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I did not awaken to sound in the morning. I awoke to a subtle scent. Something that tweaked my appetite. A delicious aroma was wafting in from under the door leading out to the hall. The fleeting memories of my dreams faded as I noticed the fluffy presence of Silverstream pressed up against me in deep slumber. I suppose she is an even heavier sleeper than me. Or perhaps I have a keener nose than her.

There was no way I could go back to sleep with that aroma sneaking into the room. And I could see the trays used to hold our slumber party snacks still stacked nearby. I took it upon myself to get them to the kitchen for cleaning. I very quietly and carefully slid out of bed an a manner that would not awaken my young friend and just as carefully carried all our empty trays and bowls out of the room. I soon found Ocean Flow at work in the kitchen cooking up breakfast for the family. She glanced my way, took one glance at everything being carried in my hands, and spoke with a smile. "You made it in time last night? Silverstream was really excited about having you over, dear. Did she make sure your stay was a pleasant one, James?"

"Yep. Silverstream is always good company and she has great taste in goodies." I replied happily while taking the trays to the sink and even washing them by hand. They were not difficult to clean and I was compelled to help out in the kitchen in some way. But I started to notice that the air was a bit...cool. I knew we were in the dead of winter and at a higher altitude than most places, but the interior of the house was cooler than it should have been. I just assumed the thermostat was turned down low during the night since no one would be awake to appreciate it. That, and I suspect the winter coat of a hippogriff is quite insulating enough as is. I turned to Ocean Flow and asked, "Hey, uh... Isn't it a little chilly in here?"

"It is? I guess we never notice since we hippogriffs can handle the cold just fine. Would you like me to turn the heat up for you? I think we left it in the upper 50s when I last checked." Ocean Flow replied to confirm my suspicions. I was not surprised.

I really did not want to complain about anything in my host's home, even if they were family to me by that point. Although I was not really all that uncomfortable despite still being in just my boxers. "Nah, I'm good. I think I have a higher tolerance for cold than heat anyway. I'm OK."

"If you say so, dear. If you need to turn the heat up a notch, you go right ahead." Ocean Flow replied while she went back to minding the skillets. And my eyes widened in delight when I saw what she was cooking up. Salmon omelets with spinach and feta cheese. She even had whipped up a white sauce with tiny green herbs mixed in. Why do the people of Capricorn Island have such exquisite cuisine even for something as simple as breakfast? I love them. And now that I have a quick and reliable way to get there, I knew I would be feasting on that fine food much more often in the future.

I went right to the bathroom once I was done doing the dishes and quickly took a brief hot shower to get myself warmed up. The bathroom became thick with steam, even with the fan going. Once all warm and clean, I got myself dressed with the clothes I had left in there and stepped out to find the rest of my feathered family gathering around the dining room table. And Silverstream all but leaped into my arms. "Good morning! Did you sleep well? I know I did!"

"Yeah, sure did. Sorry for not waking you, but I thought you'd appreciating getting a bit more beauty sleep." I replied while holding that silly little lady in my arms for a moment. But Ocean Flow's cooking could only be defied for so long. We all took our seats as I marveled at what was on display. Fruit pastries and roasted potatoes were included as well. No one would be walking away from that table unsatisfied.

Sky Beak. Ocean Flow. Terramar. Silverstream. They were all there while wide awake and ready to feast. Silverstream's parents asked us about how our little private party went last night, what with them having all gone to bed by the time I arrived. Silverstream was more exuberant in her responses while I followed her with words of praise over how well she provided me with a pleasant experience.

There really is not much to say about breakfast. Everything was delicious and it set the stage for a good day. And I was in good company listening to my extended family talking about everything and nothing. It was an unremarkable yet lovely start to our days. And that was good enough.

And finally it was time to say goodbye. Even before the table had been cleared for the dishes to be cleaned, my family gathered with me near the front door. Ocean Flow even gently secured my scarf like the sweet mother hen she was. Terramar asked from below, "You really have to head home now? It's only been a couple of days, right?"

"Yeah, I really shouldn't stay much longer. I left home on such short notice while hardly telling anyone. But I'll be sure to stop by more regularly now that I know I have a way to get out here efficiently." I replied while gently tussling my young friend's mane. Although I also felt a certain thrill of excitement knowing I was bringing gifts home for my family. That would surely make up for my absence.

Silverstream fidgeted at my other side with a look of profound disappointment on her face. "Awww... Gonna miss you, best friend. Don't keep us waiting too long for next time! There's so much that's different and amazing on Capricorn Island when its all snowy! We barely saw any of it yesterday!"

"Yeah, I genuinely want to see more. The island is just so...beautiful with all that layer of white. It's like the environment has changed to match the architecture." I replied while giving my fluffy friend a hug. Come to think o it, I am pretty sure Silverstream and Terramar's birthday is coming up very soon in the middle of winter. Perhaps that could be a prime opportunity to visit again. Just a shame I only remembered at this moment after getting home. I need to get a confirmation on the date without them knowing I am coming...

I was soon wrapped up in a big feathery hug from four beautiful hippogriffs. The embrace of family. I heard Sky Beak whisper to me, "It was such a joy having you here, my boy. We love you. Come back soon, all right?"

"Love you too, papa bird... Thanks for having me here." I whispered back while starting to feel a little emotional. But I resisted the urge to shed tears. I had been away from Capricorn Island for too long. I had forgotten just how good it felt to be there in my home away from home. And once I stepped outside alone in the cold winter morning, I turned my gaze to the sky and took a deep breath. "I keep forgetting how much I love this place... Need to come back soon."

The trek to the Ivory Palace was quiet with the wind being rather gentle. I took my time to take in the bright white all around me. Both from the snow itself and that pure white architecture of the Omega sector. Not many hippogriffs were about. I suppose that while they can handle the cold, it does not necessarily mean they actively seek it.

I stood out on the middle of the bridge that reached out to the elegant form of the Ivory Palace. I turned my gaze to the north to look down at the sprawling mountain below and to the vast frigid ocean beyond. Just the sheer scale of that place... Words do not do it justice. Nor can I really describe it in a way most would understand. While probably not the single tallest mountain in the world, Capricorn Island probably has the single largest amount of vertical space in contrast to horizontal for a single landmass above water. A truly unique piece of geography that the hippogriff people thrive on. I stood there for a short while to bask in the frigid silence of such a high altitude to savor such solitude. Just one last time before leaving for home.

The guards assigned to the front door of the Ivory Palace granted me access without a word while also saluting me as I passed them. The warm confines of the elegant halls were an instant welcome reprieve from the dreadful cold of high altitude winter. I even unfurled my scarf and let it hang down from my shoulders. But the real question was where I could find Novo. It was still morning. What does she normally do after breakfast?

I checked the throne room first only to find the place deserted. Was Novo still in her bedchambers? Not likely. She has never been a woman who prefers lounging around in bed on a slow day. So I started asking around with the guards. They all pointed me towards the courtyard. It was a location I had not seen since my previous visit to Capricorn Island. What could Novo possibly be doing out there at this time of year?

Whatever the case, I eventually found my way out there. It was just as I remembered it. A contained garden of sorts surrounded by high walls that wrapped around the perimeter. While frigidly cold, I appreciated the walls keeping out the wind. And I soon saw a sudden movement out of the corner of my eye. An arrow went flying over yonder and into a far target. Very much like how it went the first time I ever set foot there. It was just such a shame all the vibrant foliage of the courtyard was covered by the frigid white of snow at the time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=\_34gUVqLkAo

The snow blanketing the courtyard even muffled all sound. It was hauntingly quiet out there even as I saw another arrow fly into one of those simple straw targets propped up against the far wall. I continued on along the gentle bend in the wall of the palace until two familiar forms came into view. Admiral Seaspray himself and my beloved Novo. Except it was not Seaspray who had been shooting. Novo was standing tall wit her glorious wings reaching back to provide a counterbalance. And in her hands was a longbow. I knew Novo has always been an exceptional, perhaps even legendary, fencer specializing in a rapier. But I was surprised to see her practicing archery.

"Excellent shot, your majesty. I'd wager you could give many of my men a run for their bits." I heard Seaspray say as he handed Novo another arrow from a quiver slung over his back. I watched in silence as my beautiful beloved nocked the arrow in her bowstring before drawing it back and letting it fly. Yet another successful shot to the center of the target. Maybe not a true bull's-eye, but it still hit the red circle surrounding the very middle. Although perhaps she just did not want to risk damaging any of the arrows that were already embedded in the center at the time. It was only then that Seaspray happened to notice me peering from behind some frosty bushes and waved at me with his wing. "Ah! I didn't see you there, my liege! A very good morning to you!"

I waved back without a word since I was sure they would not hear me well from that distance. The snow all around us and the scarf over my face would interfere with my voice. Although Novo did greet me with a smile as I drew closer. "Good morning, honey. Sleep well with your little friend last night?"

"Yeah, it was a great time. Silverstream really made sure the occasion was something special." I replied while Novo stood tall before me. I then glanced over at the yonder archery targets and asked, "I didn't know you knew your way with a bow too."

"Every hippogriff has what it takes to be a decent archer, baby. We've got the upper body strength and the eyes for it." Novo said with a smug smirk on her beak. She then brought another arrow to her bowstring and pulled it back before landing another near perfect shot on the same target. "Even though I'm better with a sword, I can still shoot with the best of them."

I assumed Novo decided to have a round at the archery range just for a change of pace. Heavy snowfall can make one a bit stir crazy and give them the desire to get out of the house. I then looked past Novo to speak to Seaspray. "What about you, admiral? Who would you say is the best sniper on the island?"

Seaspray burst into uneven chuckling while casting a wary glance at his mighty queen. Novo even rested a hand on her flank in a very sassy manner while smirking at him. That raised eyebrow only added to her display. As if she was expecting him to say something that might offend her. I knew it was all in jest though. Novo was just being Novo. "Ah, you see... While all of my men are exceptional archers, just as our queen is... I must confess that I am easily the finest archer on Capricorn Island at this time. My sincerest apologies, your majesty..."

Novo chuckled almost menacingly at her captain of the guard. I can only imagine how much Novo messes with him when I am not around. But I did recall one specific incident where I got to witness his marksmanship in person. "I can believe that. I mean I know you weren't there to see it, Novo. But at the end of the first major battle on the Empty Plains, Seaspray took out the last enemy standing by landing an arrow right in its eye. Through its helmet's visor. From the back rows. And Ember was kind of mad about it since he stole her kill."

"Ha! That sounds like our admiral! Good shooting back there, old friend." Novo laughed briefly before looking down at Seaspray while he flashed her a nervous yet proud smile. He knew that was a good shot and was quite proud of it at the time. His queen then said, "Then I guess I have to concede the top spot of archery to you, admiral. Just remember though. When it comes to the blade, I am the best."

"That you are, your majesty. And I pray your hold that title for the rest of your very many days." Seaspray said graciously as he bowed to his queen. Novo only then passed her longbow back to him before Seaspray went about gathering up the arrows she had fired.

Novo then dropped back down onto her hands to assume the stance of a mare. She looked at me and asked, "So then... You need to head back soon?"

"Um... Wait a minute... What's the time zone difference between here and Canterlot? I came here in the afternoon only to find that it was dawn over here, right?" I replied while trying to predict exactly what time I would be returning to Canterlot. There was no other way to slice it. I was in for a very short day. But I did recall an important promise I made shortly before even arriving on Capricorn Island. "Although... I did promise Celestia an evening with her when I got back..."

"Then you better not disappoint her, honey. How about we make it so you get back right around the time Celestia gets started on setting the sun? That way you can get started on your little date with her right away?" Novo replied with a cheeky smile on her beak. What was she expecting to happen between Celestia and I that night? They have always been best friends and she definitely did not want me neglecting Celestia.

"Sounds good. And since night starts sooner in winter... How about I head back around noon?" I replied while considering how the day and night cycles change depending on the seasons.

"Sounds about right to me, honey. As for now... You are dismissed, admiral. My king and I need some time alone." Novo replied with Seaspray bowing in silence, his quiver full and Novo's longbow slung over his back. I was then led back inside the palace with our friend hurrying off to return their equipment to the armory. Now the real question was what we should do with our time. Until Novo threw me a curveball. "James... Quick question. When was the last time you had a massage for yourself?"

I paused and thought very hard about that. For all the massages I have given, when was the lat time I had even received one? "Me? I... Huh. That's a good question. I honestly can't recall."

Novo brought her wing behind me and began to push me along in a way that told me I was not getting away from her until she said so. And she spoke with a smug smirk on her beak. "That won't do. Daddy's overdue for some TLC. Let mama take care of you for whatever time we have left, all right?"

Just what kind of obscure skills had Novo picked up over the course of her very long life? If she really knew her way with massages, I was eager to find out how it would be. I was led back up into Novo's bedroom while she made sure the door was locked to prevent intrusions. I then stripped myself down to my boxers and lied down on her bed before rolling over onto my front. But then an important question came to mind. "Wait a minute... Do you even know anything about human anatomy? Like...where to press and prod for the best results?"

"Not a thing, honey. But I think I can feel my way around and get a feel for what makes you tick. Get comfy. Mama's gonna go to work." Novo relied confidently as she stepped up onto the bed while I tucked a pillow under my arms and head. Now it was I who was being straddled as Novo gently rested atop me. I felt her firm fingers feel along my neck while being mindful to not poke me with her talons. It was a different feeling being caressed by the hands of a bird. And all she did was start to press and knead the back of my neck. "Nothing seems wrong here, but let mama loosen you up a bit."

Bit by bit, Novo moved down my body while gradually scooting back. She hummed and muttered an indecipherable song all the while to give the moment a bit of ambience. She soon began to press into my vertebrae to produce various pops and cracks. While not painful, the sudden jolt I would feel was a bit surprising. All while Novo continued to sing softly. Although she would provide some occasional commentary on her examinations. "Looks like you're taking good care of your back, honey. What's your secret?"

"Always lift with your legs." I retorted with no pride in my voice. I would have to maintain proper posture and lifting techniques now that I had an infant daughter to pick up and hold on a regular basis. She even gave my hips some attention while I hoped I would never need to have a hip replacement. She tended to my legs. But then Novo lifted my lower leg to bring up my foot before she began to prod deep into it. "My feet too?"

"Mmhm. Whoa. Feels like you've got a really complex bone network in there, honey. Nothing like the simplicity of a hoof. Anything going on here I need to know about?" Novo asked while I could feel her fingers rolling over the multiple bones that extended to my toes. Just how many bones are in the human foot anyway?

"Come to think of it, that one's been a bit sore for a few days. Maybe I slept with it on an odd angle one night." I replied before Novo began to really press deep and check for any bones that were misaligned. All while she continued to hum. I swear I could feel something just...change when I heard a pop right before she set my foot down before lifting the other. For having no idea how the human body works, Novo was proving herself keen enough to learn through nothing but touch. I was feeing just great by the time she set my foot down. "All done back there?"

"Mmhm, all done. Looks like you're in good shape, baby. But I still gave a little poke and prod everywhere just to get you nice and limber. Did I get all kinks out?" Novo replied with a prideful tone. I rolled onto my back to get a good look at her while she came crawling right up beside me. She then traced a finger over my chest and asked, "You think this side of you needs any attention?"

"Nah, it's always the backside me humans need taken care of more often than not. And doing anything on this side is a good way to dislocate a rib." I explained in brief. I rested my hand over Novo's while she rested her hand over my beating heart. I looked up at her while she smiled warmly down at me. It was just us there. Two lovers set to become husband and wife someday. But I could not stay long. "I'll miss you..."

"I miss you every day you're not here, James. Thank you so much for coming out here when you did. You made this bitter cold winter a little warmer for me." Novo cooed before bringing her beak to my lips for a kiss. I could feel the tears building. I was so in love with that perfect specimen of a woman. It pained me to have to leave her. And while I tried to hide it, Novo still noticed. And she gently wiped the tears from my eyelids before they could even spill. "Shhh... No tears, honey. No more tears from now on. Because you can come see me whenever you want. I'm basically living right next door to you now, aren't I?"

"I guess I still need to get used to this... Maybe after a few more visits, saying goodbye won't feel so heavy anymore. I shouldn't cry. I really shouldn't, but... I just love you so much, my bird of paradise." I whispered back to my beautiful beloved. My hand rose to her feathery face and cupped her cheek. I prayed that I would be good enough in the end to be Novo's king. I wanted to be worthy of a crown just for her. Even if I would never be the most kingly king Capricorn Island would have ever seen.

Novo once again placed a kiss on my lips. And then kiss after kiss all over my face. The touch of her pursed beak was firm, but I could feel the love in her touch. All while she cooed to me. "You know where to find me, dear. And you know how to get to me. Just please bring your baby girl with you next time if you can. Or the entire family if you can manage that."

"Gladesong might be possible. But Fluttershy and Scootaloo too? I might need some help with that... But if I can make the trip, maybe Celestia can too. We'll see." I said with a hopeful sigh. I should not be the only one to get the most out of long-distance teleportation. I should bring more of my growing family sometime.

At last, it was time to prepare for departure. As much as we both dreaded it. I got dressed and stepped out into the hall to retrieve my armor. I stepped into the liquid puddle still untouched behind a few wet floor signs and allowed its liquid form to creep over my body. It soon hardened into a familiar set of winged plate armor while Novo watched from her bedroom's doorway. I looked at her while she glanced at the signs standing between us. I looked at them too before cracking a bemused smirk. "We really need to find a better solution on where to keep this stuff when I'm not wearing it."

"We should. I'll speak to Seaspray about setting up a spot in the armory where you can stash that next time you come over. Shouldn't be too difficult." Novo replied while rolling her eyes. It was only a matter of time before someone made a mistake and touched that puddle of liquid metal while it was sitting out in the open. It already happened with Silverstream. Who is to say someone else will not be foolish someday? I then stepped back into Novo's bedroom with my sabatons clanking lightly. She let out a soft whistle as she beheld me. "My handsome king ready to soar on home. Goodness me, you look good in your gear, baby."

"Well... I suppose a knight has to look his best for his queen." I replied as I played along. I know I am not in control of what form my armor takes on when it hardens, but I too was quite taken with how it looked when I wear it.

"A knight who will be king one day. Just remember that your queens love you." Novo chuckled deeply before placing a kiss on my cheek. She then motioned over in the corner of her room. "Just don't forget your goodies. Daddy shouldn't go home empty-handed after just dropping everything and coming to mama."

"You better believe I won't forget those... Wait, what's that?" I started to say softly before there was a sudden knock at Novo's door. And it sounded urgent.

"Really? Right when you're about to go home? This better be good..." Novo grumbled as we both scowled at the unbelievably inopportune timing of that interruption. Novo stepped over to the door and asked, "What is it?"

The voice of Seaspray responded from the other side. And with a tone as urgent as I expected. "So very sorry, your majesty. A messenger just arrived at the gates and they have asked me to give him a message immediately. Very important business. Or so they say."

Novo let out a groan before saying, "Just slide it under the door, admiral."

https://youtu.be/931O4pgmNO0?si=Ri-hY7hFqEQNlxXf

And so he did. Seaspray slide an envelope sealed with red wax just under the door while not leaving his post on the other side. Although the wax seal did make it a tight squeeze. Novo took a seat while I watched with cautious curiosity. And she made the mistake of opening the envelope while holding it upside-down. There was more than just a letter inside. The instant the seal was broken, a silver coin of some sort fell out and landed with a thump on the carpeted floor. A coin that displayed either a shrimp or a prawn. I did not recognize it. But Novo did if that wide-eyed stare was anything to go by. "Uh oh."

"What makes you say that?" I asked while getting the creeping suspicion I had seen that coin somewhere before. Novo then wordlessly handed me the letter before I held it in my bulky armored hands. "Let's see here... Who even sent this? McBurbsten? Patriarch of the Wabush... Oh come on! How did they even know I was here?! I didn't even go that far down the mountain this time!"

Of all people to try and reach out to me! How could I forget about getting roped into one of the monthly squabbles of the Wabush and Woodech clans? And they did say that I would be expected to attend if I was present on the island when it... What ridiculous timing. And Novo could only snicker at me with an awkward grin on her beak. "Hoo boy, it's that time, is it? Don't ask how they found out about you being here, honey. Those two clans are some of the biggest bigwigs on the island. Not much goes on around the island without them knowing about it."

That was when I remembered something from the last time it happened. I was given a pin. One that I needed to participate. And I most definitely did not have it with me. "Wait, I'm missing something important. An entry pin or something. Guess I can't attend after all if I don't... Novo? What's with that smirk?"

"You really think that's gonna stop them, honey? They'll just drag you down there and give you another." Novo snickered as I started to feel a bit panicked. While participating in that last event at least resulted in me being well rewarded with a fantastic seafood feast, we were in the dead of winter at the time. And I could not imagine being out there in the cold just squawking at one side or the other. I know hippogriff can take the cold well enough, but even I would not be having a good time.

I was facing a real dilemma. Do I abandon my plans and answer the call, or do I stick to my word and go home to my family as promised? "Crap, they really won't take no for an answer, will they? But I really need to get home when I said I would. I can't stay, Novo. I really need to be get going. What do I do?"

Novo paused in thought while I passed the coin and letter back to her. She looked at the invitation and then back at me. And then she started to smirk. Novo then slid the letter and coin back under the door before speaking to Seaspray on the other side. "I am so sorry, admiral. It looks like you only just missed him. Mr. James is no longer on Capricorn Island and cannot participate in this monthly debate."

I very nearly laughed. Novo was just trying to cover for me and to give me an opportunity to get out of there before someone could come along and drag me down to the estates of the feuding families. If one could even call it a feud. But Seaspray was a little slow on catching onto what Novo was doing. "But... But I swear I just heard the two of you talking to each..."

"Admiral. Let the messenger know the man they are inviting isn't here anymore. They literally just missed him. All right?" Novo said a bit more firmly while still sounding sly and cunning about it. Seaspray did not pry any further and was soon heard trotting away from the door. Novo then smirked at me and said, "You better get going while you can, honey. They'll be coming up here just to be doubly sure you're not actually around."

"Wow, Novo. You really are the best. Love you." I replied before she and I shared one last little kiss. Now I had every reason to not delay in getting myself back home. I stepped over to the bags of goods I needed to bring with me as well as my pack of belongings from home. The was only one question left. Where did I want to appear?

I had to think quickly as the magic auras of my gauntlets flared up over my arms. The first image that came to mind was the throne room. With how many times I had been in and out of that one chamber, its many features were easy to picture in my mind. I would need to return my armor to the vault anyway, so it was just as good a place as any. Novo watched without a word as I started to prepare the spell. Focusing harder...harder...as hard as I hoped I needed to. Then with eyes squinted shut... I felt it. Something had changed. And my mind was immediately assailed with a swift sensation of vertigo.

My knees immediately buckled as I was forced to kneel just to avoid falling over. And when I looked around, I found I was not alone. Celestia, Luna, and Nightmare Moon were all seated on their thrones while Shining Armor and a few of his men were standing before them in full armor. They all stared at me with wide and even startled eyes. They clearly were not expecting me at all. As a feeling of embarrassment started to come over me, I waved sheepishly at them. "Uh... Hey there. Am I interrupting anything?"

"Not anything in particular... We were just about finished with this meeting anyway. Isn't that right, captain?" Luna replied while looking at me out of the corner of her eye. And she was not being facetious about it either. I think I showed up right when Shining Armor and his men were about to see themselves out.

"Uh... Yeah. That was all we had to report. Anyway, what's up? Where'd you just come in from, James? You don't look like you were on some mission. And what's with all the bags?" Shining Armor replied as he turned to face me. I must have looked rather bizarre, being in a full suit of enchanted winged plate armor, but lugging around a bunch of bags like I had been sent to do some shopping for some bratty little royal child. I did not even have my sword and shield on me.

While I felt like I should not reveal the full details to just anyone unless they truly needed to know, I told him what little I could. "Just on some important business at Capricorn Island. And I brought back a bunch of goodies for my family since I left on short notice. What's going on here? I didn't catch you at a bad time, did I?"

"Capricorn Island?! You mean... Did you just teleport in from there?! That's gotta be some kinda record... I didn't even know it was possible to teleport that far with one spell! But... Uh... Nah, it's nothing special. Just checking in with my bosses over some routine mundane stuff. Not everything about the royal guard is glamorous and cool, you know?" Shining Armor replied with wide eyes that soon mellowed out as he continued to speak. Probably just a normal meeting to provide status reports on happenings in town.

"Ah... But yeah, I really did. Wasn't sure if it'd even work, but it looks like Capricorn Island isn't out of reach for those with a strong enough magic output. Although it's not without... Gah!" I made the mistake of trying to stand up too quickly. That sense of vertigo hit me like a brick as I immediately almost toppled right onto my side. But someone was quick. A layer of billowing golden yellow caught me like a bendable panel floating in the air. I glanced at the three thrones and saw Celestia's horn coated by her familiar magic aura. "Phew... Nice catch, your highness."

"Are you feeling all right, James? Did traveling so far all at once turn out to really be that taxing?" Celestia asked with concern in her voice as she and her sisters rose from their thrones and approached me. I was helped up to me feet while I tried very hard to remain still. The world almost felt like it was spinning and I had to stay rooted to one spot. Celestia's eyes narrowed as she muttered, "Your eyes are rolling around in your head... Swaying subtly... Are you all right? Do we need to call a doctor?"

"No, no, this is normal! At least I think it is... I got hit with this pretty bad too when I first got to Capricorn Island. Almost feels like vertigo... And symptoms similar to a concussion... But it cleared up after several hours. I'll be fine." I replied while knowing the worst of the experience would soon leave me. I just needed to wait a few minutes.

Nightmare Moon began to circle me as she observed my involuntary movements. "Hmmm... Mental fatigue and loss of balance... Symptoms of vertigo or a concussion... We will keep this in mind. But well done on completing your journey. You're the first to ever attempt such a distance."

"Heh... I guess I am. Anyway, what'd I miss?" I asked with Shining Armor and his men starting to see themselves out of the throne room while bidding me farewell with a salute. Their job was done and they could probably sense that there was still some personal time for me to spend with my royal friends.

"Now that you do mention it... Just after you departed, Mother and Father came rushing in hoping to catch you before you could leave. Apparently something about a private session? They were rather disappointed that they had miss you by only two minutes or so..." Nightmare Moon replied with an amused smirk. They only just remembered something at the last minute and tried to get to me before I could leave? What unfortunate timing.

"In that case, how about we go find out before I put my armor away? I think I can...walk now? Yeah, I can manage. The world's not spinning as much right now." I asked before testing my balance. I took one step forward. While shaky, I did not topple. But I still kept my arms a bit wide to widen my posture.

Luna spoke up with a concerned tone as she stepped past me. "Are you certain? I suspect whatever it is they wish to discuss with you is of a more...magical nature. Are you even capable of casting anything in your current condition?"

"Good question... Let me see here." I grumbled as I pondered if such mental fatigue could interfere with my ability to focus enough for spells. I tried to look for something I could grab with a levitation spell and noticed some of the large banners hanging along the walls. I reflexively reached out to one with my right hand. "Come on... Anyone can do a simple levitation spell..."

It took more effort than usual, but a billowing golden yellow aura formed over my right arm. As did a piece of one of the banners. I pulled it in one direction and then the other before releasing it and dispelling my gauntlet's magic. "Yeah, I think I can manage simpler spells right now."

"Then let's be on our... Wait a moment. Whatever shall we do about these?" Nightmare Moon asked while extending a wing towards the various bagged goods on the floor. It would be difficult just to carry them all home. And I was not leaving yet.

A smile crossed my lips. It seemed that no one had brought it up yet. So I turned to Celestia and said softly, "I did promise you an evening together when I got back."

Celestia's eyes brightened at the reminder. And she promptly placed a kiss on my cheek. "You remembered! Ladies, let's leave these in my room. They can stay there until tomorrow."

"Allow me, sister. The three of you go rendezvous with Mother and Father. I'll catch up to you then." Luna replied with her blue magic aura snatching up everything on the floor. She then diligently trotted out of the throne room with them floating along after her while I followed with her sisters. Although my gait was rather shaky. Nightmare Moon and Celestia stood at my sides just in case I needed to lean on something. Although I did feel the need to ask, "Say... Before I forget, can this level of magic-induced fatigue cause long-term health problems?"

"Not to our knowledge, no. There has never been any confirmed connection between magical fatigue and anything of the sort. Whether physical or mental. All you need is rest." Nightmare Moon replied before reaching out and nuzzling the side of her face against mine. She was maintaining an air of royal professionalism, but she and I knew what was truly in our hearts. I loved her and she loved me. And I cherished her being there while I was vulnerable.

The castle halls were quiet and I soon noticed why. Whenever we passed by a window, most of which were elegant yet simple stained glass, there was a conspicuous lack of light shining through them. Beautiful to behold, but they were not illuminated in any sort of way. That was when I had to ask. "Hey... Just what time is it? Is this the middle of the day or..."

"I only just set the sun over the horizon, James... Oooh, I see. There is quite the difference in time zones between here and Capricorn Island. Come to think of it, what time was it when you got there?" Celestia explained before flashing me a glance of intrigue. All I knew was that I was in for a very short day.

Disoriented as I was upon arrival, I do remember vividly what I saw. And I was happy to share it with my two royal beloveds. "I got there right at the crack of dawn. Have you ever seen the sunrise from the summit of Capricorn Island in the middle of winter? It was almost like it heralded a really good time for me."

Celestia beamed at me with a knowing smile. "I have actually! Novo and I have shared a few sunrises together over a bottle of mead. There's really nothing else like it, watching my mother's sun gradually rise of the horizon as its golden rays shine over the vast ocean. It really is poetic. I would adore having a painting of such a sight hanging on my wall."

It was then that Nightmare Moon brought up a very important detail. The entire reason I even went to Capricorn Island in the first place. "Riveting an experience as it must have been... I must ask. Did you find the answers you sought when you arrived? Is the queen of Capricorn Island...carrying an heir?"

That took the wind out of my sails. While I had come to terms with it by then, it was still somber to be reminded of what my dear Novo and I had been denied once again. I spoke after letting out a long sigh. "She's not. We were...unsuccessful. 10% chance of success and all that."

Celestia brought her head up against mine and tenderly nuzzled me. I raised my armored hand and tendered cradled her head against mine as we strolled along. There was nothing she needed to say. We had both already been denied the chance to have our first child together very recently. She could only imagine the bitter disappointment her best friend had endured after longing to have another child after so long. Especially after finally falling in love again. Nightmare Moon too sighed harshly while averting her gaze. "It is quite the predicament, is it not? For all the advances and miracles our world has achieved through the blessing of magic, even something as base as genetics can still defy it. My sincerest condolences, my friend. I pray you and your queen do not have to wait too long before being blessed with your first heir."

"Thank you... At least it is possible. And there's always next time." I replied with some hope in my heart. And yet, I could not help but notice that Nightmare Moon was being a bit too cool and professional in here response. My eyes met hers while my head blocked Celestia's view. And her gaze softened when those beautiful and exotic eyes met my gaze. It was all a facade. We were in love. But it was a love that could not entirely be. And yet, I remembered that promise. If fate would allow it, I would gladly father precious nightmare foals with my angel of the night. The first of their kind. It was unlikely, but it was a desire we shared. And we could only hope for an opportunity to let that miracle occur. I did not speak, but I did move my lips. Hoping she would be able to read them as I spoke without sound. "I love you."

She knew. And Nightmare Moon responded only after carefully glancing about to make certain not a single eye was upon her. Once she confirmed that no one was watching, even with her sister's view of her obstructed by my head, she reached out and placed a kiss upon my cheek. It was brief, but it was enough. And we smiled at each other. We can only hope a miracle may find a way.

We soon stood before a door that led into a smaller chamber in the castle. And Luna was quick to reunite with us as we heard the galloping of hooves coming down the hall behind us. The Princess of the Night came to our side as she said, "Seems I made it just in time. All parcels have been delivered to your chambers, Celestia. Now then... Shall we?"

My stance had already steadied by then, but I would not be free of the side effects for long. We pushed the doors open and found the king and queen of Equestria sipping glasses of wine in what seemed to be the parlor of the castle. Cozily designed with even a fireplace sitting unused in one spot against the wall. The glorious royal couple were seated before a small round table with a few documents set out between them. I did not catch what they were saying before they noticed us, but I suspect they were simply discussing some of the legislative workloads the royal family had to deal with on a regular basis. And I am sure their daughters would never be able to voice adequate gratitude for their presence lightening the paperwork side of their duties.

King Orbash was the first to detect our presence. Even before his daughters could speak. That wonderful king immediately looked our way with a smile gracing his face. "Ah ha! Our homecoming prince returns! How are things out there at this time of year? Plenty of clam chowder around those parts?"

"Very cold, very quiet, and very...white. It's quite the sight up there at the summit on Capricorn Island. Moreso than usual at least. Although yes. I did get to enjoy some homemade clam chowder while I was there." I replied as Orbash rose from his seat. That beautiful stallion of blackest night and shimmering silver mane came trotting my way as his daughters gave us some room. He embraced me with his wing, jaw resting atop my left pauldron. I gently embraced him as well, although I did find myself feeling the symptoms of magical concussion. "Missed you too, your majesty."

"Hmm? What's wrong? Why so unsteady? Did the trip home take a lot out of you?" Orbash asked as Sunflare also rose from her seat and began to approach. She tilted her head to one side in order to look past her husband, an eyebrow rising when she noticed my stance becoming momentarily unsteady.

"It would seem so, Father. No one has ever attempted to use the teleportation spell to transport themselves so far in one go. Even we have not attempted such a feat. And the teleportation spell is taxing when overused." Nightmare Moon explained as her father released me from his embrace. I know I looked fine and generally felt fine, but I was still dazed. I have no idea what affects magical focus has on the physical body, but fatigue is fatigue. I was simply mentally exhausted.

"Hm... That's no good. Orbash and I were hoping you would be able to partake in a...session of sorts with us. But if your mind is too drained... Perhaps I can alleviate some of your fatigue. Be still, child." Sunflare spoke calmly as she stepped towards me. Orbash then stepped aside while I remained still to accept the queen's offer. She gently lowered her head and rested her central horn atop my brow while gazing into my eyes. "I am more in tune with mending physical trauma, but perhaps I can still..."

The five tiny horns set atop her head were coated by Sunflare's billowing scarlet aura before it also rose over her central long horn. And...I could already feel changes. My balance improved. The world stopped spinning. I even felt the symptom of a concussion come on only to fade a little too quickly. But I still felt somewhat drained. Like how one feels after attending a party and just socializing the entire time. The aura coating her horns faded before Sunflare lifted her horn from my brow. She spoke gently to me, "How was that? Have your senses cleared?"

I blinked a few times and glanced around at my surroundings. I felt about as normal as possible aside from the general sense of lower energy than usual. "I don't know what you did, but it really helped... Come to think of it, how do you do that anyway? I don't think even Celestia has ever been able to heal me like that."

It was not the first time. Sunflare had already displayed a miraculous ability to mend physical injuries to some degree during the War of Preservation. She very likely saved Nightmare Moon from certain death by mending the worst of her injuries after a practically harrowing battle. But it had limits. She could not heal her daughter entirely. And there was only so much she could do for me while I struggled with a skull fracture during that final mission. I happened to glance to my side and notice Celestia looked rather disappointed in herself for not being able to mimic her mother's mastery in the healing arts. Although Orbash then spoke up, "Yes, about that... We were hoping to catch you at the last moment when we remembered to you likely had not been tutored about a certain...function your armor's magic is capable of producing."

"Huh? You mean there's things I can do with this armor that I still don't know about? In that case, what're we waiting for? Please show me. I wanna know everything I can do with this gear." I replied without much thought. It was astounding to think I had already figured out all the answers to every question I had about my armor's functions only to discover there were more esoteric functions I had never been told about.

"Well then... If your mind has cleared enough for you to fully focus enough for casting a wide variety of spells, then let's. Although I would recommend me take this outdoors. To the courtyard, yes?" Sunflare replied with a bit of gusto in her voice betraying her usual composed and firm demeanor. We all followed Queen Sunflare and King Orbash through the halls of the castle until we emerged into the courtyard that was blanketed with snow. And unlike the foliage of Capricorn Island, the trees and bushes retained their vibrant green despite the frigid cold of winter. Sunflare then turned to her daughters and said, "You may all watch if you wish, though do keep your distance. You know how...unpredictable a novice can be when using a spell for the first time."

https://youtu.be/hk6Wdi2iN1g?si=EaOq-8upRoFrg5xe

"All too well, Mother! But I am rather excited to see where this goes. Have fun, James!" Celestia laughed before she and her sisters stepped back quite a ways. It was just me and the true king and queen of Equestria. And I was rather hyped. I had only received lessons from the three royal sisters. But from the king and queen themselves? Veritable gods of this world of Equestria? What secrets did they have to share?

Orbash spoke first, his charisma keeping me at attention at all times. "Let's keep the introduction brief, shall we? I understand our daughters have thoroughly tutored you in the elemental energies contained in your gauntlets. Such as in your left there... You probably know that it contains..."

The moon king lifted his head as his silvery white magic aura billowed over his horns. And around it formed a frigid white mist of chilling ice magic. And only for that to fade as erratically flailing arcs of white lightning momentarily sparked from the tip of his central horn. "Ice...and lightning magic."

He was right. I still remember when Celestia and Luna showed up on my doorstep to invite me out and witness their mastery over the polar opposite elements of heat and cold. Luna's display of unleashing a localized blizzard of cold blue frost was especially impressive. Although Sunflare then lifted her head and said, "And in your right... Fire and solar magic."

The sun queen mirrored her husband's prior actions. Her magic aura billowed over her horns as a flickering flame of scarlet hues formed at the tip of her horn. Only for it to fade and be replaced by a pulsing and very bright orb of volatile celestial fire. I could feel the heat from it even from that distance. I think even the lingering bits of snow left behind by the castle staff's previous shoveling attempts melted away to reveal the pure green grass around Sunflare's hooves. Solar magic is a frightful force. And the kind Sunflare is capable of casting in on an almost unfathomable level of destructive potential. Although Sunflare then dismissed her fiery creations and looked at me directly. "You see the differences, do you not? In your left hand lies the power of the storm. Both arctic and otherwise. And in your right is housed the power of blinding flames. I must ask then. What do these two forces in nature produce just by existing?"

Speaking in riddles, was she? I crossed my armored limbs and tried to ponder that question. But while my head felt clear, I was still too tired to try and ponder anything too hard. "Sorry, but I think I'm still too worn out to think about anything too hard. Can we skip the riddles and just get to what you're trying to tell me?"

I swear I do not think I have ever seen Sunflare look so embarrassed. And the giggling from her daughters over yonder only added to her annoyance. She was probably just trying to be profound as a mentor, but I was in no condition to play along. Orbash lifted his head and laughed before speaking next. "Ha! Perhaps we should stop dancing about and just get on with it. You've already had a long day, haven't you my boy? What we are saying here is... The elemental magic in your gauntlets? They carry a...secondary function. Byproducts of the elements of heat and cold. For a blizzard and a thunderstorm brings wind. And a flame and the sun generates light. You understand?"

I lifted my hands to gaze upon my gauntlets. Wind? Light? There was more I could do than just generate ice, lightning, and fire? I raised my armored hands and gazed upon them. "Wind and light? I have two more elements at my disposal I can use?"

"Yes. And they should be easier to cast since they are byproducts instead of the primary elements contained within your armor. Even in such a fatigued state, you should be able to get some results. Orbash? Why don't you go first?" Sunflare replied while taking a few steps back to let her husband take center stage.

The beautiful moon king stepped forward with a kind and nurturing smile on his face. The last time he must have tutored anyone was when he taught Luna herself how to harness the elemental magic contained within her body. "All right then, my dear prince. Wind magic is possibly the easiest of the six elements for you to harness since you're not actually generating anything new. You're simply manipulating the air around you."

Orbash stepped up beside me and used his levitation magic to lift my arm so it was reaching forward. I suppose I got too relaxed in his presence and forgot to take the initiative. I began to focus through my left gauntlet as the familiar blue of Luna's magic aura coated my arm below the elbow. "OK, so... What do I do?"

The wise king of Equestria leaned towards me and spoke above a whisper into my ear. Explaining to me the workings of such magic that I cannot really begin to describe here. I was learning more by doing than anything else. I have no idea how the likes of Twilight Sparkle can process such things from text when I cannot even begin to explain what I have been told. And I was especially perplexed that wind cannot be seen to begin with. How would I know I was doing anything right?

But then I felt it. A cold breeze licking my face and across my hair. But there was no sign of wind anywhere else. The trees and bushes of the courtyard remained still and undisturbed by wind. The high walls around the perimeter of the area helped keep such gusts out. And yet, I could feel a constant breeze of air against...only the left side of my face. Was something there?

"There... Yes, now we're getting somewhere. Here, let me get something to help with that." Orbash replied before his own silvery white magic aura coated his horns. His eyes focused on the ground before something rose from it. A few dead leaves that had been barely covered by the recently melted snow floated up before us while held in Orbash's magic aura and looked just dry enough to drift through the air if a decent gust hit them. "Go ahead, my boy. Blow them away."

"Uh... Here goes nothing." I muttered as I thrust my hand out while trying to force whatever my magic was generating forward. And something did happen. The breeze licking my face suddenly stopped as an invisible wave of wind threw the floating leaves forward before they drifted back to the ground. I looked at my left hand while letting the magic around it fade. Just like that, I now knew of another element to harness. "Huh... Wind. Didn't know I had it in me."

Orbash beamed at me with a big smile. Even his three daughters applauded me with their hooves tapping together while seated. Although I then had to ask before anything else could be said. "Hang on, there's a problem here. Even if I can cast wind magic now, how do I know how wide a reach it has when I can't even see it? Isn't it...dangerous when you can't even see your own projectiles before you throw them?"

"That's a very good question. Yes, the weakest wind spells are as formless as actual wind. As you just saw. But there is a way to make it more...visible. Observe." Orbash replied before lifting his head high. He once again summoned his white magic aura around his horns as it billowed with a gentle din. "You can't see it now, but there is a funnel of wind swirling around my horn. Just as there was with your left arm a moment ago. But if I turn up the strength a bit..."

My eyes widened as the breeze swirling around Orbash's horn intensified into a gust. And with it...came vapor. Like a type of light gray fog that revealed the presence of the air currents. Orbash then looked at me with his cheeks pulling back to reveal a cheeky smile. "See? Very visible now."

The mighty king of Equestria then unleashed that vortex of wind straight up as the fog rose in a swirling vortex. It reached high, but the fog quickly dissipated as the wind died down. A byproduct of a byproduct. I then asked, "So wind magic generates a veil of fog when it gets strong enough... When it becomes strong enough to really do some damage."

"Precisely. A gentle breeze is harmless in most situations, so don't worry too much if you can't see it." Orbash replied before stepping forward. He then touched his central horn to Sunflare's and said, "Your turn, my love. Don't work him too hard."

"Nonsense, my love. I'll take care not to break the boy." Sunflare replied with a facetious tone. Now that her husband had tapped out, the radiant sun queen stepped towards me while I stood at attention. She spoke with a professional tone devoid of humor, "Now you know how to access the three elements contained within your left gauntlet. But you still have yet to access what remains in your right. Light magic differs from wind in that you must exert the magical energies within your gauntlet to produce light. It still requires less effort than fire or solar magic, but more than wind. You understand, yes?"

All I did was nod as I took in Sunflare's words. The polar opposite of her very amicable husband, I was compelled to not speak out of turn and let my mentor do all the talking. Sunflare then lifted her gaze to look upward in the general direction of her horns. Her scarlet magic aura enveloped her horn as a glowing white beacon of light formed at the tip of her central horn. Like the purest white light bulb without any actual solid mass in the middle. The light soon faded after that brief demonstration before she stepped up to my right and began to speak softly into my ear. "It is a simple spell. Listen closely."

Once again, I was told things I cannot begin to describe in writing. But I listened. And I decided to start small when I tried to replicate Sunflare's display. I lifted one finger as I held my right hand out before me. The familiar golden yellow color of Celestia's magic coated my right arm below the elbow in a billowing aura. And with a little focus, I got results. Right there on my fingertip was a bright white beacon. I even tried waving my hand around in the air as the orb of light on my armored fingertip even gained something akin to a comet's tail as it moved around. Sunflare's calm smile told me everything. But she still said, "Go on. More."

"More...? Oh. Right. More." I retorted before I got the hint. I fully opened my hand to splay my fingers. Or as much as I could with my gauntlet's plating in the way. One by one, a beacon of light formed on all five of my fingertips. But that was still not enough. With just a touch more focus, my entire armor hand became coated in a layer of pure white light. I felt a gentle warmth coming from it in the bitter winter cold. And as I gazed upon my hand, that bright white... It was identical to the white glow that constantly coats the blade of the Celestial Sword. Perhaps it was even the exact same type of magic infused into it. And that was when I had a realization. "Huh... Now I know what to do if I need some light, but drawing the Celestial Sword would be too cumbersome."

The three royal sisters once again applauded my success with their hooves together. But it was then that I had an idea. Was that all? Was light magic only useful for generating a glow for dark areas? Or could it actually cause damage? I dispelled the magic in my right hand and turned to Sunflare while she looked like she was about to congratulate me. I then spoke first, "Hey, this is nice and all. But can't I also use light magic to...I dunno...fire lasers?"

Why did Luna start giggling when I said that? Maybe it sounded like something someone would say in the comic books she reads. And Sunflare looked geninely confused by my question. "What's that? A laser, you say? Just what is that supposed to be?"

No wonder she knew nothing of it. Lasers are a fairly recent scientific discovery and with how archaic she and her husband have been living off the grid for the longest time... I then tried to explain to her what I was getting at. "Right, you probably haven't heard of it. Basically... Think of a narrow beam of light so concentrated and intense that that literally cuts through whatever it touches. Does that sound familiar?"

Sunflare's eyes opened wide in realization. Only for them to narrow with her lips displaying such a devious smirk. "Ooooh... You mean... Like this?"

The sun queen's horns were suddenly engulfed in her scarlet magic aura. As was a fairly large fallen tree branch nearby that was still coated in snow. It was suddenly flung skyward as it tumbled in the air. And Sunflare tracked its movements with her head raised. An orb of light formed at the tip of her horn. Only for that orb to suddenly emit a narrow and bright beam of light that shot out into the darkening sky. The sound it made... Quiet, yet high in pitch as it was sustained. And when that tumbling tree branch fell into it, the branch was suddenly split in two before falling to the ground with a thud. The two ends where it had once been connected showed signs of heat damage, but not exactly charred. The beam of light faded with Sunflare's aura as the proud sun queen held her head high in pride. "Why yes. I can produce these 'lasers' you speak of. Or at least I suppose that's the modern term for it now?"

I was in awe. It was possible to use magic that was similar to sci-fi weaponry? I looked at my own armored hand as I felt giddy at the chance to do so myself. But wait... A question came to my mind. And I looked over at Sunflare's three daughters before asking, "Hey! Celestia! Why haven't you ever used that spell before?"

Why indeed. With all the harrowing battles she had participated in during my dreams, I was surprised that she had not tried to cut her enemies down with piercing magic lasers. Although the way her sisters rolled their eyes... Celestia was even hesitant to answer while looking quite uneasy. Although she did eventually speak. "I haven't because...I can't."

Before I could even ask, Sunflare got my attention by resting her wing atop my shoulder. Any smug amusement in her eyes was gone as she spoke with a much firmer tone. "You must understand. The power that Orbash and I possess was never meant to be replicated or passed down. For as mighty as our children are, there can never be another like us. Having too many possess such power is...dangerous."

I did not even try to press Sunflare for more information. I understood perfectly. And I knew that I too would never be able to replicate the kind of magical output of Equestria's true king and queen. The magic my gauntlets possess is only as powerful as the magic possessed by Celestia and Luna. At least the three daughters of the sun queen and moon king did not appear disheartened by this fact. They were as powerful as they needed to be.

Orbash then began to step forward with a big smile on his face and proceeded to add some levity to the situation. "Yes, Sunflare is quite right. Our magical might is on another level compared to our daughters. Even for our secondary elemental magic. Why back before we disappeared from the annals of history, the common folk often referred to me as the Gale King. And my dear Sunflare as the Inferno Queen. Apt descriptions, if I do say so myself."

"Apt indeed, my dear. When was the last time you conjured up a full tornado on your own?" Sunflare replied with a smirk. I could already picture such a sight in my mind. I was truly standing among gods who possessed power well beyond what their people could imagine. From gentle beams of light into deadly lasers or quiet breezes into colossal whirling funnels of gale force storms, the sun queen and moon king were unmatched in magical prowess. Or so I hope they are. If one exists who possesses power greater than theirs...

My dark thoughts were interrupted by Orbash patting me on my armored shoulder with his wing. He then spoke with a smile, "But for now... I say that will suffice for an introduction course. You're still quite fatigued from your long trip back, so let's save further tutelage for later."

"Good idea. I'm surprised I can even manage this much right now." I replied in agreement. Sunflare did a lot to steady my senses, but the mental fatigue would not leave me so easily. Although I suppose I should have been grateful in that it would help me get to sleep on an otherwise shorter day. I looked up at the night sky to see that the stars were visible at the time. "I guess I'm in for a short day. One of the drawbacks of long-distance teleportation. At least now I know."

The three royal sisters began to approach us now that the session had ended. Although I was quick to speak up before they could. "Just to be clear... I'm not interrupting anything by showing up at this hour, am I? Any meetings you have left?"

"No, not at this hour. But we appreciate your concern. Once the sun sets, our daily schedules are usually fulfilled. Unless something urgent just happens to come up." Luna replied before she happened to glance up at her sister with a growing smirk. And it took Celestia a moment to notice that look her little sister was giving her. And the instant she happened to notice, Celestia flinched in confused surprise. Luna then said, "But now that the day is ending, I do believe you and my dear sister have...arrangements to tend to?"

My eyebrows rose while Celestia blushed. That was right. We did agree to spending an evening together once I had returned. And the night was young. Orbash then let out a laugh as he said, "But of course! We had best give the two lovebirds some space! In that case, I do believe we shall see ourselves out. But do be sure to stay for breakfast in the morning, my boy."

"Father... But yes. If you all don't mind..." Celestia nervously replied as her entire family bore witness to our relationship. The rest of the royal family began to depart with approving smiles. Although Nightmare Moon's smile was filled wit a subtle longing as our eyes met. She did not object to her sister's love for me, but... If only. I hope there is a way for us to find a future together.

And then we were alone in the courtyard. Surrounded by the chill of winter and all of the flora of that majestic garden covered in a layer of snow. I turned to my beautiful royal beloved and asked, "Before anything else happens... How about I return my armor to the vault? I'm kind sick of having to where it everywhere I go."

"Yes, of course! I don't want to go on a date with my knight after all. I'm expecting an evening with my king." Celestia giggled before she suddenly used a teleportation to place us back in the throne room. No one was there, but I suspect guards were positioned just outside. Although with how close the vault was...

It seemed like an obvious thing to ask while I watched Celestia use her magic to lift the thrones and their foundation to reveal the spiraling stairwell leading down. But I had to ask anyway. "Say... Couldn't you have just teleported us right down to the vault without bothering with...the door?"

Celestia looked back at me with a more serious gaze. And I quickly realized why my question was a rather dumb one. "We can't. There is a field placed over the vault that repels any means of entering with a teleportation spell. If the wrong people knew of its existence and could get in so easily... And I don't think I need to remind you that your armor is not picky over who gets to wear it."

"Oh... Yikes. Sorry I asked." I retorted with some embarrassment. But Celestia quickly regained her smile and led me down the stairwell while lowering the thrones behind us. The passage went dark only to be illuminated by torches that ignited upon the walls. The air was very cool, but not quite cold. And it got me thinking. "Have you reconsidered using this place to store drinks during winter? Or even as a wine cellar?"

"James, come on. This again? And having to go through all this trouble every time my sisters or I want a bottle? It's just not happening, my sunshine." Celestia snickered in some amusement. It was not the first time she had been asked that. And they had plenty of places to store wine anyway.

We soon strolled down the corridor at the bottom of the stairs. It was so quiet, the air cool and musty. No matter how many times I walk down that corridor with my royal companions escorting me, I always feel a sense of gravitas. My armor and weapons are mine and free to access it, but it never loses its mysticism about it. I was in a sacred location kept hidden from the entire world for so long.

https://youtu.be/Hm0sWo7UAZw?si=U7fQ7hhd7468uHsY

And there it was. Hanging above an altar against the far wall were the sacred sword and shield that had served me well many times. And just behind a basin set into the middle of the altar was my armor's matching helmet. And embedded into its brow was the pure white and polished form of the Element of Humanity. I became thoroughly distracted by it for a moment as Celestia waited for me to place my armor where it belonged. My mind went back to a time not long ago at all. A time of war brought on by the one who created the Element of Humanity in the first place. "So much trouble this thing caused... Or at least that's how it felt for a while."

"No, dear. The Element of Humanity itself has never been our enemy. But there is such a sense of bitter irony when considering who made it. The poor fool..." Celestia replied as she reached out and embraced me from behind with one wing. We both gazed upon that sacred artifact, her memories of it reaching back long before my time. The kindly Princess of the Dawn then rested her head against the side of mine, her jaw resting atop my pauldron. "You have never disappointed us, my love. And we are all so very proud of you. The Element of Humanity chose its bearer well."

There was one question I needed to ask. And it was a difficult one. "Will I ever live up to Megan's legacy?"

Celestia sighed harshly at the mention of the name of a long departed friend. She soon spoke with a whisper while I noticed her eyes closing. "She was a marvelous woman... Not at all like the haughty or pompous fops so many royals are stereotyped as. She may have been a princess, but she was a commoner at heart. She understood the value of the simple things in life. And a defender always ready to take up the sword for Equestria. Even when our world's acceptance of humanity was shattered, she continued to serve as a guardian for our people. I just hope her story will become better known from now on..."

I said nothing. I had seen and spoken to that dear hero princess once. Human, but not quite like me. The product of a very different world. Gracious and kind, but a mighty warrior all the same. In hindsight, I have no idea how I managed to land a decisive blow in that duel. Sheer luck? Even though I triumphed that time, I knew in my heart that I was still Megan's inferior. "I don't think I'll ever truly reach her level."

"Don't worry about trying to be like her. Just be yourself. Every champion is different. And no one will ever compare you to her anyway. My family and I certainly won't." Celestia said softly before she lifted her head from my pauldron. She then opened her eyes and spoke with a gentle smile on her lips. "I knew her. And I know she would not want you to try and be her. She would want you to just be you. The you who proved himself worthy enough of being a citizen of Equestria despite coming from such a blighted world. He who was the first to answer the call when our world was on the verge of being changed forever by human sin."

"I'll do my best then... Even if I never counted on being some kinda hero when I came to this world." I replied with an uneven smile. But it was time to put my armor back where it belonged. I no longer needed it now that I was home and the world was largely at peace. I stepped forward and placed my armored right hand into the basin as I cast the needed spell to remove my armor. "OK you... Back in your bowl."

I was unsure if that would even work. I normally tend to find that my armor melts into a puddle around my feet when I remove it without some extra aid from one of the royal sisters. But the armor seemed to know exactly where it needed to go. The metal shell over my body melted into a fluid that slid down my arm. It was so strange to feel that liquid moving up my body instead of sliding off as if pulled down by gravity. It all was drawn to my right arm and down past my wrist. I soon stood in just my clothing with the liquid whole of my armor now returned to its resting place. "I wonder if this armor has any will of its own... Almost like it knew just where to go right then."

"It shouldn't. I mean I really hope it doesn't. It wasn't Luna or my idea to try and instill sentience into that armor when we forged it." Celestia replied before I suddenly noticed a chill through my socked feet. It really was that cool down there in the vault with the winter chill reaching in through the earth itself. There was no source of heat down there aside from the rows of torches, but that did nothing for anything blow my waist. Celestia noticed me fidgeting and looked down. "James... Where are you shoes?"

"Really? You think I can comfortably wear sabatons over a pair of shoes? I remember packing them up in my backpack. But man its cold down here..." I grumbled as I started to head over to the way out. Even if I did get a crooked grin out of Celestia with my retort. Celestia wasted no time in following me back towards the entrance. But there was one question still on my mind as I looked over my shoulder at the far end of the vault. Seeing part of the Lunar Shield from there stirred curiosity in me. And I was willing to endure the cold for a little longer. "Celestia... Where are Megan's armaments today?"

The Princess of the Dawn stopped with me while a troubled or somewhat pained gaze filled her eyes. I was almost about to retract my question when she turned to me with a sigh. While still looking unhappy through her eyes, her lips still displayed a subtle smile. Celestia was very proud of the kindly hero princess. "Her equipment...was buried with her remains. Never to be used again. Luna and I were convinced that there would never be two human paragons who would wield the entire set as a duo, so we...let one of them go. And her resting place is a very closely guarded secret. I'm sorry, James. I can't and won't reveal it to you. Please understand."

I did not press my beloved for answers. I knew it was best to leave that era of Equestria's past alone. But I still asked, "Even the Dusk Sword and Solar Shield?"

Celestia's eyes widened in surprise. I believe she had forgotten that I had spoken to Megan once before. Even if just in a vision. But she then smiled at me and said, "Yes... Those two. I doubt they will ever be used again. I can't imagine finding anyone who would truly be worthy of taking up those mighty weapons."

That was when I smirked. While the two suits of armor worn by Megan and I had identical functions, our weapons were not quite made equal. I still remembered the nasty surprise the Solar Shield revealed when Megan hurled it at me. "You made the Solar Shield, right? Very sneaky of you to hide a blade wheel function in it. I never saw that coming."

"Oh my goodness, Megan showed you that?! I hope she didn't get you with it!" Celestia burst into panicked laughter with her wings suddenly spreading wide. When considering just what that thing could do to someone if it hit them, no wonder she was embarrassed. Celestia cackled in nervous laughter before saying, "Yes... Yes, that was my idea. Luna and I had both sword and shield sets lean in different directions. Yours was a bit more defense oriented while the other leaned more towards offense. Megan chose the Dusk Sword and Solar Shield when we let her choose. And she used them well. She had a fierce side in battle. Almost fearless at times."

"And I believe you." I replied as I thought back to that fateful duel deep in my heart. She was so kind and gentle as we spoke. But once she donned her armor and raised her sword, I saw the warrior within. Megan was a true veteran in the art of combat. As fierce as a diving falcon. But now it was just me. I was no falcon. Much more so a soft-spoken dove. Just as my cutie mark shows. With my questions answered, I began to follow Celestia up the spiraling stone stairwell. "I won't let her down. Let her rest. She's done enough for this world."

"More than enough. Oh dear Margaret... Rest well, sweet princess." Celestia spoke with her voice softening. I think I heard a sniffle from my beloved. Megan... I will never be able to truly fill your shoes, but I hope I will be enough in the coming years.

The throne room was empty when we emerged. And we did not leave until the entrance to the vault was sealed behind us. Celestia then began to lead me through the castle to return to her bedchambers. I really wanted to get my shoes back on right away. Although there was something enjoyable about walking through the castle in just my socks. That smooth polished stone floor occasionally covered by a soft rug. It felt so informal of me to do that. More like I was lounging around in my own home instead of visiting a royal palace. And I suspect I will be doing that fairly regularly in the future.

Up some stairs and through some halls we trekked with only the occasional guard on patrol. Night had fallen and most of the castle staff had returned home for the night. No sign of the rest of Celestia's family. Where did they head off to in order to give us some space? Whatever the case, we soon found our way back into Celestia's private bedchambers. And tucked in the corner was a neat cluster of all the goods I brought home. As well as my shoes. "There they are. Just a second..."

https://youtu.be/2R6MD3pRFTU?si=Xy\_mihvLxrNTagkN

"Why the hurry, dear? Sit down and relax a little while. We don't have to go anywhere just yet." Celestia giggled before she stepped over to the fireplace. She rested on the floor bedside it and soon set the logs in it alight with a flash of fire magic. Teh room, once dark, was filled with a warm flickering glow that instantly quashed any will I had to go anywhere for the moment. That warmth coming off it was delightful to my cool feet as I cuddled up beside my beloved. She whispered to me tenderly, "Nothing like an open flame on a snowy day, is there?"

"Not even close. I used to love when my aunt would have her fireplace going in winter for holiday visits. Just about the only person I knew who regularly used one." I replied before casting my gaze around the room. It had been some time since I had last been back in there and I wanted to remind myself of what I remembered. Although I did happened to notice a tall bird cage with a shroud draped over it. I instantly knew who was under there. "Does Philomena mind the cold much?"

"Not at all. Phoenixes are just as active in winter as the rest of the year. The cold doesn't bother them at all. Fire birds and all that. But she does tend to go to sleep sooner in winter. When it gets dark, she likes to turn in." Celestia replied as the golden yellow aura of her magic flared up around her horn. I thought she was about to wake Philomena up, but I instead heard a wooden cabinet opening at the far side of the room. I glanced over my shoulder to see a wine bottle floating our way with two glasses. Celestia then smiled as she asked, "Care for a drink, my love? A hearty red blend to fight off the cold?"

"Sounds like a good color from all that chilling white out there... Thank you, dear." I whispered back to her as Celestia wiggled the cork out of the bottle. It looked like it was already halfway empty and she was hoping to use up the rest that night. She filled our glasses to only a third full before we clinked them together for a toast. And we only sat there before the blaze while sipping our wine. I appreciated the gesture. With how short my day was, wine would help tire me out for a good night's sleep in a few hours.

It was such a romantic situation. Like something out of a novel, the two of us leaning into each other while relaxing in front of the fireplace. It was comforting... And it helped me find the courage to speak comfortably over why I had come to Canterlot in the first place just a few days earlier. "Novo..."

It took Celestia a moment to process that I had spoken the name of her best friend. I felt her turn her head towards me just slightly while asking, "Did you find the answers you were looking for out there?"

She needed to know. If anyone needed to know something important about her best friend, it was Celestia herself. That familiar sting of disappointment swelling in my heart, I spoke the unfortunate truth. "Yeah... It didn't take. Our nest will be staying empty for a while longer."

I heard a light clink as Celestia's glass was set on the floor. And it had been lowered with more force than needed. I could sense Celestia's frustration. "That is...such a sad way of putting it, dear. But I understand. I was expecting the worst given the...circumstances. 10%... Just a 10% chance of success. Even with all the discoveries and advancements of magic and even science Equestria has made, it's just so vexing that something as basic as one's own genetics can prevent life from finding a way..."

"Even in a world of magic...there are some things all the love in the world just can't insure." I said with a sigh before downing the rest of my wine. I silently apologized to my daughters. Scootaloo and Gladesong. I want to give them brothers and sisters that I knew they will adore and happily grow up with, but that would likely not be happening anytime soon. Of all the creatures Equestria has never known, why did it have to be humans whose genes struggles to be compatible with everything else? Celestia and I both leaned against each other as I let my heart speak. "I love you... And I want to have children with you. You and all of them... I wish we didn't have to wait."

Celestia draped her wing over my back in an embrace. She then spoke to me with a wistful whisper. "I know... And I love you so much more than you know... All we can do is keep trying... We'll have roughly three chances a year, my sunshine. Let's not waste a single one."

I then asked with my head taking precedence over my heart. "Are you really ready right now?"

A beautiful giggle rumbled in Celestia's throat. One of gleeful hope. "When it happens, it happens. I will gladly bear my king an heir. Whenever that happens."

I embraced her. Holding the beautiful Princess of the Dawn in my arms as our lips met. The disappointment in our hearts was being shoved aside by the hope we had for the near future. Celestia gazed lovingly into my eyes as she whispered, "I mean it, dear. I'm ready to have foals with you. Not just our heirs. But our children. Really... I'm ready to be a true queen with the love of my life."

"Celestia... Oh my god..." I gave in to the love swelling in my heart. We rolled onto our sides as we embraced. Kissing and moaning gently, embracing each other with restless arms and wings... In that moment, it was just us. Man and mare being so very in love. So in love that we were dreaming of starting a family together.

We basked in the glow of that soothing fireplace as the passion in our hearts made way for a gentle warmth within us. Holding and savoring each other. Finding happiness in hopes of what will be ours one day. I whispered into beloved's swiveling ear, "I love you... I'm so happy to have you..."

"Oh James... I never would've guessed the herald of humanity's return would also be the man to win my heart... I have no regrets, my sunshine. I'm honored to be your queen. And I can't wait to see you crowned as my king." Celestia said with a loving sigh. She embraced me in those glorious wings. From the embrace of one queen into the grasp of another. I felt so blessed to know I would be wearing a crown someday for two wonderful queens. Two best friends who had witnessed so much history across their world. And Celestia knew this. "A king of two kingdoms... Maybe more? Novo and I are so blessed to have you, my love..."

"I hope I'll be enough... I love you both so much. I know I don't have any real leadership skills, but I'll try for you. I want to be worthy..." I buried my face in Celestia's wavering mane. All those colors filled with a subtle delightful scent. A scent I will now always associate with the auroras of the night sky.

"Don't worry about your kingly duties, dear. Leave all that to us. Even as king, you will still be Sir James. An honored knight of Equestria. Don't worry about being a king when you're far better suited to be a knight. And that is enough in the eyes of the people. Our world is very proud of you, dear. When the time comes for us to finally have an heir... We'll figure something out. I would never want your relationships and the family you're building to fall apart because of a scandal. And I'm sure Mother and Father would want that too." Celestia cooed to me as she held me in her wings. Wrapped up while basking in the warm glow of her fireplace. As if shielding me from cold unseen gazes just outside on the balcony nearby.

I thought of the true king and queen of Equestria. And how fortunate I am that they have accepted me despite the unorthodox nature of my family. If they wished it, they could prevent Celestia and I from ever having a chance of being together. No power in the world would be able to defy them. And I slumped into Celestia's nurturing embrace as I thought of those miraculous alicorns. "I'm grateful for them... And that they're OK with us being together."

Celestia replied with a giggle. A very knowing giggle. "They've been around longer than anyone else. And I'm glad they've gained much wisdom in their time. Especially Father, bless his heart. I'm not so sure Mother would've accepted the situation without his counsel. But she did. And I hope you can forgive her for...how things went at first. I was cross with her for at least a few days myself..."

That was a dreadful first impression... For all I had been told about Orbash and Sunflare, I never would have imagined the great sun queen herself would attempt to destroy me at our first encounter. It had taken some significant effort on both our parts afterward to try and patch things up. But knowing what my very presence in Equestria was fueling at the time... "It's OK... She was doing what she had to do for the sake of Equestria. Maybe if she took me out right then and there, the portal to Earth would've collapsed. Maybe it hadn't become..."

"No. Shush... Please." Celestia whispered with a firmer tone than before. I felt her winged embrace tighten with her head beside mine. And I did shush. It was her turn to speak. "It wasn't the right way to end things... I couldn't lose you. Not then. And not now. Not after all that had happened since the day you came to this world... What would I have even said to your friends and family back home? That my mother destroyed you to save our world? That your death was a necessary sacrifice?"

I had no words. There was nothing I could even say to that. Just what would such news do to my children? Scootaloo would never forgive Sunflare. And Gladesong would have to grow up with the knowledge that her father was gone because of a decree from Equestria's true queen. And Fluttershy... I could not even comprehend what such a reveal would do to my wife. I could only give my thanks by saying three words. "I love you."

"And I love you, my sunshine... I just...want to put those days behind us. That dark chapter of Equestria's past should never have been revisited anyway. The past has been buried... I just want to focus on the here and now. With you... I want to just...be happy with the man I love." Celestia said with a wistful sigh as I felt her wings loosen their embrace. I held my beloved with my hands sliding over her body. that white coat having a silken feel to it. Over her sides. Then under to caress her strong chest. Then lower to her belly...and over her womb. She noticed. And my beautiful queen whispered to me. "To be happy...with the father of my children."

Desire and hope burned in my heart. I had seen how Celestia had interacted with my precious little Gladesong very recently. The Princess of the Dawn truly contained a mother's spirit. Gentle and nurturing like the sun she raised and lowered every day. My hands lingered over Celestia's lower belly as I sighed with hope. I closed my eyes, trying to imagine the beautiful children we would hopefully be blessed with. The most powerful and beautiful foals the world would have ever seen. And my beautiful queen cooed to me with a tone of longing. "I've dreamed of it, dear... Of carrying our children..."

"You have? Of...being pregnant?" I asked with keen interest. I have had vivid dreams myself. Even those that were not quite lucid still stuck with me.

Celestia pulled her head back from my shoulder to gaze into my eyes. She was smiling, but she also looked...sad. She was longing for what she was remembering. And it was a shame I could not give her what she wanted right then and there. "I remember being...so heavy. So wide as I walked. I remember a tiny heartbeat inside me that wasn't my own. I remember...feeling movement. Tiny hooves pressing against me from the inside. And you were there. How you held me... You were so proud. Oh how in love we were... And I still suspect Luna had a hoof in those dreams being so vivid, the cheeky little thing."

I saw that look of longing turn into one of cheeky amusement. Luna, huh? Her own sister? Tugging on the fabric of Celestia's dreams to produce specific results? And I remembered the talks I have had with Luna. How the Princess of the Night endorses the love her sister holds for me and vice versa. I asked with a slight smirk of my own gracing my lips, "You think she did? Has she asked you anything about us lately?"

The Princess of the Dawn rolled her eyes. She looked like she was trying to look annoyed while failing entirely. "She's asked me if I've thought of any names for my future heirs. Seems to me that she's actually pretty excited about the chance to have nephews and nieces."

"Oh man, Luna... Yeah, I believe you. But...names? We... I guess that's something we haven't actually done yet..." I muttered as I realized we had not even considered such a thing yet. Even Novo and I had already decided on the names of our first son or daughter when they finally end up happening. Why had Celestia and I not gotten around to that yet?

We both fell silent. Our embrace began to loosen. But then Celestia whispered into my ear. And it was a single and utterly beautiful word. "Paradisia."

That name. It struck me in the heart. Paradisia. An utterly beautiful name with a wonderful meaning. A beautiful name for an equally beautiful filly. I could not even try to contest it. I rested my head into the crook of my beloved's neck as I played that name in my head over and over. "Paradisia it is. And...if it's a colt?"

"I'm...not sure. Filly or colt, I don't mind which. Any child we have together will be loved. But Paradisia... If we're blessed with a filly, I want that to be her name." Celestia cooed to me while her wings tenderly tightened their grasp around me. I did not mind waiting for later either. Just that name... Paradisia. It was so beautiful that I was left satisfied for the moment. And Celestia whispered a wonderful thing into my ear. One oozing with a tender desire. "I want to be a mother."

"Please... Let me be the father." I whispered back as my hands continued to caress my beloved's belly. My mind was swimming with fantasies. What would a daughter born from a mare as radiant as Celestia even look like? Just as beautiful? Perhaps more? A truly celestial filly who would grow up into an undying goddess of a mare. And what if a colt? Oh my lord, I cannot imagine how gorgeous that princely little boy would be. I am certain he would take after his grandfather...

And there we stayed for a while longer. Holding each other, savoring each other's warmth in the glow of the fireplace. Filled with hopes and thoughts of the future. Every last child born into our family would be a miracle. And they would all be loved. And I felt blessed at the thought. I could never turn back now. It has become too beautiful a prospect to give up on now. I will stay the course. For them. For all of us.

The night was young and I still needed to wear myself out to insure I would sleep well that night. Celestia and I soon released each other from our embrace and sat up to once again be properly situated in front of the fireplace. I glanced over my shoulder at the Celestia bed just behind us. Low to the ground and not too far from the fireplace, I was looking forward to falling asleep in the gradually fading glow of the crackling logs. I could not remember sleeping in a bedroom that even had a fireplace aside from hers. I asked softly while Celestia refilled our wine glasses, "Do you sleep with the fireplace going a lot?"

"Not so much in spring or summer, but very often when the seasons get cooler. And the crackling of the fire is just... It brings to mind visions of an idyllic lifestyle far away from society. A cabin next to a vast lake... I do miss those days sometimes. The simple days of living off the land while being watchers of Equestria instead of active rulers." Celestia said with a nostalgic sigh. She sipped lightly at her glass while gazing upon the fireplace. I could already picture such a sight. Like something out of the paintings I would see around my grandparent's house years ago.

I began to ponder such a thought while sipping at my wine. Thinking of paintings that displayed such idyllic settings out in the countryside brought back memories of my childhood. Or rather memories of the weekends I would spend out there. Some of the happiest times of my life out in a quiet cul-de-sac far from the more urban environments. I would want my children to experience those simple joys. Just a place to get away from everything every other weekend. I leaned against my beloved Celestia as I spoke softly to her. "We should let the kids be able to experience that. Like a holiday home out in the countryside for the weekends..."

"You sound like you speak from experience, dear. Yes... We really should consider that. But it's still a bit too soon. The children aren't here yet. And I think Gladesong is already getting the full experience where she is now." Celestia replied with a gentle giggle. And she was right. Life in Fluttershy's cottage is not too far removed from life in my grandparent's house back in the day. Gladesong and Scootaloo have it good right now.

We soon emptied our glasses and filled them one more time with the last bit of wine. I was filling warmer on the inside as the subtle influence of alcohol started to get to my senses. And I appreciated it. Not just because it would help me grow tired in time for bed after a short day, but it would also help in keeping my libido in check. For as eager as the two of us were to start a family, Celestia's body was not yet ready for another attempt. I was in the mood of a night of love without lust. And Celestia seemed to be too.

I happened to look over at the many goods I had brought home for my immediate family and extended family. But I started to think. And Celestia happened to notice where my eyes were looking. "You brought home quite a few things for your family. Do you need help getting them home tomorrow?"

"About that... I know I should probably take them with me, but... Hearth's Warming Eve is just a couple of weeks away. You think I should hold off until them before giving them? Getting gifts just before getting more on the biggest gift-giving holiday of the year... Doesn't it sound excessive?" I asked in return as I wondered which timing would be better. Give them to my family right then and there? Or add it to the pile for the really big day?"

Celestia's eyes narrowed as she also gazed upon the distant pile of assorted goods. But ten her eyes went wide as a giddy smile crossed her lips. The Princess of the Dawn glanced at me and said, "Actually... How about this? Why don't you leave that to me? I'll even wrap them myself and bring them right to your house on the big day. All I need is for you to give me a list of what goes to who, all right? You think everypony would be thrilled for me to swing by with a surprise bundle of gifts? I seem to recall Pinkie Pie and Twilight collaborate to have the holiday parties take place at the library."

No matter how much I tried to debate with myself, giving those gifts to my family so shortly before Hearth's Warming Eve sounded less viable the more I thought about it. The timing was just too poor. Celestia had the right idea. "Yeah, they do. If it's not at Sugarcube Corner, those parties always happen at Twilight's place. Something about being inside a living tree carries some Christmas tree parallels... Or at least that's what we call them back home. And it'll be great to have you there. I know Twilight would be thrilled."

"In that case... How about we get started now?" Celestia asked while her magic aura surged over her horn. A distant cupboard had the handle to a drawer covered in the same golden yellow aura before it was slid open. And out of the drawer rose an odd sight for a royal bedroom. A stack of sticky notes and a pencil came floating over to us while held aloft in Celestia levitation spell. But she then noticed the odd look I was giving the whole situation. It was just so...mundane. Something that felt too simple to have there. And Celestia soon found amusement in the contrast as she said, "What? It's practical to have around."

"Yeah, I guess it is. Anyway... Lemme just take care of this real quick." I replied while taking the notes and pencil in hand. I then went over to the stack of gifts and started to sort them. One by one, I wrote out the name of each item's recipient and stuck the note to it. Although I did have some trouble in remembering which bottles of mead went to who. With every last item now wearing a simple sticky note like a badge, which only made them stand out more in the royal bedroom, I then turned to Celestia while she levitated the tools back to where they came from. "That's all of them. I'll leave the rest to you."

"I won't let you down, my love. Now I just need to figure out what wrapping paper to use with them." Celestia replied with a gleam of inspiration in her eyes. She could not wait to see the looks on the faces of Gladesong and Scootaloo once she showed up with the goods. But with that out of the way, it was time for us to answer an important question. "But for now... What would you like for dinner?"

"We haven't eaten yet, right? What would be good for right now?" I asked in return as I tried to brainstorm. Should we ask for something from the palace chefs? Or maybe go out to eat as a couple instead of a princess and a special guest? Atmosphere was important for a night spent between lovers who cannot see each other daily. And it was cold outside. Very cold with lots of snow. I was in the mood for something heavy and filling. Something hot...in more ways than one. And as I pondered such a dish, the name of a very specific restaurant came to mind. I glanced at Celestia out of the corner of my eye and asked, "Curry?"

"Curry it is. To the Tasty Treat!" Celestia retorted with such a hungry smile on her lips. There is nothing quite like a steaming and filling bowl of curry over rice to combat the cold of a dreary winter day. I hastily got my shoes back on and donned my jacket before following Celestia out the door. The night was young and we had an evening with each other to enjoy.

We headed out the main entrance and down the stairs with fresh snow falling over the city. And I took a moment to stop and gaze at the skyline of Canterlot ahead of us. Celestia noticed I had stopped and took a moment to return to my side. "Something catch your eye, dear?"

"Canterlot is always at its most beautiful during winter. Especially at night. All those pale colors under the moon... I just wish the locals didn't have their heads in the clouds so much." I said before finally continuing on with Celestia by my side. And for a time, we said nothing. Just admiring the winter beauty of Equestria's crown jewel in the glow of the occasional streetlamp. But our affection still shone with us gently leaning into each other. So few were out and about at that hour, giving us plenty of opportunities to share a kiss.

I started to recognize the layout of my surroundings and made a few twists and turns. Until a familiar and vibrantly designed establishment stood out at the end of one street. The exotic restaurant of the Tasty Treat. And we could already smell its contents on the gentle silent breeze of winter. The air was so quiet... As if setting the mood for a sudden shift in tone. "The anticipation gets me..."

"Then lets get out of this bitter cold and into something more festive. Me first!" Celestia started to say before suddenly bursting into a gallop to reach our destination first. It was a jarring shift in the atmosphere and I was vastly outclassed in speed. And I could not help grimacing at Celestia as she waited for me at the door. I tried to look annoyed, but I but I was still smiling. Celestia playfully winked at me and said, "I win. That means I get to decide what's for dessert."

"Just no tiramisu please. I can't stand the taste of coffee..." I retorted while following my beloved indoors. Only for us to instantly be assailed by the sound of a very busy place filled with overlapping conversations. The Tasty Treat was packed with customers with not a single table free. And the aroma... Everything on every table looked so delicious that my mouth was watering at the sight of it all. Which is to say nothing of the aromas in the air. "Whoa... It's jumping here in winter, I take it?"

https://youtu.be/TipvUBPU9rs?si=GqAtSMBx3zyh3-CT

"Looks like it... Everypony wants something hot and filling on these cold winter nights. I know restaurants tend to do very well in colder seasons, but wow..." Celestia replied with wide eyes. There were even a couple of two seated near the door who were already waiting for a table. We would likely be kept waiting for a while, but we were not going to pass up an opportunity for some good dining. Certainly not when I had a couple of friends were there.

Coriander Cumin was minding the receptionist podium just past the door and was quick to greet us. And he was easily in the highest spirits I had ever seen him in. The current winter season has probably brought his restaurant the most business he has ever seen since setting up shop in Canterlot. "Good evening, your highness! And welcome back, Sir James. A table for two?"

"Yes please. But there's no rush. We are perfectly fine with waiting." Celestia replied while I waved in greeting. And it was right around then that one table opened up with the customers heading out the door while giving their greetings to their princess. But instead of the next set of customers being led over, they all insisted on the two of us going first. Bowing and offering the table while waiting just a bit longer. And Celestia could only giggle nervously as we were led to the freshly cleared table. "Ohohoho my goodness, you're all too kind."

Coriander Cumin set out a pair of menus before trotting off to fetch us glasses of fresh water. I looked back over at the customers seated in a row by the door and wondered if they did that more for Celestia than for me. Or perhaps not. News definitely got around in Canterlot after I was officially knighted by the king and queen themselves. I assumed then that they were simply being courteous to their hardworking ruler as well as being kind to a pair of war veterans. Patient as we were, it was nice that we were being rewarded with even simple acts of kindness.

I glanced at Celestia as she lifted her head with eyes closed. She inhaled deeply through her nostrils before letting out a delighted sigh. "Oh yes... I love it here. So colorful. In both interior design and in the presentation of the food!"

That was when I had an idea. Celestia herself has always been quite colorful in her own right. The colors of daytime festivities translated well to her role as the Princess of the Dawn. Perhaps she was even familiar with the culture the Tasty Treat brought with it. "Come to think of it, what place in Equestria does all this cuisine come from? Somewhere around Saddle Arabia?"

"Hm? Oh no no, not there. This is all reminiscent of Shire Lanka. Very colorful culture over there. I love making diplomatic visits to that region. Bland dishes simply don't exist there." Celestia said with some excitement in her voice. Shire Lanka? I had not directly asked Saffron Masala or her father for that information. I did not want to come off as insensitive over pressing them for answers about their origins, especially when they were struggling to get their business off the ground at the time.

We started browsing our menus while whispering recommendations or sharing memories over the dishes we had tried on different occasions. I was so tempted to try something new, but it is a struggle to remember the names of most of the items on the menu from memory. I do fondly remember the navratan korma, but that is all I can recall. Some items were easier to remember. Such as the tandoori, naan, and paratha. The descriptions under all of the various curry dishes was making my mouth water. Regardless of what we ordered, I was confident we would be leaving satisfied.

Our server soon emerged through the swinging doors leading the to the kitchen with tall glasses of cold water. But it was not Coriander Cumin who stepped into view. Saffron Masala had come out into the dining room with her eyes lighting up at the very sight of us. She came trotting to our table with our beverages floating beside her in a magic aura with the same shade of purple carried in the petals of a saffron flower. All too fitting for her name and the cutie mark upon her flanks. "James! Your highness! Welcome back!"

"Hey there, Saffron. Don't think I've ever seen the place so busy. Everyone wants hot and heavy food when its freezing out, huh?" I asked in returned as I took my drink in hand. Saffron Masala has always been the star of the show within the Tasty Treat, both in her skills in the kitchen and with her exotic charm. Just seeing her out there amongst her customers lit up the already vibrant room.

Saffron was all too happy to chat us up for a moment while her father covered for her in the kitchen. And she was in very high spirits. "Oh yes! I think we've peaked in business now that winter's here. We've had to hire extra cooks in the kitchen to keep up with demand. And thank you for that shining review you left months back. I still believe it was just the spark we needed to bring in new customers."

"I was just being honest. I came here for good dining and was not disappointed. I'm glad to see your restaurant thriving. It hurts to see one close up shop, especially when the cuisine and company is great." I replied while Saffron Masala came around to my side of the table and shared a warm hug with me. I was truly happy for her and for her father. And restaurants always are at their busiest during times of gloomy weather. She and her father are in for a very prosperous winter.

"I concur. We need more variety in fine dining here in Canterlot. And I've cherished every visit to the Tasty Treat, Miss Masala." Celestia spoke up with her menu set down for a minute. Saffron then glanced at her while the Princess of the Dawn said carefully through a clever smile, "My knight here came by for some official business and we are famished."

"I bet you are! And oh my goodness, I can't believe you were really knighted, James! You absolutely deserve it after all I heard happened out there to the east. Now then, what can I get you two heroes tonight?" Saffron beamed at us as she and I released each other from our embrace. A notepad and clicking pen floated from a pocket on her shirt, ready to jot down our orders.

Celestia and I knew to not overindulge when it came to curry. That stuff is very filling and we needed to be careful to not overestimate our appetites. We simply ordered some garlic naan and two separate curry dishes. Saffron Masala then trotted back to the kitchen only for Coriander Cumin to step through the swinging doors back into the dining room. And I saw that smirk he gave us. He must have directly informed his daughter we were out there and gave her an opportunity to talk to a friend. Celestia then leaned her head over to me so I could hear her more easily over the clamor of conversations filling the restaurant. "Such a fine young lady. I'm surprised she's not married yet."

I let out a snort as I processed those words. While I do not know Saffron Masala or her father all that well at this time, she is the kind of mare who does leave a lasting impression. Like an exotic flower imported from a distant and mysterious land. I glanced at the doors leading to the kitchen and nodded in agreement. "Yeah, she's definitely wife material. I hope she finds a good husband someday. Her dad probably wants grandkids too. Although I think he might deny that if we ask..."

And so we waited. Customers came and went while beautiful pieces of edible art were carried from the kitchen. The restaurant was a sanctuary of happiness on a frigid winter day. I spoke softly while carefully watching Coriander Cumin and occasionally Saffron Masala bring out freshly made orders of Shire Lanka cuisine to their customers while even taking a moment to chat up their patrons. "Even if it gets this busy, it's a happy kind of busy. They'll be going home satisfied tonight."

Celestia leaned closer to me and asked, "You sound like you know what it's like to be them. You have experience in the restaurant business?"

"Yep. Practically grew up in one. Family business and all that. It made sense that I'd end up working there eventually. But I never cooked there. A restaurant needs more than just chefs to operate. And I could never handle cooking professionally anyway." I explained while finding myself longing for some of the dishes I grew up on back home. No matter how blighted a world Earth might be, everyone of all walks of life can come together for good dining.

My beloved then reached out and placed a kiss upon my cheek. Even though we were surrounded by customers. And yet no one was paying us any mind. Perhaps Celestia was less conspicuous than usual while in such a vibrantly colorful place? An unconventional form of camouflage? Or maybe the food and atmosphere was just so enrapturing that everyone was only focused on what was happening at their table. Regardless, my dear Celestia whispered into my ear with a prideful tone. "Every mare loves a man who can cook. I need to try your dishes sometime."

"Oh my god... I mean I'm not cut out to be a professional, but I at least handle half of the cooking at home. And my family loves it. I'd be happy to cook for you sometime." I replied after taking a moment to cringe in embarrassment at Celestia's teasing praise. Is it really that rare for a the man of a house to do most of the cooking for the family? Then maybe I should take some pride in my culinary skills.

Even with there being more cooks in the kitchen than usual, there was a lot going on and a lot of dishes to prepare. We would be kept waiting for a while. But it was a pleasant wait. Even exotic music was being broadcast throughout the restaurant through to compliment the interior design. It was as if we could step outside and find ourselves in Shire Lanka instead of frigid Canterlot if we got too into the atmosphere. I watched colorful dishes being brought out one by one, wondering what I would want to try next time I visited the Tasty Treat for a hot meal.

Celestia finally distracted me from my surroundings with a simple touch. Her hoof rested over my hand while it was concealed by our table. I looked at her out of the corner of my eye to be inconspicuous while we greeted each other with a smile. And she whispered to me with her lips by my ear. "I really adore all these times we share in public. Where my crown and your armor doesn't matter. Where we can just be...a couple. I love you."

I chose my next move carefully. My hand rose up Celestia's gilded shoe and slid under the tip of its elegantly designed top. Trying to prompt Celestia to lift her hoof from it. And she did. My beloved pulled her hoof up while I pinned her shoe before I took her hoof in hand. My fingers ran over the hard outer edge of her hoof, finding it to have been smoothly filed down and free of recent wear and tear thanks to the protection of her regal footwear. And I moved my fingers inward to caress the soft flesh contained within the curve of that hard hoof. My fingers tracing her equine palm. Although I suspect she was a bit ticklish there since Celestia's smile started to get a bit crooked. I asked quietly, "Ticklish? There?"

"I rarely feel anything touch that part of my hoof... Not really supposed to make contact with the ground or anything on it." Celestia said with a giggle as she lifted her head in reflex. She was really trying not to laugh. Ticklish and sensitive. And while I would adore the chance to be playful with my lover, that was not the time or place to make a scene. So I gently pressed my palm into hers while curling my fingers over the edge of her hoof. I could not hold her hand, but my palm could still meet hers. Celestia's giggling ceased while our eyes met. And she whispered tenderly to me. "My king."

Powerful words. A form of royal courtship. And I reciprocated with equally loving words. "My queen."

For the moment, we ignored the risk of any consequences. The two of us gently leaned into each other to just be in love. Eyes closed as we focused only on touch. Even while the irrelevant presence of scents and sounds meant nothing to us. A day would come where Celestia would become more than just my wife. She would be my queen. And I would be her king. To wear a crown for her... I pushed the possible burdens of leadership out of my mind. I would wear that crown more for her than for Equestria. She and her family would continue to guide their world with their ageless wisdom. That crown on my head would serve a much simpler purpose. To show the world that I would be the husband of Princess Celestia. And the father of her beautiful heirs. Hope filled my heart. For us and the family we were a part of.

The sound of the swinging doors leading to the kitchen swinging open snapped the two of us back to the present. Coriander Cumin came out with a trot while levitating a large oval tray to a table of customers. One lined with delicious dishes. I felt a twinge of disappointment, but knew it would not be long. We also had to be careful of openly showing affection to each other in public. While the customers were ignoring us, Saffron Masala or Coriander Cumin would be approaching us directly eventually. They would see everything happening at our table. And I just could not remember... Did they know? Had I entrusted them with the reality of my family?

Whatever the case, I would stick to the protocol I always had. Do not tell unless asked. Not everyone needed to know. But Celestia was also familiar with Shire Lanka and its culture. And something about what I was seeing... I had a hunch. And I whispered into Celestia's ear. "Hey... You've been to Shire Lanka, right? Um... What's their stanch on our situation? You know... Polygamy."

Celestia turned to me with a smile on her lips devoid of caution. "Them? They're actually rather accepting of it. Shire Lanka is one place in the world where that kind of practice is still largely accepted. It's not unheard of for a stallion to have at least two wives over there. Even if there are...laws in place around it."

I was pleasantly surprised only to be reminded that there are risks to such a relationship. Even in a land like Shire Lanka. I then asked, "Not surprised. It's easy for that kind of dynamic to go to a man's head, isn't it?"

The expression on the face of my beloved became much firmer. I suspect she had even overseen such events during her visits to that distant land and played a part in getting such laws passed in the first place. "Very. There's a reason such a relationship dynamic fell out of favor throughout most of the world. The laws in place around the practice of polygamy are very strict in Shire Lanka. If there's any reason to suspect a stallion having multiple wives is just as an outlet for his lust and ego, the law will investigate. Coercion and control is not tolerated in the practice of polygamy. And the punishments can be severe. If a husband is keeping multiple wives just for his own pleasure and nothing else, there will be a price to pay."

"Good... I don't believe in relationships without love anyway. I can't lust after a woman if I don't feel anything for her." I replied while my fingers continued to caress Celestia's hoof under the table. That softening gaze in Celestia's eyes... Maybe even a gaze of pride. I then asked softly, "You think I'll ever become like that?"

A very broad smile spread to the edges of Celestia's lips. All while she draped a wing over me to pull me closer. "Never. You've already resisted several much heavier temptations during your time in our world and giving in to a temptation built on lust is something I can't ever imagine you doing. I mean you still seem unsure of yourself at times when it comes to what you're doing, but I can see it. You get just a little more sure of yourself by the week. Please stay the course, my sunshine. We're all too invested to give up now. Because we love you... And I love you."

A little reassurance goes a long way. It may be years or even decades before those glimmers of doubt in my mind disappear forever. Polygamy is not a normal type of relationship. And it is even more frowned upon in the world I came from than it ever has been in Equestria. To be so loved and trusted by my beloveds that they would take that chance with me... To become mine and I theirs as we build a family together... One husband and many wives. One father and many mothers. Sons and daughters, brothers and sisters fathered by one man and birthed by many mothers... It almost sounds like something out of a smash hit romance novel that would be all the rage once word got around. The drama one would find in it... A very high risk romance where so much could go wrong, but with a beautiful payoff if handled well. All I could do was try to not think about the weight that was on my shoulders. I was not alone. We would weather the storm together. And I conveyed these words with a whisper as my head rested against Celestia's shoulder. "I love you all so much... I want to be enough to you... And for them."

"Then keep doing what you can. We'll hold you up while you do the same for us. I believe in you, my love... I believe in all of us." Celestia cooed to me as we embraced. Just hoping that everything will work out in the end between us and everyone else in my family. Even after all the crises we had been involved with, the struggle of building our family together still raged on.

And then it happened. We heard the swinging doors to the kitchen open again as Saffron Masala levitated our entrees out. Two large plates of freshly steamed rice with two ceramic saucières filled with that vibrant and fragrant curry. Along with that was a round disc of fragrant seasoned bread. Celestia and I promptly sat at attention with any romantic hints between us swiftly being hidden. Our wonderful host set out our orders with a delighted smile. "And here we are! Is there anything else I can get you? Maybe top off your drinks? Perhaps a dessert menu for later?"

"Oh man, it looks as good as I remembered. I think we're good for now... But while you're here, you and your dad... You're from Shire Lanka, right? Everything here is based on the culture over there?" I replied now that I knew a little bit more about that distant region than I did when I first walked through the door. Only Saffron Masala herself had the answers.

The mention of Shire Lanka filled our beautiful host's eyes with a look of pleasant surprise. And she all too happily replied while passively refilling our glasses with a metal pitcher of fresh ice and water floating near us. "We are! I'm surprised I never talked about it until now! Yes, Shire Lanka is where we immigrated from. My father and I were just chasing a dream. Bringing our homeland's cuisine to the rest of Equestria. And while it was a rocky start here in Canterlot, that quickly changed when the right people started saying good things about the Tasty Treat. Like you."

"Then I'm glad I played a part in your business becoming successful. This is some of the best food I've eaten since I first came to this world. And considering where I've been and how good the world's different cuisines are, that's saying something." I replied while Celestia smiled in agreement. She was allowing us as two friends to chat uninterrupted while we had the opportunity.

"Is that another review, my friend? Just kidding, you don't have to post another. I even have the newspaper article where your last one was featured framed by the door over there. Yours and Fancy Pants', that is." Saffron giggled while I glanced over in the direction of the restaurant's entrance. I had noticed a framed newspaper article there, but had not taken the time to read it. Were those really my words under the glass panel? Even the restaurant I practically grew up in had such articles framed and hung up in certain places from back when it was just getting started and word was getting around. Maybe it is a common practice for restaurant staff to do that.

At last it was time to dine. Saffron Masala went over to another table to tend to some more customers while even chatting them up while she had a moment. I knew the importance of the head chefs and business owners to interact with their customers on a personal level. It really adds to the personality of an establishment and creates a stronger connection between customer and provider. Even friendships could be made, insuring the business would thrive. Celestia noticed my prolonged distraction while pouring our curry over our respective plates of rice and asked, "You really have an understanding of how a restaurant works, don't you?"

"Like I said, I practically grew up in one. I don't know the first thing about how to run a restaurant, but I've seen how important it is to leave a good impression on your customers with personal interactions. A lot of friendships were made in that place. It's probably going strong even now." I explained again while ready to chow down. The look of that curry. The smell. My appetite would wait no longer.

Everything was fantastic. And I made sure to save some of that naan for once all the rice was gone. I would use it to sop up any lingering curry on the plate. Although halfway through our meal, Celestia happened to be watching the father and daughter owners of the Tasty Treat going about their business. And she whispered an unfortunate observation to me. "I've never seen her mother..."

It was a bit of an obvious thing to notice, but it was also something most people would not think about. It was true that I had never seen Saffron Masala's mother and Coriander Cumin's wife anywhere. I had not even seen a photo of her hanging anywhere. But the implications were obvious. And I felt my heart sink a bit. "We shouldn't ask... She's clearly no longer with them."

"I wish them nothing but happiness all the same. The poor dears..." Celestia sighed with her drop in mood being countered by another mouthful of that fabulous curry on her plate. The spoon floating near her with its handle held in a billowing golden yellow aura went deep for another helping. "She would be very proud of both of them if she could see them now."

Bit by bit, we feasted on our meal. All while pacing ourselves to mind how hot the food was. Curry has a habit of taking a long time to cool down, but it was too delicious to wait. And it had just the right amount of heat to it. While I have my limits with spicy food, curry should at least have some spiciness to it on principle. And Saffron Masala had perfected getting my food's spiciness to just the right levels. Even Celestia's curry was just the right amount of spicy when we shared a little of our orders with each other to see what they are like.

Barely a scrap of anything was left on our plates by the time we were done. And it was all so filling. Too filling for any dessert for the moment. Celestia let out a long and delighted sigh. "Oh my goodness, so filling... I would love some dessert to chase all that heat, but I just don't have room right now. What about you, James?"

"Same here. I could go for something cold and sweet, but... Let's digest for a little while first... Maybe have something back at the palace?" I relied before seeing Celestia's eyes light up in inspiration. Did I just give her an idea? "Uh... Celestia?"

"Oooooh, that's a great idea. Leave dessert to me tonight, dear. I know just the thing. Something special." Celestia giggled in excited glee while she looked like she was trying to keep her wings folded. Where did that come from? I mean I know Celestia knows how to make some fantastic and extravagant pancakes, but what other culinary skills did she have up her sleeve?

Since it was taking our hosts some time to come back over to our table, we used it as an opportunity to just converse. I then asked, "You got a certain knack for cooking?"

"If there's one thing I've gotten good at over the centuries, it's being a wizard in the kitchen. Although I especially love dabbling in desserts. I've earned a reputation having a bit of a...sweet tooth. But I'm sure I won't disappoint tonight. I want my future king to have the best experience I can give." Celestia explained with a big grin on her face. A queen who knows how to cook? I wonder if Novo gave her some lessons or if it was the other way around.

The atmosphere of being in an exotic restaurant got us chatting over the concept of cooking and our experiences with the art. My experiences growing up in and even working in a restaurant, Celestia being entirely self-taught thanks to centuries of trial and error, and swapping cooking tips. Celestia gave me tips on how to make pancakes out of leftover bread while I revealed that it was wise to add some sugar to tomato sauce to offset its acidity. I could not wait to treat my beloved to a home cooked meal sometime. Celestia then asked, "What are some of your best dishes at home? Anything Gladesong and Scootaloo like?"

"I mean I'm good at whipping up my own pasta sauce from scratch, but I'm also good at making fried potatoes. The kids love that stuff. Don't even need ketchup with it. Just a little salt and ground black pepper. I love serving it with a side of boiled green beans and cottage cheese. Sound like something you ever had back when you were living off the land?" I explained before realizing that Celestia had once been a wandering vagabond with her family once upon a time. Surely they did not eat only raw fruits and vegetables. Especially with fire magic being an option. Even the most primitive people had learned of the art of cooking over an open fire.

It was just such a pleasant conversation about food and dining. We kind of got lost in the moment sharing our knowledge and experiences in the kitchen. Coriander Cumin even discreetly refilled our water glasses while we were preoccupied with each other. I think he believed he had avoided being detected, but I noticed him. I just did not say anything. But Celestia still had more to say as she rested her elbows on the table before setting her head atop her hooves while they were pressed together. All while giving me such a peaceful and happy smile. "I want to cook for you someday. Not just desserts. I don't want the palace chefs handling all your meals when you're visiting. I want to see my own cooking put a smile on your face."

"Hey, I should cook for you too. It always makes me happy when I finish putting together a meal and finding out how I did from my family. I haven't disappointed them yet." I replied while gazing back into my beloved's beautiful eyes. I know it is almost a stereotype that the woman of a household usually handles the cooking, but it is a standard I do not want to see enforced. Cooking can be a man's art form as well. An art I take some pride in practicing.

The more we talked and the longer Celestia looked at me like that, the more it felt like we were already a true couple. Just so in love and so eager to make each other happy. I wanted to make her feel like she made the right choice in letting her heart choose me to be hers. The Princess of the Dawn herself... Who once carried the weight of the entire world on her shoulders for a time... To fall in love carried great risk and I did not want to become a liability. During a brief lull in our conversation brought on by Celestia levitating her water glass to her lips for a drink, I said what needed to be said. "I love you. And I hope I won't ever make you regret falling in love with me."

Celestia gently set down her glass. All while never lifting her head from her joined hooves. And she smiled at me with a comforting gaze. "No one gets to decide who they fall in love with, my sunshine. We can't control how our hearts work. I've been tempted over the years by potential suitors. Nearly all of them being from royal families themselves. But I resisted that call. But then you came along... And after all that's happened in just these past few years... My heart told me it was the right time to let myself long for the right man. I might be a princess, but you have always been my knight. And now you are my king without a crown. And I love you... Oh how I love you, James..."

Temptation burned within me. I wanted to reach out and hold her. To kiss my future queen. But there were so many eyes around us... The risk of a scandal was too great. A quick show of affection would be overlooked, but anything lingering such as a passionate embrace... For as much as we had been enjoying ourselves up to that point, I just wanted to get away from the Tasty Treat. To go somewhere and be alone with my beloved. I asked softly, "I think we're done here... Wanna go back to your place? To...love and be loved?"

"Yes... Oh yes, let's. Waiter? Mr. Cumin? Check please!" Celestia replied before lowering one hoof and reaching out with the other to get our host's attention. He looked in our direction while levitating several used dishes along with him back into the kitchen. But instead of Coriander, it was Saffron Masala who emerged with our bill floating in her magical grasp. Celestia even seemed to have anticipated Saffron being the one to see us off. It would not do to not say goodbye to my friend. "Fabulous as always, Miss Saffron! We will definitely be back before long."

"That's just what I want to hear, your highness! Everything to your liking too, James?" My exotic friend asked while setting out the check. I did not even get a good look at the combined prices of our entrees, but I do recall the price range being quite reasonable for such delicious dining. And Celestia did not miss a beat as she summoned a checkbook in a flash of magic light before beginning to sign it with the pen Saffron provided. I am sure she tends to give very generous tips.

I did not mince words while glancing at the empty dishes on our table. "Always amazing. I don't know what it is about Shire Lanka cuisine but it is always so rich with flavor. I wish I could cook like this back home. I'm sure the spices aren't ones you can buy just anywhere."

"They are more exotic than most, so yes. You might not find them at just any store. But I'll always be happy to serve you up a dish whenever you get a craving for something as zesty as our cooking, my friend." Saffron Masala replied before we shared one last hug for the road. Celestia then tore the freshly signed check from her booklet and passed it to our host, whose eyes widened when she looked at it with the strip of paper floating in her elegant purple magic aura. She then glanced at Celestia and said, "You and your family are always so kind to us, your highness."

"Nonsense! You and your father more than deserve it. Thank you again for a wonderful evening, Miss Masala." Celestia replied while I smirked at her. Sure enough, there must have been a hefty tip added to that check. It is good to see royalty being so generous with their very deep pockets. With all said and done, it was time to head out. We bid out farewells to the father and daughter duo of the Tasty Treat and made our way to the door. I fetched my jacket while also taking the time to examine the display frames on the wall by the entrance. And sure enough, I recognized the quote shown in the newspaper clipping that was under the glass panel. As did Celestia. "Ooh? That was a very lovely thing you said back then, dear. And it wasn't the least bit incorrect."

"Gotta be honest when it comes to being a critic, I guess. And they didn't disappoint." I replied before taking one last look at the busy dining room from the doorway. I needed to find the time to bring the rest of my family up there. Could Gladesong handle a little heat with her curry? Would she even like curry? Questions for another time.

The night was beautiful as Celestia and I strolled through the streets of Canterlot back to the castle. And a gentle snowfall was underway. The humidity was so comfortable that I was glad I did not bother bringing a scarf. Shimmering snowflakes drifting through the glow of lampposts and softening any sound around us... It was like we were all alone in our own little world with the frozen particles around us providing just enough camouflage to go unnoticed. My voice remained silent. And was Celestia's. But not her body. For she began to speak through answers more than words.

My beloved rested her on my right shoulder as she walked just behind me. I could see that her eyes were closed while a smile graced her lips. And so I guided her, my eyes scanning the ground ahead to avoid leading her through any uneven footing or patches of ice. Was it a show of trust? Or was it the prelude to something more?

https://youtu.be/upIecbZKg\_U?si=y\_iXQkUXVOaq7q5-

I soon found an answer. Celestia sighed softly as she began to nuzzle the side of my head. And with such meaning behind it. Not just a simple nuzzle, but almost like she was trying to push me along somewhere. Her constantly wavering mane of aurora hues caressed my head all the while. And then... A little nip to my ear. Celestia's head pulled back just enough to reach my near with her lips whispering sweet little words into it. "I love you."

I almost yelped in giddy excitement when Celestia tenderly tugged on my ear with her teeth. So flirtatious... So amorous even. I whispered back to her, "Wow... What's gotten into you?"

"I want you... I want my husband." Celestia cooed to me as she continued to nuzzle and even embrace me with one wing. Making no attempt to hide her loving lust from anyone who may be out for a nightly winter stroll. And there thankfully were no prying eyes about. Not many want to be out in the cold at night. But I hardly noticed the cold as my only internal heat began to rise in response to my beloved's words and affections. The wine we had consumed earlier had been phased out of our bodies by then. Nothing was inhibiting our libidos by then. And I did not want to turn my beloved down.

We came to a stop under the glow of a lamppost as I could not resist Celestia's love for a moment longer. I turned to my future queen while held in her wing's embrace and... We were shameless. Kissing and moaning, my arms desperately embracing that glorious mare as our tongues danced. Commoner and princess, man and mare, madly in love and making no attempt to hide it out on the streets of Equestria's capital. Even lost in the throes of love and desire, Celestia still worked her magic. I felt an unseen force move my right hand up and to the top of Celestia's head. Not that I minded. And my fingers were brought to the base of her horn. And there I felt it. A solid ring wrapped around the base, hidden in that wavering aurora of a mane. A ring of gold with an elegant purple amethyst embedded into it. One I personally bestowed upon her as a simple gift. But had it become something more? Was it the ring she wore as the partner to the ring on my finger? And so I whispered at first chance, "Are you wearing this for me now?"

Her face was so radiant in the warm glow of the lamp above us. The flush in her cheeks, the gaze in her eyes... My beloved Celestia cooed to me with my fingers still clamped on the ring at the base of her horn. "I am. Maybe it was just a thoughtful gift back then, but now... I want this ring to be the ring that binds me to you. I know you wear yours for me. And for them... Let me wear this one for the man who will be my husband. Who will be my king..."

It was then that I had to ask. Then and not at any other time. Commoner or royal, it did not matter. I whispered a sacred question to the Princess of the Dawn. Perhaps I had asked before not so long ago. And if I had, then I would ask again. Just to reaffirm what we both desired. "Will you marry me?"

Celestia tried to maintain her composure, but I could see them. Fresh tears starting to build that caused her beautiful eyes to glisten in the glow of the lamp above us. And she spoke through a joyous grin. "Of course I will, my love. My...beloved James... I'll... Oh forget about this silly thing!"

With a quick cast of a spell, Celestia's crown briefly brushed against my fingers as it was flung up into the air...only for it to get conveniently snagged on one of two steel bars sticking out of opposite sides near the top of the lamppost next to us. I glanced up to see the symbol of Celestia's royal lineage momentarily cast aside. Only to see my beloved gazing into my eyes lovingly. Even as fresh tears spilled forth. "Forget the crown. Forget being your queen. I just...want to be your wife. Your mare. In the same way you'll always be my man. My husband. Forget the crown. Forget the sword and shield. Just...let me love you...and let you love me...the way you and the rest love each other."

"I think I just fell in love with you even harder." I replied as those words pierced my heart. And we embraced. Firmly. Holding each other under that warm glow in the middle of a frigid night. Oh how in love I was... What a wondrous mare. Easily one of the finest in all the land. It was no wonder she was so loved by her subjects. Because Celestia understood the value of the simple things in life. She was not born into the role of a princess after all. She once lived a simple life just like everyone else, only taking up the crown when the world needed someone like her. But she would never be my princess. She would only be my bride. My wonderful wife.

And once again our lips met. But with less burning passion between us. It was just a long and tender kiss of confirmation between us. And then... And unmistakable foreboding came over me. And over her as our kiss slowly ended. That feeling. The sensation of knowing one is being watched.

The veil of falling snow had muffled the sound of hooves passing us. Standing at the very edge of the lamppost's strongest field of its glow was a familiar unicorn couple wrapped up in warm and fancy winter coats. A couple Celestia and I knew and loathed. Jet Set and Upper Crust gazed upon us with eyes of disbelief. Two of the most entitled fops in all of Canterlot witnessing their almighty Princess of the Dawn locked in a precious moment of romance with possibly the one man they detested the most. Jet Set, his jaw agape and quivering, barely managed to push his glasses a litter higher up on his muzzle as he asked, "Your... Your highness...! What is... Why... Why are you...and him?! With...this lout...!"

My body temperature rose for all the wrong reasons. I was in a growing sense of panic. Those two would absolutely spread the word of their findings to the rest of the Canterlot elite like a pair of gossiping magpies. Word would spread. The dots would be connected. And my entire family situation would be know to the entirety of Canterlot and possibly the rest of Equestria. All because of the two of us being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

But Celestia did not respond the same way as I did. While I was locked in silent dread, she reacted in the opposite direction. She calmly released me from her embrace and stood with her wings spread wide. And without even looking up, she used her levitation spell to retrieve her crown and place it back atop her head. All while her face displayed an intense and firm scowl the likes of which I would only expect from Nightmare Moon or her own mother. Then it dawned on me. Celestia was actively projecting a royal presence. Reminding the two haughty nobles that they were standing not just before my lover, but their own Princess of the Dawn. And with a dark tone I could not recall ever hearing from that beautiful mare, she spoke to our witnesses. "You saw nothing."

I think the two of them were more shocked and confused by what they had seen rather than contemplating if they could use what they had discovered against me. Upper Crust, not yet quite intimidated, still stammered out a response. "But this...! Why, your highness?! What could that...that scoundrel ever...?!"

"Do not make me repeat myself. You saw nothing. Or..." Celestia spoke again with her eyes narrowing. Only to be followed by a growing smug smirk. One that caused my eyes to widen. I was so used to Nightmare Moon being the royal sister to be filled with guile that seeing this cunning side of Celestia was quite a shocking treat. My panic started to fade as it registered with me that the mighty Princess of the Dawn knew exactly how to put our witnesses in their place. Especially with what she said next. "I suppose I could drag that dusty old guillotine out of the cellar."

It took all the willpower I had to hold back a sudden laugh. Just the look of utter horror in their faces. Eyes wide as possible, jaws dropping, and I swear their coats somehow became even paler upon hearing those words. And no more words came from them. Celestia then fully turned to them and took a step forward. Her tone quiet, yet filled with an uncharacteristic venom as the smug smirk on her face was replaced with a scowl. "One whisper to anypony. One little slip of your tongues. One violation of our sacred privacy... And I will gladly see to it you two are never seen alive again. Think carefully on whether or not your resentment for this man is stronger than your will to live."

I was in awe. Celestia had always been so kind and loving. It was shocking, yet admirable to see her show the capacity to be so stern when the situation called for it. Her mother would have been proud had she witnessed that. Even the silent chill of a winter's night with snow drifting down carried a certain dread. As if Celestia could dispose of the two of them at any time and their bodies would not be discovered for weeks after being dumped in a snowdrift. I admit I was starting to think that I was witnessing the last night of that couple's lives. But...their survival instinct won out. Jet Set and Upper Crust shakily nodded without a word and began to slowly and shakily wander off for home. They would most definitely never forget that warning.

Celestia only folded her great wings once our two witnesses were fully out of sight. And she bowed her head with an intense sigh coming from lips. I kept my hands to myself to allow my beloved to relax on her own terms. She then lifted her head and turned to me, her eyes displaying a gaze of discomfort. What she just did was something she was not used to doing. "I'm sorry you had to see that, dear. I haven't forgotten they... Those two are some of the worst the Canterlot elite have to offer. I just..."

I stilled remembered. The first time she and her sisters spent a full afternoon with me out on the town. And the confrontation we had with those two at a local café. To the point a pair of conveniently placed royal guards had to intervene. We all saw their true colors that day. And I could not be more of my beloved. I stepped forward with my hands resting on Celestia's shoulders. And my response was brief and to the point. "You're amazing. And I love you for that."

"Oh James... I love you too. So much." Celestia whispered back to me as I felt her relax in my touch. Our lips joined for a kiss before we once again embraced. The tension having faded, we were reminded of why we were on our way back to the castle in the first place. "Anyway... Let's be off. I just want to get out of this cold...to hold and love you... To...make love to you..."

"I want you so bad too, dear... Let's go." I replied as I too could feel the embers of lust building in my heart. Lust born of love for my wonderful future queen. And I was filled with a delightful anticipation.

But as we pulled away from our embrace, Celestia pulled me close with her wing one more time. All while smirking at me in a much more playful manner. "Just one little thing though. The crown stays off tonight."

"Sounds good to me!" I said with the two of us sharing a laugh. We then left the sanctuary of the lamppost's glow and continued on through the empty streets of Canterlot. All while under the pale glow of the moon. And our intentions for each other remained bare. Celestia would nuzzle and kiss my head while I would drag my fingers down over her back and all the way down to her beautifully rounded flank. My future would quiver as my hand grasped one half of her feminine equine rump, a hissing gasp revealing her enjoyment. I can only wonder what was happening under her tail at the time. I would whisper into her ear, "I can't wait to see these flanks become as rounded and soft as Novo's."

"Oh they will, my love. You better believe I hope to match her perfect curves someday. Don't think I haven't noticed over all these centuries how motherhood has sculpted her body into something beyond even mine! I'm just glad the tabloids don't pick up on the differences between our forms more often... They can be so relentless sometimes." Celestia giggled playfully at the mention of her ridiculously beautiful best friend. She was still a princess after all. But it would only be a matter of time before my beloved Celestia would become just as queenly as my equally beloved Novo. Two queens sworn to one king. A king who will love them forever.

The elegant form of Canterlot Castle came into view while we began to make an attempt to hide our affections for the moment. We did not want to get used to being too open with our love. We finally entered the great castle and strolled through the halls. Things had quieted down for the night with only the night watch patrolling the dimly lit halls. Although we were also cautious of any rooms that had ample light shining through the doorways. We did not want any distractions from Celestia's family or from any palace staff who were burning the midnight oil. We made a number of detours, but successfully made it back to Celestia's private chambers. And the fireplace was still crackling with the room feeling pleasantly warm. Although the flames had receded somewhat with many glowing embers lining the logs. The fire would likely go out by the time we would awaken in the morning.

"Now then... No more interruptions." Celestia said with a smirk while I removed my jacket and shoes. She promptly set aside her golden regalia to leave her beautiful body bare. And I too was filled with a certain excitement as I knew what was coming. I could smell it. Now that we were in an enclosed space and with our desires no longer suppressed, Celestia's scent began to fill the air. The familiar musky scent of a mare who needed her stallion. She playfully stepped forward to force me to step backwards before gently pulling me down onto her bed in the middle of the room. "Now it's just us... Me...and my wonderful future king."

I held my beloved in my arms. We kissed and cuddled to set the stage of what was about to come. We were just so in love... The feel of her body against mine. The sound of her beautiful voice. The feel of that silken coat in my hands. The scent of my beloved's body craving me. My hands slid over that elegant equine form, my fingers eventually caressing her belly as a thought came to my mind. "It's such a shame your next heat cycle hasn't started yet..."

"I know... But I don't care. You know what to do, dear." Celestia whispered to me with such desire in her voice. There was no disappointment or longing. There was only a passionate determination in it. And in those beautiful eyes as her gaze met mine. "Paradisia won't make herself, you know."

https://youtu.be/gB19qrTcJsc?si=5SRqg97sUkrdUTWa

That beautiful name again. The name of our first daughter when she would finally exist. Oh how glorious she would be after only a couple of decades. As majestic as her mother, mane and tail billowing ethereally. What stunning displays of color would they bear? A sunrise peaking out under the night sky? The warm hues of a summer sunset? My fatherly urges were set alight in my heart. I had a duty to fulfill to the mare I loved before me. The mare who would bear that beautiful child of mine.

My hands caressed Celestia's body while she weaved her magic. Using a levitation spell to undo the belt around my waist and gradually pull my pants down to my knees until my stiff erection stood at attention. My shaft hard and ready to sow my seed in my beloved's womb to create life with her. To paint her inner walls so that a unique and beautiful masterpiece would come to be. My shaft rubbed against Celestia's flank, her dark equine lips winking flirtatiously under her tail. I heard her gasp and sigh at my caresses while my eager length slid its tip towards where it needed to be. "I want to make such beautiful babies with you, dear... Please... Bear me a wonderful daughter."

"Then do what you need to, my love. Make this princess your queen. Let me be the one to give you beautiful heirs." Celestia cooed to me with such an inviting gaze. A powerful need in her eyes and voice. She knew what she wanted. What she needed. And I did not keep her waiting. With my hips aligned with hers, I thrust deep with my shaft being welcomed by the warm and wet embrace of her inner walls. All while she threw her head back with a crooning sigh. "Ooooh... I've missed this, my love..."

It was just us. Man and mare. Commoner and royalty. Father and mother dearly longing for the day when our family would truly begin. As I began to thrust earnestly into my beloved's warm depths, I prayed in my heart. Pleaded that our efforts that night would bear fruit. To hell with the curse of genetics and estrus cycles. Please. Let it happen. Let our first child become a reality...

There was more than just pleasure being shared between us. It was nothing but pure love burning so hot that it generated lust as a byproduct. The best kind of lust, one born of a desire to please each other instead of just oneself. How beautiful she was as Celestia's wings spread wide in invitation. The sound from her lips as she rested her head upon the pillow in complete submission. She was giving herself to me. The man who would be her king and the father of her heirs.

In and out, finding the right balance of speed and force. I wanted this to last. To insure we would come out of this wonderful shared experience satisfied. We both sought for our lovemaking to create, but we could not neglect our own needs. I wanted my beloved to feel how much I loved her as I lifted her left leg in one hand for greater leverage. My hips thumped against Celestia's beautifully curved rump, the mass of strong equine muscle coated in a thin layer of fine flesh just under her silken coat. My thoughts very briefly betrayed me. Thinking of her equally beautiful best friend and equally beloved mare of my dreams. My dear Novo... Those luscious hips blessed by motherhood... Oh for Celestia's body to be blessed in the same way. Motherhood will suit her so well in every way... "Celestia... Dear mother... I love you..."

"James... Sweet father... Give me your foals, my love..." Celestia pleaded sweetly with her eyes closed in bliss. And then I saw it. Her constantly billowing mane beginning to lose its more ethereal properties. I could see every individual strand of her very long hair. She was becoming too relaxed or too overwhelmed with pleasure. Looking more and more mortal by the second. The guise of her royal form was being set aside. The princess had checked out. All I could see was the mare. The wife. The mother of our future children. All while see looked back at me with her face flushed pink under her white coat. "Oh daddy... Daddy... Mommy loves you..."

"I'll make you a mommy for sure, my love. The most beautiful mother in all the land." I said with a whisper of longing. All while Celestia groaned with her head tilting back in a jolt of pleasure. She could not speak, so I continued to grace her with beautiful words. All while I continued to thrust deep with my length reaching out to her empty womb. "Give me daughters... Give me sons... A family like no other..."

"Oooooh James... Let me swell, my love! Let me be heavy with our foals... Please... Hold us... Hold us both..." Such lovely thoughts my future queen's words stirred in my mind. I could already imagine her heavy with our children. So wide as she sauntered with a careful gait to maintain her balance. And once behind closed doors, her arms wrapped around her with hands resting on her belly. Hold not just her, but our little ones as well while they dreamed within their mother's womb. With my right hand rubbing over Celestia's side, where she would eventually round out, my beloved still cooed to me. "Let me be pregnant, dear father... Let me be yours forever... My king."

My tempo finally increased. My hips colliding with that beautiful mare's curvy rump. How I wanted to give her what she wanted. To turn that elegant princess into a glorious mother of a queen. One who would rival the equally majestic Queen Novo in sheer beauty. And there was only one way to do that. Through the blessing of motherhood. And I dearly wanted to give her that gift as I groaned through my pleasure. "I want...to make you a true queen, my love. A queen like no other..."

"Then make me your queen... Let me bear your heirs... Please, my love. Bless me with motherhood... Let us...be a family..." Celestia pleaded as her words began to turn into shrill gasps. The scent in the air was becoming so thick with desire. All while we made love in the warm glow of the fireplace. What a perfect night. And in that fiery glow, my heart burned for my queen.

We were so close. It was time. I could feel the telling pressure building in my loins. My gift to her so that she could spend the next eleven months carrying a gift meant for both of us. One we would cherish forever when the day came for the precious foal to emerge from their mother's body and see us for the first time. A son, a daughter, it did not matter which. All that mattered was that they would be ours.

And with that rapidly approaching climax it happened. I slammed my hips against Celestia's royal rump as she quivered. Her beautiful voice shrieked so inspiringly. The voice of an angel discovering nirvana. And with her pleas came my own release. Potent gushes of thick human seed rushing forth into her equine womb in the hopes of siring a precious child of man and mare. But I did not groan in incoherent moans. I pleaded with my lover as I felt that triumphant rush. "Celestia...! Please! Bear my child...! Let me...be a father...!"

It was all over too soon. As it always is. That rush followed by a wonderful afterglow. All the more enhanced by the warm glow of open flames in the fireplace nearby. We gasped and sighed as we succumbed to such a gentle fatigue. I rested on my side while holding my beloved from behind. I made sure I remained hilted to her body to not let a single drop of my gift leak out. All while I rested my left hand on her belly. Gently caressing her in the hopes that our effort would see results after that night. It would take a miracle. But miracles in Equestria are all too common. Magic is everywhere and has made so many impossibilities a daily occurrence.

I felt Celestia's hoof rest over the back of my hand. She kept her head down, wheezing in delight as her body gradually recovered. And I heard her whisper to me. "I love you... And I can't wait to live that dream with you, James... I want to make Novo jealous someday."

"Then we'll do it together. Only way for a princess to match a queen is to become a queen herself." I replied with some wit. And I remembered my dear Novo's wish. For her and Celestia to raise their children together as part of the family we were building together. Their darling children... Brothers and sisters from two mothers. All sired by a father who would love them all. How I long for that day to become a reality...

"Mhmhmhm... Very true. And you're the only king who will claim this queen, my sunshine." Celestia said with a soft giggle. We simply did not want to move for a while. And so we basked together in the glow of the fireplace. That warm glow almost serving as a herald to the warm embers of life that may soon flare up in Celestia's womb.

There were few words for a while. I probably would have fallen asleep right there had Celestia not gotten my attention eventually. She finally lifted her head to look back at me over her shoulder. "You know... I did promise you some dessert tonight. And I think we could both use a little something after all that... Is your sweet tooth calling?"

"Oh wow... Now that you mention it... Yeah. We should celebrate." I replied before I finally pulled my flaccid shaft from my beloved's relaxed equine folds. But once I was on my knees and gotten my pants adjusted, I looked up in awe as Celestia shakily rose onto her hooves. But her mane and tail were still lacking their usual ethereal properties. The way they hung from Celestia's body... Enrapturing. Celestia happened to notice my lingering stare and prompted me to speak with a cheeky smirk. "Do you have any idea how hot you look when your hair's like that?"

"Wha... Oh! This?! It's completely natural for me and my family! I'm just...still worn out after all that!" Celestia yelped as she glanced over her shoulder. She and I both had a good laugh. Only for my beloved to smirk at me with such an...impish gleam in her eyes. "But I hope my king will enjoy seeing me like this on a regular basis. Because I like being sexy for you, dear."

"Oh Celestia... You're gorgeous at every hour of the day." I replied while stepping around my beautiful and blushing future bride. While the initial spectacle of seeing her for the first time had long since worn off, her beauty was still virtually unparalleled.

"I know, I know. I mean of course I'm used to being an icon of beauty for my subjects. But..." Celestia said before suddenly taking a step to me. I reflexively pulled my head back as my beloved smirked at me, her voice carrying such an enticing inflection. "But being beautiful... Being sexy for my one and only husband... That's on another level, isn't it? I want to be more than just beautiful for you. I want to be drop dead gorgeous for the love of my life. A wife who pleases her man as much as her husband pleases her. Kiss me, my love."

"Gladly, my queen." I replied with my heart burning in my chest. We once again embraced as my lips pressed against the lips of the Princess of the Dawn. Who would one day become Queen of the Dawn. And I as her king. Once one kiss ended and we gently leaned into each other for the moment, I remembered something. A little detail from just the day before. "Celestia... Novo has already taken steps to have a crown forged for me. Will I be able to wear a crown for you?"

"She has?! Oh Novo, you just have to always have to... Hahaha, I'm not surprised at all." Celestia barked with her head jerking back from me in genuine surprise. Only to laugh at the notion. It was then that her mane and tail started to regain their more ethereal properties while rising from the floor. Celestia released me from her winged embrace and cleared her throat. "Well then, I can't let Novo always be a step ahead of me in these things... Yes, we really should get you fitted for a crown. Even if that day is a long ways off..."

"Celestia... Dear. Even if I'm crowned as Novo's king first, it won't change how much I love you. This whole thing... It's not a first come, first served sorta thing. If it was... I wouldn't be here with you now." I replied carefully with Celestia's eyes displaying almost the tiniest hint of shame. Was she doubting herself in comparison to her best friend?

"I know... And I love you so much for that. Anyway... I did promise you dessert, right? Let's be off." Celestia replied as she finally led me out. Although my eyes did happen to look over at one thing I had forgotten about. A birdcage with a veil draped over it. Celestia noticed too, peeked back through her door to check what I was looking at, and snickered under her breath. "Don't worry. Philomena is a heavy sleeper in colder seasons. She didn't hear a thing."

"Still kinda creepy we forgot there was someone in the room with us..." I mumbled while following Celestia out into the dimly lit halls. But now that my attention was focused on just the beautiful princess beside me, I veered the conversation back to the previous topic. "Celestia... Are you insecure about Novo?"

"I... Perhaps...just a little?" Celestia said with a crooked smile. Only for her to let out a sigh with her head bowing, the two of us trying to keep our voices in the palace's darkened halls. "I mean...not usually. And yet... It's just such a weird paradox! I've been around almost twice as long as Novo, and yet...she has so much more experience than me in some ways! Her confidence, how sure she's always been of herself... I would have assumed she was at least ten thousand years old when we first met..."

I never expected to hear that kind of confession out of Celestia. But I could see where she was coming from. I could see it in Novo too. If one was in the same room as them with no prior knowledge, literally anyone would assume that Celestia was Novo's junior. But perhaps age was not the deciding factor in their differences. "I can see that... But you're a princess. And Novo's a queen."

Celestia fell silent while I reached out and gently traced my finger over the edges of her crown. While I was not intending to draw that much attention to it, but she did try to look up at what was on her head. And the faintest smile appeared on her lips. "I have to admit... Novo has served as queen longer than I've served as princess."

"She also told me something. Something important." I added while Celestia looked at me as we strolled along. I rested a hand on her shoulder. She needed to here what her best friend said. "She told me that becoming a wife and mother made her a better queen. I guess...parenthood does something to you."

"Right... Different experiences. Different lives. Different responsibilities. I can see why Novo is the way she is while I'm...not. She has given me some good advice over the centuries. Advice that...in hindsight...I would almost expect to hear from my own mother." Celestia spoke with a dry chuckle. How ironic, the elder of two royal relying on her younger peer more than the other ay around. And speaking of Celestia's mother, I started to hear Sunflare's voice echoing from far down the halls. As did Celestia as her ears perked up. "Hm. I keep forgetting how well sound travels through the castle... Wait. What's she even doing at this hour?"

"Sounds like...a sword duel? In the palace? I asked while trying to listen closely to that voice. A series of calls or yelps every other second or so at varying intervals. The kind of vocalizations one might make with a sword swing to add some extra oomph to their moves. Celestia and I glanced at each other in shared concern and curiosity. We hastened our pace to a light jog and trot to try and see what was happening before the situation could end.

https://youtu.be/vOmfRZQb7K8?si=zhFeTFUqgxn3A2nY

We were on our way to the royal kitchen and would have to descend to the ground floor in the main hall. And that was where the voices seemed to be coming from. We entered the vast hall with the place receiving full lighting. And down there in the middle of the room with matching rapiers were the king and queen of Equestria themselves. And Celestia was more excited than concerned. "Oh my, I haven't seen them do this in ages. And I swear Mother only won one out of four times."

"This is a thing with them?" I asked with renewed curiosity. I never would have guessed King Orbash and Queen Sunflare had a penchant for swordplay. But there they were, dancing around each other in a glorious display with Sunflare clearly on the offensive. It was actually beautiful seeing those two magical paragons performing. Not with magic, but with only a humble rapier being held in their magic auras of scarlet and pale silver. The sun and moon circled each other with the lashing rays of the star lashing out at the silent and radiant moon. But clearly not out of malice. Although I suspected Sunflare was more than just a little frustrated by then. Orbash was way too good with his defense. Feinting around thrusts from his wife's narrow blade parrying away the rest.

Orbash was not the least bit intimidated by his wife's aggression. He even let out a laugh. "There's no rest or delay with your fiery radiance, is there?! You'll burn yourself! May I suggest you pause longer between thrusts to ponder your next... Eek!"

She got him. It all happened so fast that I cannot describe how it happened. But in one swift motion, Sunflare had managed to feint around a parry from Orbash and slide her rapier past his blade. The moon king jerked his head back with eyes wide, the tip of his wife's sword just inches from his throat. The two alicorns froze, their bodies and blades still. The only movement coming from them were their royal manes and tails billowing constantly in different ways. Only for Sunflare to break the silence while showing such a smirk on her lips. "Touché, my love."

"Touché indeed. You may possess the more destructive elements, but your swordplay is commendable as always." Orbash replied with a rapidly growing smile as the two of them relaxed their stances and lowered their swords. It was then I decided a round of applause was in order. The clapping of my hands caught their attention immediately with the king and queen turning towards the two of us descending the main staircase. Orbash spoke first with one wing reaching high in greeting. "Good evening, you two! I don't suppose you happened to see much of that little display."

"Mother got you for once, didn't she? Can't ever predict a dancing flame!" Celestia said with a knowledgeable laugh. She must have witnessed many friendly duels between her parents in her younger days.

"It was a real spectacle. But really? You both know a thing or two about swordplay?" I asked while drawing near. It was only then that I noticed something was not right about their rapiers. While pale in color, they were not made of steel. Each of them were swords forged from a single piece of white ice. Orbash's ice magic given form. The moon king is certainly a clever one.

"We do, although I confess Orbash is my better. What you witnessed was the exception to the norm." Sunflare replied while skillfully twirling her sword to add some flourish. If Orbash was really the better duelist, I was not convinced at the time. First impressions and all that.

Orbash rolled his eyes, not the least bit fazed from being bested by his wife. "To be fair, it's foolhardy to believe a thunderbolt can compare to a supernova. My dear Sunflare will always have me beat in raw magical devastation. But when it comes to some with form... With a little more mass than arcane might... I dare say you won't find a better levitation duelist than yours truly here."

I was in the process of holding Sunflare's icy rapier to get a closer look at it. Just lightly nudging it with my fingers to rotate it while it floated before me. I was astonished by Orbash's craftsmanship. A sharp edge along the blade with an equally sharp tip. All polished to a smooth finish. He even included a knuckle guard over the hilt to better assist with parrying. Even if unicorns lack hands, the hilt of a sword was still important for focusing their magic on. Swordplay truly is an art that can be partaken in by anyone who can hold a sword. "This is some remarkable craftsmanship... I don't see any flaws or rough spots at all."

"Millennia of practice, my boy. Ice magic is a lot of fun to play around with when it comes to form projection. And now that it dawns on me... You have a fencing tournament coming up, don't you? Somewhere down south in the Republic of Aquila?" Orbash replied while taking hold of the icy sword in my light grasp while Sunflare ceased projecting her magic on it. The entire thing was wrapped in Orbash's silvery magic aura while he focused on it. Only to smile whimsically at me while moving it over to me, the hilt bare of his magic aura. "Why not go a round with me, my dear prince? Just for a minute or too."

Celestia glanced at me while I glanced at her. And such an excited smile was on her lips. Did she really want me to have a friendly duel with her father? I then realized it was indeed an honor to be offered such an opportunity by the greatest king of them all. I reached out and gladly took hold of the rapier's hilt. But only for a second or two. "Wow, it would be an honor to... Whoa, that's cold!"

It should have been obvious. The rapier forged of magic ice was just as frigid as it looked. I could not hold it for more than a few seconds before it became uncomfortable. I would need a glove for it. Something that was not common around Canterlot. Celestia then took a closer look at it before rolling her eyes. "Oh right... Ice. Of course that's too cold to hold for long."

"It is?" Orbash asked in a strange lack of knowledge about his own magic. What, did he really think he could increase the temperature of that icy sword without it dispelling into vapor? I suppose it was not like he had a hand to hold it with. He had the sword float up before him before nudging it with his muzzle. He grumbled a bit with eyes narrowing. Then, much to my dread, he reached out and touched his tongue to the hilt. "Hm! My goodness that is cold. I'd say cold enough to... To..."

"Oh man, you just had to do that!" I almost shouted as we all realized what had happened. Orbash's tongue was stuck to the frozen hilt of his own sword! What did he think was going to happen?! Just the sheer absurdity of seeing the single most powerful stallion in the history of the entire world now caught with a classic hazard of having his tongue stuck to a frozen object. He even lost his magical grasp on the thing in a moment of fright, one frozen sword hitting the floor with a clatter with the other hanging by his tongue and having the tip touching the floor. Oh lord, I hope Pinkie Pie does not get any ideas from this... Can a pony swing a sword around effectively by holding it with their tongue?

Moving on from that random train of thought, We all had to take a step back when Orbash swung his head a bit only for the rapier to swing about on his tongue. Celestia and I were in the same boat as each other with the two of us being unsure if we should be concerned of amused. Orbash, his words a little harder to understand than usual, turned to Sunflare while she began to give him...an exceptionally dry scowl. "Sunflare! Be a dear and melt this off my tongue! I think it's already gone numb!"

But Sunflare did nothing. She just stood there scowling at her husband. And just when Celestia was likely about to do the job herself, Sunflare spoke with a tone as dry as a desert. "Just dispel it. You created it after all."

We all stared while Orbash stood there in silence. His eyes were wide. Only to suddenly narrow as he too began to match his wife's scowl. And with a flash of his silvery magic, they dissolved in a rapidly fading icy mist. And he still wore that uncharacteristic scowl as he said, "Touché again, my dear."

Celestia and I almost burst into a snickering fit. All while her father was dealt a blow by his wife that I still am not sure if it was a compliment or insult. "King of fools indeed."

But Orbash's wit was as quite as a bolt of white lightning launched from his horn. He instantly lost the scowl and replaced it with a playful smirk, his eyes looking at his wife from the side. "Perhaps. But this fool still won your hoof in marriage, managed to go roughly five millennium without ever once being asked for a divorce, and managed to sire two beautiful daughters with you who grew up to become very fine mares in their own right. It would seem this king of fools is doing something right."

Could there ever be a finer stallion than that wonderful king? Celestia and I could not hold it back. We both burst into simultaneous laughter while Sunflare recoiled with such a fiery blush in her cheeks. She was at a loss for words. Desperately trying to find a retort, but nothing slipping past her lips. Only for Orbash to glance over at his snickering daughter with his eyes glancing up and down. I noticed first. And I suddenly froze when I realized why he was smirking at us. "And while Sunflare and I have no plans on future children, that's not to say we're not adverse to doting on our grandchildren."

Celestia flinched. And she flinched again when even Sunflare happened to scan her with a sneering smirk on her lips. They had eyes as keen as a falcon. Celestia was still out of her usual regalia. And upon closer inspection, her mane was a bit...off kilter with how it billowed beside her. The sun queen then asked, "My word, what were you two up to this evening? Gallivanting behind closed doors?"

"That's...none of your business! All right?" Celestia recoiled while still not looking entirely not amused . But she did not say Sunflare was wrong. And that widening smirk on her mother's face only confirmed that she knew that.

Although what Orbash said did catch my attention. And so I had to ask. "Um... If you don't mind me asking... How many grandkids are you hoping for?"

Those eyes... The way Orbash perked up when I said that... He suddenly began to speak rather excitedly. "Well if you must know... After many centuries of pondering such a thing, I'd say around... Ack!"

"Do not encourage him!" Sunflare barked as she suddenly swatted her husband across the face with her wing. It definitely did not hurt. I assumed it was like getting slapped across the face with a pillow. Orbash tried to speak with wide eyes, but Sunflare suddenly held the longest feather at the tip of her wing right to his lips, as if shushing him with a single finger. Her wing then folded as her gaze softened into one of...concern? "The number of little ones you wish to have is entirely up to you. And we will adore them as much as the next. But please... When it comes to you, Celestia... Consider the power they will inherit. I dread to imagine a power struggle between your sons and daughters."

"I... I did not consider that... But I'll always keep it in mind." Celestia replied while she and her mother bowed their head and crossed horns with each other. And I too was left silent in contemplation. Any child born of Celestia would inherit her magical might. But would they possess her mastery over light and heat, or would it be a different polarity entirely? But regardless... Powerful children. All of royal blood. Would they inevitably feud over an uncertain crown?

Maybe I am thinking too hard about this. Equestria's royal family does not function off of the sleazy and scheming stereotypes associated with dynasties. But it was still something to keep in mind. Although Sunflare then turned to her husband while smirking at him. "Keeping one's spouse in line works in both directions, my love."

Orbash let out a long sigh of concession. Although his gaze soon turned to Celestia. "Ha... Very true, my dear. I confess there was a time where I was all too eager to become a father to another foal long after you and your sister had been fully grown mares for some decades. But your mother always kept me grounded. The world was a very different place back then. It still had not found its footing and our family did not need an overly ambitious black sheep causing more harm than good."

"I hope we've made you proud in the end, Father." Celestia said with a relaxed sigh. She too then crossed horns with Orbash as they bowed their heads to each other. I watched in respectful silence. The royal family of Equestria was truly a good family. An inspiring one even. It was such a shame it took an approaching cataclysm to bring them back into the eyes of the public.

Although it was then that Sunflare asked the most important question hanging over our encounter there in the main hall. "But now that our little performance has ended... Were we interrupting anything when you happened to come on down here?"

"We already had a spicy dinner, so we were just on our way to the kitchen to get some dessert." I replied while Celestia looked like she had been reminded of what she had planned. I suspect she knew exactly what dish she wanted to cook up.

"Ah, best not keep our princess from the pantry then! She always had quite the sweet tooth. We'll just be on our way then. I could use a warm bath after that duel. Come, my dear." Orbash replied while he and Sunflare started to make their way up the grand staircase behind us. But we did not get far before I heard the moon king call out to me. "Ah, one moment! James?"

Celestia and I turned to face the distant king and queen of Equestria. And with a quick flash of his frigid ice magic, pale particles in the air formed before a sword of pure white ice formed before me. But not a rapier. A longsword. I decided to endure the cold of the icy hilt and took hold of the sword in both hands. Even if not made of metal, the weight felt right. It was a very good sword. Orbash then called out to me, "If you ever need a sparring partner or would like some tutoring on honing your skills, seek me out. I'm not one to brag, but I have studied extensively the many forms of swordplay across the world. Rapier, longsword, arming sword with shield, I think I can cover whatever you may need."

"He has?" I asked Celestia with a whisper while she readily nodded. The moon king himself as my tutor? How could I turn that offer down. I spoke with a big smile, "Sure! I'll ask you before long, OK?"

"Glad to hear it, my boy! Now then, off to bed with us! But not before a long hot soak..." Orbash replied with a hearty grin. He dispelled the sword in my hands while he and his wife headed up and out of sight. Now it was just us once again. And Celestia and I were quick to head on down the halls with a brisk walk.

Before we got far, I waited until right when I was sure my beloved's parents were out of sight. Only then did I whisper to her. "They're a great couple."

"Very. Maybe even the best couple. Lucky me, right?" Celestia giggled with a huge grin on her lips. And I concurred. How fortunate that the two mightiest magical paragons in all the land have remained a loving and inspiring couple to this day.

The kitchen was dark once we reached it. A quick flick of a light switch fixed that problem. Not a chef was in sight. Jut the way we wanted it. I stood back while Celestia went about, fetching items from the rather large refrigerator and cabinets. "You get yourself comfortable and I'll get started as soon as I find everything I need. I know exactly what I'm in the mood for tonight."

https://youtu.be/idc94HHayRk?si=DNyQM-z0uKmmokoK

There was a large countertop in the middle of the kitchen that must have seen a lot of use. It looked like it had not been wiped down properly at the end of the day with some leftover syrup or grease being visible here and there if I happened to see the light reflect off it at the right angle. But kitchens are meant to get messy while in use.

Celestia only took a couple of minutes to gather her ingredients. And they were very few. A carton of eggs, a box of sugar, containers of strawberries and blueberries, and a tall glass bottle. One full of sweet marsala wine. I watched in curiosity as Celestia went to work with a metal saucepan that looked like it had gotten a lot of use over the years and a much smaller glass bowl on the side. But what happened with the eggs caught my attention. Celestia would crack them open only to separate the whites from the egg while placing the yolks in the large bowl. That combined with the presence of the fruit she had chosen and the presence of that particular type of wine... I started to smile as my eyes widened in realization. And Celestia noticed. "Oh? I think someone knows what I'm whipping up here. Recognize anything, my love?"

I did. And I spoke the identity of the dish she was concocting. "Zabaglione. My family business serves that as a dessert special now and then."

"They do?! Then it looks like I'll be giving you a little taste of home tonight! Just sit tight and let this queen of the kitchen work wonders." Celestia beamed with a delighted smile. She quickly went to work with her levitation magic gathering the ingredients at speed that would make most human chefs envious. And once the yolks, wine, and sugar were added to the saucepan, Celestia went to work with a whisk. Stirring vigorously while her eyes focused intently on that thick yellow goo. That whisk was stirring with the speed and intensity of a machine all without spilling anything. And Celestia did not waste a single drop of the results. She used her magic to slide off every last bit of the resulting liquid off the whisk's many wires and into the saucepan. She swiftly moved the pan to the stove nearby and began to stir with a spoon while heating it for preparation.

I stepped around the main countertop to look at the constantly stirred substance. Celestia never stopped stirring. And only when it started to bubble did she stop. Her levitation magic opened up a cabinet nearby to bring out two tall and narrow glasses that almost reminded me of champagne flutes. But they were meant for liquid desserts for eating with a spoon. Celestia was very methodical with how she poured the zabaglione mixture in. She poured some, then added some blueberries and quartered strawberries, then added more, and then more fruit to create layers. Until we had two tall glasses of piping hot zabaglione ready with delicious fresh fruit visible through the glass. And not with a drop remaining inside the saucepan. She did a fine job with the presentation. But there was still a problem. And Celestia smiled bitterly as she placed the two glasses in the freezer. "Now the only hard part of this dish. Waiting. And it just can't be helped..."

"Right... Best served chilled. Maybe we should check back in thirty minutes?" I asked while eyeing a row of wine bottles set along the wall atop the kitchen counter set to the left of the stove. I then added, "Maybe while also sipping some wine?"

"Hm... Good idea. How about a red for now?" Celestia replied before her magic fetched us a pair of matching wine glasses. She then floated over one such bottle of red wine before popping the cork off. She took a long whiff of the fluid inside. "Ooh, this is a good one. The chefs won't mind fetching another from the cabinet anyway."

With matching glasses of that rich red fluid, we set out down the hall to try and pass the time while waiting for our desserts to cool enough. And we would have to check back before they could freeze. But for the moment, I gladly carried the bottle in my other hand as we strolled through the dimly lit halls with the smooth polished floor under my socks. We left the cork behind. To let that rich red wine breathe before we would pour some more.

Our minds were on nothing but food at the time. Chatting up each other about desserts. I brought up what I knew about gelato, Celestia mentioned how one could make tiramisu without much of a coffee flavor, and so on. But one thing we both came to an agreement on was our disdain for coconut. That is a flavor and fruit one either loves or hates. And we were definitely on the same side of that spectrum. Coconut milk is strangely more enjoyable though... Perhaps the flavor is milder than the fruit.

Celestia guided me along, eventually leading me up some stairs. And she had a secret destination planned all along. We soon found ourselves in a long hall bordered by towering walls lined with stained glass windows. With an ornate door at the far end. My eyes widened. The Hall of the Elements. In the dead of night with the moon outside casting a frigid and almost ghostly glow through the intricately designed windows. Celestia happened to notice the shift in my face and asked with a whisper, "Something wrong? Would you...rather go somewhere else?"

"Huh? Oh! Uh...no, it's fine. I'm OK with being here. Lots of history in this hall." I replied sincerely. And so we topped off our glasses before we began to proceed through the hall. The silence was truly deafening when a winter gale was not whistling outside the windows. And during the moments of true silence, all I heard was the muffled tapping of Celestia's bare hooves along the deep red rug running down the middle of the hall. It was such a contrast to the last time I had been in that hall. It was so full of people last time...

And there it was. The newest addition to the pantheon of stained glass images immortalizing some of the grandest and most important events in Equestria's long and storied history. I gazed upon the image that depicted myself clad in my winged armor. Sword and shield in hand with some of my most memorable allies during our days at war. I could still remember when Queen Sunflare and King Orbash personally forged the window before me that day. And with traces of alcohol weakening my inhibitions, the tears began to build again. "I can't believe they did this for me..."

"Why wouldn't they?" A loving voice whispered to me. Celestia draped a wing over me as we both gazed upon the window above us. So many memories over a short amount of time. Some of them only dull and colorless blurs. A time of crisis. But also a time of new and meaningful beginnings. Celestia then whispered with her head resting on my shoulder. "We are very proud of you."

I did ot want to break down that night. I had already shed enough tears over the struggles we endured. I breathed deeply while letting my tears flow, but restrained my nerves. "Just bringing to this world was all it took to set that crisis in motion... Was it worth it in the end?"

"Yes. It was. Even with all that happened... Given the circumstances... I believe we were handed the best possible outcome. It was absolutely worth it in the end. And I'm sure the coming years will confirm that." Celestia said with absolutely no hesitation. I glanced at her while her eye looked at me out of its corner. And she spoke with a smile. "I love you, my dear knight. And if there is another crisis in the future... I won't hesitate next time. I'll be there with you if I can. I never should've let you set out by yourself. I should've been there at your side..."

"Celestia... Best possible outcome, right? And you did more than enough for me out there. I love you. Please believe me." I whispered back to her before we embraced once again in the glow of the window above us. No words were needed. Alls well that ends well. Whatever mistakes we made did not matter by then.

It was then that we decided to head back to the kitchen with empty glasses and an empty bottle. We did not expect to go through the entire thing, although it was not full at the start. And we had already reminisced about the recent past enough that night. And upon removing our desserts from the freezer, we found that the glasses were frosted over. We stood at opposite ends of the central countertop with long spoons ready. Celestia then spoke with a giddy smile, "You first, my sunshine. How'd I do?"

I took a helping of the perfectly cold zabaglione off the top for a taste. And the moment it graced my tongue... The sweet egg mixture with the taste of sweet marsala wine and with just the right bite of alcohol... I let out a sigh after swallowing. "It tastes just the way I remember..."

No more words were said. But Celestia's beaming smile told me just how ecstatic she was for having nailed that recipe. We savored our desserts. And the fruit only added to the experience once we had reached the first layer. What can I say? It was a simple yet fantastic dish to enjoy after a long cold winter day. Even if my day was shorter than it felt. Even if I had shaved off several hours by transporting myself from Capricorn Island to Canterlot in an instant, I felt like I was almost ready to call it a night.

Dessert was over and celebrated with a kiss. Celestia had proven herself a marvel when it came to the creation of desserts, leaving me thoroughly impressed. But now it was time to prepare for bed. Celestia and I made our way to the bathroom and soon began to take a hot shower together with the lights dimmed. And we needed it. Celestia and I embraced for a moment with her glorious mane and tail once again taking on a more mortal look as they became heavy with water. My future queen sighed low and deeply before she spoke. "I've...really enjoyed my evening with you, James."

"It's been a wonderful night... I'm happy I stayed." I replied as I basked in the love of the Princess of the Dawn. What a wonderful woman... I could see why the people of Equestria have such a high opinion of her. And now she was mine. And I was hers.

"I love you... Don't ever hesitate to come see me when you have the time and need. I will always find time for you. I mean it." Celestia cooed to me with her soaked wrapping around me like a heavy raincoat. Our words during our bathing were few as we spoke more with our actions and our eyes. I washed her while she did the same to me.

Celestia put her more heat originated magic to use once our shower was done, drying us off quickly while I helped keep her hair straight to prevent any unwanted wild results. And then it was back to bed. I was all but bare once back in Celestia's private chambers. And we noticed the fireplace had nearly gone out. I whispered to my lover, "It'd be a shame for that to go out too soon. I like sleeping with the fireplace going in my bedroom back home."

"Same here, dear. Let me fix that." Celestia replied while her magic went to work. There was a stack of small logs next to the fireplace neatly piled on a black iron frame. One log on the top layer was soon in her magic's golden yellow aura before floating over to the fireplace and set amongst the ashes with the last bit of fire licking at it. I was sure it was too late and the log would not ignite before the flames could go out. But then the flame started to grow, spreading bit by bit up the log. The fire would not be going out just yet. "There. That'll definitely keep us warm tonight."

"Lovely." I whispered while placing a kiss on her cheek. Celestia bared a grin with her eyes squinting shut. She was just so happy. With none of her usual regalia on her body. My eyes scanned Celestia's face for a moment. Just...taking in the face of the mare who was always under the crown. Not that Celestia did much to hide her personality when amongst her subjects. She was beautiful. A veritable goddess of a mare, but still a mare who loved me. "I love the real you."

Celestia's smile softened as her eyes opened to cast me a loving gaze. All while speaking with a tender tone. "Thank you... I know you struggled for a time to fully see past my crown. And I'm so glad you finally did. I mean it's not like I try to put on heirs when I'm in public. I try to be the real me as much as my duty allows, but... Still have to show some restraint sometimes."

"I know. No matter how much of the real you that gets past the crown... Duty is a heavy thing." I muttered before joining my beloved on her bed as she pulled the covers over us. She faced me, a wing draped over me in an embrace. And one last time, we shared a kiss. "Good night, my love."

"And very sweet dreams to you, my sunshine." Celestia whispered back to me with eyes filled with a happy fatigue. Together, we drifted off to sleep. For being such a short day for me, I felt fully spent and ready for rest.

I dreamed well. Nothing I can recall, but it was a restful sleep. And I only awoke when my dreaming thoughts were distracted by a subtle yet noticeable sound. A familiar gentle shimmering sound. And when I did open my eyes and looked up, I found Celestia with her head raised, her magic aura billowing over her horn while producing that gentle sound. The flames of the fireplace had just recently gone out with embers still glowing in it. The lighting of the room was dim, but was gradually brightening. Celestia was simply fulfilling her duty as the Princess of the Dawn. But the instant her magic aura faded, she glanced down and noticed I was looking up at her. She instinctively raised a wrist to her lips while smiling sheepishly. "Oh! Did I wake you?"

"Yeah, but I think you got me up at a good time. Good morning, dear." I said with a groggy yawn following my words. We started our day off the best way we could. With a kiss. And then we embraced under the warm covers, locked away from the bitter winter chill just beyond the glass balcony door over yonder. My beloved's warm and beautiful body locked its six limbs around me while my hands wandered over her, sliding down her back and over the dock of her tail. My fingers drifted over the tops of her flanks and back up to her shoulders. Celestia cooed and giggled at my roaming touch. Her beauty was second to none. A perfect body for a mare. But then... Beneath her. I rested my hand over her belly. Flat and smooth, soft yet with powerful muscle just under the surface, and empty. For now. "Someday, my love... Someday."

"I know... A daughter...or a son. Whatever they are, we'll love them. Because they'll be ours." Celestia whispered into my ear. And we stayed there a while longer. The sun may have needed to rise, but its ruler did not. At that moment, her crown meant nothing. The mare that is Celestia remained in my embrace, offering an occasional loving statement while her lips often met mine. We were just lovers. Perhaps even future husband and wife. Just staying there and savoring each other. But we could not stay there forever. Someone would come knocking eventually to check on why the Princess of the Dawn was staying so late in her bedroom. And Celestia found just the right words to say. And she said it with a sweet whisper. "What would you like for breakfast? Fruit and pancakes?"

I almost said yes. I could remember how decadent Celestia tends to make her pancakes. But then I remembered literally the last thing I ate. Something sweet followed by another sweet meal? Only Pinkie Pie does that. "Um... Maybe another time? I'm in the mood for something less...sweet."

"Ooh you want something hearty. I can do that." Celestia replied as inspiration glistened in her eyes. She had something special in mind. But for the moment, it was time for me to start my day with a morning shower like always. While I grabbed my towel from last night, Celestia fetched her golden regalia and went trotting off down the hall to the kitchen. What goodies did she have in mind?

My shower was uneventful and it was a trip back to Celestia's bedchambers before I was fully dressed. I went down the quiet halls of the castle. The night watch had just started to swap places with the day shift, but almost no one was around who was not in armor. Things were still quiet for the moment. Although I soon started to notice an aroma in the air. Something was cooking. Something rich in protein. "Eggs, huh?"

https://youtu.be/zYrZ9wYGq3Y?si=tb0r5eMyDNo6pC0p

It turned out that Celestia had worked quickly by the time I reached the kitchen. She was just putting together the finishing touches on our morning meals. I was surprised the kitchen was still as tidy as it was. Maybe because I expected her to bake a cake or something. I took my seat over at one of a few tables nearby. While I suspect dining rooms in the palace are used more often, there being a few tables and seats for dining in the kitchen as probably there just for practical purposes. I took a seat and was not kept waiting as Celestia all but trotted me way with a pair of plates and tall glasses of cold milk floating beside her head "Just in time!"

Celestia was pretty excited as she set out our plates. They had matching contents for the most part, but mine... I was immediately reminded of how she always styles up her famous pancakes. At the bottom of the plate was a hearty omelet no doubt full of cheese. And there was a line of ketchup spanning its length down the middle, resembling the central line between a pair of lips. Above it were two separate large and impressively thick tomato slices done up in a caprese style. A thick slice of fresh mozzarella cheese was set atop them. And atop those was a dollop of black balsamic glaze. And then in the middle of each black dollop was a tiny basil leaf. Almost...like a pair of eyes. Above those was a hefty spread of hot creamed spinach spread out like a messy head of hair. And there in the middle of the plate was a large and very ripe strawberry. The nose of the face staring back at me. Even more amusingly is that there was a single dessert chocolate on one side of the plate where one might see a mole on someone's cheek. I cracked a crooked smile of amusement. Celestia really wanted to make the start of my day special and she still pulled it off despite going out of her culinary element. I looked at my beloved from across the table while she looked back at me with a patient smile, clearly showing she was waiting for my approval. And so I gave it to her. "You are such a doll sometimes. I love it."

Celestia burst into such a giggling fit. Eyes squinted shut with the widest toothy grin on her face. He beamed at me as she said, "All for you, my love! I want my beloved to start the day with a smile. Even if it's not his own."

Conversation was light at the breakfast table. I just wanted to savor everything my dear Celestia had cooked up. The cheese inside that omelet... So gooey and melted. Something akin to provel. Everything else on the plate was fantastic as well. Although I got creative with chocolate and strawberry in the end. I used my knife to split the chocolate bit in two before enjoying two bites of it and the strawberry together. They complimented each other well. Once Celestia and I had left our plates bare and our glasses empty, we slowly stood up from the table. Our eyes met and matching smiles graced our lips. Celestia stepped towards me with her wings spreading wide and said, "I had a wonderful time last night. We need to do this again more often."

We embraced. She was right. We should not let her duties and the distance between us get in the way. We were in love. And we were a part of a steadily growing family. But we would be seeing each other again in just a few weeks. A special event was coming that I and my closest circle of friends have been invited for. And I decided to remind her of it. "We'll see each other again soon. Just in time for the play, right?"

Celestia pulled her head back in surprise. Only for her eyes to go wide in realization. "The play... Oh! Of course, that! Yes, my family and I will definitely be there. Can't wait to see the true story play out for the first time in ages... I know you'll excel at your role, my love. And we'll be watching."

There was one last thing about that approaching event that I was a bit uncertain about. And I needed to bring it up sooner than later. "Before I forget... When are we rehearsing for this play? I've never been cut out for show business. Probably going to need some good direction to pull this off..."

Once again, Celestia surprised me with another curveball. "Don't you worry about that, dear. Your friends have already performed this play, so they just need to inspect the revised script. As for you... My sisters and I have discussed an efficient way to help you follow your lines and we've come up with something...special. Although maybe a shot of some scotch might help..."

"Not a bad idea. If your really want me to be a bit more vocal than I usually am, some liquid courage would do the trick. As for whatever you have in mind to help... I really shouldn't doubt you. I'm sure it'll work." I replied with some thought. I knew I was not an actor. I had no capacity for showmanship. But it sounded like they had a special trick to counter my weaknesses.

At last, it was time to get ready to depart. I had already stayed away from home for a day longer than I had planned. I wanted to get back home before noon. Celestia and I returned to her chambers. And I was torn as I got my shoes on. Celestia watched me from near the door. Her smile had faded. As had mine as I spoke to her. "I'm ready to go home...but I don't wanna leave you."

"I know. It's...something we're both getting used to. I wish you could stay longer." Celestia said softly with her hooves gradually bringing her closer to me. We then gently leaned into each other, the sides of our heads touching. "Just take things one day at a time... We're part of one special family. We just need to...get used to saying goodbye just so we can say hello later."

There was no other way about it. I was simply in love with my future queen. It hurt to say farewell, even if for a short while. But I had to endure. For them. It would get easier. "I won't keep you waiting too long... We have a date planned."

"Right. We'll be waiting. As for these..." Celestia said with a brightening tone in her voice. She stepped past me and turned around to stand beside the stack of gifts I had brought back from Capricorn Island. She set her right wing atop the pile and said with a cheekier grin, "While you're on your way home to Ponyville, I'll be busy getting these all wrapped up for the big day. Don't worry about when. I know exactly when to bring them. Just let your family know to be patent, all right?"

She sounded like she had a plan. And it would be awkward to pass those gifts out when we would be doing it again in a matter of weeks. Best to pass them all out on the big holiday. But now that I had giving my beloved the night she wanted, it was time to head home. Wrapped in my jacket and with my backpack strapped on, Celestia and I held each other. Whispering I love yous and many other sweet words. Until finally...I left the room. Alone.

I had to pause to take a deep breath. It was so easy to forget just how much I loved Celestia until we were alone with each other. Perhaps I should be grateful that this relationship style allows us to pine harder for longer. Making it easier to remind ourselves of how dearly we need each other. I walked through the halls of the castle, my thoughts focusing on the Princess of the Dawn. Princess of Equestria, but still my queen and no one else's.

I was honestly surprised I found my way out of the castle without bumping into any of Celestia's family. Perhaps duty was calling louder than me. And we would be meeting again soon. The previous night was only for Celestia and I. And I respected that her sisters knew that.

From the moment I got on the train for Ponyville, the rest of the day played out rather uneventfully. My wife and our two daughters welcomed me home with smiles while I shared stories and even the photos Novo and I took together. And after spending some time holding my dear Fluttershy in my arms, I was reminded of why she was the first. Why she was the mare I chose to walk down the aisle with. No one else would have had the faith in me necessary to set the foundation for the family we are building. Fluttershy believed in me enough to let my heart test its limits. And I will continue to strive to never betray that faith.

I have spent the better part of this week compiling all of this in journal format. Multiple days... It was a challenge and I managed to hang in there enough to finish it. Although Pinkie Pie did come pay us a direct visit during that time. Just to drop off a reminder about what we had planned soon. That holiday visit to her family's rock farm. My time there was very brief, but I did make a friend. That sweet little Marble Pie.

Pinkie Pie and I will be heading out in a few days. I have never been stuck alone with her for any extended amount of time, so the train ride with her to get her back home will be...interesting. At least I have the patience for her energy. But for now, it is late and dinner is waiting for me on the other side of that door. Smells like fried potatoes tonight.

Just a reminder. Pinkie Pie and I leave town in the early afternoon in three days. It will be just her and I.

God help me.