> Pure Shadow
>  by Crystal Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter One: New Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beams of light entered Sombra's room. He quickly woke up, still not getting used to the light.
He looked around feeling a bit confused, but then he remembered he was at Canterlot Castle.
Lifting the bed sheets with his magic, he got out bed and walked towards the bathroom.
This night he got the chance to sleep like a little foal, since Luna was visiting his dreams and helping him facing his fears.
After washing his face, Sombra looked at the mirror letting out a small grin. The feeling of hunger soon appeared.

He left his room, but unfortunately he didn't knew the way for the dining room.
With the hunger starting to grown stronger he looked around, trying to spot any royal guard to give him directions.
Sadly, the hallways were empty.

Sombra lifted a hoof to his chin.
"Maybe I woke up to early again?"- he mumbled. Suddenly, he heard trotting noises coming from behind him.
He turned his head to see The Princess of the Night, Luna.

Luna notice Sombra standing in the middle of the hallway.
Approaching to him, she spoke with a soft voice.
"Good morning Sombra, isn't too early?"

Sombra was going to bow, but Luna interrupted with her hoof.
"No need for such formalites."

Quickly getting up, he remembered the reason why.
"Good morning Luna."- he greeted "Well, I'm feeling hungry, but I can't seem to find the dining room."

Luna giggled, then she continue walking down the hallway.
"Follow me."

Sombra nodded while following Luna. Truth to be told, that was the first time he visited Canterlot Castle.
After going thought a set of hallways, they finally arrived the dining room, Luna opened the door slowly letting Sombra go first.
Sombra was surprised when he saw Princess Celestia taking her breakfast, Celestia seem to be reading a letter before she took a quick glance at the door seeing Sombra and Luna.

"Good morning sister."- Celestia.

"Good morning to you too."- Luna greeted.

"Awake already Sombra?"- glancing at Sombra while he sat down on the chair.

"I suppose, I had plenty of time to sleep, also I'm hungry."- he said with a small grin.
Celestia turned around to see the butler and nodded towards him, the butler shook his head and return to the kitchen.

"How was your sleep?"- Celestia continued the conversation.

Before speaking, Sombra cleared his throat.
"Much better, since Luna is been helping me during my sleep."- shifted his eyes towards Luna.
Luna smiled. The butler had returned while levitating a plate, then he place down in front of Sombra. A smile grew in Sombra's face.
Pancakes covered with honey, just like he wanted, but he didn't said nopony about that, besides...Princess Cadence.
Sombra looked at Celestia, she was still reading while eating a slice of cake. 

"How did..."- he was going to question before being interrupted by Celestia.

"Cadence, she told me in her letter, everything I needed to know."- still focusing on the letter.

"Oh, alright!"- Sombra calm down when a sudden thought came through to his mind. "Did you just said "everything"?"- he asked with a nervous smile.

"Yes, don't you worry, your secrets are safe with me."- she winked at Sombra. Sombra slightly blushed, which for some reason he remembered hearing that phrase before maybe, from his past.
He starting eating his breakfast, but he had a question on his mind.
"Sorry for asking, but if I remembered well, today I'm going to...what's the name?"

"Ponyville!"- Luna quickly answered.

"Ah, thank you Luna."- Luna simply nodded back at him.

Celestia finished reading the letter placing it on the table.
"Indeed, we will to go Ponyville in the beginning of afternoon."- Celestia stood up from her chair. "Now, if you don't mind I need to write a letter!"- looking at Sombra and Luna.

"Of course, my sister."- said Luna while levitating a cup of coffee in mid air. The Princess of the Sun left the room closing the door behind her. Sombra looked a the cup of coffee, he didn't know what was that. Luna saw Sombra's puzzled expression.

Using her magic, she grabbed a second cup and filled with coffee, then she gave him.
Sombra grabbed the cup with his left hoof.
"It's coffee, helps for waking up in the morning."

He took a glance at the brown liquid, yet the smell was quite delicious. Bringing the cup to his mouth, he started drinking, he felt the warm liquid going down. Licking his lips, the dark stallion spoke.
"This coffee, is very delicious!"
A lot of things changed during his sleep, somehow Sombra was sad, he probably missed a lot.

Sombra's expression now was a sad one which worried Luna.
"Is there something wrong Sombra?"- asking gently.

"It's just I feel that I missed a lot while I was sleeping." Luna knew exactly what he was saying. Rising from her chair, she reached him.
Sombra felt a soft wing on his back. He also knew what happen to her, they shared the same history.
"I can tell you what changed since I don't have nothing to do, also we have a lot of time left."- she said with a gentle smile.
The dark stallion smiled at the proposal, nodding his head.

Hours later, the royal carriage was ready to depart. The three ponies entered and with a simple nod from Celestia, the royal guards opened their wings, beginning the visit to see Twilight and her friends.
Again Sombra was starting to feel nervous, he was about to meet a new princess. Thinking some way to distract him from his thoughts, he looked outside, Sombra could see a small part of Equestria since he only knew the Crystal Empire. Green fields, forests and rivers, that was an amazing view. The sky was also very cleared.

Celestia and Luna glanced at Sombra, they could see he was enjoying the ride. Ponyville was only a few meters away. Celestia placed a hoof on Sombra's shoulder, he looked back at her.
"About the princess,"- she started. "You might know her."

Even before Sombra could say anything the royal carriage touched the ground and came to a sudden stop. One of the royal guards opened the door letting the princesses leaving the carriage, Sombra followed them. But before exiting he took a quick glance to the outside, but his vision soon was blocked by Celestia and Luna because of their manes. He could swear he saw something. 

Something...purple. 

Stepping out from the carriage, his face met a certain purple alicorn. With their eyes wide open, they spoke.

"You!"- both ponies said at the same time. The rest of the ponies was watching them.
  



> Chapter Two: The Reunion
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sombra was now facing the purple alicorn, both ponies had their eyes wide open.
The rest of the five ponies stared at the dark stallion. Celestia and Luna stood by Sombra side by side.

Sombra felt anger growing inside of him, but he didn't wanted to screw this up.
"Calm down Sombra!"- he thought to himself. Remaining his composure.

He bow with a slight anger.
"Princess Twilight Sparkle."
Twilight was surprised by his sudden action. She looked at Celestia, calling her for a secret meeting.

Clearing her throat, she spoke.
"Excuse me Princess Celestia, but why is he here?"- almost yelling.

Celestia just giggled at the question. That moment remembered her when she brought Discord. She looked around, but he wasn't there.
"Where is Discord?"

Twilight thought for a few seconds.
"He said something about painting or I...don't know. It's Discord."

But the truth was that Discord wasn't painting or anything else, from far away, hidden in a tree. Two eyes peeled from the branches.
Discord was glancing at the meeting. This was an important meeting, which he didn't wanted to crash into since Celestia and Luna were there, also with King Sombra. He knew about King Sombra's history because Fluttershy told him.

Regardless of that, he decide to watch.

The Princess of the Sun continued.
"Do you remember the letter I sent you this morning?"

Twilight nodded. 
"You said about somepony wanting to change? You mean...Sombra?"- she said with some uncertainty.
The letter didn't mention about Sombra. Celestia always had her way to send letters.

"Yes, I believe he can be reformed, just like Discord."

"I don't know about that."- she thought.
Celestia poked Twilight's shoulder to get her attention. She snapped from her thoughts.
"I think he's waiting for you."- she pointed at Sombra, still bowing.

"Oh, um...you can rise now King Sombra."

Rising from the ground, Sombra spoke with a soft voice, or at least he tried.
"As you wish Princess Twilight and please call me Sombra."

Just now Twilight noticed Sombra wasn't using his royal clothes. Also his crown was missing.
The purple mare was looking at Sombra's face, he looked to be calm.

"If you don't mind, we must return to Canterlot."- she continued. "I trust you and your friends."
She nodded.

Celestia entered the chariot, she glanced at Luna, she was talking with Sombra.

"Before we leave, I have something for you."- levitating from behind her, a red cape. Sombra looked at the cape.
Last time, he saw his cape it flew off towards the frozen blizzard.
"How?"- he stared at Luna.

"Long story."- she answered.
Prince Shining Armor also had his armour back at the castle. He spent some time looking for his cape.
"It's yours."- bringing the red cape closer to him.

"I can't."- he said quickly. "That thing brings bad memories."

"But now you can make new memories, better ones."
Sombra glanced at the red cape, he grabbed with his magic.
"You're right."- he smiled with the two fangs. Luna gave him a hug, before heading for the chariot.

The two princesses waved goodbye, the group of ponies waved back.
The royal chariot disappeared from far away. Sombra turned around to see six ponies who stared back at him.

"This is going to be interesting."- he thought to himself.

Applejack approached Twilight.
"Now what Twilight?"- she asked still looking at Sombra. 

Twilight thought for a while until she made a decision.
"Alright, let's go to my house to discuss with Sombra."

"I don't trust him!"- said Rainbow Dash.

"You said the same thing about Discord."- Fluttershy smiled.
She was right, but even now she still had problems trusting him.
Twilight and her friends waited for Sombra to enter first, just for caution.

Sombra was surprised, Twilight didn't had a castle, but a library? He was used to read books, his past life.
He could see shelves full of books. Standing in the middle of the room, there was a round table. The next thing he saw was a purple baby dragon. He seem to be stressed, he knew why. The last time they met was back at the Crystal Empire a few years back.

The six ponies gathered and they're debating about something, himself of course.
Sombra laid his flank on the wooden floor. He looked around, inspecting the interior of the library. That was truely a diferent kind of library, basically inside a tree. Also a strange place for a princess to live.

Twilight took a quick glance at the dark stallion, Sombra smiled back with his fangs, she returned back to the subject.
He cleaned his forehead, smiling was something difficult for him.
During his studies, Sombra read a lot books, spells and did a lot of practice. Some of Twilight's books he could recognize.
One of the books brought a smile. He looked at the group of ponies, still talking with each other. Looking back at the book shelf, he levitated a book and brought closer to him. Using his hooves, he grabbed it. The book seemed old with a brown cover.
The title was "Magic for Young Unicorns" by Star Swirl. Sombra remembered reading that book so many times.

When he looked up, the six ponies are staring at him, he still had the smile in his face. Carefully, he placed the book back on the shelf.
"Next time, I ask for your permission, I promise."

"I hope so."- said Twilight. "Now, returning to the subject, you can stay in Ponyville."

"Alright."- he said with some satisfaction.
Twilight smiled.
"With one condition of course!"
Sombra sighed. 
"Let me guess, don't do nothing evil or I will be sent to Tartarus."

"Well, I wasn't going to say that, but it's better than I thought."- she continued smiling.
Applejack stretched her front legs. Rainbow Dash still had her suspicions. Somehow, Fluttershy seemed to be rather calm, as usual.
"I better hit the hay!"- said Applejack going towards the door, passing next to Sombra, taking a quick glance at him. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy followed Applejack.

Rarity got close to Twilight.
"You sure you will be fine? Alone? With him?"- she said, whispering into her ear. The purple mare nodded.

"I'm watching you mister!"- said Pinkie staring into Sombra's eyes.
In a few seconds, the house was empty leaving Sombra, Twilight and Spike.
"Unfortunately, I don't have a second bed."

"Hm, if you don't mind I can sleep on the couch."- he said pointing at the couch.

"You sure?"- she asked.
Sombra laughed.
"My dear princess, I have been sleeping in the ice mountain for almost thirty years, I think I can survive sleeping on the couch."
She giggled.
"I suppose so."
Twilight and Sombra looked at each other, Spike was in the middle, still confused.
"This is going to be really interesting."- Sombra thought with a small grin.

> Chapter Three: Feelings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's been almost three weeks since Sombra arrived to Ponyville, fortunately the town ponies didn't know who was Sombra.
It took a while for him to make some friends since he was still getting used to idea of friendship. He even met three little fillies.
The most important thing he enjoyed was the feeling of freedom. Trotting around without any kind of concern or look over his shoulder.
Definitely, he did the right choice.

Ponyville's streets was covered in white, the ponies were using scarfs and jackets to fight against the cold.
Hearth's Warming Eve was coming, but the cold was already there.
For normal ponies, it was hard to go outside, for Sombra was different. He liked going to Ponyville's park for a walk and enjoy the snow.
Also, that was a place he could think alone without anypony to disturb him.
Overall, this was his special time of the year.

Wandering through the streets, he had a saddlebag on his back along with a check list that Twilight gave him, also with his red cape.
One simple task, go to Sugarcube Corner and get some cupcakes. Like he thought, a simple task.
Reaching the shop, he could smell the sweet flavour of cakes. Using his magic, he opened the door, his face was hit by warm air.
Entering he noticed a lot of ponies talking to each other while drinking some hot chocolate. 

"Gooood morning Sombra!"- a pink mare greeted him with a big smile.

"Good morning to you too, Pinkie. I see today you're really busy."- he said still looking at the ponies.
Pinkie wiped the few sweat drops for her forehead.
"Tell me about, this is been crazy, and it's still morning."- then she took a quick glance behind Sombra. "Are you shopping?"- she giggled.
Sombra could only blush at the comment before answering.
"N-No, Twilight gave me this list. I think she ordered some cupcakes yesterday."
The pink mare thought for a while.
"Oh, oh, now I remember, she did order some cupcakes, so I guess you're here to..." Sombra nodded. "Okie dokie, wait a second!"- with that said, she jumped towards the kitchen. The dark stalion sat down on the wooden floor waiting, before he saw a blue rainbow mane pegasus.

The blue pegasus reached at the counter. She tried to avoid Sombra.
"Good morning Rainbow Dash."- he greeted her with a smile.
Rainbow Dash sighed.
"Good morning Sombra..."- she said with a slightly annoyed tone in her voice. Sombra knew she still didn't approve him as a friend. But that didn't meant nothing, he at least tried talking to her.
"How are you?"- he asked.
She sighted again.
"Fine...until now."- the last part she murmured. Sombra heard the last part, raising an eyebrow.

"It may take some time to get her trust, but I'm willing to try."- he thought.
But before he could ask anything else Pinkie was back, with a purple box full of cupcakes. 
"Oh, hey Dashie!"

"Hey Pinkie, do you have my rainbow muffin ready?"- she asked a sigh of relief seeing Pinkie.
Using her left hoof, she picked a small blue box.
"Here we go!"- Dash reached for her saddlebag with her wing, grabbing her wallet.

"Don't worry! It's on the house."- she winked at Dash. "Same goes for you Sombra."- giving him the purple box.

"You sure about that?"- he asked feeling insecure.
The pink mare giggled.
"Of course, you silly."

"Thanks Pinkie, you're the best! Now I have to go, cya later."- just like that she was gone, she didn't even said goodbye to Sombra.
He felt a bit of sadness, maybe from being rejected. He was trying his best to improve. Pinkie noticed Sombra's expression. 
"Don't worry, she only needs some time to adjust, that's all."- she said, trying to comfort him.

He sighed. "I suppose, well I also need to go." He grabbed the box, putting inside the saddlebag with his magic. "See ya later Pinkie." He waved at her.
Smiling back at Sombra, she waved. "Bye!"

Minutes later, he could see the library and a certain purple alicorn flying around the tree.
"Decorations?"- he murmured.
Twilight was flying around the tree, placing some nice decorations. Unfortunately, Spike was at Sweet Apple Acres playing with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She didn't even noticed she forgot to pick her scarf.
Descending to the ground, she finally rested on the snow. She was feeling a bit tired, setting up everything by her own wasn't easy.
The sudden stop gave her some shivers down her coat. Twilight was now rubbing her arms.
Sombra was behind her, levitating his red cape.
"It's cold, don't you agree?"- he asked, placing the red cape on her shoulders.

Twilight turned her around to meet Sombra's gaze.
"Oh, it's you Sombra,"- said Twilight, surprised. "Y-Your right, it's getting really cold." 
She felt a slight blush coming on her cheeks. Twilight tried to hide her blush, but Sombra noticed.
The snow seemed to get worse.
"We should go back inside!"- he suggested, opening the door, he bowed. Twilight nodded. "Mares first."- he smiled.
Twilight's blush was more red than before. After entering, Sombra closed the door, while Twilight placed his cape on the table.
The library was a bit cold, the dark stallion had an idea. For some reason the library had a fireplace.
"If you don't mind, I will light the fireplace."- he placed some wood and then he used his magic to ignite it.

"Sure thing, I have a surprise!"- she yelled from the kitchen.

Minutes later, the two ponies were in front of the fireplace while drinking some hot chocolate.
Sombra was reading a certain book about adventures. Twilight was next to him, also reading a few letters from Princess Celestia.
There was an awkward silence between them. It was getting really late.
Twilight yamned.

"I'm going to bed, if you don't mind."- Twilight looked at Sombra. He placed the book down, staring back at her.
Their eyes met each other. Sombra and Twilight we're blushing, also the heat from the fireplace was helping.

"S-Sure...I better go to bed too."- he said, sounding more embarrassed from the current situation.
He went towards the couch, lying on it. He let out a soft yawn.
"Good night."- said Twilight still blushing.
Sombra smiled with a slight blush.
"Good night to you too."

Twilight trotted upstairs, with her magic she pull the door open.
The bedroom was dark, the only light was from the moon. Twilight got in bed, pulling her sheets over her.
Unfortunately, the heat was disappearing. She tried to curled into a ball, which obviously, wasn't working for her.

Downstairs, Sombra was also cold, the fire was dying.
He tried to close his eyes and fall asleep, but the cold wasn't helping.

"Why was I reacting like that?"- he asked himself.
This thoughts were suddenly interrupt by the sound of hoofsteps.
Lifting his head, he saw Twilight coming downstairs towards him.
"Is there something wrong?"- he asked.

"W-Well, you know it's cold and..."- she paused. "C-Could you possibly sleep...with me?"
Twilight looked away, avoiding Sombra's gaze.
Lifting from the couch, he approached Twilight with a smile.
"As you wish."
In their way up, Twilight's heart skipped a few beats.
"Calm down Twilight, just calm down."- she thought.
After getting in her bedroom, she got in her bed, quickly followed by Sombra.
Their backs were touching each other. Still, Twilight was shivering from the cold.
Sombra turned around. All of the sudden, she felt Sombra's belly touching her back, with his front hooves around her.

"Are you more comfortable?"- he asked softly.

"Yes, thank you Sombra."
He raised an eyebrow.
"For what exactly?"
Even if Sombra didn't noticed, Twilight was smiling.
"For just being here with me."

Sombra remained in silence.
"You never slept with a another stallion before?"

"N-No, I really never thought about that before, because..." she was inturrept when she felt his muzzle on her neck.

"You don't need to explain."
The feeling of sleepiness was starting to grow between the two of them, mostly because of their body heat.
She felt her eyes getting more heavy. She got deeper in his embrace.
"Good night Sombra."- she said while smiling.

"Good night Twilight."- pulling her closer.
With that, they fell asleep.


> Chapter Four: The Hero Inside
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After falling asleep, Sombra woke up, but this time not in Twilight's bedroom. But in the middle of a snowy blizzard. 
He looked around to see anything that could help him, unfortunately the blizzard was too dense.
"Maybe I'm dreaming?"- he wondered.

Suddenly, from the ground small crystals appeared, almost giving him a direction. Sombra followed them, curiously.
The crystals are white instead of dark.
He could imagine he was close to the Crystal Empire, that's the only place he knew that had snow, besides the mountains, of course.
The journey lasted for a few meters, until the crystals finally stopped.

Without even noticing the blizzard was now more weaker. 
Sombra looked down, gazing what appear to be a path, but made out of crystal. 
Following the path, he saw small flowers, also crystal.
"Why it seems so familiar?"- he thought.

Soon his question was answered when he found a crystal grave.
He lowered his ears by the sudden realization. Sombra sat his flank on cold snow.
The purple mist coming from his eyes decreased. The glow on his red eyes faded.
Again, Sombra felt sadness and loneliness. Just like the past, when she left.
He lowered his head while tears fell, landing on white snow.
"I'm sorry Cynthia..."- he paused while cleaning the tears. "I did so many bad things..."- Sombra stated.

Sombra didn't heard the hoofsteps approaching from behind.
"If you were here, could you forgive me for my actions?" Sombra lifted his head to gaze at the crystal grave. "I miss you so much."

A blue wing landed on Sombra's shoulder, wrapping him. He didn't tried to turn his head, he knew.
"She was the only good thing I had, in the next day she was gone." Luna didn't spoke.

"What do you do when you lose everything?"- he asked with his eyes filled of sorrow.
Luna understood him. After she returned to Equestria, things didn't ended well.
"Start all over again!"- she stated, pulling him closer. Sombra's ears lifted. "You did the right choice, you decided to banish your evil and start all over again."- she paused to breath. "After all, everypony deserves a second chance, don't you agree?" Luna smiled at Sombra.

Feeling better, Sombra smiled back.
"You're right!"

Returning to the real world, Sombra woke up, still hugging Twilight close to him.
The curtains were blocking the sun light. The stallion lifted his head, trying to see Spike, but he remembered he did a sleep over at Sweet Apple Acres. His stomach growled for food.
Sombra hoped the sudden noise didn't wake her.
Getting out of the bed, he trotted towards the door, before looking back at Twilight.
"She looks really pretty."- he thought for a brief second. "What did I just said?"

Entering the kitchen, he opened the fridge and with his magic he grabbed some food.
"Well since Spike isn't here to make breakfast, I could try."
It took a few minutes preparing everything, by then Twilight was already awake.
During the breakfast they talked about books, spells and other stuff.

After that Sombra was lying on the couch reading a Daring Do book. He admitted it was quite the fun reading that.
Twilight passed by him, she levitated her scarf, placing around her neck.
He raised an eyebrow.
"Where are you going?" 
Twilight glanced back at Sombra with a smile.
"I'm going to the Castle of the Two Sisters."

"Hmm, in that case I'm going too, I want to see that castle."- getting up from the couch, he reached his red cape.
Twilight was going to open her mouth, but Sombra interrupted her.
"I have made a decision."- he stated while he used his magic on the door.

In the middle of the Everfree Forest, they had a nice conversation, this time about the castle.
Even the forest was covered in white.
"After Nightmare Moon was defeated, Princess Celestia decided to make a new castle? Why?"

"Well, you see after their battle, the castle was in a bad shape."- she paused. "Building a new one was the only option."
They reach what appeared to be a bridge. Sombra and Twilight trotted carefully, trying not to step on the holes.
"And this was the place you found the Elements of Harmony?"- the stallion continued following Twilight.
She nodded after crossing the bridge. Sombra got beside her, with a sad look on his face.
"Before Princess Celestia and Princess Luna defeated me, I warned Luna. By now, you must know I can make you dream with your worst nightmare with a simple spell?"

Twilight nodded, that wasn't a moment se wanted to remember. The fear to almost fail her mission as Celestia's student.
She did had a few nightmares, but that one was the worst she ever had.
They come to a stop when reached the old castle doors.
"Celestia's worst nightmare was Luna. She was afraid that Luna would become something...else."- he straightened his red cape. "I even told Luna that she couldn't change her fate."

They entered the castle, obviously the inside was full of snow because of the holes on the ceiling.
Stone pillars were scattered everywhere. Some of the banners were in a really bad state.
Sombra could see why Celestia moved, the castle was barely stable. At any moment the castle could fall apart.
"Why are we even here?"- he asked while following Twilight through the castle hallways.

Twilight smiled.
"To get some books."- she told him. "Many even more, if I know myself."
Sombra giggled at her statement. He found she was, what they called was a "egghead", according to Rainbow Dash.

Minutes later, the two of them were at the library, going through some interesting books. They even lost track of time.
It was almost night time. Sombra glanced at Twilight. She was gathering some books.
"We should go now, it's getting late."- changing his gaze at the books on his back. "I believe we have plenty to read later."

"Sure, just wait a second."
Without they even noticing, the roof was starting to crumble because of the weight of the snow.
A few small stones fell from the ceiling, landing on Twilight's head. Twilight looked up.
Sombra could hear crackling noises coming from above. All of the sudden, the roof finally gave up.
Huge boulders of stones were now falling, going straight at Twilight.
She wanted to dodge to incoming boulders, but her body froze from the sudden fear. Instead, she curled into a ball, with her eyes closed.
Sombra glanced at Twilight.
"Not this time!"- he thought with determination. Sombra ran towards Twilight with his horn glowing.

Twilight waited for the worst, when she heard the stones falling she flinched. After a brief time, she opened her eyes.
"What happen?"- she thought, until she looked up to see Sombra standing on top of her.
He smiled with some difficulty.
"A-Are you alright?" Twilight nodded, shifting her gaze to his horn. She looked around, its seems like Sombra was using some kind of crystal shield.
"Good, now wait a second!" Closing his eyes, he focused his magic on the horn, that was glowing more than before. "Aaaaah!" With that, he throwed the boulders, part of them was destroyed, while the others landed far away from them.

Twilight stood up on her four hooves.
"Are you alright Sombra?"- she questioned. Sombra was breathing heavily.
He kept smiling, taking some long breaths.
"It's been awhile I don't use my magic like this."- he paused. "Now can we go back home?"

"It's better."- Twilight said with an embarrassed tone.

"It wasn't your fault."- he assured her. Twilight was going to speak, but Sombra placed a hoof her mouth with a gentle smile. She blushed.
But then she thought.
"Wait, did he just said "home""?

The journey back was easy, without any sort of trouble.
They placed the books on the table. Sombra yawned, he was really tired.
He went towards the couch, until he felt a hoof on his shoulder.
"Or you could sleep with me?"- she said with a smile while blushing.

The dark stallion smiled with a tiny blush on his face.
"I suppose I can."

Moments later, they rested on Twilight's bed. But this time Twilight was facing Sombra, still with her blush.
"Thanks again, I guess."
He giggled.
"For you, anything."
She was starting to get really tired, she buried her face into Sombra's chest making sure her horn didn't hurt him.
Sombra pulled Twilight closer to him. He kissed her horn gently.
"Good night my Princess."- whispering into her ear.

"Good night Sombra..."- she fell asleep without completing her phrase.
For sure tonight they would have a good night of sleep. Into each others hooves.

> Chapter Five: Seeking for Guidance
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once again, Sombra was sleeping in Twilight's bed. This time he didn't have to deal with nightmares or anything else, instead he had other thoughts, deep in his mind.
Back in the castle, he saved Twilight and lately he was getting strange feelings when close to her.
Somehow, Twilight was filling the part of his life, maybe she was like Cynthia. Almost. If Sombra could recall, Cynthia liked reading books, but Twilight, well she was different, she lived by the book.
Luna's moon was still high, bathing in his light. Tonight is indeed a beautiful night to stargaze.

Twilight was sleeping in Sombra's embrace. Her muzzle was still buried in his chest.
That helped Sombra falling asleep much faster.
Occasionally, she moved a little, in order to get a better position.
Even with that, he couldn't quite rest his eyes. Or his mind.
"Hmm...This really feels nice."- Sombra thought, pulling Twilight a little closer. She moaned low, which made him smiled. "Sometimes you can be really cute, you know?"
With that statement in mind, he felt a sudden blush on his cheeks. Could he possibly love her?

Slowly, he opened his right eye and looked down, at Twilight in this case.
He was said before she was beautiful, but thanks to the moonlight, the vision of the purple mare was better.
Twilight slept peacefully. Carefully, he rested his head on top of hers.
"Still awake?"- she mumbled.

Sombra opened his eyes, maybe she was still dreaming?
"I know you are..."- the mare continued, hugging Sombra a little closer.
He gulped.
"I didn't mean to wake you." Twilight giggled.
Sometimes she was like a secret book, wanting to be open. She lifted her head, glancing at Sombra's green eyes.
Strangely, his green eyes seemed to lost a little bright. Also his rough voice changed, into a more softer one.
He also noticed that, along with his purple embers got a tiny bit smaller than usual. His fur still had the same colour.
"It wasn't your fault, I'm trying to fall asleep too..."- she paused, taking a deep breath. Sombra felt the warm air washing over his muzzle, making him blush even more, fortunately for him, Twilight didn't noticed. He hoped. "I have been thinking about some...things. Mostly about us."

Sombra gulped, feeling a bit tense to the current situation. Truth to be said, he had thought about this during his walks through Ponyville's park. It's been a long time since Sombra had a relationship with somepony. Thirty years to be more precise, but he had to admit, he was starting to get strong feelings about her and vice-versa. Sombra sighed.
"I won't lie, but I thought about the same thing."

Twilight, on the other hoof was new to this kind of relationship. She never dated or spend enough with a stallion in her life before.
Still, she was enjoying Sombra's company, a lot. They both like the same thing, books and spells, maybe much more.
She was getting new feelings, something that Twilight never felt before, love. Twilight only had a small meaning of love.
Fortunately for her, love was something a certain princess or in this case, sister-in-law, knew and could help her.
After a brief moment, Sombra spoke.
"There's a lot to talk, but we should wait for tomorrow."- he paused. "The night is still young."
Slowly, Twilight nodded. Once again, they fell asleep.

With the beginning of a new day, Twilight, Sombra and Spike took breakfast. This time made by Spike, since he wanted to play with cutie mark crusaders, the purple dragon got up a little too early, even for Twilight.
Also, Sombra and Spike had a rough start with their friendship, but they got closer. Spike wasn't no longer afraid of Sombra. After placing his plate, Spike exited the kitchen, not before saying goodbye, of course.
Twilight had a few things planned, according her trusty checklist. Thankful, that gave Sombra a chance for a walk throught the park.
"Why is she so different than the others?"- he mumbled. Sombra didn't noticed, but he was being followed by a certain cyan rainbow mare. The stallion was approaching his favourite place. Near the edge of the park, close to the Everfree Forest, there was a tree with a few bushes. This time, along with everything else, was covered with snow. This spot rarely anypony come by, due to the creepy forest.

Rainbow Dash continued following Sombra closely, she thought he was maybe plotting something evil. Or maybe she was just curious, since she actually finished her training section, for now. Sombra laid his belly on the frozen snow, under the white tree. Carefully, Rainbow slipped inside the tree, going through the branches. A smile appeared in Sombra's face, with his eyes closed, he spoke.
"I must say, I didn't thought you care about me, also I can teach you to be a little sneaky." Sombra remained still. The mare's eyes opened wide. How did he knew she was there? With a strong flap from her wings, she flew out of the tree and landed in front of Sombra.
"How?"- she asked, sounding a little annoyed for being spotted so easily. In response, he chuckled. Now she was more confused, why was he laughing? Also she noticed he seemed to be more...happy? 
After a brief moment of silence, he continued.
"I do have my own tricks."- Sombra winked at Rainbow, her eyes grew even further. "Just joking."

She had several questions, but after that moment they seemed to disappear.
"Let me guess, why I'm here by myself?" The blue mare nodded in agreement. "Well, that's simple, to clear my mind. From what you ask yourself?" Again, she nodded. "Me and Twilight, basically we live under the same roof, but lately we got, lets just say...closer to each other."- he said with a embarrassed tone. 
Rainbow also noticed that, along with rest of her friends that Twilight was acting quite different than her usual.
"It's been a long time since I had a relationship with somepony, but I feel strong feelings for her." Sombra took a deep breath, before resuming. "The only problem is I don't know to tell her about this."
She continued in silence, waiting for Sombra to finish. 
"And that's why I'm here."- he smiled.

"Pff, that's sooo easy!"- she smiled back. "I don't really understand alot about love and feelings, but I do know somepony who does."
He thought for a good couple of seconds, until he decided to give up. She gave in a deadpan expression.
"Daah! Princess Cadence, you silly." Sombra lifted his ears, she was right, If there was somepony who knew about that, was her.
Sombra needed to talk with her, in order to get some help with his...issue. But for that to work fine, Twilight couldn't know about his trip.
"Thank you for the help Rainbow!"

Rainbow continued smiling.
"Everything for a friend."
That statement left Sombra confused. Did she just said friend? Before he could ask about anything, she flew off, she waved back at him. Sombra returned the gesture with smile. Now all he needed to do was ask Cadence for some guidance. Lifting from the snow, he trotted back towards Twilight's house. By now he knew Cadence was Twilight's sister-in-law and Shining Armor was her brother. Interesting family.
Returning back home, he noticed the library was too quiet. No sign of Spike or Twilight. Spike was at Sweet Apple Acres with the three little fillies. Twilight probably was still doing her stuff. Which left himself alone in the house.
"If I know her well, she must have the train schedules around here some where."- he whispered. After all, she had almost everything.

Going through a bunch of books, scrolls and papers, he finally found it.
"Alright, let's see. " Suddenly the front door opened, revealing a purple mare levitating a few bags.
After placing the bags near the round table, she glanced at Sombra, currently laying on the couch.
"Hi Sombra, is everything alright?" Shifting her eyes from Sombra to the paper. "What's that?"
Using his magic, he showed her the paper.
"A train schedule."
Twilight got more curious.
"Where are you going?"- she asked. This was the moment, he had to play this right, Twilight couldn't get suspicions.

"To the Cry...I mean to Canterlot."- he said a smile. Twilight wasn't really convinced. "Nice one Sombra..."- he thought.
Twilight pondered.
"May I ask why?" The alicorn gave him a questioning look. Sombra pulled his ears back, he was starting to get a little nervous.

"Think fast Sombra!" Twilight got closer and closer.

"Well?"
Finally, Sombra thought how to answer her. The perfect answer.
"Visiting a friend of mine." He waited for Twilight's reaction, which was a good reaction, she gave him back his space. Sombra took a deep breath. "During my stay at Canterlot, I met somepony to talk with."
She smiled, in other words, he managed to convince her.
"In that case, it's fine for me."- she paused. "I'm glad you found a friend before coming to Ponyville. What's his name?"
Sombra gulped, definitely he didn't predicted that question. 
"Crystal Knight. He's a-a royal guard."- he quickly answered. Twilight thought for awhile.

"Strange, I thought I knew all of the guards..."

"He's a new guard."- he quickly added, waiting for Twilight to take the bait. Fortunately for him, she did.
She turned away from him, picking her bags, she trotted towards the kitchen. Sombra's eyes rested on Twilight's flank, gazing at her cutie mark. Twilight noticed that Sombra staring at her. The stallion all of  the sudden changed his gaze, he had a huge blush on his cheeks.
"Something you like?"- she asked with a giggle. In reply, Sombra's blush got worse, his dark fur was now a tone of red, almost like a apple. "I'm just kidding." She looked away with a slight red on her cheeks. "Right?"- she thought while placing a hoof on her chest.

During her shopping, she dropped by Rarity's boutique to discuss something very important. After a long discussion, Rarity gave her a good advice. Seek for Cadence's help. Hesitant, she agreed. What she didn't mention was that Twilight was gonna write her a letter, still that would work just fine.
Returning to the matter at hoof, Sombra looked at the train schedule. Finally, he found the right one. He still had ten minutes before the train arrive, but better sooner than later. Lifting from the couch, he placed the paper on the table. "Better get going." With his magic, he grabbed his red cape. 
"Here, you need this." Twilight grabbed Sombra's hoof, placing a brown bag. "This should be enough to buy the tickets."- the alicorn said a with a gin.
Silence took place between them, staring at each other eyes, still holding hooves.
"T-Thanks Twilight."
Twilight looked away from Sombra, trying to hide her blush.
"N-No problem."
Seconds later, Sombra left, leaving Twilight by herself. She reached for her desk, glancing at the paper, she thought.
"Now about that letter."
> Chapter Six: Love Advice
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trip back to the Crystal Empire was uneventful.
The ponies in the train didn't to seemed to care about Sombra, since Celestia announced Sombra wasn't no longer a threat to Equestria.
He even smiled at a small filly standing in front of him. Turns out smiling wasn't too bad.
Sombra relaxed on the train couch while eating some snacks.
His eyes drifted to outside, he hoped Cadence wasn't busy or deny his visit.
He took small bites, his mind was focused on what he would say to Cadence, without admitting he actually needed help with a problem such as love.
"Maybe I can tell a little lie?"- he thought.  "She doesn't need to know, right? Like her brother."  Sombra swallowed at that thought, probably that wasn't a great idea, even if Shining Armor trusted him now.  Twilight had told him for several times her brother could be over-protective. 
"Next stop, Crystal Empire!"- said the train pony. Sombra snapped from his thoughts.

"I guess that will do."  But he felt something was missing, unfortunately he couldn't place his hoof on what.

He needed to be fast in order for Twilight couldn't get too suspicious. She knew it took one hour and a few minutes from Canterlot to Ponyville. But between Ponyville and the Crystal Empire was at least two hours.
After exiting the train, Sombra sniffed the air. The air was definitely different from Ponyville, but it still felt comfortable, after all this was where he used to live.
Trotting throught the streets of the Crystal Empire, heading towards the castle.
Sombra's reaction was probably a surprised, the crystal ponies instead of running and hiding in their houses, they decide to greet him with smiles and hoof waves.

Approaching the castle, he spotted two royal guards on patrol. 
The guards noticed Sombra coming closer, one of them stepped forward.
"Good afternoon Sombra, how can I help you?"- he enquired with a small authority tone.

"I came to speak with Princess Cadence, if possible."   Sombra gulped.   "It's a rather delicate matter."
He looked at Sombra, trying to see any sign of threat, but nothing.
"Wait here please."- he said, before turning. He nodded his head towards the other guard. His partner shook his head understanding what he meant.
While he waited, his eyes shifted towards a nearby market place. Something caught his attention.
He knew a certain pony liked receiving gifts, especially this one. Maybe after taking his little issue, he could buy a gift.
Thanks to Twilight, Sombra had a good amount of bits, just for caution he decided to bring more. 

The sound of hoofsteps told Sombra that the guard returned, not to mention the armour. That always made a lot of noise while trotting.
"Princess Cadence agreed in receiving you, please follow me!"   Sombra nodded.
After going many stairs, they reached the throne room. If there was something that Sombra hated about the castle was the stairs. There's a lot of stairs.
The guard opened the doors, mentioning for him to enter.
Cadence stood in her throne, taking care of some letters and other stuff. When Sombra came in her field of view, she smiled.
"Hello Sombra, it's good see you again."

He bowed. Clearing his throat he spoke.
"Good afternoon, it's a pleasure to see you too."

Cadence dropped the letters on a table that stood next to her throne.
"I was informed you wanted to discuss with me?"- she asked.

"Indeed"- he confirmed.   "Can we perhaps speak in private?"
Cadence nodded her head and the two of them left the room, followed by two guards, being one of them orange with a blue mane.
Upon reaching a set of two crystal doors, Cadence ordered them to stay outside. They entered the room, closing the doors behind them.
The doors shut tight with a soft "click" indicating nopony could hear them.

The room had a circular shape with big crystal windows, giving a good view to the empire.
In the center of the room, there was a table with a few chairs, probably used for special meetings.
Cadence and Sombra sat down, facing each other.
"You said it was a delicate matter."- she started.   "So, what's about?"

Sombra looked down at his hooves, trying to pick the right words.
"You see,"- Sombra looked at her, almost with a serious tone, but he was nervous, confessing somepony like him, a reformed villain, actually fell in love for a princess, especially her sister in-law was kinda awkward.   "I have a friend who fell in love with a mare, but he doesn't really know how to admit to her."

From the other side of the table Cadence listened carefully, until she felt something. Something she knew very well.
"Your friend, how does he describe her?"
Sombra gulped, the question caught him off guard.
"I-I...I mean, he says she's very smart, really good with magic and also she can be very understanding." Sombra's cheeks slowly turned into red the more he continued describing her. 
Cadence smiled, that feeling she felt before was right. Sombra close his eyes.   "Feels great to be next to her, just her presence relaxes me...I mean, my friend."- he quickly added, opening his eyes.

After a few seconds of silence, she spoke with a smile.
"You can tell me the truth you know?"
His eyes shifted between back and forward with a awkward smile.
"I don't understand..."- again he lied, or at least he tried. Unfortunately for him Cadence knew his true intention, or in this case, his feelings.
She continued smiling.

"I think you forgot about it, but I'm the Princess of Love."- the pink alicorn winked at him, in returned his blush got worse.
The stallion gulped, tears of sweat running down his face, he continued looking back and forward, but he realized it was too late.
Sombra took a deep breath, saying the truth couldn't harm him.
"Alright...I may have fell in love with Twilight..."- he half-admitted, sounding almost like Fluttershy. She continued staring at him. 

"You sure?"

"Fine! I love her." Finally he admitted, earning a smile from Cadence.

"Does she know?"   Sombra nodded.   "Does she feel the same thing?"  He nodded in agreement.
Cadence tapped her chin while glancing at the window.
"When?"- the princess suddenly asked, Sombra looked at her with a confused look.

"When what?"

"When are you going to tell her?"

"Honestly..."- he started, gazing down at his hooves. "I don't know.  I guess I'm waiting for right moment."

"Hearth's Warming Eve I suppose?"  Sombra nodded.

He gazed outside, eyeing the clouds.
"I just don't know..."

"That's easy."- Cadence stated with a grin.   "First get a serene place, second a nice gift and then get the courage to tell her."- she finished with a smile.
Sombra, on the other hoof, he wasn't that convinced. She saw his expression.
"I can give you a few tips, if you want."- the princess suggested.

He pondered, getting a some tips from the princess was what he wanted in the first place, what he didn't counted was her to discover his little lie. Anyway, just for now that would help him. He even mentioned that he saved Twilight back at the old castle.

After spending some time with Cadence, Sombra decided it was time to leave, also he wanted to buy some things before leaving.
Trotting through the marketplace, he found what he wanted. 
Now what he needed was a gift for Twilight, but that was difficult. He thought about giving her a book, if wasn't for huge amount of books she already had. This gift needed to be something special for her, according to Cadence.

He continued his search until he found a jewelry stand. Sombra took a sneak-peak, he saw rings, bracelets and necklaces.
One of them got Sombra's attention.
"Hm, I'm sure she will like this."- he mumbled. 
Sombra pointed a hoof at the necklace.
"That one please."
The seller used his magic and grabbed the necklace, putting inside a small blue bag.
"That will be six bits."
After paying, he opened his saddlebag, gently he stored inside.

The dark stallion was now sitting in a bench under a tree. He tried to remember the train schedule, trying to figure out how until the train arrives, when he felt something wet on his leg. Sombra glanced down.

A dog.

A small white dog was looking at him, almost seemed to smile at him.
He picked up the dog with his hooves.
"Hello little one."
The dog barked before licking his muzzle. Sombra chuckled.
"Where's your owner?"- he questioned. The dog's ears dropped, giving him a sad answer.  "I see."

He thought for a while. Since he meet Fluttershy, Twilight was been trying to convince Sombra to get a pet, but always refused.
But after seeing Twilight and her friends spending time with their pets, he admitted that was fun.
By experience, he knew dogs are loyal animals and this one was cute. Of course, he would never admit that.
"You can come with me, I guess Twilight wouldn't mind if I say I found a pet."   The dog barked, licking Sombra even more.   "Alright, I got it."

While he was playing with his new pet, Sombra didn't noticed a stallion approaching him.
"Hello Sombra. Having fun?"
Sombra turned his head around.
"It's good to see you again Shining Armor."- he replied with a smile.
Shining Armor sat down next to Sombra, he removed his helmet and placed it on the wooden bench.

"Nice pet you have there."- Shining stated.

"I'm his new owner, since he doesn't have one and Twilight is insisting that I should get one."
The white stallion smiled, that was Twilight indeed.
He cleared his throat before speaking.
"I spoke with Cadence earlier."  Sombra gulped.  "Don't worry, I won't argue with your feelings towards my sister."  Sombra turned around and looked at him. Words of honesty.

"You won't?"- Sombra questioned while petting the dog.
The prince shook his head. 
"When you're married with a princess of love, you learn some things."- he said a grin.

"So, you don't mind if I..."  Shining nodded his head again.

"I know you saved her and for that, I'm thankful."  Shining saluted some guards trotting by.  "How long will you stay?"
He looked at the dog, before returning his gaze to Shining.
"A couple hours, I suppose. I wanted to return before Twilight gets too suspicions."

He raised an eyebrow.
"Why?"

"She doesn't know I'm here, I told her I was going to visit a friend at Canterlot. Unfortunately, the train is far from arriving."
Shining tapped his chin, he had a nice idea.
"Or you could use our royal train."   Sombra looked at him with a surprised look. He knew Cadence and Shining had a private train, when available Cadence would visit Twilight by using her royal train.
"Really?"

He nodded his head.
"Of course I would. For a friend"- he finished his sentence with a smile. A friend. He heard that well. Shining consider him as a friend.

Minutes later, Shining Armor, Cadence and Sombra stood in the train station, everything has prepared.
Except for one small detail, he wanted to give Rainbow a gift, too bad he didn't a clear idea of what.
Sombra glanced at the guards, all of the sudden he thought about something. Something Rainbow would definitely like.
"Say, Shining could you possibly do a small tiny favor? For a friend?"
> Chapter Seven: Gifts
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sombra arrived at Ponyville, along with he's new pet, Snow. Using his magic, he carried his gifts, for his friends.
First stop, Sugarcube Corner, sadly for him, Pinkie Pie wasn't there. According to the Cakes, she was taking a break and probably trotting around, if that was the case finding her was going to be easy.

After leaving the shop, he trotted down the street while waving to a few ponies. Finding Pinkie could be very easy or extremely hard. He just had to be lucky.  
Five minutes later, he found her, happily bouncing around as usual, with a wide smile.
"Hey Pinkie!"- Sombra called her, which she turned around and saw him.

"Hello Sombra, how are you?"- she asked, still smiling.  "I thought you're at the library, since Twilight left."
The dark stallion raised his eyebrow.
"I'm fine, thanks for asking, but what do you mean with Twilight leaving the library?"  By now, he knew Twilight liked to stay at the library, only in certain situations she would leave. Something's wrong. Did she know about his trip to see Cadence? He needed to know.

"Oh, I saw her with Rarity going for the spa."  Alright, something is very wrong. Twilight going to the spa? She wasn't that type of mare, for all he knew. Especially with Rarity.  "What's that?"
That question broke Sombra's thoughts, looking behind him.

"It's only a few gifts for Hearth's Warming Eve, which that means you!"  He levitated the designate gift to the pink bouncing mare.

"Can I open? Can I?"

"You just wait a little longer." Sombra giggled, remembering about something.  "Oh, and don't tell Twilight that I gave you that, it's a secret."
Pinkie Pie nodded her head while holding her gift with her tail. If Twilight knew her gift, she would ask him a few questions.

"Who's the little one?"- she asked glancing down at Snow.
Sombra also glanced down, earning a small bark from his pet.
"His name is Snow and his my new pet."  Pinkie lifted him off the ground, giving him a good hug.  "By the way, have you seen Rainbow Dash?"

"Of course you silly filly, look up" Pinkie replied, still petting the small dog. Sombra did what she told him and looked up to see a rainbow tail looking over a cloud.
Sombra sighed, getting Pinkie's attention was easy, but getting Rainbow was difficult, at least.

"Rainbow Dash, down here!"  The mare gazed at Sombra and Pinkie, she sighed.  "Come over here, please."
With a few grunts and mumbles, she left the cloud and landed, standing  between the two ponies.
"What?"- she questioned with an annoyed tone, but Sombra paid no mind to that, instead he brought his second gift.

"It's for you, I think you may like it." Hesitantly, she hold the gift with her front hooves.

"I'm suppose to open this now?"

"If you want."- he replied with a grin.
Within a few seconds, the wrapper was gone, revealing what was inside. Rainbow smiled slowly. It's was helmet. Th same helmet she used years back.
"Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!"- she said with a cheerful tone.

"I presume you like your gift?"- he asked, looking at Pinkie, which she also had a smile, like always.
The cyan mare coughed.
"Well, it's a...cool gift, but it doesn't mean we are friends."- Dash finished her sentence with a brief smile.
Finally, after so long he got a smile from her, even if was small one, that meant he was on the right track.
"I didn't even thought about that, how rude of me!"

Rainbow flapped her wings, placing the helmet on her head.
"I have something to do, bye!"- with that she dashed off.

Pinkie dropped Snow on the ground.
"My break is over, but thanks for gift." She gave Sombra a hug. 
He nodded.
"I'm sure you're going to enjoy too."

The two ponies left, saying their last goodbyes and heading towards their destinations.
The stallion opened the door.
"Twilight?"  When no response came he entered the library, being very careful, that's when he heard a noise coming from upstairs.

Sombra frozed in place, much to his relief he was greeted by a small purple dragon.  "Ah, it's only you, Spike."  He took a deep breath.

"You're back early, so how's your trip tp Canterlot?"- the dragon inquired.  "And what's that behind your back?"  From the top of the stairs, Spike could see what Sombra was hiding, at least trying to hide.

"Promise not to tell Twilight about this?"

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."  Sombra raised an eyebrow, that was very awkward way to make a promise.  "It's a Pinkie Promise."   

"Now I understand."- he thought before returning back to the subject.  "I got a few gifts for Twilight's friends, I already gave Pinkie and Rainbow theirs, although I don't have one for Applejack."  By the time Sombra finished talking, Spike was in front of him with a questioning look, while crossing his arms and tapping his foot on the ground.

"What's wrong?"

"How about me? Did you forget?"
The stallion smiled.
"You mean this?"- he reached his saddlebag with magic, pulling out a small brown sack.  "I didn't forget about you."

Spike picked the sack and smiled, with one claw, he grabbed one gem and tossed it to his mouth and chewed.
While Spike was eating his gems, Sombra glanced around, trying to find a good place to hide a certain gift for a certain mare. The one issue was finding a good spot, Twilight knew the library like the back of her hooves, certainly she would find out. He looked at Spike, giving himself a nice idea.
"Spike, I need your help. Can you hide this from Twilight?"  Sombra lowered his head.  "It's for her."  The young dragon saluted, grabbing the gift carefully, he went upstairs. 

Seconds later the front door opened, quickly followed by a purple mare. She noticed Sombra in the middle of the room and grinned awkwardly.

"Oh, hey Sombra, I didn't expect to see you so soon."  Sombra smiled before noticing something.

"I got lucky with the train, what's that?"
Twilight on the other hoof was a little nervous, until her number-one assistant appeared.
"Please hide this and don't tell Sombra."- she whispered into his ear, getting a giggle from Spike. The young dragon ran upstairs, not giving Sombra a clear line of sight.

"Hm, what was that?"- he thought.

"Sombra calls Equestria,"- Twilight waved a hoof, Sombra shook his head, he had other things to think about.  "What you have there?"- she pointed a hoof.

"Oh, I almost forgot, this is for Rarity."  Sombra facehoof, he clearly forgot about one thing.  "I'm just going to give her this, alright?"
The alicorn nodded with a more softer smile than before. Moments later, Twilight was alone, finally she let out a deep breath.

"That was close!"
In the middle of this mess, neither Spike and Twilight noticed Sombra's new companion.
> Chapter Eight: Conversation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once more, Sombra and his pet, Snow, trotted down the street towards Carousel Boutique. Twilight almost caught him and the gift for her, but was making him wonder was the reason why Twilight went to the spa, especially with Rarity.
Probably was nothing to much, maybe a friendly talk between mares, that's all, so he hoped. That wasn't the only thing his mind was busy with. 
He thought what Cadence told him, he really wanted to tell how much she meant to him but, how? For now he knew the basics, get a gift and find a proper place to tell her. He pondered about telling her in the library, but Cadence dismissed that idea. Instead, he should find a place that looked romantic but, where? So many questions with so few answers.

Learning friendship was one thing, but love was something entirely new to him.

Maybe Twilight had some kind of book about that subject, since apparently she had books for so many stuff.  
Perhaps a book wasn't the best solution. According to Cadence, love comes from somepony's heart not a book.


Heart


"I have a heart, right?"- he asked himself. Even now, Sombra wondered about him and what he did in the past.
Now and then, he still had those horrible nightmares. If wasn't for Princess Luna helping, sleeping would be a hard task to do.
Sombra was too deep in his thoughts to hear his dog barking, was if he was trying to tell him something. When he heard was already to late.

Loud smack was heard and two ponies collapsed on the snow.

"Ouch, I'm sorry, I wasn't...Fluttershy?" - he inquired as he rubbed his muzzle while looking at the yellow pegasi.  "I'm so, so sorry." He helped Fluttershy up.

"N-No, it's alright. I wasn't paying attention." - the yellow apologized, cleaning the snow from her wings.
He dismissed with a hoof.
"It's my fault, I got distracted. I guess my dog tried to warn about..." Before Sombra could even finish that sentence, he was thrown into the air, his muzzle meeting the cold snow. Quickly getting up, he wiped the snow from his muzzle and looked at Fluttershy. For a pegasus, she sure had strength. Meanwhile, Fluttershy was gently hugging the small dog.

"What's your name little one?" In response, he barked.  "Snow? That's a nice name. Where did you find him?"  She glanced at Sombra, who approached them.

"In the Crystal Empire," - he answered while petting Snow's head.  "But don't tell Twilight, it's a surprise."

"Okie." She dropped him on the ground.  "Where were you going...if you don't mind me asking?"
The stallion smiled, she really was a kind mare.
"I was on my way too see Rarity, I got a gift for her. I already gave one to Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash."  After saying that he noticed that she lowered slightly her ears. He looked at Snow, an idea crossed his mind.  "Consider Snow a gift from me to you, after all you insisted that a needed a pet right?"  He finished with a smile.

Fluttershy was once again smiling.
"I'm glad you found one and if you need any help, come see me."  The dark stallion nodded.

"I will."  Sombra could feel the coldness was returning.  "I should go deliver this, it's going to get cold soon."  After a quick hug and a 'thank you' from the shy mare, they went separate ways. 

The small dog was laying on Sombra's back, under his red cape.  "Almost there Snow."  The dog barked.

The door of the shop opened, hitting the bell, indicating somepony arrived.  "Miss Rarity?" - he asked.
From what he learned from Rarity so far, he knew she was a lady with some fancy desires. He always tried to address her with formality.
A few seconds passed and he heard a couple of hoofsteps coming from the back room.
"Yes?" - the mare in question inquired, taking a quick look from the door.  "Oh, hello Sombra, how are you?"

"I'm feeling fine, how are you?"

"Fine as well, what brings you here?"
Using his magic, he reached for the saddlebag and retrieve a small white package.  "It's a gift for you, I already gave one to the others."
Rarity grabbed the box with her magic and opened it. She let out a gasp. He smiled.
But there was still one gift left, Applejack, which he had idea what to offer. Maybe he would ask Twilight later.
Inside the box there was a necklace in a shape of a flower made out of crystal. Before say or do anything, he felt being trapped in a tight hug.

"I assume you like it?"
Rarity let go him with a smile on her muzzle.
"Darling, this is beautiful, but I wonder, what did you get for Twilight?" - she asked with a different kind of smile, one that he couldn't quite place his hoof on.
"It's a suprise but, I'm sure she'll like it." - Sombra replied with a comfortable grin.

The white mare giggled.
"I'm sure she will my dear. You should go, I bet somepony is waiting for you. Somepony to snuggle with."  Rarity ended her sentence with a teasing smile. As for Sombra, he felt his cheeks warmer. The sudden thought of him and Twilight snuggling in each other's hot embrace.
Unfortunately, a bark from a certain dog broke his thoughts.

"What was that?"

"Oh, I almost forgot, Rarity meet Snow, my pet."  He levitated Snow from his back and placed him on ground.

"Glad to meet you Snow," - Rarity petted his head.  "but really, I have a feeling tonight is going to be freezing."  Sombra followed her gaze, she was looking at the window. Snow was starting to fall.
"You're right," - he levitate Snow onto his back.  "See you soon, I hope."  He gave her one last hug.

"As do I, bye Snow."

After a nice hot cup of coffee and some blankets, Sombra was focus on reading a book about adventure. Apparently the main character was a pegasus mare, looking for some kind of old treasure while being chased by a tiger, a panther and a...cat.
Usually this wasn't his type of reading ,but after learning that Rainbow Dash loves reading this, he had, at least, to try. It was a nice book.
Next to him was Twilight, also reading a book under a purple blanket that had her cutie mark on. Spike was already on his bed sleeping or maybe reading some late night comics.

At first Twilight seemed normal, but after a few short glances he noticed something was bothering her, not to mention the quick glances she gave him. Something was definitely troubling her. If he knew her too well, she wouldn't stay like that for too long, he just needed to be patient.
Pacience is key.

"Sombra," - patience always pays off. In her voice, he could tell she was hesitating. To make sure everything was alright, he grabbed her hoof, gazing at her in the eyes with a comforting smile.  "H-How did you learn dark magic?"

His smile fadded a little, he knew she would ask this one day. Still holding her hoof, he answered.
"Books and practice."  He tried to be evasive on his answer, but that didn't satisfied her curiosity.

"I mean, how you really learned."  Sombra sighed, her hunger for knowledge was impressive.  "I can't seem to find any book about that subject."

"And you shouldn't. Dark magic is something you can't study, or even practice. Look at me and want I have done."  He closed the book, remembering the number of the page.  "You know dark magic is forbidden, right?"  Twilight nodded.

"Dark magic feeds on the negative thoughts of the user, in this case me, after she...passed away, I became lonely, my heart was filled with sadness and soon hatred, hatred for those of didn't know how to save her. Days passed and I felt my mind breaking into a million pieces."

Twilight lowered her head, realizing that wans't a good question, especially for a pony who suffered so much. 
Sombra raised her head with his hoof, wearing a small grin.
"I know you use dark magic before, because of me and I'm sorry." - he moved his hoof to her right cheek.  "I just don't want to see you hurt or worse...I would feel terrible..."  He looked away from Twilight for a second before looking back at her again. His heart was beating so fast and his cheeks are getting warmer, a slight blush.

"Twilight, want I'm trying to say is..."

"Twilight, you got a especial letter."  Twilight turned around, seeing his number one assistant holding a letter.

"What is it Spike?"

"Princess Celestia gave us tickets for tomorrow's party at the castle."  Twilight smiled ear to ear while Sombra dropped his head. He could swear he felt a tear running down his muzzle.

"I was this close...Sombra, you fool..."
> Chapter Nine: Talking about Apples
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

   "Is anypony there?" - Sombra shouted through the darkness. Sombra glanced around, but it was too dark to see anything. However, he could feel the ground under his hooves.  "I can't see anything..."

"Hello Sombra."

Sombra frozed, his heart rate dropped. Shivers ran through his body.
He knew that voice too well. He turned around to face...himself. In the middle of the darkness, two green eyes gazed at Sombra with a sinister smile.

"You!" - Sombra growled.

"It's been awhile, me."  The shadow spun around Sombra, still smiling.  "So, how is your...new life so far?"
The stallion's eyes kept looking at the shadow.
"Much better since I changed."

The shadow laughed.
"Oh, really? Good to know." - he said with a ironic tone.  "And about that purple friend of yours? She's quite talented, I must say."

"You have no right to talk about her, you...monster." - Sombra growled.

"Why? Because you love her? How sweet of you." Sombra gulped again, this time he's throat was very dry. How could he knew about that?

"H-How do you know?"
The shadow approached him while licking his fangs.  "I am you, remember? You're so naive. Do you think I'm not watching every thing you do?   
It makes me sick."

Right now, Sombra was hoping Princess Luna would appear and give him a little help, but after hearing that he wasn't sure. Somehow, his dark side was still...alive and was watching, which made him shudder.
He needed to know, perhaps he could end this once and for all.
"You may love her, but Twilight sure doesn't."

"HOW DARE YOU?" - Sombra roared, his voice filled with anger.

"What?" - he asked with a devilish smile.  "I noticed yesterday you confess your love for her. Oh, wait. Almost."  Sombra charged his horn, releasing a purple sphere, however the sphere went through him.  "Nice try me. Let's be honest, Sombra. Do you really think everypony forgave you? Twilight and her friends just want to control you, they want a reason to lock you, buried you under ice or a stone statue for Celestia. Ask yourself this, have you really think you have changed or you're still the same tyrant?"

Sombra lowered his head, he knew he shouldn't listen to him, but deep inside that question made him wonder. Twilight said he was different, everypony agreed, even the Princesses. Wasn't their trust and friendship enough? The shadowy form spoke again.

"I'm sure you're very tired and you need time to think, after all tomorrow you have party to attend to. Think about it!"


After waking up and having breakfast with Twilight and Spike, he decided to use his time to get a gift for Applejack.
The only real issue was to think about something she likes, which he didn't knew a lot about her. The few things he knew was she had a apple orchard, a brother and a younger sister. Oh, and Granny Smith. After one hour of banging his head against the table, not literally, he went to seek some advice from Twilight. 

Twilight was downstairs arranging the books while Spike was reading some comics books while petting Snow on the head.
"Twilight, I could use some help."

The pony in question lowered the books in her magical grasp, turning her head to see Sombra.
"I'm listening."

"I want to give Applejack a gift for Hearth's Warming Eve, but I don't know what she likes."
Twilight giggled, which made Sombra raise an eyebrow.
"That's simple. Apples."

"Just that?" - he inquired.

"Applejack is a mare with simple tastes, nothing too fancy."
The stallion scratched his chin. That was true, she wasn't like Rarity, after all she was honest apple farmer.  "Perhaps you could use your own magic. You know? Crystals?"  Twilight suggest with a smile.

Sombra nodded, understanding what she meant and he had the perfect idea.
"Thank you Twilight, I know what to do."

"Good, since you're going to see Applejack, can you please give her the invitation?"  Twilight levitated the letter towards him.

"Of course Twilight." 

Sombra now had a perfect idea for Applejack's, he just needed a colour change spell which Twilight provided a book about that.
After taking care of the gift, he grabbed a saddlebag and his red cape, but Sombra notice something. His red cape was getting old, the cape had some small rips and was losing his colour. Probably he would need a new one.
"I'm going to see Applejack, be right back Twillight."  Sombra looked down.  "Let's go Snow."  Snow barked.

"Ok, meanwhile I will give the others their invites."

On his way to Sweet Apples Acres, he greeted many ponies, like Derpy, Octavia, Vinyl and Roseluck, which he spend a few minutes to admire the flowers and eventually pick one for Twilight before returning to the library. 

Applejack was inside the barn gathering the buckets. Her brother was already working on the other side of the orchard while her little sister was...somewhere in the farm. When she gathered everything, she went outside to do her job, if it wasn't for the matter her sister was speaking with somepony she shouldn't.

"That's amazing, I'm sure my sister will like that."

"Apple Bloom don't you have things to do?"  Applejack said, approaching her sister with stern look on her muzzle.  "That thing I told you?"
Apple Bloom saw the look her sister was giving and decided not to protest, she glanced back at the stallion.
"It was good talking to you, bye."

"Farewell young one."

"And what are you doing here?"
Sombra gulped. Probably worse than convincing Rainbow Dash, was definitey Applejack. Somehow he needed to get her trust, maybe this gift would help, a little.
"I'm here to deliver a letter and a gift, both for you."  He opened the saddlebag and her gave her the letter.

The orange mare read the letter and then glanced at Sombra.  "I suppose the others got this invitation?"  He nodded.  "And you?"  Sombra nodded again, slowly this time.  "I reckon we must go, which means I must work faster."

"I could help you, if you want." - he suggested, knowing the answer.
She shook her head.
"Thanks for the offer, but I can handle myself, now about that gift."  Once again Sombra took the gift from the saddlebag and gave it to her.

Applejack watched closely and carefully, not wanting to be surprised, in the wrong way. The gift was wrapped with a red paper with small apples. The ribbon was orange, very similar to her coat. Slowly, she wrapped the gift and when she saw the gift, her mouth almost dropped.

"So, what do you think?" - Sombra asked noticing the look on her muzzle.  "It took me awhile, especially to change the colour."

"It's...it's amazing. I like it."
Sombra smiled, the gift was like Twilight told him, simple but something she likes, an apple made out of crystal. With the spell the book provided he changed the dark crystal apple into a red glowing apple.
"Thank you Sombra."

"Your welcome." - he said with a slight nod.  "Sure you don't need help?"

"Nope, I'm used to this."

"Alright, see you tomorrow I guess. Snow, let's go."  Sombra looked around, but trying to find a white dog in the middle of the snow was kinda difficult. Applejack and Sombra spend the last five minutes looking for him.

"Over here Sombra!" - she shouted. Sombra entered the barn. Apparently, Snow decided to take a nap, with Winona.  "They sure look cute like that."

"They do, but we must go now."  Using his magic, he picked him up and placed him on his back, careful enough not to wake him.

"Thanks for the gift Sombra."  They shared a quick hug.

Later at night, Applejack went upstairs to her bedroom. She was exhausted, now she just wanted to lay down on her bed. However, there was one last thing to do.
She placed her red crystal apple on the nightstand, next to her bed. Taking one last glance at the apple, she smile. Perhaps Sombra is doing his best to change. I'll give him a chance.



> Chapter Ten: The Royal Party
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sombra was pacing back and forward. Right now, he was in Carousel Boutique, and his pacing sure wasn't helping Rarity taking care of his outfit. Finally deciding to put a stop, she spoke.

"Sombra, could you please stop doing that? You look like Twilight when she's nervous."
He stopped at the sudden mention of her name.
"I do?"  Rarity just nodded.  "Hehe, sorry, it's just...I'm very nervous to say the truth."

The white mare dropped her tools on table and turned to glance at him.
"Why?"

"It's the first time I'm going to meet the Princesses after a long time."  He drew a circle with his hoof, unsure if he should continue. "...and I kinda hate crowds."  Rarity simply raised an eyebrow at that statement.

"Stage fright?" - she inquired and Sombra nodded his head.  "But you were a king, how can you be afraid of that?"
He sighed.
"I know, it's a dumb fear, but there's a better reason."  He sat on his haunches and took a deep breath.  "It's Twilight."  After a couple of seconds, he continued.  "I know she was tasked to help me reform, like Fluttershy did with Discord, and I'm afraid to screw everything at the party, especially with so many ponies around since most of them know what I did."  Sombra glanced at the floor, still drawing invisible circles.

"I don't wish to disappoint her because..."

She probably knew what he was about say, but she needed to confirm for her own sake.
"Because..." -  she said while gesturing with her hoof.

"Because...I...I..."  Sombra lifted his head.  "I love her."
Rarity squealed in delight. She quickly got up and with an amazing speed, she gave Sombra a huge hug.
"I'm glad to hear you say that."

"Thanks, I guess."  After that, they broke the hug.  "But..."

She tilted her head to the side.
"I'm not sure she likes me...I mean, why would she? I did horrible things, things that I can never change."

Rarity returned back to her seat and resumed to her job.
"Trust me when I tell you this, you don't need to worry about that." - she said with a wink.

Sombra smiled.
"I thought you were the Element of Generosity."

"I'm a mare with many talents, especially when it comes to dresses, which also, means your tuxedo is ready."  She lifted the tuxedo and show it to Sombra, whose jaw almost fell to the ground.  "Impressive isn't?"  Sombra just nodded, unsure what to say or even think. Twilight was right about her dressing skills.

Two Hours Later

Everypony was at the train station, they arrived more earlier then expected. Well, almost everypony, a certain black stallion was late.
"Dear, are you sure Sombra is coming?" - asked Rarity.

"Sombra said he was getting ready and he needed Spike's help." - Twilight glanced at Rarity with a frown.  "You think he's not coming?"

"I don't think so sugarcube." They turned their heads to meet Sombra using his new tuxedo, Spike was also wearing one.

"I'm sorry for the delay, I hope we didn't miss the train."
Rarity shook her head.
"Don't worry, the train isn't here yet." She glanced at Twilight, who was like a statue, to make things even more funny she had her mouth open. Sombra approached her and closed her mouth with a slight giggle, while Twilight just blushed.
"Sorry about that..." - she tried to apologize, but Sombra cut her off.

"No need for that, but I must know, do you like it?" She kept glancing at him, she had to admit he looked rather handsome. Tuxego sure gave him a certain...charm.

"I do." - she answered with a smile. Now it was Sombra's turn to see her dress. Which was obviously made by Rarity. The colour of the dress was matching her coat, with some blue stars here and there.
"And you look like a shining star, if I may say so." - Twilight rolled her eyes. He grabbed her hoof giving a soft kiss, which Twilight blush harder, while the rest for her friends looked away, minus the white mare. A few minutes later, the train arrived.

Everypony was excited about the party, however Sombra was still nervous. The chances to ruining everything are high.
Twilight noticed this and leaned next to him with a reassuring smile.
" I'll be by your side, just relax, okay?"
He gave a slight nod.
"I'll try my best."  The rest of the trip was like this, both ponies leaned into each other. What Sombra didn't know was that Twilight was also a little nervous.

Canterlot Castle

Saying that Sombra was nervous, was an understatement. Especially right now. Sombra could swear the castle looked smaller than before, but that probably was because the castle was full with guests and servants, some guards here and there too.
Twilight poked him to get his attention.
"I'm here, remember?"  He gulped and nodded, following her to greet finally the Princesses after so long.

Princess Celestia and her beloved sister Luna stood on top of the stairs. Upon seeing Twilight and her friends, she smiled.
"I'm glad you came Twilight." - she gave the purple alicorn a hug, which Twilight returned.

"I wouldn't miss for nothing."  Princess Luna glanced at Sombra.

"We are glad that you came too Sombra."  He didn't said a word. Luna looked back at Twilight.  "Is there something wrong?"

"No, he's just nervous."
Celestia raised an eyebrow while gazing at him.
"Why is that?"

"He's afraid to mess things up, but I'm here to help him."  She beamed with a smile.
He felt better, just a little, but that was enough to make her happy.

"In that case, you should enjoy the night while is still young." - proclaimed Luna.

"Also Twilight, Cadence and Shining are here too." - informed Celestia.  "and she said she wanted to talk to you in private."
It was Twilight's turn to gulped. Whenever Cadence wanted to talk to her in private was never good.
"O-Okay..."

Ponies are dancing, talking, eating, doing all sort of stuff for a party. Sombra stood in a near corner eyeing the large crowd. Somehow, he lost track of Twilight, and after spending the last five minutes looking for her, he gave up. It was almost impossible to move, not to mention the glares from the ponies, especially the nobles. Sombra always hated the nobles.
He was too busy thinking that he didn't heard somepony hoofsteps.
"Hello there Sombra!"

Sombra turned around and smiled.
"It's a pleasure to see you again Cadence."

"Why are you alone? I thought Twilight was with you."
The stallion scratched behind his head.
"She was, but somehow I lost her. I did try to find her though."

"I guess you haven't told her yet?"  He shook his head.  "Well, tonight is the perfect night for that." - Cadence winked.

"I don't know, there's a lot of ponies around."
The Princess of Love gave a slight giggle.
"Just get a more...private place to talk, no pony needs to know. You need to tell her. She will understand"
Sombra thought for a while, surely they could find a more relaxed place, after all the castle wasn't that small.

"You're right," - said Sombra with a determined expression "She needs to know." He looked around the crowd.  "Even if I get lost."

"You won't, I believe in you."
Sombra gave Cadence a quick hug and a smile before leaving.
"Wish me luck."  With that said, he made his way through the crowd.

Cadence giggled and went outside, towards the gardens.  
"Now you Twilight." - she muttered with a teasing smile.

The pony in question shivered. Twilight was sitting outside on a wooden bench. She was gazing at the stars, but her mind was focus on something else, in this case, somepony.
The day when Sombra went to Canterlot, she and Rarity had a moment for themselves at the spa, which Twilight was still thinking about Sombra and her feelings towards him. Of course, Rarity noticed something was off, more than usual. 
From there she told her basically everything, including when they went to bed together. Needless to say, she was enjoying all the romantic moments. 
Twilight asked her friend if was alright to tell Sombra her feelings, which Rarity nodded and encouraged her to do so.

She almost did that, but instead, because she was scared, she asked him about dark magic. 
Twilight let out a deep breath.
"Why is it so hard?"

"What's hard?" - a voice called out. 
The princess gasped and turned her attention to find Cadence next to her with a smile.
"Mind if I join you?"  Twilight shook her head and offered more space.  "Why are you alone? I thought Sombra was with you."

Twilight's heart skipped a beat.
"I-I just needed some time alone."

"What do you think about Sombra now that he's changed?" - asked Cadence, knowing which buttons to press.

Her face turned into a slight shade of red.
"He's nice."
Cadence tilted her head.
"Just nice?"

"Well, he's very helpful around the library. He does know a lot of things."

"And?"
The young princess stammered.
"He's..."
Cadence placed a hoof on Twilight's shoulder, still with her smile.
"I'm the Princess of Love remember?"  Twilight gulped.  "I'm here to help you, okay? Tell me what you really think about him." - she then turned her head to look behind her.

"He's...handsome, I like his presence, it feels less lonely in the library." - she glanced at her hooves.  "I really like sleeping wit him, he's so warm and cozy."  By now, her cheeks were completely red. "He's kind and always willing to help me. I never felt like this before."
Cadence was still looking behind her, but she heard everything.
"And?"

Twilight closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
"I think I'm in love with him." - she said in a low voice.

"I didn't heard that, could you repeat please?"

"I love Sombra." - she repeated, just a little louder.
Cadence pretended she was cleaning her ears.
"Can't hear you."

"I love Sombra."

"Said it louder."

"I love Sombra." - Twilight practically shouted, Cadence turned her head to look at Twilight.  "That's why is hard to tell him. I don't know if he likes me..."
The pink mare giggled. 
"Why don't you ask him?" She then glaned back.  "I know you're there." Intrigued, Twilight followed her gaze.
At first nothing happen, but after a few seconds, the bushes started to move, only to reveal a black stallion with a curved red horn.
Twilight's eyes widen.
"S-Sombra?"

"T-Twilight?"
Meanwhile, Cadence was giggling like a little filly.

> Chapter Eleven: Sweet Embrace
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight and Sombra stared at each for the longest of times, before glancing at Cadence.
"You knew?" - they asked.

The giggling princess nodded, tears falling from her muzzle.
"Why?"

"Well, you wanted a way to tell your feelings, I gave you one." Cadence rose from her seat. "Now if you don't mind, there's a party I must attend." With a flicker off her horn, she was gone.
Sombra scratched behind his head while looking away.
"That just happen, ah?"

Twilight nodded.
"It certainly did."
They shared a very awkward silence, before the stallion spoke.
"May I sit?"

"Sure."
Slowly, he approached the bench, Twilight gave him some space, still feeling very embarrassed about the situation. 
They shared a few more seconds of silence.
"She sure does have a good sense of humor."

"That's Cadence."
Sombra glanced at the night sky, many stars seem to be blinking at them, Luna, as usual did a great job. He took a deep breath.
Twilight noticed this and looked at him.
"We need to talk right?"

"If is that what you wish."

"I assume you heard the whole thing?"
He tilted his head to the right.
"Not the whole thing, just the shouting part and some."  Twilight's cheeks flushed.  "and I like the way you feel about me. I'm going to be honest with you Twilight,"  He turned his attention to her.  "I wasn't sure if you would actually like or even love me, after all I was a tryant without a heart, a monster. Yet, somehow I end up falling in love with you, something I haven't felt in centuries. You ignited my heart and burned the cold feeling of loneliness. I have to thank for that Twilight."  Twilight sniffled, tears starting to fall.  "What's wrong Twi-"

His question was cut short by a strong hug coming from the princess. At first he was suprised, but he smiled and hugged her back.
"Thank you Sombra." - she whispered into his ear. "That's the nicest thing anypony had told me."  Her grip became strong, almost if she was afraid to lose him.

Sombra kept smiling while rubbing her back.
"I'm not going anywhere my princess. I'm all yours." Minutes passed, sharing a deep embrace, they stood under the many stars before breaking the hug. Their eyes glanced at each other, as their lips made contact for the first time.
Twilight slowly closed her eyes, the kiss was warm and welcoming. The stallion stared at the young princess. Moments later, they broke the kiss.
She was the first to react.
"That was...amazing."
Sombra chuckled, his cheeks also a little red.
"First time kissing a stallion, ah?"

"Y-Yes..."
He gave a small kiss on the snout.
"I think you kiss well." - he winked, which made Twilight blush even more. "You look so cute like that."

"Oh, shut up you." Sombra burst into laughter.

"So, what do you want to do? Go back to the party?" - asked Sombra.
Twilight shrugged, getting more closer to him.
"We can stay here, after all, there was a certain pony that was nervous about the party." 

"That sounds a good idea, however I'm getting hungry."

"You eat too much, you know?" - Twilight poked his belly.  "You're going to get fat one day."
He chuckled, getting off the bench, he kissed Twilight again.
"That's a problem for future Sombra."

"Spike told you that story?"

"Yes, he did. At least now I know time travel is possible."  Sombra's stomach growled.  "Can we please eat something my princess?" - he gave a low bow.
The colours of her cheeks never ceased to be red.
"I suppose yes my gentlecolt." 

"About your friends Twilight, how are we going to tell them?"  The two of them kept trotting towards the set of double doors.

"Maybe tomorrow!?" Twilight gasped. "How about Celestia and Luna? What do you think they are going to say? Maybe they won't approve or..."  Twilight's short outburst was stopped by a soft kiss from Sombra.

"Don't worry," - he smiled. "I won't leave you, I'll always be by your side."  They shared another hug.  "You think Cadence told them?"
Twilight wasn't sure, sometimes Cadence was like a little filly and others occasions a full grown pony. Probably she wouldn't dare to say it.
Would she?
"Let's hope not."  After a brief second.  "You think she did?"
As they come near the doors, Sombra answered.
"She wouldn't, I'm not yet prepare to tell them, are you?"  Twilight shook her head.  "Then it's fine." If only they knew what was about to happen. As soon they opened the doors, they received a huge group of ponies, must of them being Twilight's friends and the Princesses.

"Oh no..." - Sombra muttered.  "She didn't..."

"Congratulations!" - they shouted, before pulling Twilight and Sombra into a huge hug.
After many 'congratulations' and even more hugs, Twilight was free and she had one thing in mind.
"Cadence!" - she shouted.

The pony in question shrunken.
"Be right back." - with that said, the princess fled, quickly being chased by the young purple princess.
Shining approached Sombra with a grin.
"This maaay take a while."
The dark stallion chuckled while he watched his new found love chasing her sister-in-law.
"The night is still young, now let's eat something, I'm starving, shall we?" Twilight's brother nodded and they made their towards the table.
Meanwhile, Luna kept a close watch on Sombra.
"Is there something wrong dear sister?" - inquired Celestia. Years and years with her sister told her many things, incluind her expressions. Right now she was glancing at Sombra with the most worried expression.
"Do you think it's wise?"
Celestia smiled.
"I have complete trust on Sombra and Twilight, she will be able to change him. Give her time."
It was the perfect night, even if Twilight was still trying to catch Cadence, but for Sombra was different.
He was more then happy, now he was truly about to start a new life, alongside the mare of his dreams.
Sombra couldn't wait for what the future had to reveal.
"Sombra," - he turned around.  "What are you thinking?" - Twilight asked him, some tears of sweat running down her muzzle.

"Nothing, just that I'm one lucky stallion."
She raised an eyebrow.
"Why is that?"

"Because I have the most beautiful mare by my side." - with that he kissed her in the lips.

"Oooh that was so cute!" - said a certain pink princess.

"Cadence!"
Sombra laughed.
"Hahaha, not again, these two."

Finally the party was starting to show signs of ending with some of the guests leaving. Princess Celestia offered Twilight and her friends the guest rooms to spend the night.
As for Sombra, he decided to leave the party a little sooner. He was sitting in front of a window, the very same room he was going to share with Twilight, for some reason that made him nervous. This time they would sleep like a couple. However with all this, he forgot to give Twilight her gift. A few soft knock on the door was heard.
"Yes?" - he asked.
The door slowly opened, revealing the lavender pony.
"Mind if I come in?"

"Of course not my princess."  Twilight blushed. Sombra found amusing how every time he called her princess she would blushed like that.

"You ain't letting that go, ah?"
The stallion giggled.
"Nope."
Twilight sat down by his side and followed his gaze, then she remembered something.
"Oh yeah, I almost forgot about it," - her horn glowed with magic and a few seconds later a small wrapped box appeared. "This is for you." - she told him.
Sombra took hold of the box with his hooves and powered his horn, which also made a tiny purple box to show up.
"And this is for you," - he offered.  "You open first."

Twilight grabbed the tiny box with her magic and carefully, she opened it. The sight of the gift brought tears. It was a crystal necklace, but above all that, it had her cutie mark.
"How? When?" 

"Remember when I told about that visit to Canterlot?" - she nodded.  "Well, I lied. I went to the Crystal Empire to speak with Cadence and while I was there I got some gifts for you and your friends. I did a few arrangements to the necklace however."
Twilight kept glancing down at the necklace, pouring out more tears of joy.
"I can only assume you like it, right?"  To answer his question, Twilight rose her seat and gave him the most passionate kiss of the night. They stood like that for some time. After breaking the kiss, the princess finally answered.
"I love it. Now it's your turn!" - she sounded excited, which made Sombra even more curious. 

After removing the wrapped paper and the ribbons, he opened the box. 
"I noticed you really like your red cape, but it's very old, so I decided to get a new one, thank Rarity later."
He glanced at his new cape, instead of red, this one was blue, it still had white borders and it felt more cozy. He placed on his back and let out a sigh.
"Thank you Twilight, I really appreciate it."  They shared a long hug until a certain princess yawned.  "It's getting late, we should get some sleep." She nodded.
Much like every night they spend together, they assume their favourite positions, being Twilight curled and Sombra around her. He quickly learned that was called 'Spooning' and he could tell why many ponies enjoyed doing that.
They wrapped their tails together while his hooves went around Twilight, almost trying to protect her.
She sighed.
"This feels very nice."

"It sure does." This time it was Sombra's turn to yawn.  "Goodnight my princess," - he nuzzled her neck.  "I love you."
Twilight held to his hooves.
"Goodnight Sombra, I love you too."  With that they both felt asleep.

What the future had in store for them was a mystery, but they would find out. Together.