave her friendly hug.

"Oh Sonata, this is Fluttershy" Sunset recalled, reintroducing her friend.

"Oh, Hello there." Sonata introduced herself, shaking Fluttershy's hand. The two remembered each-other from the battle of the bands but both wanted to start out on a right foot.

"Hello, it's lovely to meet you." Fluttershy greeted politely as the three of them set off to find Flash.

"Ladies and Gentleman." A stewardess announced, "We are starting our descent, please make sure your seat backs and tray tables are in their full upright position. Make sure your seat belt is securely fastened and all carry-on luggage is stowed underneath the seat in front of you or in the overhead bins. Thank you.”

"Hear that Applejack, we're landing!" Apple Bloom chirped excitedly, "We're gonna be in Appaloosa soon!"

"I know, I know." Applejack chuckled. The landing was smooth and safe as Apple Bloom stared outside of the window at the dessert-like surroundings, a severe contrast to the constant snow back in Canterlot. At last, the plane had come to a stop and the passengers began to gather their luggage and disembark the aircraft.

"“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Appaloosa." The stewardess broadcast, "Please check around your seat for any personal belongings you may have brought on board with you and please use caution when opening the overhead bins. On behalf of Bloomberg Airlines and the entire crew, we’d like to thank you for joining us on this trip and we are looking forward to seeing you onboard again in the near future. Have a nice stay and have a happy holidays!"

The Apples headed towards baggage claim where Applejack noticed her cousin Braeburn with broken left arm across the room and went over to greet him.

"Cousin' Applejack!" Braeburn waved with his right arm.

"What did you do to yourself now Braeburn?" Applejack sighed with a smile on her face.

"Rodeo accident! Anyways, welcome back to Appaloosa." Braeburn responded.

"It's great to be back." Applejack smirked, as the rest of her family approached them with all of their luggage.

"Cousin' Braeburn!" Apple Bloom called, lunging into her cousin and accidentally hitting his injured arm.

"Ouch, hey there Apple Bloom." Braeburn exhaled in pain, as Applejack let out a small chuckle under her breath.

"I believe that this is yours." Big Mac glared at Applejack, grumpily handing over her suitcase.

"Sorry 'bout that." Applejack smiled guiltily, taking her luggage as the five of them set off.

Twilight and Timber had been sat comfortably in the movie theater watching Galactic Wars: The Final Warrior. The two of them had a large bucket of popcorn to share between them which was already mostly empty half way through the movie. Timber had been anticipating this movie all year, being a massive fan of the beloved Sci-Fi franchise. Twilight, while not as big a fan as her boyfriend, also liked the movies and had done her best to avoid spoilers before the date. They had both tried to be romantic throughout the run-time, including Twilight attempting to hold his hand and Timber trying the classic yawn & hug trick but neither of them were successful. Eventually, the film wrapped up and the credits began to role when they bumped into Juniper Montage cleaning up behind the counter on their way out.

"Hey, did you guys enjoy the movie?" Juniper greeted them.

"I loved it, definitely the best Galactic Battles movie to date!" Timber grinned enthusiastically.

"Yeah, It was good. Thank you so much for the tickets Juniper." Twilight smiled.

"You're very welcome." Juniper replied, "So, where you two off to next?"

"We need to a little bit of late shopping." Twilight admitted.

"Well, you best get to it!" Juniper instructed, "most places around here will be closing up soon. I'm just gonna finish up here and then I'm catching a train to spend Christmas with Uncle Zoom and the rest of my family."

"Okay thanks, have a Merry Christmas Juniper!" Twilight waved, as her and Timber exited the theater.

"You too!" Juniper bid farewell.

The two of them began their stroll around the mall, searching desperately for a store that was still open. Twilight slowly began to panic. What if she couldn't find anything? What kind of friend would she be? What was she going to do?

"Hey it's okay, I'm sure Sunset will understand." Timber attempted to subdue her.

"I know, it's just after everything she's done for me and i can't just give her nothing!" Twilight freaked, sitting down by the fountain to calm her nerves. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't take this out on you." She sighed.

"It's fine, did you at least enjoy tonight?"

"Yeah, tonight was great It's just....."

The two of them sat in silence until Twilight sighed and said the words she never wanted to speak. "Timber, I think we need to talk."

"Yeah, I think we do." Timber agreed sadly, they both knew what this probably meant for them.

Sunset, Fluttershy and Sonata arrived at the boutique, along with Pinkie who they'd bumped into whilst she was caroling and Rainbow Dash who they'd picked up along the way but did have to wait for her to change as she wasn't going to run through the streets in her Rudolph costume. However, her parents did thank them gratefully for helping make the costume when they showed up though. They were reintroduced to Sonata and all became acquainted before Sunset explained her master plan. Dash was essential to Sunset's very special plan as she was assigned to locate Flash, a task which she had quickly returned from completing.

"Okay, you guys remember the drill?" Sunset checked.

"Yes!" Fluttershy answered.

"Yep!" Pinkie responded.

"Kinda, sorta, not really?" Sonata confessed innocently.

"Don't worry, your job's easy." Rainbow appeared, playfully punching Sonata's arm.

"Rainbow Dash, status report?" Sunset asked.

"Flash is at the amphitheater." Dash reported

"Just as anticipated." Sunset grinned, "Okay Pinkie, you come with me!"

"Okie Dokie Lokie!" Pinkie saluted.

"Fluttershy, Dash, Sonata, most of you know what to do!" Sunset continued.

"Right!" Rainbow and Fluttershy said in unison as Sonata repeated them and they entered the boutique, which Fluttershy had taken the keys for earlier just in case. Sunset and Pinkie hopped onto Sunset's motorcycle as they sped off to the amphitheater. A few minutes later, they arrived to find Flash sat gloomily on the stage. Sunset headed to greet him as Pinkie vanished behind the stage, in accordance with the plan.

"Hey Flash?" Sunset called, gaining his attention.

"Oh, hi Sunset." Flash greeted sorrowfully, "what are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same, I don't think we've been here since the battle of the bands."

"I come here to think sometimes."

"Does it remind you of her?"

"Actually, this is where we got together."

"Really? You know, you never told me how you two met? Or rather, how you guys became a couple?"

"Well, It was a few months ago and I was coming here to think and maybe practice some guitar when heard someone crying. I followed the sound until I found a girl in a ragged dark purple hoodie, sat on the stage with her head in her hands. I began to approach her as she looked up and revealed her identity. I started to back away until I noticed, she looked so vulnerable and harmless. She told me how she'd been kicked out of her apartment and how she wanted to try starting fresh, and after seeing how well you and The Rainbooms have helped people who were once our enemies, I figured try to help her out."

Sunset sat down next to him and proceeded to hear his woes when she noticed Rainbow, Fluttershy and Sonata arriving in the rows above and Pinkie giving her a sneaky thumbs up from behind the stage with her party cannon. Everything was going according to plan as she gave them the signal to wait.

"So, we continued to hang out as friends in secret for a few months and then one day, she just randomly kissed me!" Flash continued, "Honestly, I wasn't sure how to react at first. It was just so unexpected. We already tried to keep our friendship secret so anything more could become very complicated. So next time hung out, I confronted her about it. She told me it was like instincts and she didn't know what came over her. One thing led to another and before I knew it, we were dating!"

"It never bothered or worried you that she was once our enemy?"

"Well, It did a first but underneath all that, she was this really amazing, beautiful and fun person that made me very happy!"

"I bet you'd like to see her again?"

"Yeah, I really would."

"Well Flash, Merry Christmas from your Secret Santa!" Sunset smirked proudly as Flash turned around to see Sonata stood behind him with a beaming smile across her face, her hair down & straitened and wearing a sparkly aqua dress.

"Hi" Flash stuttered happily.

"Hi" Sonata waved, as she began walking down the stairs towards him.

"You look amazing!" Flash complimented as she approached the stage, almost tripping a couple times on her way down. Rainbow and Fluttershy had decided to follow close behind, just to be safe.

"Thank you, we totally raided Rarity's wardrobe." Sonata replied bubbly.

"What she means is we borrowed some materials from the boutique!" Fluttershy defended.

"Yeah, that's what I meant to say!" Sonata chuckled guilty, "Anyways, are you busy tonight? I don't Aria's gonna let me back in and Dagi's probably not home yet. and I'd really like to give us another try?"

"Sure, I'm sure there's somewhere around here we could hang out." Flash agreed. Sonata suddenly smooched him as Pinkie brought out her party cannon and fired it off, practically flooding the stage in confetti. Afterwards, Sonata and Sunset all said their thanks & farewells and the happy couple left the amphitheater together as another mild snowfall began to emerge.

"Brrrrrrr, It's so cold." Pinkie shivered as a single snowflake fell through her suit and down her back, making her friends chuckle.

"Oh my, is that the time? I should really start heading home now, my parents will start to worry!" Fluttershy realized, as it was getting quite late.

"Yeah, I should get going too." Dash agreed, "Hey, do you guys wanna hang out at my place Boxing Day? I'm sure my parents won't have a problem with it?"

"Yeah, that sounds like fun!" Pinkie approved.

"Sure, I don't have any plans." Sunset added.

"Well, I guess I'll see you all again soon!" Fluttershy happily finished as the four of them all said there goodbyes and wished each-other a Happy Holidays before they all set off on their journeys home. Sunset made her way to the parking lot before she hopped on her Motorcycle and drove off.

The snow began to pick up rapidly, a white Christmas tomorrow was almost certain at this point. Sunset left her motorcycle in a local parking garage, figuring she could walk to her house in the short distance and she probably wouldn't need to use it tomorrow, when she noticed what looked like Twilight walking along the pavement up ahead, wearing the same beautiful dress from earlier. Suddenly, those dreaded feelings began starting back up again. Sunset's stomach began to flutter, blood rushed straight to her face and she began to feel exceptionally warm in the freezing weather.

"Sunset?" Twilight turned around, her eyes looking slightly redder than usual, as if she'd been crying.

"Hi Twilight, how was your date with Timber?" Sunset adjusted herself.

"Oh, It was fun." Twilight smiled sweetly, though Sunset could detect she was hiding something.

"Hey, what's wrong?" she questioned.

"Well, we actually decided to break up." Twilight admitted, with tears beginning to fill her eyes once again.

"Oh no." Sunset pitied, knowing how Important this first relationship was to Twilight, "Are you gonna be okay?"

"Yeah, I'll be fine!" Twilight uncontrollably wept, as Sunset brought her into a comforting hug.

"Would you like me to walk you home?" Sunset offered kindly.

"That would be great but I'm staying with my parents for the holidays! They live just on the edge of town so it's quite a long walk, usually I don't mind but it's really cold tonight and I'm kinda tired." Twilight confessed, clearing her eyes as Sunset began to think of a way she could help out.

"Look, my place isn't too far so we'll head back there and maybe you can call someone to pick you up?"

"I suppose I could call my brother, he should be on his way there tonight anyway?" Twilight pondered. "Okay then, thank you Sunset!" She agreed as the two of them set off.

Eventually, they reached Sunset's house as the two of them stepped inside. Sunset turned on all the decorations and fed Ray while Twilight called her brother Shining Armour. She gave him the address and tearfully told him about her breakup. Shining comforted her and agreed that he, along with Principal Cadence, would be along to pick her up in a few minutes.

"Okay then. Thank you Shining, I Love you BBBFF." Twilight ended their conversation before hanging up the phone. Sunset could see Twilight was still incredibly upset and wanted to find a way to find a way to help cheer her up, even if it was just a little bit. She scanned the room around her when she found a leftover balloon from last night and figured it was better than nothing as she began to inhale the helium. She'd sucked so much over the past couple days that she was starting to fear brain damage but if it made Twilight feel better, than it would be worth it.

"My brother will be over soon, thank you again so much for this." Twilight smiled thankfully.

"Don't mention it, what are friends for?" Sunset replied in a high-pitched voice, catching Twilight off guard and making her let out a small chuckle. "Did that cheer you up a bit?" Sunset giggled, clearing her throat and restoring her voice to normal.

"Yeah it did Sunsqueak. Thanks, I really needed that." Twilight smiled, "So, are you going back through the portal tonight to spend Christmas with your family in Equestria?"

"Well firstly, we ponies celebrate Heaths Warming instead of Christmas. And no, I'm just gonna spend the day here as usual."

"Wait, you're spending Christmas day all by yourself?"

"Well no, I'll have Ray here with me. Don't you worry about me, I'll be alright!"

Despite insisting she was fine, Twilight couldn't help but feel bad that Sunset didn't have a family or friends to spend Christmas Day with. It was bad enough that she never got her Secret Santa gift from Twilight. Then, she came up with an idea that may be able to solve both problems.

"Hey, why don't you come with me?" Twilight offered.

"What do you mean?" Sunset questioned.

"Sunset, I'd like for you to come spend Christmas day with me and my family!"

"Oh Twilight, I couldn't do that."

"It'll be fine, I'm sure my folks won't mind. Plus, my mom could probably use an extra hand in the kitchen to stop Spike from trying to eat everything."

"I don't know Twilight, I would really hate to intrude!"

"Please Sunset! After everything you've done for me over the time we've been friends, this is the least I can do."

After much discussion and questions, Sunset sat down her bed and really thought about it. It would be nice to spend tomorrow with other people but she didn't want to barge in and possibly ruin her friend's Christmas like this. Plus, what could this mean for her crush? What if her feelings became stronger? Despite these doubts, Twilight did really seem to insist upon the idea. She said Sunset could sleep on her couch and that she could even bring Ray along too. This did sound ideal and like a lot of fun. After much thought, she finally made her decision.

"Okay then Twilight, I'll do it." Sunset answered, "I would love to spend Christmas Day with you and your family!"

"That's great." Twilight smiled, "You're gonna have an amazing time, my family love the holidays!."

"I guess I should start packing then." Sunset realized as she grabbed her backpack and began to look around for what to bring. She ran into her bathroom as Twilight noticed Sunset's magic journal that she used to write to the princess. Twilight figured a nice holiday message from her royal pony counterpart would be great for Sunset since they were really close friends, almost like a magical Christmas card of sorts. She quickly found a pen, scrolled to a blank page and began to write the first things that came into her head.

Dear Princess Twilight
It's you, well the other Twilight.
Anyways, I hope you're having a wonderful Christmastime or Hearths Warming as Sunset told me you call it.
She really is an amazing person and has taught me so much about friendship. Since she didn't really have anyone to spend the holidays with, I asked her to spend the day with my family. I'm sure you're very busy but I think Sunset would love to hear from you if you have the time. She doesn't know that i'm writing to you so i'm hoping it can be a nice surprise.
Thank you and Happy Holidays.

Twilight finished her message and closed the journal just as Sunset came back into the room. "There it is!" She relieved, packing the journal into her backpack, along with her toothbrush, a pair of pajamas, her phone, a pair of slippers, underwear some food for Ray and a couple leftover balloons. She went to grab her bed covers until Twilight noted they would have a spare blanket she could use, when there was a knock at the door.

"That should be my brother, are you ready to go?" Twilight asked excitedly.

"I think so, are you sure about this?" Sunset checked, carrying Ray inside of his cage.

"Yes Sunset, I'm sure. Nobody should spend Christmas day by themselves." Twilight confirmed as she opened the door to reveal Shining Armour standing outside, along with Crystal Preps Principal Cadence beside him.

"Twily!" Shining greeted enthusiastically as his sister lunged into him for an emotional hug, almost knocking him down the stairs. Sunset chuckled under her breathe at her friends childlike joy, she'd never looked so adorable. Sunset didn't try to deny her feelings anymore, this crush was probably only temporary anyway. She just made sure to keep it to herself and hope that she got over it.

"Shiny, I've missed you so much!" Twilight grinned, as the two of them ended their embrace.

"I've missed you too sis'." Shining chuckled, "How are you?"

"I'm tired." Twilight yawned, before reuniting with her old Crystal Prep friend and soon to be sister-in-law Cadence.

"Hello Twilight, it's lovely to see you again." Cadence hugged her happily.

"Oh, this is my friend Sunset!" Twilight introduced, as Sunset said hello to them.

"I remember you from the Friendship Games." Cadence recalled, "how have you been?"

"I've been okay, I heard you're the Principal now." Sunset chatted, as the two of them started a conversation.

"I hope you don't mind but I invited Sunset to come spend Christmas Day with us since her family are...um.....unavailable!" Twilight requested.

"If it's not to much trouble that is?" Sunset added, "I would really hate to disturb your families Christmas in any way."

"No, sounds fine to me." Shining shrugged, "Mom and Dad don't know Cadence is coming so another surprise guest shouldn't hurt."

"Thank you so much!" Sunset smiled.

"Are you girls ready to go then?" Cadence asked, "we should really start moving now if we want to be there before midnight."

The four of them headed towards Shining Armour car which had been parked just outside. Twilight and Sunset climbed into the back seats and fastened their seat belts as Twilight began to yawn like a kitten, much to amusement of Sunset who found exceptionally cute.

"You know, you can always have a nap in the car if you'd like?" Cadence suggested, as Shining made his way into the drivers seat and turned the keys in the ignition.

"Thank you for this Twilight." Sunset appreciated.

"No problem, Merry Christmas from your Secret Santa." Twilight stretched, as the car began to drive off. A few minutes into the journey, Twilight was fast asleep as Sunset watched over her. Shining had called their parents on the way there, notifying them about the unexpected guests they were bringing.

"She looks so peaceful, doesn't she?" Cadence commented.

"Yeah, I guess she does." Sunset agreed, "Again, Thank you so much for letting me tag along."

"It's fine Sunset, I'm always to help out my little sister's friends." Shining remarked, "So, I take it Twilight mentioned her break-up to you?"

"Yeah, It's a shame." Sunset sighed, "They seemed so happy together and Twilight's such an amazing person."

"It is unfortunate." Cadence sympathized, "But she's still very young, so I'm sure she'll find someone else."

"Who know's, maybe she'll meet someone even better!" Shining added.

"Yeah, maybe there could be someone she perhaps has more in common with or maybe someone who understands her better or....." Sunset suggested.

"Someone like you Sunset?" Cadence smirked.

"What?...I..don't...know...what you mean by that?" Sunset stuttered, with a rosy blush arising upon her face.

"Trust me Sunset." Cadence giggled, "I'm engaged to a man I've known and liked since before I was your age, I know a little bit about young love."

"Young...Love?" Sunset stammered, "I don't know if I'd go that far."

"I suppose it could just be a crush." Cadence continued, "but either way, you definitely feel something more for her?

"Is it that obvious then?" Sunset worriedly chuckled, hoping that Twilight hadn't figured anything out.

"No Sunset, you've done a much better job of hiding your true feelings than anyone I've seen back at Crystal Prep." Cadence commended, "You should've seen Sour Sweet trying to hide her crush on Royal Pin, now that was quite a sight to witness!"

"if it helps, I think you're a lovely young woman and you could make Twilight very happy." Shining complimented.

"Thanks, I guess" Sunset responded awkwardly.

"But you know that right now, what Twilight needs is for you to be her friend." Cadence reminded.

"I know." Sunset agreed, "I'm actually hesitant to tell her at all, so for now I'll be the best friend that I possibly can!"

"Thanks Sunset. We won't say anything you've told us to her, It'll be our little secret!" Shining offered.

"As long as you don't mention our engagement." Cadence inserted, "we're keeping that as a surprise for tomorrow."

"I won't say a word." Sunset approved, "but congratulations you two!"

"Thank you Sunset, you're a wonderful young lady." Cadence kindly wrapped up their conversation as they finally reached their parents house. They began to pull into the driveway when Twilight began to awaken from her nap.

"Hey guys, are we there already?" She rubbed her eyes.

"Yes Twily, we're here!" Shining quietly laughed, "we've just been talking to your friend."

"What did you guys talk about?" Twilight questioned curiously.

"Oh, nothing much." Cadence fibbed, winking at Sunset after Twilight left the car. Sunset grabbed her backpack and began to walked up the steep driveway. Their house was huge and the front garden was spectacular. They finally reached the house where Twilight Velvet, Shining and Twilight's mother, opened the door to greet her guests. She recalled meeting Sunset once before at Parent-teacher evening at Canterlot High, where Sunset was helping out as extra staff. She greeted Sunset in a very friendly manner, much like her daughter would do, and showed her into their lounge where a surprisingly luxurious sofa-bed had been arranged for her to sleep on. It was right besides their stunning Christmas tree. Sunset emptied her bag and used their bathroom, which looked and felt more like a majestic spa, to change into her regular purple pajamas, brush her teeth and comb her hair whilst everyone else did their regular bedtime routines.

"Now you all best get to sleep fast, otherwise Santa Claus won't come!" Twilight Velvet joked, getting a playful nudge from her daughter.

"Goodnight Sunset, see you tomorrow." Twilight waved, as Spike followed her up the stairs to her bedroom.

"Goodnight Twilight." Sunset called back, smile upon her face as she began climbing into bed. She'd gotten herself a small glass of water from the kitchen and placed Ray and his cage on a empty shelf close by before falling asleep. She certainly needed the sleep after such an unexpected long and eventful day.

Chapter 4

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Sunset Shimmer began to awake, having gotten the best night sleep she'd had in quite a while. Her blurry vision was slowly coming into focus as she checked her phone to see what the time was. It was only Nine o'clock in the morning, as she looked around the beautifully decorated room surrounding her. The faint but recognizable sounds of 'A Christmas Carol' on the plasma-screen TV behind her could be heard as she looked down to see Spike sniffing and nuzzling her hand.

"Oh, hi Spike." Sunset yawned, petting him behind the ears.

"Good morning Sunset." Twilight Velvet greeted, walking into the room wearing a red & white apron and a Santa hat,"did you have a good night's sleep?"

"Yeah, it was lovely." Sunset stretched, "Thank you again for letting me stay over today."

"It's fine, Merry Christmas." Velvet smiled.

"Thanks, Merry Christmas to you too." Sunset replied kindly, "so, is Twilight awake yet?"

"IT'S CHRISTMAS!" her friends' familiar voice could be heard yelling cheerfully from up the stairs.

"Does that answer your question?" Velvet chuckled, as Twilight Sparkle ran down the stairs like a heard of elephants, before Spike rushed happily into her arms and was greeted with an immediate hug.

"Merry Christmas honey." Velvet smiled, watching her daughter chuckling with delight while Spike started excitedly licking her face.

"Merry Christmas Mom!" Twilight beamed, letting Spike go before wrapping her arms around her mother and squeezing tightly. Sunset started to remove the soft blanket and climb out of bed to greet her enthusiastic friend. Then the feelings returned, she thought Twilight had never looked so precious .

"Sunset!" Twilight turned happily, launching into her friend with another hug. A small blush arose upon Sunsets face, which Twilight was thankfully to obliviously joyous to notice, as she began to hug her back and the two wished each-other a Merry Christmas.

Shining Armour then walked down the stairs with a severe case of bed hair, followed by Cadence and his father, Night Light, as Twilight eventually greeted them all with enthusiastic hugs. The family soon changed from their pajamas and dressing gowns into brand new more seasonal Christmas sweaters, even Sunset was able to join in when Night Light found an older one of Twilight's that she could wear. It was green with a Christmas tree, comically consisting of many Math and Scientific terms. It was very Twilight to say the least.

A few hours later and Twilight had been asked to help her mother out in the kitchen with the Christmas dinner, along with the assistance of Cadence and even Sunset. Their biggest challenge was attempting to stop Spike from stealing any of the Turkey or Vegetables, a trick he tried almost every year. Whilst Shining and Night Light were in charge of setting the table, Sunset was helping prepare the drinks. Both the parents, Shining and Cadence had small glasses of wine while Twilight and Sunset both had some soda instead.

Eventually, the jobs were all done as Sunset and the family all sat down for Christmas dinner. It was the fairly traditional feast of a Christmas Turkey with both roasted & mashed potatoes and multiple types of vegetables. There was also Gravy, Cranberry sauce, pigs in blankets, and Yorkshire puddings. They were about to start their meals when Shining Armour decided he wanted to make an announcement, as he gently tapped a fork against his glass to get everyone's attention.

"Everyone, I would like to make a toast!" He began, "Now I understand that this year, our Christmas day is a little bit different due to some new guests to the household. Firstly, we have the lovely Sunset Shimmer, a very kind and supportive friend of our very own Twilight Sparkle! Who, despite a recent break-up, is still as lively, charming and amazing as ever. Secondly, we would like to congratulate my father Night Light on his recent promotion, Congratulations to you Dad! And finally, we have another very special guest here today. I would like to introduce you to beautiful Cadence Amore, Principal of Crystal prep academy.....and my fiance!"

At that moment, Twilight Velvet covered her mouth in shock as tears of joy started to stream down her face like a waterfall. Cadence erupted into a beaming grin as she showed of the diamond ring on her finger. Despite knowing in advance, Twilight Sparkle displayed supportive cheers as Night Light gave his son a very proud hug. Sunset also decided to applaud, as Cadence went over and gave a hug to her teary-eyed soon to be mother-in-law. They announced the wedding was in February, which while seeming like quite short notice was actually planned and arranged months in advance, and that Sunset and all of Twilight's friends were not only invited, but Cadence wanted them to be her bridesmaids. Sunset knew that especially Rarity would be ecstatic at the offer and would probably want to designed some new dresses for the girls to wear. After many congratulations and tears, everyone returned to their delicious meals. Even Spike got a little plate of his own with some of the leftover turkey, potato and carrots.

After a very filling meal, Sunset thanked them for the meal as they everyone made their way into the lounge. They decided to open some of the presents underneath the tree while they waited for their meal to digest before they could get desserts. Cadence and Sunset sat back on the largest couch together as the rest of the family dove for the gifts and began to take turns opening one each.

Twilight adored all of her presents, which mostly consisted of scientific equipment and fictitious novels. Shining Armour received gifts such as comic books and a beautiful framed collage from Cadence of their relationship. Velvet and Night Light got each-other the regular married couple gifts of aftershave and socks for dad and jewelry and perfume for mom.

Afterwards, everyone returned to the dining room for dessert and while not as much variety as the one Pinkie Pie's party, the options on the table looked exquisite. There were multiple flavors of Ice cream, Christmas pudding, trifle, cheesecake and dozens of mince pies along small canisters of whipped cream.

Twilight grabbed herself another soda before she sat down and took a mince pie. She was about to squirt some whipped cream into the bowl, when her brother began to give her a look she recognized all too well. She knew what he wanted as her parents started to replicate the same face and Shining started whispering his plan into Cadences ear, who let out a small giggle at the concept.

"Really, do I have too?" Twilight sighed.

"Pwease Sis, It's Cwismas." Shining pouted, as Sunset began to have a pretty good idea at what he was referring to. Twilight decided she couldn't avoid it much longer and went through with what everyone wanted her to. None of them had mentioned it aloud but she knew them all too well. She grabbed the canister of whipped cream at and began to spray it all around her mouth, cheeks and chins. She now had a white Santa-like beard around her face made entirely out of whip cream, just like what she mentioned at the party. "Ho, Ho Ho, Merry Christmas!" She spoke in an attempted deep voice, as Sunset and the family all laughed hysterically. It was every bit as hilarious as Twilight had described it and was probably the highlight of Sunset's day at the time. Eventually, Twilight couldn't help but join in with her adorkable laugh as Spike jumped up onto the table and began to lick the whipped cream beard of her face. Sunset and the family eventually returned to eating their desserts, which were every bit as mouthwatering as the dinner, if not more. As she finished off her Mince Pie with Vanilla ice cream, Sunset began to wonder how the rest of her friends were enjoying their Christmas day?

After clearing everything up with her parents the previous day, Rainbow Dash was having a much better Christmas day than anticipated. Her parents had decided to remain in their Santa and Mrs Claus costumes for the day but Dash was more hesitant to return to her Rudolph outfit, though she did agree to maybe just wear the antlers and red nose for any pictures they want to take. She did tell her parents about Fluttershy's personal gift she received at the Christmas Party, which they adored and mantled above the fireplace next to the picture from Christmas eve. She also revealed her autograph from A.K Yearling and told them more about the fun times at the party. However, she didn't mention her kiss with Zephyr. Only her best friends saw it happen and she was prepared to die with the secret. She loved all the gifts her parents brought for her, she figured perhaps their obsession with her had it's perks.

Applejack had a great time reuniting with some of her family back in Appaloosa. They had walked to Braeburn's house from their nearby hotel, expecting the place to be the five of them and couple other kin. But much to their surprise, the whole Apple Family had shown up. Apple Bloom certainly enjoyed seeing her favorite cousin Babs Seed once again and Granny Smith was happy to see older relatives such as Apple Strudel, Goldie Delicious and Aunt Applesauce after such a long time. They even received an unexpected Christmas card from Grand Pear, a distant relative from their mothers family who wanted to come visit at some point in the new year. After a huge and of course apple themed Christmas dinner, everyone sat around reminiscing of old times and playing country songs. Big Mac remembered a touching tale of a Christmas times with his parents, Bright Mac and Pear Butter, which managed to jerk a few tears among the family members who remembered the deceased couple. In response, Applejack decided to grab her base and play a rendition of a Christmas song her mother used to sing her over the holidays know as 'Days Gone By'. Once the song was finished, the whole family loved it and said her mother would be so proud.

Pinkie Pie had invited her sisters Maud, Marble and Limestone to spend Christmas Day at her house that year. She'd also invited her parents to come stay but unfortunately, they were unable to make it. Pinkie's sisters were very different from her. Maud being much more monotone, Marble being more anxious than Fluttershy and Limestone being very aggressive. Despite their differences, they were able to give Pinkie an amazing day. Maud gave her some festively colored red & green confetti for her party cannon as a present and even completed her goal from earlier in the week by buying a gift for her pet rock Boulder by giving him a rock-pouch. Instead of the regular Christmas dinner, the food that mainly consisted of Soup and Candy. But Pinkie didn't mind, she loved Christmas and her sisters no matter what.

Fluttershy was just about to have Christmas dinner with her family after she finished feeding her pet Angel Bunny. The day so far had been full of the pleasant atmosphere usual present in the Shy household, as Zephyr helped lay the table while his mother cooked their meal. Since they were a mostly vegan family, they didn't have a turkey like most of Fluttershy's friends. Instead, what they had to eat were cauliflower fritters with herb dipping sauce, along with the regular roasted potato, vegetables and some specially prepared gravy. The four of them tucked into there meals and enjoyed them immensely. However, Zephyr couldn't help feeling distracted by the drastic change to his sisters hair. Her parents were both incredibly proud of her for the charity hair donation and Fluttershy was feeling very proud of herself too. Her father was the first to find out, having picked her up from the hairdressers, and he said it was a very kind and honorable thing to do. Her mother said pretty much the same, as well as noting that the new hair made her look sweeter than ever.

Rarity was still sadly suffering from her winter cold, but had thankfully shown signs of improving due to Applejack's gift. However, she still managed to have an enjoyable day with her sister and even her parents, Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles, had come down to stay with her. Usually, the two of them would travel a lot and often take the sisters somewhere exotic to spend Christmas. However this year, they decided to stay in Canterlot to help take care of their eldest daughter. Her father claimed it made for a nice change of pace, as her mother cooked them a Christmas dinner that was easier for Rarity to consume. The sisters also got some very nice gifts. Rarity's favorite being a brand new silver dress her parents brought on their last vacation that she promised she'd were it as soon as she was better, worried she may get snot all over the divine patterns if she wore it now.

Flash was spending a rather regular Christmas at his house with his mom and brother. Though he couldn't go five minutes without texting his girlfriend Sonata. She had decided to bring the Christmas spirit into her apartment, much to her sisters' misery. She and Flash had come across a last minute decoration store on the street that previous night and Sonata had practically brought home half the department with her.

The evening came as Sunset decided to lay down on the couch and watch some TV with Twilight's family, scanning to the channels to see whatever movies or specials they could find. Another mild snowfall began outside the windows as Sunset noticed that Twilight couldn't stop staring at her magic journal, almost like she was waiting for it to do something. Sunset was about to ask when the journal began to glow. Sunset grabbed the book as her and Twilight made their way into a separate room before opening it, as Sunset read the message aloud.

Dear Sunset
I don't know if you've been made aware of this yet, but the other Twilight wrote to me last night.
She told me about how you're spending today at her house with her family, I really hope you're having a great time.
I don't know a lot about Christmas but i'm assuming it's a lot like Hearths Warming. So it's about celebrating the friends and family and ponies or people in our lives that make it special.
Our hearths warming hasn't exactly been as calm as I would've hoped, This year, me and the other elements decided to invite all our families to spend Hearths warming together in the castle to help celebrate how many different types of ponies banded together on this holiday. It didn't go according to plan. In fact, I think Discord could've caused less chaos.
However, I'm happy to say that everything worked out in the end and I really hope yours is less eventful. I'd love to hear about it when you have the time.
You're a really great person Sunset and all your friends at Canterlot High are incredibly lucky to have you. I would really like if we could see each-other again sometime. Maybe I'll come to you or you can come to Equestria, who knows?
For now, have a happy Hearths-Warming and Have a great Christmas time.
Your friend, Princess Twilight Sparkle.

Sunset closed the book as a huge beaming smile began to fill up her face. She placed the book down and looked at Twilight.

"Sunset, are you okay?" Twilight asked, as Sunset's lip began to quiver. Before anything else could be said, Sunset ran towards Twilight and engulfed her in a grateful hug.

"Thank you Twilight!" She sniffled, "This has been the best Christmas I've ever had!"

"You're welcome." Twilight smiled, continuing to hug Sunset as the snow peacefully persisted outside the window.

Epilogue

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It was a warm and sunny afternoon upon a scenic countryside a few miles from Canterlot, where Shining Armour and Cadence Amore had just hours ago gotten married, as their reception party was currently taking place in a snowy white tent atop a gorgeous green hill. The newly-wed couple were affectionately dancing together and simply couldn't be happier, as the sister of the groom, Twilight Sparkle, proudly watched them from a nearby table where she sat with her fellow bridesmaids, who were her best friends from Canterlot High.

Rarity, now obviously fully recovered from her winter cold, had designed the seven of them each brand new elegant dresses for the ceremony. Just as Sunset predicted, she was beyond ecstatic at the offer to do so and her effort certainly paid off as It was some of the best work Rarity had ever put out. Fluttershy's' hair had begun to grow back after its drastic cut for Charity over the holiday season, but it was yet to return to its regular length. She was currently sporting more of a puffy lob hairstyle, which many of her friends thought really suited her. Applejack, along with Granny Smith and her siblings, had been put in charge of handling some of the party food and Pinkie had been given the position of chief party planner for the ceremony under Twilight's recommendation.

As for Twilight herself, her breakup really started to take it's toll once the Christmas period was over. She was heartbroken and would often disappear into her bedroom or the school library to cry. She would sometimes even attempt to cut herself off from the rest of the group. Luckily, Sunset and the rest of her friends were there to help get her through the rough times and now, she was over it and joyous as ever. In fact, today was the happiest she'd been in quite a while.

Sunset's crush over the months had become much stronger than she could've anticipated. Instead of constantly fearing Twilight might find out, she now desperately wanted to tell her but was never sure if the timing was right.

Soon enough, the rest of the girls decided to head toward either the buffet or the dance floor while the two of them were left alone at the table together.

"So, are you feeling okay?" Sunset asked, attempting the break the ice.

"I'm doing great!" Twilight smiled.

"That's good, I don't think I've seen you this happy since Christmas."

"Well, I'm feeling much better now. Thank you and the rest of the girls so much for helping get through that, you guys are really supportive and the most amazing friends I could ever have. Though, I'll admit I could've done without one of Pinkie Pies 'Super Silly Clown Makeovers'!"

"Well, you definitely took yours better than Rarity took hers!"

The girls began to laugh as they pleasantly continued their conversation. Sunset thought Twilight looked adorable today, especially in her new magenta dress. Sunset's outfit was almost identical in design, except hers was in forest green.

"So, do you think you'll ever give dating another try?" Sunset questioned curiously.

"I don't know." Twilight shrugged, "I'm not sure if I'm ready to put myself self out there yet, I'm scared I'll get my heart broken again. Maybe I'm worrying too much, but I'm still a little on edge."

"Well who knows, maybe you'll find somebody like your brother found Cadence?"

"Yeah, maybe. I guess it's something to think about. I'll be right back!" Twilight finished as she left the table. As Sunset watched her walk away, Cadence began to approach the table wearing her gorgeous brides gown and vale she'd worn throughout the day. Shining Armour actually cried when he first saw her in the gown.

"Hello Sunset!" She appeared, sitting down next to her.

"Oh, hi Cadence." Sunset smirked, "I know you've probably heard this a dozen times already but congratulations! I'm really happy for you both and Twilight's gonna have an amazing sister-in-law!"

"Thank you Sunset, you and the girls were all great bridesmaids."

"Well, thanks for offering us the position. The ceremony was really beautiful."

"Hey, do you know what would be the perfect wedding gift?"

"What?"

"I would like for you to tell Twilight how you feel."

"Cadence, I can't. I'd love to, but I can't. I just don't think I'm ready and I don't think she is either!"

"I completely understand, how about you just ask her to dance for now?"

"I guess I could but, I don't think she's really danced with anyone since her date with Timber."

"It's up to you Sunset. I'm going to go dance with my husband, maybe you'll join us?" Cadence finished as she left Sunset at the table to think.

"Okay, I'll go ask her to dance!" Sunset decided, as she began to nervously approach the buffet where Twilight was. She walked right past the CMC who were cheerfully dancing alongside their sisters to DJ PON-3's tunes with Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, who were enjoyably showing off the dated dance moves from their youths. Sunset then found Twilight chatting with her parents, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, who was holding an unimpressed Spike and waving his paws around in a dancing-like motion.

"Hey Twilight?" Sunset stuttered, "um...would you like to dance?"

"Okay then, sure." Twilight shrugged, as she followed Sunset to the dance floor. The music playing was very upbeat pop tunes, nothing especially romantic, as the two of them danced like it was any average school party. They swayed and chatted with each-other as Twilight also playfully danced with her brother and challenged her new sister-in-law to a good-natured dance off. Then the music changed to that of slower placed ballads as many of the couples began to take to the floor. Shining & Cadence decided to do their romantic 'first dance' as Twilight's parents also decided to join them on the dance floor, recognizing the song playing as the same one from when they shared their first dance as man & wife. The dance styles changed to become more close and intimate as Twilight began to feel slightly uncomfortable. Sunset looked around the area and noticed that Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were slow dancing with their sisters and even Fluttershy could be scene holding Spike and swaying him, much to the canines' disapproval. So, this wasn't just a couples thing. Sunset put her hands around Twilight's waist and pulled her closer, as the two of them decided to join in the slow dance. They simply stepped back and forth in time with the music as Sunset began to notice an uneasy expression upon her friends' face.

"Twilight, are you okay?" Sunset inquired.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I just need some fresh air." Twilight insisted, releasing Sunset's hands from her waist and awkwardly leaving the tent. Cadence noticed and asked Sunset to check on her, who quickly chased after Twilight and found her sat on the grass outside with her head in her hands.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Sunset comforted, sitting down next to her.

"I don't know, I's just...I thought I was over it but just." Twilight panicked, unable to get out her words properly.

"Well, are you gonna come back inside? I'm sure your family is worried about you!"

"Yeah, you're right. I'm sorry Sunset, we never even got to finish our dance!"

"How about we dance out here? Just the two of us?"

"Um, okay then?"

Twilight put her hands around Sunset's waist as the two tried to dance once again. The music was slightly more faint sounding from outside, but it was still easily audible. The two swung and stepped along to the music as a happy smile slowly but surely began to return to Twilight's face.

"You're gonna find somebody Twilight." Sunset promised, "Somebody who makes you happy, somebody who will look out for you, someone who can see clear as day the intelligent...funny......beautiful and just all around amazing person that you are!" At that moment, the two girls locked eyes as Sunset felt a strange urge she hadn't felt in a while. Before she knew it, Sunset found herself leaning in closer towards Twilight as her heartbeat became rapid and blood rushed to her face, making it as red as a tomato. This time, there was no helium-influenced Pinkie Pie with mince pies to interrupt as before she had time to think about what she was doing, Sunset had just spontaneously kissed Twilight. Once she realized what had happened, she was about to stop when she felt something unexpected. "Is she kissing me back?" her mind began to race, "what does this mean? does she like me back? what if I've just ruined our friendship?"

Sunset quickly pulled her lips away as her the two girls stood together speechless, neither one of them sure what to say next.

"Well, I didn't expect that." Twilight smiled awkwardly, still feeling slightly dazed.

"Twilight, I'm so sorry!" Sunset blushed, "I just don't know what came over me and...."

"Sunset, do...you...do you like me?"

"Um.....yes. I like you, I've liked you for quite a while now actually!"

"Wow, I'm not sure what to say."

"You don't need to say anything, just forget about it." Sunset regretfully requested as she began to head back inside.

"Sunset wait!" Twilight called, "when you saying all that stuff earlier about me finding someone, were you talking about yourself?"

"Maybe a little bit, I really really like you a lot Twilight and I can't help it. It's okay if you just wanna be friends, it's just nice to finally get those feelings off my chest."

"Sunset, I.......I had no idea you felt this way."

"I really hope things don't become awkward between us now."

"Well, that depends.."

"On what?"

"On how you react to this."

Before Sunset could ask what she meant, Twilight had kissed her. Their eyes closed and their warm lips locked together as Sunset put her hands around Twilight's waist once again and Twilight put hers on Sunset's shoulder. Neither of them felt an urge to stop or let go, both of them were just happy in the moment.

"I hope I'm not interrupting anything important!" A sudden voice chuckled, as the girls stopped their kiss and turned to see Cadence watching them with a smirk upon her face.

"Cadance!" Twilight gasped, letting go of Sunset, "I can explain!"

"I'm sure you can." Cadence grinned, "We're about to serve the wedding cake so if you and your girlfriend want some, you should come back inside."

"Okay, we'll be there in a minute" Sunset waved, as the bride walked back inside. "So, does this mean we're a couple now?" Sunset smiled, holding Twilight's hand.

"Yeah, I guess so." Twilight giggled, "how are we gonna tell the rest of the girls?"

"Let's wait a little bit. We don't want to steal the thunder from the wedding!" Sunset decided, giving her new partner a quick kiss on the cheek before they walked back inside.

THE END

Canterlot High Christmas Tales

by Indefintehiatus

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Epilogue