Birthday! I awoke with a start in the middle of the night with that thought ringing in my head. I quickly looked over to see if I had disturbed Twilight, she was still asleep beside me. I kissed her nose softly and noticed a warm bundle laying on top of us, looking down I found Scootaloo asleep stretched out to hold us both as much as she could.
She must have woken up in the middle of the night and finding herself in her bed came to see if we had come home yet, she shivered slightly the cool air from the window chilling her slightly. I gently pulled her beneath the covers between Twilight and I and she snuggled happily against us.
I lay back with a smile and tried to think of an appropriate gift for Twilight, a dress? Jewellery? More books? Nothing seemed to quite fit for the first birthday with my beloved wife... Suddenly I remembered I did have something, something I hoped she would love. I had plans to make... I drifted back to sleep easily.
When I woke in the morning I could hear Twilight and Scootaloo whispering quietly. I cracked my eyes open to see them both beside me enjoying some breakfast in bed.
"Morning." I whispered as I stretched.
"Morning!"
"We didn't wake you did we?" Twilight asked.
"Well past time I woke up anyhow."
"Well with your injuries I thought you might need some extra rest..." She trailed her fore hoof lightly over where my ribs had been broken.
I leaned forward with a smile and kissed her softly squashing Scootaloo between us for a second before we parted.
"Ugh... Why do you both have to be so mushy? Wait..."
"What is it Angel?"
"Do that again!"
"What honey?"
She pulled us together again with her in the middle, we squeezed her tightly I thought perhaps she was just looking for some attention. Looking down I could see her head nodding and a cute little smile on her face. After a few moments we parted and she sat back looking back and forth between us with an excited look on her face.
"Your hearts beat at the same time!"
We both smiled at her. "They sure do Angel."
"But how?! That’s not supposed to happen is it?"
Twilight and I shared a smile. "Well honey, let us tell you a story. A story of how Rick and I met and finally were able to be together..."
She sat back while Twilight and I started from the beginning; she knew some of the story of course as she had been there for it. I told her of my life before and how I had been transported here, met Zecora and then Twilight. We told her of our time together, our trials, challenges and tender moments. We both got pretty emotional while telling the tale and had to take a few breaks to hold one another kissing gently.
We also stopped whenever she had questions trying to answer anything she wanted to know.
"So if you knew you loved her that night why didn't you tell her?!"
Twilight and I blushed slightly. "I was... Afraid. I wasn't sure she felt the same Angel... And I knew it was an odd situation, me being so different I thought maybe she just wanted to be friends..."
"Same here honey, I was so confused. I was a little worried about what others might think but not much. I was more worried that he might not feel the same... Wouldn't want to be with me... You'll understand someday when you find that special stallion or mare you feel so strongly about you'll do anything for them."
"Jeez... I would have just spoke up! I love you! You love me! Period, done! See?"
Twilight and I grinned at one another.
Some colt or filly out there is in a lot of trouble someday.
Twilight burst into uncontrollable giggles leaning over to kiss me.
"Ugh!"
Despite her eye rolling and groans of exasperation Scootaloo didn't move an inch she was determined to hear the whole story and we told her everything. Our hidden feelings for one another eating us alive inside until the Manticore... I didn't hold anything back telling her of my heartbreak and anguish when Twilight was hovering between life and death and my eventual sacrifice for her.
We both choked up again there and Scootaloo hugged us both tightly, Twilight told her of our time in the hospital, they couldn't tell her if I would ever wake up. She waited by my side talking to me and studying trying to find some way, any way to help me she could.
We told her of when I awoke, the words we spoke to one another still and forever burned in our memories. She was a bit shocked at how much Luna had hated me but as we explained what had happened so long ago she understood better. We told her about our time in the library before our wedding and up to the time she joined our family, we tried to gloss over our lovemaking causing her to give us a scathing look.
"Mom! Dad! I'm not a little foal! I'm eight! We've done a few classes on sex-ed at school too."
"Sorry Angel, I just want you to stay innocent for as long as possible."
"Humph..." She tried to look mad about it but couldn't quite manage to keep the glint out of her eyes or the grin off her face.
"So... Out of all the places... Everywhere! Zecora accidentally found you and brought you here?! And you choose that day to visit her?! It’s... It's like it was meant to happen!"
I gently caressed the side of Twilights face. "I don't know Angel... Fate? Destiny? Luck? Love. Only the last matters to me."
"Oh..." Twilight gasped and we kissed passionately. "Looking back at everything that happened it was amazing we found a way... We almost lost each other... I... I..."
Scootaloo hugged Twilight tightly. "It all worked out Mom! Right?"
I grabbed them both in a big hug. "It sure did. And if your right and Twilight and I were meant to be together then you were meant to be with us too Angel. And that is an encouraging thought after all you went through. We couldn't be happier."
She blushed slightly. "Thanks..." She started suddenly and looked at the clock. "Wow! I was supposed to meet Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom! I'm late!"
It was nearly one in the afternoon; we had been talking for some time.
"Okay honey be back for supper and be careful!" Twilight cautioned as Scootaloo zipped to the window, she stopped and flew back to hug us both briefly.
"Thanks for telling me..."
I kissed her on the forehead. "You got it. Now go have some fun!"
She flew off as Twilight and I relaxed together the afternoon sun lighting up the room.
Think she understands? How important love is? How dangerous love can be?
Dangerous?
I'd do anything for you Twi... I'd kill for you, die for you... I can't live without you.
She gasped and kissed me softly. I know... You certainly proved that. I feel the same, but I hope we never need...
We won't. I'm sorry, just being overdramatic.
When Chrysalis kicked you... I almost... Blasted her with everything I had. I don't know if it would have worked but I knew I would need my magic to heal you so I held back...
I kissed her fiercely holding her tightly to me. I love you so much Twi. No one ever has been as lucky as me.
I love you. I need you.
She closed the window drawing the curtains as we pressed together; we made love softly and passionately.
Something occurred to me while we were in the shower together afterwards.
"Twi, maybe we should go and modify all the Ward stones for the Parasprites. If the creatures in the forest push them back towards town..."
"Oh no! It was a disaster last time! Quick!"
We dried off quickly and I dressed then we went through town finding the stones Trixie had placed yesterday modifying them, I watched carefully as Twilight repeated her spell getting a bit better at it every time. It was still more then I could manage but it was good to know how to do it if I ever reached that level of power.
We then hurried to the Everfree border, there didn't appear to be any mass invasion of Parasprites but we still checked down the line modifying and recharging stones as we went. We stopped as often as we needed to for Twilight to rest as she was doing pretty much all of the work.
Finally by midafternoon we were finished and started back towards town, Twilight was exhausted so I scooped her up into my arms and she snuggled happily there. As we approached town I caught a glimpse of the 'New Crusaders' as I had taken to calling them, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom as well as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon heading somewhere.
Let’s see what their up to.
Sure.
I followed them cautiously watching as they entered Ponyville Cemetery, I set Twilight down and we moved into the underbrush and watched from afar. She enhanced my hearing with a simple spell so we could both hear what was being said.
Scootaloo stood in front of her mother’s grave her friends behind her.
"This is where Twilight and Rick brought her... So I can visit whenever I want..."
"That was nice of them... Right?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Oh yes, it just hurts to see it sometimes..."
Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle moved up and hugged her tightly while Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon stood back looking a little uncomfortable. I could see why they might find the situation strange; with the exception of Apple Bloom none of them knew or could even really understand what she had and still was going through. Even Apple Bloom only understood a little as she unfortunately / fortunately? Hadn't gotten to know her mother at all.
Scootaloo sniffed and gently pushed them away. "I'm alright. Just give me a few minutes ok?"
They all nodded and moved away towards the entrance while Scootaloo sat in front of the grave.
"Hi Mom..." She started crying breaking my heart, I wanted to rush out and hold her and I was sure Twilight felt the same but we didn't want to interrupt her time with her mother.
"I miss you so much! I love Twilight and Rick but... I just want you back!" She burst into tears again.
I wish I could give her back to you Angel...
Not even Celestia has that kind of power.
I know... I just... We held each other tightly feeling a little guilty for listening in but unable to pull ourselves away.
Scootaloo wiped her eyes. "Twilight and Rick told me such an amazing story today...!" She told our story skipping across parts and doubling back occasionally but she got it down close enough. "I'm so lucky to have them. Rather then... Him. Why Mom?! Why did you marry him? Why did you stay?! Was it my fault?!! I'm so sorry!" She cried out collapsing down on the ground sobbing.
This time I couldn't hold myself back and I wasn't surprised to find Twilight right by my side as I rushed out to kneel down by Scootaloo to hold her tightly.
"Wha? Mom? Dad?!"
We both held her tightly as she cried herself out.
Twilight tilted her head up gently and looked her in the eyes. "Its not you fault! Never think that honey, bad things happen. Far too often it seems, but don't blame yourself."
"Your Mom just wanted to keep you safe, love you... I don't know what happened and I'm so sorry it did, anytime you want to talk about it Twi or I are here for you Angel... Ah sorry we were eavesdropping on you too; we just saw you come here and wanted to see what was happening."
"It’s ok... Thanks, again for everything."
Twilight hugged her tightly again. "Thank you Scootaloo."
"For what?"
"Being so brave, being our daughter, loving us, making our lives so amazing."
"Oh... Do I really do all that?"
"You sure do Angel. Ready to go? Lets go out for dinner, your friends can come too if they like."
"Okay!"
We met the rest of the girls at the cemetery entrance; they were a bit surprised to see us there but were more then happy to come out to dinner with us. We quickly got permission from their parents; Scootaloo was the fastest so she quickly flew to the farm to let Applejack know Apple Bloom was staying in town for supper.
There was really only one restaurant in Ponyville and they were more then a bit shocked to see us walk up with five fillies in tow but we had been there enough times they quickly pushed two tables together and we were all seated.
We all had a nice meal and relaxed with dessert afterwards chatting amongst ourselves.
Scootaloo turned to us from a whispering huddle with her friends.
"Um... Can I have a sleepover tonight?"
I looked over to Twilight and she looked excited about the prospect.
"Sure you can. But we'll need to get permission from all your parents and Applejack of course." I directed to Apple Bloom.
"Okay!" They all echoed.
We finished up dessert and each filly galloped off home to acquire permission and grab what they would need for the night. Twilight, Scootaloo and I headed home to clear some space and prepare some snacks and games.
Before too long they began to arrive, Diamond Tiara had a wheeled suitcase nearly as big as she was that she was dragging.
"Let me get that for you Tiara." I lifted it up and not surprisingly it was quite heavy. "Wow, your only here for a night. Maybe you’re overdoing it a little?"
She smiled up at me. "Just being prepared."
I laughed and brought her bag in holding the door open for Silver Spoon who had just arrived with a much smaller bag balanced on her back. Sweetie Belle came next with a small bag of her own and finally Apple Bloom came galloping up with her saddlebags on.
"Sorry... Whew, it’s a long gallop."
"Glad you could make it." I took her saddlebags for her and we entered, Twilight had her phonograph set up with her record collection by it and was showing the girls her copy of Slumber 101: All you ever wanted know about slumber parties but were afraid to ask, offering her help to go through it.
While Twilight was in full lecture mode going through her book page by page Scootaloo shot me a pleading look.
Twi.
Hmm? Just a second, I think the girls will really like this next chapter!
Love... I think your embarrassing Angel.
What?! Don't be silly!
And how would you feel if your Mom was sitting in at your slumber party if you were her age?
Well I never had... But... Oh...
"You girls get comfortable; we're just going to go for a short walk. Don't set the house on fire ok?"
"Daaad!"
Twilight and I headed out hearing filly giggles as soon as we closed the door, we walked awhile side by side my arm over her side.
"I'm so embarrassed! Scootaloos friends probably think I'm so weird!"
"Don't be silly. Enthusiastic that’s all. I bet they'll look in the book and find some ideas they hadn't thought of."
"You think so?"
"I know so. Lets just give them some time to settle in and we'll go back."
She looked up at me with a smile. "You always know how to make me feel better."
I leaned down and kissed her softly. "My pleasure."
We took a slow meandering walk through town greeting ponies on their way home before we got back the library. We listened at the door for a moment but all seemed quiet, entering we were... Shocked? Yeah that would be the correct term.
Sweetie Belle, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom were all lined up on the couch Scootaloo at the end letting Diamond Tiara put the finishing touches on her makeup. All of them looked very pretty though perhaps a bit overdone.
Twi, please tell me you have a camera here somewhere?
Oh yes.
Her horn lit up and the closet opened and an old style (at least to me) camera floated out, she quickly set it up saying "Smile!"
Sweetie Belle, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara smiled cutely while Apple Bloom and Scootaloo tried their best to cover their faces but Twi was too quick. With a flash the picture was taken.
"Awww! No fair Mom!"
Twilight and I laughed at her cute pout.
"You'll look back and laugh someday Angel."
"Not today..."
"Do you girls need anything?" Twilight asked, at their headshakes she smiled. "Well Rick and I will just be up the stairs if you do ok?"
"Ok!" They echoed.
"Try not to stay up too late... Ahh never mind have fun." I grinned as we headed upstairs.
"Okay we did the stupid makeover thing. What’s next? Aha! Pillow fight!" I heard Scootaloo exclaim followed by the WHUMP of a pillow.
"No fair I wasn't ready!" Diamond Tiara shouted also followed by several WHUMPS. "Now I'm ready." She giggled.
We watched for a moment from above the melee of flung and swung pillows messing up their just finished makeovers.
Then we cuddled down together in bed listening to the giggles, laughs and squeals of the fillies down below.
It couldn't get any better then this.
Not a bit love. Night.
She snuggled against me yawning. Night.
Love you.
Love you.
Despite the noise below it had been a long day and we were both tired, we managed to slip off to sleep easily.
The house was silent when I awoke the next morning, Twilight was asleep still her head resting on my chest. I gently stroked her silken mane mentally going over what I needed to get ready for her birthday.
After awhile she stirred stretching against me as I put my arms around her.
"Morning love."
"Morning." We kissed softly and laid there quietly for a few more minutes cuddling together. Then we quietly got up and made our way downstairs to find the living room a considerable mess, pillows scattered around empty plates and glasses as well. They had finished off pretty much all the snacks we had set out for them; they were all asleep and so cute in their pyjamas.
Apple Bloom had a sturdy flannel pair on and was half in and half out of her sleeping bag snoring quietly.
Sweetie Belle had a lovely pink nightie and was all snuggled down in her sleeping bag.
Diamond Tiara had similar nightie to Sweetie Belle's quite possibly made by the same mare I guessed, she was curled up in her sleeping bag.
Silver Spoon had some plain white pyjamas on and had somehow gotten turned around completely in the night her head at the bottom of her sleeping bag and her back legs sticking out the front.
Scootaloo didn't have any pyjamas and balked when we had offered to get her some she thought they were too girlie, as usual she was sprawled out across her sleeping area fast asleep.
Twilight and I just watched them for a few moments smiling.
So cute.
Just wait until their teenagers.
Ugh don't remind me!
She giggled and we tiptoed into the kitchen to get some breakfast started.
Before too long five sleepy eyed fillies made their way into the kitchen enticed by pancake aroma.
"Morning girls. How was last night?" I asked serving up plates for each of them.
"Fun!" Sweetie Belle squeaked.
"Yup!" Apple Bloom agreed through a mouthful of pancake.
Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon nodded agreement while they ate.
"Thanks for that book Mom it gave us lots of ideas!"
"Really? I'm glad you enjoyed it! I've got lots of other books I'm sure you would..."
"Mom. Don't push it."
"Sorry! Sorry..."
"We all laughed a bit and finished eating, the girls packed up their things and helped clean up then all headed out together to take their things home and have a fun day together.
Twilight and I finished cleaning up until Trixie arrived and they began their study time. I excused myself and made my way around town going to Pinkie Pie first because I was sure she would be the driving force behind any party for Twilight. I explained things to her and she was very excited and enthusiastic about what I had planned.
I left her with some bits to get what she would need and headed to Carousel Boutique, Rarity of course had been the first to let me know about Twilights impending birthday and was happy to help out any way she could. I went over the plans with her and she made a few suggestions which I never thought of, her too I left some bits with not taking no for an answer.
Fluttershy too was an easy sell and she promised to let Trixie in on all the plans when she got home, I left them some bits and walked toward the farm flagging down Rainbow Dash when I spotted her clearing clouds. She also liked the plan and accepted some bits and a few extra so she could go get some sweets.
Getting to the farm I found the whole Apple family hard at work grinding up the last apples of the season to make Cider, the New Crusaders were helping out as well. Turns out they did this every year to make some extra income for the winter and tomorrow was their first day of sales. I lent a hand helping out where I could until I could get a quiet moment with Applejack to see if my plans were going to get in the way at all. They were only selling cider for this week, Twilights birthday was on Fri but with Inkie Pie or would that be Inkie Apple Pie? Helping out she was sure they would be done making the cider by then and Granny, Mac and Inkie could easily handle selling it.
She was intrigued by my plans and promised she and Apple Bloom would be there, I left her some bits and went back to helping until late afternoon. I picked up my tired little Angel and began walking back home, Sweetie Belles parents had stopped by earlier in their wagon and picked her up so we didn't need to walk her home.
"Dad?"
"Hmm?"
"It’s almost Moms birthday..."
"How did you know that?"
"Well I asked."
"Wish I had thought of that..." I laughed. "But I do know thanks."
"What are you going to get her?" She asked looking up at me with a grin.
"Well that’s going to be a surprise for you too Angel. You'll just have to wait and see."
"Aww!"
I chuckled. "I'm sorry to have waited so long to ask but when is your birthday?"
"Mine? It’s in July! What about yours Dad?"
"Well it’s in July too actually. On the fourteenth."
"Wow! Mines the twentieth!"
"I'll be sure to remember."
"Me too!" Pinkie Pie came randomly bouncing by on her way to Sweet Apple Acres adding her two bits to the conversation. "Wait... What are we talking about?"
"Our birthdays!" Scootaloo giggled.
"Ooooh... The fourteenth and the twentieth! Got em right up here!" She tapped her forehead and bounced off.
"How did she...?"
Scootaloo shrugged. "It’s Pinkie." She launched herself out of my arms flying a few feet away. "Race ya!"
"Okay. On your mark... GetsetGO!" I took off running knowing the few second head start I got wouldn't be helping me a bit.
"No fair!" Within seconds she had caught up and flew beside me, looking over she stuck out her tongue and zipped ahead leaving me floundering after her.
By the time I managed to make it back home Scootaloo was resting on the lawn smiling as I stumbled up gasping for air.
"Beat ya!"
Getting my wind back I smiled and chuckled scooping her up hugging her tightly. "You sure did you speedy little filly."
She giggled and snuggled in my arms as we entered.
Twilight looked up from the couch and smiled as we entered.
"Busy day?"
"We were just helping the Apple family make some cider. How about you?"
"Oh just studying as usual, always more to learn." She smiled happily as I set down Scootaloo beside her and kissed her.
"Well I better have a shower trying to keep up with this little Angel has me soaked in sweat."
They both giggled and I went to the washroom and got undressed taking a nice long hot shower to clean off and relax. I was unkinking my muscles under the downpour when I felt a pair of fore hooves wrap around me pressing herself against my back, sneaky teleporting mare.
I turned around kissing her hungrily.
So July... I can't believe we've never talked about each others birthdays.
I know. I'm glad Rarity reminded me of yours; I'd feel like a real heel if I missed it.
Don't be silly. I would have let you know... Sooo, any plans?
You little minx. I kissed her again. You'll see. I hope you'll like it.
You know I will.
We cuddled under the water for a bit more before drying off then we all had a simple dinner.
Scootaloo passed out as soon a she hit the sheets, Twilight and I lay in bed together for a bit kissing, cuddling and talking about little things before we too drifted off.
The rest of the week passed by fairly quickly, we still kept a lookout for any Parasprites but things seemed to be equalising in the Everfree forest. Zecora came into town one day and Twilight and I loaded her up with supplies for the winter as most of her belongings had been stolen or ruined.
Cider sales were brisk through the week; Dash apparently had more then a little obsession with it and was in line every day to get some. With the additional help they had and the rest of us pitching in when we could they managed to make enough for anypony who wanted. I had some and it was delicious, I could see why Dash was so eager.
Friday morning came up and I was sure to be up early to get ready. We had a quick breakfast and I put the plan into action.
"So who would like to go for a walk?"
"Well I'm expecting Trixie..."
"I'm sure she wouldn't mind waiting a short while."
"True."
"I guess... I didn't see Sweetie Belle or Apple Bloom at all yesterday! I wonder what their up to?"
"I'm sure you'll see them today. Let’s go."
We walked together through town; Twilight received plenty of happy birthdays from the ponies around town. I led them in a meandering route around town until we reached the train station.
"What...!?" Twilight gasped as I brought out three tickets from my pocket. "Again? You’re so sneaky."
I kissed her softly.
"A train ride?! What else could you have planned Dad?" She looked at me suspiciously while I smiled innocently.
We boarded the train and found our cabin relaxing together. They bombarded me with questions as we traveled but I managed to keep my resolve even when Scootaloo unleashed the cute look on me and Twi nuzzled my neck.
After a bit they gave up and we just enjoyed the ride, before too long Canterlot came into view its beauty always awe inspiring.
Upon disembarking I looked around. "So what should we do? Sightseeing? Lunch?" I teasingly asked.
"Riick! Please!"
"Come on Dad don't tease us!"
I laughed hugging them both. "Okay, okay. Follow me." I didn't know my way around Canterlot too well but I knew my destination.
When we started to get close I lifted Scootaloo up onto my shoulders and squeezed Twilight gently. "Ok eyes closed until I say to look. No peeking."
They both agreed excited for the surprise. I led them away further making sure Twilight didn't trip on anything.
We came to a stop and I stared for a moment myself it was my first time seeing it as well and I was very pleased by what I saw.
"Okay you can look now."
They both opened their eyes looking excitedly ahead. What we saw was a house, fairly standard architecture for Canterlot. It was on a large lot with several trees, bushes and flowers around. It was two stories tall with large windows brick and shingle construction painted white. It looked brand new and in fact it was. Twilights gaze was caught by the mailbox at the beginning of the cobblestone walkway to the door. She gasped as she read it aloud.
"The Sparkles...?" She turned to me with tears in her eyes.
I smiled at her. "Happy Birthday."
She tackled me to the ground kissing and asking questions all at once. "But how?! When?! What about Ponyville?!"
I kissed her back holding her tightly and pulling Scootaloo into our embrace as she was looking a bit apprehensive. "Well when I came up to teach the spell just before I left Princess Celestia offered me a boon and she wasn't taking no for an answer. Well the first thing I thought of was a home for us here as well, someplace we could stay when we're here visiting Cadence and Armor or you’re Parents. And if any of our friends come here for any reason they could stay here as well."
I pointed off to the right. "Armor and Cadences new home is just a short ways down there and over there." I pointed to the left and we could now see we were fairly close to the castle wall. "Is our special place Twi... Do you like it? Angel?"
She was quiet, tears falling from her beautiful eyes. "You... You always overdo it! I love it! I love you!" We kissed passionately as I held her tightly.
Scootaloo rolled her eyes slightly. "It’s great Dad! Can we go inside?"
"Of course you can! It’s your home away from home now."
We walked up to the door and it suddenly burst open. "SURPRISE!" Pinkie was there with a huge smile on her face breathing heavily. "Sorry! I just couldn't wait any longer!" She apologised.
She zipped behind us pushing us into the house and into another huge 'SURPRISE! Happy birthday Twilight!' Pinkie, Rarity, Dash, Applejack and Fluttershy were there of course as well as Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Trixie and Spike. The girls had come a day earlier to arrange things the bits I had gave them paying for their train tickets I wouldn't expect them to pay naturally. As well I had sent a few letters earlier in the week to let others know what was happening.
Shining Armor and Cadence as well as Shimmer and Prism were there, Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle made it too and I was somewhat surprised but pleased to see Princess Celestia as well.
I bowed deeply to her. "I didn't think you would be able to make it your majesty."
She smiled down on us warmly. "Well as you were so thoughtful as to have the party here in Canterlot I made a small window in my schedule to stop by. Luna will be by later tonight, she wouldn't miss it."
I looked over to Twilight to find her still standing shock still tears still falling.
I knelt down hugging her tightly. Don't cry love. Go on they all want to see you.
She broke her paralysis and hugged me tightly then galloped over to her parents, friends and siblings hugging and crying happily.
I sat down on the floor as we didn't have any furniture here yet relieved that she was so happy and watched her and Scootaloo as she introduced her to her parents and brother and sister.
I was about to get up and join them when I felt a little tug on my hand. Looking down I found Shimmer and Prism looking up at me with cute little smiles.
"Unkle!" Shimmer squealed holding up her forelegs to be picked up.
"Ungle!" Prism agreed doing the same.
I laughed sweeping them up in my arms standing and spinning around causing them to squeal happily.
We joined the rest of the group, Shimmer and Prism were a bit shy but I guess they felt secure enough in my arms as they peeked out watching everyone and everything.
Twilight cooed over them as Pinkie brought out food, drinks and music. Before the party got too into swing Princess Celestia came over to Twilight and I.
"Sadly my duties call but before I go I have a small something for you upstairs." She smiled slyly.
I gave Shimmer and Prism to Cadence and we followed her up to the master bedroom which was huge and a good thing too for in the middle of it was a giant four poster bed.
"Princess! Thank you so much!"
"A small something?! You didn't need to go to so much trouble your majesty, the house alone..."
"Tisk, tisk. Enjoy... Oh, the Changeling situation... We'll give them a chance, but we'll be watching. Happy birthday Twilight Sparkle, see you later." And with a flash she teleported away.
We collapsed on the bed together enjoying how soft it was, my feet didn't even hang over the edge. We could hear the party still going on downstairs but we were pretty comfortable where we were. With a thump Scootaloo jumped up on the bed bouncing up and down a few times.
"Yeah a bed, great. Come on Mom there’s lots more presents to open!"
She dragged us back downstairs where they had a cake set up for Twilight, twenty three candles on it. She took a deep breath and blew them all out except one, she took another breath and blew it out and it lit again!
"Pinkie!"
She was rolling around giggling. "Oh come on Twilight that’s a classic!"
Twilight sighed in exasperation but smiled and levitated the candles out, I brought over the plates and she sliced up a piece for everyone.
We all savoured our cake then Pinkie started up the music and everyone danced and enjoyed themselves. After a few hours we all settled down and everypony presented Twilight with their gifts.
"This is from all four of us." Armor smiled, She opened the box and inside was a large and apparently very rare book 'Achievement Of Our Soveraigne King Night Sky, With The Armes of the Severall Kings that have anciently Reigned within his Dominions', the spelling seemed odd to me but she explained it was a VERY old book apparently telling of when Celestia and Lunas parents had expanded Equestrias borders allying themselves with the nearby Griffins and Dragons. She was thrilled with it hugging her bother and Cadence tightly.
Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom all had hoofmade cards for her, heart endearingly touching and cute. Twilight looked through each of them thanking the girls profusely and if I knew her she had plans already on where she wanted to keep them.
Pinkie Pie also had a book for Twilight but it was a very special one, a photo album with pictures ranging from her first time meeting her all the way up to this very day! She setup a camera right then and got a picture of the whole group of us slipping it into the last page of the album. We all took some time and went through the pictures I had no idea how she had even taken some of these pictures. Heck she was in most of them! And they looked to be galloping in some! She had some of me and I had never seen her take them! Oh Pinkie. Someday, someone, somewhere will figure you out... Maybe. Twilight loved it and she and Pinkie hugged tearfully.
Her parents stepped up next. "Well my dear we don't have anything too exciting we just thought we would start an education fund for young Scootaloo at the bank."
"If that’s sounds alright with you?" Her mother added.
She smiled happily. "That’s a great idea! Thank you!" She hugged them both tightly.
Applejack stepped up with a full keg of apple cider for her making Dash start to drool a little. Twilight tapped the keg and Applejack was ready with mugs for everyone. We all enjoyed that and there was even some left over for later... Maybe not as I noticed Dash inching her way over to the keg while Fluttershy and Trixie were presenting their gift.
She had a lovely stand and bird... Er owl bath for Owlicious. "Thank you Fluttershy! I haven't been doing much night studying lately and I certainly haven't been paying him enough attention! I'm sure he will love it."
"You’re welcome..."
"And what about you Dash?" I asked over the crowd, everypony turned to find her under the keg draining the last of the cider into her mouth. She wiped her mouth with her hoof giving us all a sheepish grin before everyone burst out into laughter.
She blushed slightly but strode up to Twilight and presented her with one bit, strangely it had a large D etched into the front and back of it.
"What’s this?" Twilight asked.
"That’s a Dash token! Good for whatever you need me to do! Clear the sky? No problem! Storm clouds raining on you? Not for long!" She sighed heavily. "Okay fine! I spent all my bits and forgot to get you anything... Sorry..." She hung her head but Twilight just smiled with a glint in her eye.
"So this is good for whatever I want is it?"
"Uh... Ya?"
"Oh I'll think of something good to do with it." She grinned slyly.
Dash's eyes went wide. "Uh oh..."
Again we all burst into laughter then Rarity stepped up with her package for Twilight.
They whispered for a moment then she opened the box a crack and smiled blushing slightly. "Thank you Rarity! It’s beautiful."
I tried to get a peek but she caught me and shut the box tightly. "Maybe later." She said with a smile.
Spike stepped up next stretched out as long as he could be I could see he must have grown at least a foot. "Spike! Look at how big you are!" Twilight gasped hugging him tightly.
"Aww... You think?" He stretched flexing and showing off a bit. He then presented her with his gift an album as well but instead of pictures it contained pieces of items from their years together. Starting with a piece of shell from his egg and ending with some of the ribbon from her brothers wedding with plenty of room for more in the future. She grabbed him in a tight hug. "Thank you Spike." She whispered misty eyed.
With the gifts out of the way the partying got back underway, a few hours later while a slow song played and she and I as well as her parents and Armor and Cadence were the only ones dancing I got a few moments alone with her.
We danced close her head over my shoulder swaying together to the music.
"Happy birthday Wife." I whispered kissing her neck.
She pulled back allowing me to stare into her so amazing deep eyes. “Thanks. Best birthday ever." She whispered back kissing me softly.
As the evening got late Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle excused themselves as well as Armor and Cadence, Shimmer and Prism were both tuckered out sleeping sweetly on their fathers back.
I thought we might have a problem putting everyone up for the night as we had plenty of space but no beds or extra linens but Rarity spoke up keeping me from panicking.
"Not to worry darling the Princess has everything arranged. The next time we visit we would be more then happy to stay here but for tonight she has arranged rooms for us all in the palace. And as you had the girls over at your place recently I think it only fitting they come with us tonight." She added with a wink.
"Ya! CRUSADER SLEEPOVER AT THE PALACE!" They squealed together.
"Oh I'm going to regret this aren't I?" Rarity moaned.
Everyone chuckled as they headed out. We had looked through the house as a group but before bed Twilight and I walked through it again from the basement which was quite large with built in bookshelves lining all the walls and a small bathroom.
"It’s almost as if Celestia knew who she was making the house for eh?” I laughed.
She nudged me in the side playfully. "Oh you."
The main floor had a large 'family' room and kitchen as well as a large bedroom and a full bath.
And the second floor had the master bedroom another smaller bedroom as well as a quite large bath with a big tub and a separate shower. Also there was a quite small room adjoining the master bedroom, a closet I guessed? But whoever heard of a closet with a window?
As we were about to get ready for bed there came a light knock at the door. We opened it and there was Luna with a large couch floating beside her.
"Luna! Come in!" Twilight gasped.
She turned the couch sideways but it couldn't quite fit. She sighed and with a sudden blip it was in the living room.
"Sorry I'm so late! I can never decide what to buy when I get to the store!"
"Its lovely Luna thank you! We were about to go for a short walk would you care to join us?" I asked.
"Certainly."
Twilight told her how the party went; sorry she couldn't have been there for it as we walked.
"Not to worry Twilight. Next time perhaps."
Before too long we arrived at Twilight and I's special place and we looked out at the spectacular view across Equestria, Dusk covering the land making everything seem to shimmer.
Twilight and I held each other tightly as Luna smiled at us sadly.
"Well I must be off."
"Luna please don't go yet. We didn't mean to make you uncomfortable." Twilight begged.
She smiled. "And you haven't. I am so happy for you both never doubt that. But I must attend to the night court, we shall talk later. Excellent work in the Everfree. You have mastered the mechanics of the Ward stones quite well. Goodnight."
"Goodnight Luna." We echoed.
We watched her fly up to the palace before turning to head back home.
Twilight and I washed up then she shut me out of our bedroom asking me to wait just a moment. I did without complaint I was very anxious to see just what Rarity had given her.
After a few agonising minutes she called me in. I closed my eyes only opening them when the door was wide open. The room was dimly lit by the moons glow as well as a few candles by the bed.
My jaw quite literally dropped and I stared at my beautiful wife. She had this
on and looked so gorgeous and sexy my heart / our hearts beat rapidly.
"Does it look ok?"
"Does it...? You look amazing Twi."
"Rarity thought you might like it..."
"I guess she knows me well." I slid into bed kissing her eagerly. "You’re so beautiful."
She kissed me back with urgency and we snuffed out the candles...