The Lost Element

by XD-385

Equestria has long been known as the land of ponies. However, the name of Equestria is misleading. For far too long, a certain element has been missing from the world. And now, that element has been brought back. But for better or for worse?

143. Another Year Closer

I had been waiting for this day for a while. I marked it on my calendar well in advance. A very special day in the month of November. And no, today was not the day that I departed for Cantercun for some dearly needed relaxation. That is still some days off. But I made sure to mark it regardless.

While Fluttershy started on breakfast, I sat at the table and turned to face the wall. The calendar was hanging from the wall with today being a Tuesday. And there in that little square was the number 11. The eleventh day of the eleventh month. And I found myself smiling giddily. "It's a good thing Smolder doesn't bother to check the calendar."

My wife giggled behind me as she stirred up pancake batter. Now that Smolder was out back collecting eggs from the chicken coop, we could speak freely about that very special day. "That just means she won't see it coming. The best birthdays are those when its all a surprise."

I could never forget one of my earliest days spent with Smolder. The day I learned she could not even read. But she did know her way with numbers. And by scanning the calendar, she determined that the day of her birth was the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Very easy to remember. And she must have forgotten all about that conversation entirely since she did not show any particular anticipation for something special coming up. The dragon lands probably do not have enough culture to really acknowledge the date of birth as a special occasion. And if they do, then the outlying wild sectors that she came from most certainly would not bother to remember it. All days are just another day of living out in the wild as little more than beasts.

This thought saddened me and prompted me to enter the laundry room and peek out the window facing the rear of the house. There she was. Smolder just stuck her head out of the coop's entrance and placed another egg in a metal pail by the ramp. Our many chickens were milling out in the yard with their thick plumage keeping them very comfortable against the autumn chill. And the sight of her face reminded me of how far she had come in such a short time. It was subtle, but I could see a smile on her lips. I left the laundry room once Smolder ducked back inside. Once seated, I looked over at my wife as she poured the batter into a greased skillet. "I'm just glad she's happy. This will probably be the first time she's ever celebrated her birthday. I can't imagine it having ever happened before while she was...out there. Even before her parents drove her away."

Fluttershy looked back at me while showing the softest smile she could, those gentle cyan eyes gazing at me. "I'm happy she came to us too. She's been nothing but a blessing to Gladesong. Like she's already a part of the family."

"Just one more year..." I muttered as I gazed upon the calendar again. Smolder had only just turned fifteen years old. But no matter how quickly she had to grow psychologically after being cast out into the wild, it was still too soon. I sighed as I contemplated the love I felt for the wonderful young lady. She was far for woman than girl by then, but I doubt the law would ever understand that. And I was not willing to test whether or not the law is blind in Equestria. Thankfully, Smolder's attention had been spread out quite evenly after we returned home from the Empty Plains. Largely thanks to her blossoming circle of friends in Gallus and Ocellus. For as in love as the two of us are, she needed more than what I have to offer. Their presence has been very good for her. The more they distract her from the womanly heart beating inside her, the better. But in just one more year... The next time the date reaches the eleventh day of the eleventh month... We will not have to wait any longer. We can finally belong to each other forever. And this realization lit a fire in my heart. "I just hope we can wait one more year without any trouble."

Something held me from behind. Fluttershy had left the stove and was embracing me from behind. Her flowing mane draped over me as she whispered to my ear. "It'll work out, dear. We just need to be patient and see where things go. But I know you two will be very good for each other."

"I know, honey... I know. It's just...this isn't something that happens to simply anyone. Smolder's a very strange case." I replied while still marveling at how quickly she improved her literacy. Being completely unable to read or write to being able to do both fluently in a matter of months. Resourceful and a quick learner. I was very proud of her.

Fluttershy then whispered to me, "I wonder how things will be with her in another ten years. How big will she get?"

Such a thought was incomprehensible to me. I have never been one to focus on the future. I have always lived in the present and likely always will. But whatever the future holds for Smolder... I hope it is a bright one. "Good question. I...can't picture it."

My wife kissed me on the cheek before having to hurry back to the stove and mind her cooking. She then said, "Right, we should focus on just today for now. Because it's a very special day that she won't see coming!"

Breakfast was served not much later with Smolder soon returning with a pail full of fresh eggs. And it was awkward for us to sit around the table with the birthday girl being there and having no idea what was in store for her that day. Ocellus and Scootaloo looked especially eager to drop some hints, but they resisted that urge. And Gladesong was a big enough distraction to help keep their attention off of the dragoness at the table.

I kept looking back at Smolder whenever I thought she was not looking at me. Her attention being spread out was a stark contrast to how often Ocellus would focus her attention on me from across the table. At least Ocellus is a mare by now and no longer a filly. She is an adult in the eyes of society, but Smolder is not quite there yet. So womanly yet girlish at the same time. Smolder was chatty, talking about some things she had seen while out foraging for wild berries. It sounded like she had come up with a trick for scaring off timberwolves. A quick flame breath would always send them running. Those wooden beasts must have a natural fear of fire.

Breakfast was uneventful, but that was just fine. The real fun would be starting in a while. Once breakfast was done, Scootaloo hurried of to school and I had to get ready to leave for work. And when I went upstairs to fetch my shoes, I made sure to grab something else. Tucked away behind the clock on the fireplace's mantelpiece in the master bedroom was a little white jewelry box. And I was very careful to listen. Ocellus and Fluttershy were busy doing the dishes to let the local birthday girl have some more time to herself. And it sounded like she was spending her time with Gladesong right around the bottom of the stairs. I could hear Smolder muttering sweetly to my daughter, gently playing with the well fed filly to get her ready for a nap.

I lifted the lid to peer inside. And the contents were exactly what I remembered. A pair of dainty pearl earrings straight from Capricorn Island. I had been debating on when would be the best time to give them to Smolder and I could think of no better time than her birthday. Today would be the day she would get something very special from me. While I know Smolder lacks the external ears necessary for earrings, I was confident she could have them hang from her horns with some spare thread. Rarity especially would know how to make that work. I could picture it in my head.

A jolt of fear surged through me a moment later. I heard something coming up the stairs behind me. Not the clopping of hooves on wood. It was soft feet on wooden floors. Smolder was approaching. I hastily tucked the box in my pocket and turned to face the stares. Sure enough, Smolder came into view and ducked to step under the raised hatch over the stairs. She smiled at me with those big beautiful blue eyes gazing at me. "What's up? You got time to hang around for a bit?"

My eyes focused on the clock that was right in front of me. I had become intimate enough with my daily work schedules to know how long it would take for me to reach the spa. I then turned to Smolder and said, "I can spare ten minutes."

Smolder then did something I did not expect. She lowered the hatch behind her and locked it to keep it in place. Although she did not appear to have any ulterior motives. Her eyes remained bright and relaxed with her movements being equally gentle. She climbed onto the bed and patted a spot beside her with her hand. "Come here. We haven't had much time together for a while."

I did as she requested and sat down on the bed. But Smolder then pulled me down onto my back and snuggled up beside me. We both rested on the bed with our eyes watching each other. I asked softly, "You OK?"

"Yeah. I'm just...having a great morning. It's ugly and cold out, but it's always warm and cozy here. Just...feeling lots of love in the air when I'm home. I guess Fluttershy's place does that to you." Smolder said softly while keeping a hand resting on my chest. It felt like it had been too long since we last had a moment to...love each other.

"That must be Ocellus. That love bug must be oozing love constantly with how well she's been eating lately." I retorted while Smolder just snickered at my show of wit. Although I then raised my hand to my chest and rested it over hers. I turned my gaze towards the ceiling and said, "Have you been happy lately?"

Smolder's eyes narrowed as she began to smirk at me. "That a trick question? You bet I've been happy. Finding this place was the best accident I ever made."

"Accident? I wouldn't call it that..." I replied while wondering where that choice of words came from. When I turned to look at Smolder directly, I saw that her gaze had softened.

"Yeah. An accident. I still remember just finding this place and curling up in the chicken coop out back just so I'd have a roof over my head that night. I didn't expect to bump into anyone... Especially not someone who didn't wanna shoo me away. It was...totally unexpected, you know?" Smolder replied candidly while I too recalled that day. The last thing I ever expected to pop out of that chicken coop that morning was a dragon who was not Spike.

I gently pressed my hand down atop Smolder's as I said, "I really didn't know what to think of you when I first saw you. But you weren't looking for trouble. It was actually a relief to find you out there again a while later."

"Yeah... I'm glad I came back. If I didn't, I...wouldn't be so happy right now." Smolder whispered before reaching out and placing a kiss upon my cheek. She then smiled in a more somber manner before she spoke again. "Look, I'm... I'm sorry I haven't had much time for you lately. I've been so distracted by stuff lately. It's like...ever since we got home from the Empty Plains, I've...been spending so much time with Ocellus and Gallus. And Gladesong's taking up a lotta attention too. Please don't think I've forgotten about you..."

I curled my fingers to take hold of Smolder's hand in mine. And all I could do was smile at her. "Hey, don't apologize. It's actually a good thing that you've been finding time away from me. Girls like you really need a healthy social life at your age. Having your own circle of relatable friends in your age group is a good thing. I told you that, right?"

"Heh, yeah... Yeah, you did. Guess it's just easy to forget. I just...don't want you to think I'm drifting away from you." Smolder replied while she adjusted her hand to hold mine. She gazed lovingly into my eyes and whispered, "I know it's still too soon...but my mind's been made up. No matter what, I won't ever let you go. Just because I've got friends to spend time with outta the house doesn't mean...I think less of you."

It was reassuring to hear that. I so dearly love that wonderful little lady. But it would be a mistake for her to become too dependant on me when she still has some more growing to do. For as awful as the War of Preservation was, we both brought home something that benefited our relationship. And as much as I wanted to tell her those three special words, I knew I should not. It was too soon and they would compel Smolder to decide then and there even if she was not ready. And I did not expect her to have the wisdom and patience to request for more time. But I was willing to wait. Even if that meant the possibility of...

My eyes wandered away and my smile faded. And Smolder noticed. She tightened her grip around my hand and asked, "Hey... What's with that look? Got some bad vibes in you or something?"

A lot can happen in one year. And no matter how mature Smolder was at her age, she was still right in the middle of her teens. And I had learned that teens are too fickle and indecisive to really devote themselves to long-term romantic pursuits the vast majority of the time. Could the same be said about dragons though? Them and their burning hearts with laser-focused attraction to a single possible mate? This fear resurfacing in my heart, I looked at her out of the corner of my eye. "Not really, it's just... How have you and Gallus been getting along? You two close these days?"

"Huh? Gallus? Yeah, sure. He's a cool dude and..." Smolder began to say before her eyes widened considerably. She knew what I was implying. And rather than be offended, she smirked at me with a very playful glare. "Oh, I get it. You think there's something going on between us. I get it. The bad boy bluebird in town hitting it off with the wild girl from out in the frontier. We got a lot in common, right?"

She read me like a book. And I stammered incoherently now that I had been caught. Smolder just grinned and snickered loudly before she released my hand from her grasp and cupped my cheek to make my head turn to face her. She continued to speak with a very amused smirk on her lips. "You should know better by now, James. I mean sure, Gallus is a pretty cool dude. I bet he'll make some girl really happy some day. But this girl right here? This dragoness? She's only got eyes for one guy right now. And she's gonna chase him to the ends of the earth until she's ready to tell him what she needs to say."

I felt myself starting to sweat. Smolder was so steadfast in speaking her heart's desires without actually confessing her feelings to me. Are all dragons really that focused on a single romantic pursuit regardless of age? I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for Spike to let go of his attraction towards Rarity. But Smolder... So confident in her words. She then pulled herself closer to me and whispered, "So don't you ever go there, all right? Don't think I'm gonna find some other guy and forget about you. Because you're the best thing to ever happen to me. And now that I know there's a spot in your heart for me... I won't give that up. Not unless you say no."

To confirm to Smolder right then and there that I would never refuse her love when the day finally came would be the same as telling her that I loved her and desired her to be my mate. I very nearly fell right into that trap whether Smolder was aware that she had set it or not. Only barely resisting that urge to speak, I whispered with a sigh. "I really wish I understood how the heart of a dragon works. You and Ember... You're both amazing women. I wouldn't give either of you up for anything."

Smolder's already smiling gaze softened further. And she reached out to place a little peck on my lips. The lovely little lady whispered, "Yeah... Ember's amazing. And she's so good to you... I know I said it before. I can't be Ember. But...I'll always be my best for you."

"Don't worry about being like Ember. Just be you. The same little lady I've always adored." I whispered back to her before placing a kiss of my own upon her lips. And with a smile, I whispered another sacred statement to her. "Ti amo tanto, mia poca draghessa."

I saw a certain rosy hue filled my beloved's cheeks. And she reached out before grabbing me and pulling me into such a passionate kiss. Her lips parted as a gentle sigh hissed from Smolder's nostrils. Our tongues danced. Not at all the simple clumsy kiss of a feckless girl. This was a kiss only a woman could give. That subtle taste of sulfur on her breath... How I loved her. How I wanted to see that wonderful little lady be happy forever. I knew what she wanted... What she needed. It was just such a shame it was still too soon for me to give it to her. And once that wonderful kiss ended, that beautiful little dragoness whispered to me once again. "Je t'aime toujour, mi amor."

We embraced. Just held each other for a moment longer. This journey we are on... Only one year remains before we can finally truly be together. The risks were high, but the payoff in the end... I pray it will all be worth it. Smolder has been through so much already. She deserves a happy future with one she trusts. I hope I will be worthy of that position when the time comes.

As much as it pained me to say it, I spoke to the little lady in my arms. "I really should be going now... Don't wanna be late."

"Yeah... Stay warm out there." Smolder whispered back while all too reluctantly releasing me from her embrace. I stood up from the bed and released the lock on the hatch over the stairs. But when I looked back at Smolder, we smiled at each other before she brought her fingers to her lips and blew me a kiss. That put a spring in my step as I headed downstairs.

Fluttershy was standing in the doorway to the nursery right below me as I descended the stairs. I looked back at her when I noticed my lovely wife gazing up at me. She promptly asked quietly, "Everything all right up there?"

"We just had one good cuddle before I had to leave for work." I replied before coming over to her and dropping onto my knees to give Fluttershy a goodbye kiss. I then carefully whispered, "You'll be there at the party, right?"

"Of course. I've already scheduled for Eleina to foalsit Gladesong this evening. Let's keep it quiet until it happens, all right?" Fluttershy whispered while giving me a playful wink. We had done all we could to keep the imminent party under wraps from the one person who should not know about it. Already in danger of falling behind schedule, I grabbed my jacket and headed out the door.

I was immediately greeted by the sound of construction. The crews were well on their way in constructing the future home of Smolder and Ocellus. I eyed them as they hammered away with nails while a crane stood idly nearby. I am certain that duplex will be done before the end of the year at this rate. Perhaps even in time for Hearth's Warming Eve. What a jolly time it would be for the two of them to decorate their own homes on their own terms. But I could not stare for long. I hurried along at a brisk pace with the autumn chill whistling through the air and stinging my face. I should have brought a scarf. And I have to applaud the construction crew for being willing and able to work in such conditions.

People tend to stay indoors during colder seasons. Especially when the wind chill is unpleasant. Although as I hurried along, I did end up passing by the library. And I noticed a sign on the door stating that it was closed for the day. There was a good reason for that. Twilight Sparkle had volunteered to have it serve as the location for the party. And while I did need to get to work, curiosity got the better of me. "Meh, I can spare five minutes."

I reached for the door, but then stepped back. Just in case someone was coming through. Although I then assumed Spike would not have much to do with the library being closed for a private event. I then ducked through the doorway and stepped inside. And I was immediately greeted by the sight of Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle hard at work setting up the first floor section with all the necessities for a good party. Colorful streamers being strung up across the ceiling. Party balls loaded with confetti ready to burst. A phonograph nearby set to play jaunty music. And the central table in the middle of the room stacked high with colorful presents. I suppose everyone with a gift to offer had dropped theirs off in the days leading up to this day. I was very impressed with how preparations were going. And while Twilight used her levitation spell to spread out the streamers across the ceiling, Pinkie Pie was the first to notice my presence. "Hey there, James! Popping in to check on preparations? Everything's gonna be ready to party by sundown!"

"And I'm liking the look of things here, girls. Although wouldn't Sugarcube Corner be a more ideal location? We've had most of our parties there, right?" I replied before realizing that aside from a few holiday parties, I cannot recall the last time we had a party that was not held up in Pinkie Pie's living space at Sugarcube Corner. If a party was dedicated to a friend, it would always be there.

Twilight looked my way while multitasking with her levitation magic. "We considered that, but we also held Spike's first birthday in Ponyville here. Just kind of felt fitting to have Smolder's first birthday in Ponyville here too since she's a dragon. It was actually Spike's idea."

Speaking of that little renaissance man of a dragon, I noticed a delicious aroma filling the air. Spike was no stranger to the use of an oven. It must have been coming from the kitchen upstairs. "Smells like the little guy's busy. He baking goodies for the party?"

"That and he's whipping up a batch of chocolate chip and emerald cookies as his gift to Smolder. He wanted to make a great first impression." Twilight replied as she finished stringing up those colorful strips of paper. The decorations appeared set. All that remained was to get out the party games and the edible treats. Although Twilight then asked, "What about you, James? Did you bring a gift?"

"Yep. All the way from Capricorn Island. I've been waiting months for this day." I said with a bit of giddiness in my heart. I then reached into my pocket and pulled out the little jewelry box inside. "Got it right here. Do you have a spare ribbon I can put around it?"

Pinkie Pie's eyes widened while she and Twilight drew near. "Sure! I'll take care of it. But...mind if we see what's in it? Just a little peek? Something this tiny must be very special!"

"OK, sure. Just don't tell anyone until after she opens it, all right? I've been holding onto this for months." I replied while getting down on one knee to let them see it. I removed the lid and said with a proud smile, "What's the verdict? Pearl is November's birthstone, right? Think she'll like this?"

They both marveled at the simple yet lovely jewelry in the box. But Pinkie Pie's expression gradually shifted to one of confusion. "Oooooh! Pearl earrings...huh? Hang on. Don't you need...you know...ears to wear those? I mean I know dragons have ear holes, but don't they not have ears to hang stuff on?"

Twilight provided a surprising counter to that point. "I don't know, Pinkie... I remember seeing lots of dragons out there last time I was in the dragon lands and quite a few of them had external ears. It's a physical feature that's more common for dragons than we might expect on a reptile. But Smolder isn't one of them."

"Yeah, I know what you mean. It's just that...I thought she could have these hang from her horns with a little thread, you know?" I explained while starting to wonder if I got something that Smolder could not even use now that I was getting a second opinion from some good friends.

"Ooh, that could work! I can already picture her wearing them that way! Good idea, James!" Pinkie replied before I closed the box and set it delicately upon the tip of her snout. My peppy friend then said, "I'll go get this wrapped up in a jiffy. I'm thinking a blue ribbon for this one."

"Sounds good. I'll be heading out in a minute, so just add it to the pile when you're done." I replied while Pinkie Pie happily trotted up the stairs to put the finishing touches on my gift for that lovely little lady. She would only look all the more ladylike with those earrings dangling from her horns. I then turned to Twilight and said, "I really shouldn't stay long. I'm almost late for work enough as is."

"That's fine, James. Although it was nice getting to see you before the whole thing could happen. Be sure to come right on over after work so we can get this party started." Twilight said in brief before we shared a brief hug. As much as I would like to stay longer, there was somewhere I needed to be. I hurried out the door and off for the spa.

Things went like clockwork once I reached my destination. I said hello to my bosses and clocked in before taking my position at the massage tables. The spa gets a lot of business during colder seasons. Especially with the hot tub. People just want to get out and relax if they can help it. I quickly got a few customers and put my hands to use. But after a couple of hours, I did end up getting a very big surprise.

I was momentarily distracted by a magazine during a break between customers. And the sound of approaching hooves reached my ears. But the voice that followed was not one I had ever heard in there before. "One massage, please?"

I froze for a second. And when I lowered my magazine, I saw a beautiful little love bug gazing up at me with a smile. I promptly set my magazine aside and picked her up in my arms. "Ocellus! This your first time here?"

"Mmhm! Rarity gave me a gift certificate for one massage and I thought today was a good day for it!" She giggled before gently touching her nose to mine. I know she dearly wanted to kiss me, but could not while others were around who might witness it. I then helped her get into a comfortable position on a massage table while she said, "I've heard good things about your magic fingers. You think a changeling can get the same experience out of it?"

"As long as you have the muscles and joints for it, I think you'll get something good outta this." I said before I started to ponder how to approach the situation. Ocellus, while still a mare, was still a little smaller than the average pony. And she looked genuinely frail compared to even the flimsiest pegasus I had worked on. I was hesitant to climb up and straddle her. "How to do this... Just how much pressure can your body take?"

"Do I really look that fragile? I swear you won't squish me like a bug. It's OK. I'll let you know if something hurts." Ocellus replied sweetly while showing no concern. I just did not want her first visit to have even the slightest hiccup. Now that we had become more than just friends, I wanted to treat her right.

"OK, if you say so." I replied before carefully straddling the delicate love bug beneath me. "I usually start with the shoulders... If something doesn't feel right, let me know to stop."

"Will do... Oooh, I can already feel the difference." Ocellus giggled once I started to knead her shoulders from the sides. The feel of a changeling's chitin is very different from that of a pony's coat and I was concerned my hands might slip due to the reduced friction. I thankfully did not find her body to feel that slick and quickly got into a rhythm like with any other pony client of mine.

I quickly ran into a problem once I started to move down her back. Ocellus' entire posterior was covered by those adorable ladybug patterned covers over her wings. If I tried to apply pressure to those, they would surely break and I had no idea if such an injury was even possible for a changeling to heal from. I began to climb down from the table and said, "I'd like to work on your back. Would you mind lifting...um...these?"

"My elytra? OK." Ocellus replied while looking back at me. Is that what they call that part of an insect's anatomy? Regardless, she effortlessly spread those hardened covers as much as she could. Those beautiful gossamer wings of translucent pink remained draped over her back and I dreaded applying any pressure to something so fragile. Ocellus was quick to notice them and quickly raised her wings as well. "Oops. Lemme get those too."

"There we go. I'll probably have an easier time doing it from the side." I muttered as I reached out and began to get a feel for Ocellus' vertebrae and underlying muscle mass. She really was more mare than insect. I could feel a proper skeletal system under that layer of chitin. "I'm more used to doing this from above... Sorry if it's not the best. I'd hate to ruin your wings forever."

"Oh, you don't have to worry about that. I can regenerate them if anything happens to them." Ocellus said kindly while she looked at me through her own translucent right wing.

This was an interesting topic to bring up. Now that we had something to chat about, I proceeded to inquire further. "Seriously now? Changelings have a certain regenerative power?"

Ocellus was more than happy to talk to me. "Yes! Kind of... I mean we can assume the form of all sorts of things. That means we can even...change into a version of ourselves with whatever might be missing. So if I...um...lost a limb, I could just make my body look how it used to be and it'll be there again."

This sounded way too good to be true. I know for a fact most insects cannot regenerate lost limbs that easily, if at all. I asked as my hands went to work on her shoulder blades, "You make it sound easy..."

My beautiful love bug's eyes widened before she said, "I am? Sorry... Because it's really not that easy. I mean we can regenerate lost body parts, but we have to maintain that form for several days to do it without swapping out to another. And it takes a lot of energy to do it. I would need a steady supply of love to fuel the reconstruction of any missing body parts."

Hearing that immediately brought to mind something I had heard mere weeks ago. The last time I saw Celaeno. Regenerating missing body parts by using excess energy reserves as fuel? That sounded exactly like how that forbidden potion recipe works. Maybe that potion recipe was created specifically to replicate a changeling' regenerative abilities on those that are not changelings. And I pondered what my avian friend was up to as she sailed the skies. She was due to return in a matter of months once she had packed on enough excess body fat to fuel that potion's effects. And as my mind drifted while my hands went on autopilot for a moment, Ocellus noticed my silence. And my heart once again ratted me out. "Are you all right? Your heart...feels like its worrying about someone."

"Oh come on, is there nothing my heart won't tell you?" I said while bursting out into a snicker. I took my hands off of Ocellus and then beat my chest with a fist. I was not mad, but it was equal parts amusing and annoying to see just how hard it is to hide my feelings from a Changeling. "You little snitch! Don't you ever shut up?!"

Ocellus burst into a giggling fit while she hid her lips behind her wrist. "Don't be mad! I love listening to your heart! It always has such lovely things to say... But really, what's wrong? Are you worried about me? Or...someone else?"

I went back to work on Ocellus' vertebrae as I spoke to her. There was no shame in sharing something about a close friend. "Nah, it's not about you. It's just the way you describe your ability to regenerate lost limbs. It sounds exactly like a certain potion I heard about from Zecora that can do the same. But it's...far more dangerous. It can literally kill you if you don't have enough excess body mass to fuel it. It will use up absolutely everything in you to fuel the restoration of what was lost... God, just the thought of it disturbs me."

The little love bug's ears perked up in surprise as I described that dreaded yet potent potion recipe. "Whoa... Sounds like how changelings work, but all at once instead of spread out over several days. That would be very dangerous. But if it works... Why do you know about it? You didn't lose a toe recently, did you?"

She really did not know. Almost no one did by then. It was a very personal matter, but I knew I could trust Ocellus with such information. She is good at keeping secrets. I sighed while my thoughts drifted to someone dear who was likely sailing the skies at that very moment. "No, I'm good. It's...Celaeno. You remember her, right?"

"Celaeno...? Oh! The harpy woman! Who also wears a big hat? Big green peg... Ooooooh... Oh no, you don't mean...?" Ocellus replied in realization before quickly understanding exactly why Celaeno would have an interest in such a potion. And all I did was nod while moving my prodding palms and fingers down towards the base of her gossamer tail. Although I did hear a very audible pop as I pressed down. Ocellus' wings suddenly spread as far as they could reach while her eyes widened. "Ooh! I felt that one! Nice! But...uh... Really? Celaeno? And...she wants to use that potion to regenerate her missing leg, right? Does she really need to do that?"

I actually jumped back when I heard that pop in my client's vertebrae. I almost never get a response that loud. That kind of work is usually done by chiropractors and I definitely do not have the skill and training needed for that field. Regardless, I then explained, "I know she doesn't look bothered by having a prosthetic leg, but it carries a lot of drawbacks. Less stable balance and she literally can't run anymore. She has the most to gain out of her entire crew in getting her missing limb back. And she's currently making preparations to insure her body can handle the process. We'll see how that goes in a few months from now."

Ocellus noticed very quickly that I had not resumed the massage. With her vertebrae done, the next step were her flanks and hind legs. But I was just too distracted by my thoughts brought upon by our conversation. My client looked at me as she finally folded her wings and lowered her elytra. "Are you worried about her?"

I turned my gaze to meet hers and said, "Of course I am. Celaeno is a good friend. If she doesn't survive the procedure... I mean I'm hoping she will, but... I just can't shake the feeling something will go wrong no matter what happens. The entire leg below the knee is a lot of mass to grow back. I'm not sure it's even possible given just how lean she is... Her crew will never forgive me if they lose her because I went looking for a way to fix her leg."

"Just...a friend?" Ocellus asked as she lowered her gaze to focus on my chest. Or rather the heart beating inside it.

I immediately understood what she was asking and pounded my chest once with my fist. And that one actually kind of hurt. "Oh, shut up. Right now. Stop telling her things you don't understand."

"Pfft... James, I'm being serious. I think even your heart isn't sure this time." Ocellus snorted while noticeably biting her lower lip. She just barely avoided outright laughing. She then asked again, "Really. Celaeno. She's just a friend?"

I rested my hand and turned my gaze up towards the ceiling. Thoughts of the soaring form of the Zephyrus floating overhead came to mind. "Yeah. She's a good friend. A capable captain, brilliant swordswoman, and someone I feel like I can count on. She's...amazing."

"And...she's just a friend to you?" Ocellus asked while even her horn was coated by her magic aura. She did not cast any spells. She was just...listening more closely. "It...sounds like your heart really isn't sure. What happened last time she was here?"

I crossed my arms and closed my eyes. Such...sweet loving things were said between us last time. Celaeno whispering hopes of finally being able to fulfill her dreams of having a family. Her musings over whether or not I could be the man to be hers. And her insistence that she could never ask to hold my heart after all I was already doing for her. Only for me to remind her that I never said I could not be hers. There were just so many questions with no answers in my head. And I said what little I could. "Three months... We'll see what happens in three months. That's what she said. And she has one goal to focus on right now anyway."

"Your heart sounds afraid..." Ocellus muttered gently to me. And perhaps she was right. I was afraid for my friend. The fact that she now had a cure for the amputation she suffered only for it to very possibly end up killing her in a horrifying and torturous fashion... My mind went wild with gruesome thoughts of Celaeno literally being drained dry of everything until she was left as a mummified corpse with only her new right leg being entirely pristine. Like a punchline for an extremely dark joke.

The thought of losing Celaeno like that... Being by her side and being completely powerless to save her... I smacked myself in the head to try and snap myself out of thinking such grim fantasies. "It's gonna be OK... It has to be."

Ocellus stood up on the massage table and tapped me on my arm. When I looked down at her, I found her seated with arms held out beckoning me for a hug. And I all too eagerly reciprocated. I held that sweet little lady in my arms while she did the same, a long sigh escaping my lungs as I prayed that introducing Celaeno to that potion recipe's existence would not lead to her undoing. Ocellus nuzzled the side of my head as she whispered, "It'll be OK... You've convinced me that these things have a way of working out. We got through the War of Preservation just fine, right? We'll get through this too..."

"I hope so... Sorry for getting distracted. I don't normally chat up my clients like this. Most of them aren't exactly my friends." I replied while wondering how long I had stopped. It was bad form to keep a client waiting longer than needed.

"Oh, but I'm not a client. I'm your friend!" Ocellus giggled as she nuzzled up against the side of my head. That did a lot to lift my mood. Especially with what she whispered next. "And I'm your girlfriend."

That sent a hot shiver down my spine and lit a fire in my heart. Ocellus just giggled as she let go of me before winking at me while also playfully sticking out her tongue. She was not wrong. We had only just recently become so much more. It was just such a shame I could not kiss her at that moment. Ocellus then assumed her prior position on the massage table and even lowered her head down onto her resting hooves. "Sorry for getting so chatty. I just like it when you talk to me."

"Same here, love bug. And I can't let my heart do all the talking, right?" I replied before I climbed back up to straddle her in reverse. This gave me the easiest access to her flanks from above. Although I was still surprised with just how slender her hips were. While still a mare, I could see that Ocellus had less muscle mass in her flanks than most ponies. Although something else almost got a chuckle out of me. "You know, I can't remember the last time I was able to do this with a pony without having to dance around a client's cutie mark."

"Huh? I mean I know I don't have one, but why would touching cutie marks be a problem?" Ocellus asked with genuine curiosity.

"Let's just say that it's common for cutie marks to be more than just a bit...sensitive." I replied while trying to not divulge too much in my workplace. Ocellus let out a little snicker, but my assumption is that she believed I meant that cutie marks are often a bit ticklish. At least I would not have that issue with a changeling.

I moved on to Ocellus' knees and ankles once I was done with her flanks. This task was easier to do from the sides and with both hands on one spot. Ocellus got quiet, but I could tell she was having a good time. I lastly moved around to the front and focused on her forelimbs last. I could tell she enjoyed this part greatly since it allowed her to see me. My fingers rubbed around her elbows one at a time before moving on to her wrists. And Ocellus looked up to me with a little smile and asked, "Hold my hoof?"

Our eyes met, hers being largely featureless while being simultaneously expressive. I honored her request without a word. I turned my left palm upward and let her rest her hoof upon it with my fingers closing over it. My right hand kneaded and rubbed around her wrist well enough on its own. I could see that Ocellus just wanted to be able to see me. And when our eyes met again, she silently mimed a kiss at me. That poor little love bug... All she wanted to do was kiss me. And I quietly apologized while trying to stay focused on my task, "I'm sorry, dear... Not here."

"I know... I just... I wanna make out with you so bad..." Ocellus whimpered in profound disappointment. That smile faded in spite of the relaxation she was experiencing. She then asked in need, "At the party tonight? Could we just...slip away somewhere? Just to be together for a bit?"

That sounded doable. Especially at the library. "Yeah, sure. There's a basement there we can sneak away to."

Ocellus immediately smiled at me as her disappointed gaze instantly brightened. She looked eager to raise her voice, but managed to keep it as a whisper. "A basement?! Perfect! They won't even hear us with all the noise upstairs."

My left eyebrow raised at the mention of not being heard. And Ocellus' tone became increasingly...meaningful with its inflections. And her increasingly lidded eyes... She whispered lovingly to me, "We can do whatever we want down there... And they won't hear a thing..."

"Ocellus, not now... Don't tease me while I'm on the job." I grumbled while already starting to feel rather hot and bothered just at the possibilities of what that beautiful little lady and I could get up to with no one watching. Fluttershy knew by then. She knew that Ocellus and I were more than just friends. Another wonderful woman who had joined our family. And the little love bug tensed up in embarrassment as she realized that she was being a bit too flirty for her own good. That shut her up for the moment, but I still risked being spotted to place a kiss on her head. The hot tub was providing ample cover now that everyone else was on the other side of the room.

Ocellus finally stood up and stretched enthusiastically now that I was done. I could tell that it was another job well done. And after straining her neck for a moment, Ocellus suddenly lurched forward with a grunt. "Woo! That...wow! Is that what a real massage feels like?"

"Yeah, guess so. I personally wouldn't know, but my massages are very popular with our clients. Must be the magic fingers." I replied while playfully holding up my hands and curling my fingers in a rising and falling pattern. I then looked at the clock hanging on the wall nearby and said, "Anyway, that does it for now. I need to grab some lunch."

The mention of lunch prompted Ocellus to speak up. "Ooh, that reminds me! Gallus and I were supposed to meet up at the café for lunch! Wanna join us?"

"Sure! Let's go see the bluebird. Smolder's not coming this time, right? Still keeping quiet about the birthday girl's big day?" I asked in turn with Ocellus quickly nodding. She then hopped down from the massage table while I fetched my jacket. I said my goodbyes to Aloe at the receptionist desk before heading out the door with my little lover. "I have to be back in an hour, so let's not waste too much time chatting each other up, all right? We'll have time to catch up at the party."

"Yeah, sure! We won't keep you." Ocellus chirped as she trotted along with a giddy spring in her step. She was in a very good mood after that massage. And I noticed that she was not getting many stares from those we passed. And those who did look her way had eyes filled with intrigue as they saw that colorful love bug trotting along. Those pale blues and pinks really added a splash of color to counter the autumn chill in the air. Although once there were fewer of Ponyville's people around us, Ocellus looked up at me and asked softly, "Now that we're...something more... Do you think we could...start going out on dates?"

That was a good point to make. And an unfortunate part about my unorthodox family life. No one knew of how many wonderful women came into my life, although I have tried to make it work by spending time with them when I can while being as discreet as possible. Rarity and I have the easiest time by meeting up in her own home. Carousel Boutique doubling as a workplace for her adds an extra layer of subterfuge to make others suspect us less. And I still need to start finding means to allow Rainbow Dash and I have time together. She was only just recently accepted as part of our family and she has been kept waiting for some time. But I had to prioritize discretion over open affection. "We really should figure something about that. Just as long as people don't start asking questions."

Ocellus tilted her head to one side as she started mumbling to herself. She sounded very contemplative as she surely considered that it would not reflect well upon me if our relationship ever went public. But she then looked up at me with a bit of a smirk on her lips. "Come to think of it... I was trained to be a scout. Maybe I can use some old tricks to help keep us undercover."

I raised an eyebrow at this claim and recalled how she and I first met. "But didn't you kind of...flunk that stuff?"

The lovely little mare giggled while even having to slow her pace for a moment. "Sure, but I'm not THAT bad at it! I'll be much better at it off the field. Trust me, I'm already brainstorming up some ideas."

"You always were the brains of your little trio. OK, just let me know what you come up with." I retorted as we both found some humor in the situation. Being a changeling certainly carries advantages and I was curious of how Ocellus would capitalize on her own natural abilities to help make our relationship work.

We eventually came to the café and found the entire outdoor dining area deserted. No one wanted to eat outside in such chilly temperatures. The only time I have found anyone dining outdoors is when the weather is clear and the sun was high and bright. But not that day. A thick layer of clouds covered the sky and only hammered home the worst kind of autumn atmosphere. Even the perpetually green natural flora around us could only do so much. Certainly not with the flower arrangements around town showing signs of wilting. Ocellus frowned as we approached the café entrance. "It's really a shame Smolder's birthday had to be on such a gloomy day."

"But that's only gonna make the party that much more satisfying. If things are gloomy outside, we find a way to liven things up indoors." I replied while holding the door for the little love bug. As if to add weight to my words, we were greeted by the interior of the café's dining area being lively and filled with the clamor of many people talking and even music playing over the café's sound system. One would not know what the weather was like just by seeing that. My eyes scanned our surroundings as I wondered if we could even find a table. "You did say you were meeting up with... Oh, Gallus!"

I saw him right at the far corner of the dining room. The bluebird of a griffon boy was easy to spot. I hurried over with Ocellus by my side while he did not notice our approach. He had his eyes focused on the menu in his hand. But he did finally glance over at us as we stepped between tables. "Hey, Ocellus brought you along, huh? What's up? We're all gonna party tonight, right?"

"Yep. Already dropped my present off at the library. I'm expecting a good time tonight." I replied while the three of us took our seats around the table. Although now that we were together, I felt the need to ask. "So then... You guys got the birthday girl something, right?"

Ocellus nervously replied, "Kind of? It's not like we have much money to spend. Gallus and I sort of...collaborated for ours."

From the sound of it, they did not buy something from the local shops. Ocellus had no need for money at the time and Gallus was living a bit lean himself at Sweet Apple Acres. I was sure Applejack was providing him with an allowance for helping out around the farm. But if they did not buy anything... "In that case... What did you get Smolder?"

Gallus rolled his eyes as if he was simultaneously proud yet annoyed he could not come up with something more extravagant. "Assorted gemstones. We asked Rarity where we could dig some up and she pointed us to some place outside of town. I hauled the stuff back while Ocellus did all the digging. She turned into some kinda...big mole thing?"

"Maulwurf. That's what they're called." Ocellus added with a less than flattered look on her face. It sounded like a creature she was not pleased to assume the form of. I have no idea what such a creature even looks like, but it sounds like a great digger. Ocellus then winked at me and said, "At least dragons are easy to please."

A waiter soon came by and took our orders. Gallus and I liked the sound of the sandwich specials that day while Ocellus only ordered a serving of juice. She probably was not that hungry with so much good vibes around and I am sure the insect side of her biology does get something useful out of sweet fluids. Gallus took a long swig of his bottle of cold cider and asked me, "What about you? Got anything good for the birthday girl?"

"I got her a pair of earrings some months back and decided today would be the best time to give them to her. They're pearls. And I was thinking they could be tied to her horns." I explained while wondering just how much I could tell Gallus about the relationship between his friend and I. Ocellus knew everything, but Gallus?

Gallus raised an eyebrow before he cast me a smirk. "Earrings, huh? We got a high roller over here. You sure she won't eat them?"

"No, I'm pretty sure she'll understand the value in them. I didn't get her something nice just to let her have it as a snack." I replied while hoping Gallus would not assume that were deeper motivations behind that gift choice. He clearly did not know about Smolder and I. Or even that his changeling friend and I were already something more. And he most definitely did not know about my family. When should I tell him? Could I ever tell him? That was a question I would have to find an answer for later.

Ocellus winked at me and said, "She won't see it coming. She'll probably squeal when she sees them."

Before much later, I felt the need to use the restroom and excused myself. I headed down the hall at the back of the café and found the stallion and mare rooms across from each other. I stepped inside the stallion's room and was greeted by something I had almost forgotten about. Instead of on the wall, I found the urinal carved out of the floor. I scowled at the impractical placement of it, but sighed in resignation. "I really shouldn't be surprised."

While I did my business, I heard the door outside the men's room open and shut. I thought nothing about it at the time, but the men's room door then opened right as I was finishing up and starting to wash my hands. I saw in the mirror a stallion come walking in while paying no mind to me. Someone I did not know and did not spare a second thought about. He walked out of sight while I shook my hands dry and turned the sink off. But no sooner had I done that did I hear a...strange sound nearby. Like a flash of flames. And something very light then jumped onto my back and whispered into my ear. "Guess who?"

"Clever girl." I snickered as I found Ocellus peeking over my shoulder at me. With the hallway's entrance behind a corner, no one actually could have seen Ocellus transform. And now that we were alone in a room that no one could hear over all the noise outside, I stepped into the stall nearby and sat on the toilet with Ocellus in my arms. "Not the classiest location for some alone time, but..."

"I know. I just...wanted a minute with you." The beautiful changeling whispered back to me as she sat on my lap. She leaned into me with her head tucked under my jaw. Even there, we would have to be very discreet. Ocellus was taking a risk and I had to make sure no part of her could be seen below the walls of the stall. Ocellus whispered very quietly to me, "Can we just...hold each other for a minute? Just five minutes at most?"

"Gladly, dear." I replied while leaning back a bit. I embraced the precious little lady in my arms while she snuggled against me. And I soon whispered to her, "Gallus doesn't know."

"He doesn't need to know yet." She said with her voice hushed. My wonderful little love bug then whispered again after placing a kiss on my chin, "And if he doesn't like it... Then that's too bad. Because I love you."

"I hope it won't bother him. I don't know him enough to gauge his thoughts on the field of romance. For all I know, he's never had a girlfriend in his life and I'm not about to start asking questions." I muttered into Ocellus' ear. I knew that asking Gallus about his past in any way would not be appreciated. Lots of dark memories, I am sure. With such terrible parents presiding over him, there was little chance of him ever ending up in a meaningful relationship with some girl. And if he was lucky enough to find one, he surely had to leave her behind when he fled to the Empty Plains. But when considering who I was talking to... I then asked, "What about you? How does his heart feel when you're around him?"

Ocellus was surprised and accidentally spoke closer to her usual volume before whispering again. "Him? I... He does have a lot of love in him and wants to be loved. But...there's a lot of cracks in there too. I worry about him sometimes..."

The poor guy... I could never hope to emphasize with whatever trauma Gallus could have gone through. For all the bad blood between my own father and I, to call my childhood abusive would be a lie. But I knew what I had seen and what I had heard from him. I rested the side of my head over Ocellus' shoulder before speaking with a sigh. "I wouldn't know by looking at him... I haven't seen him have any episodes. No moments of weakness or him appearing under stress. I think Ponyville and everyone in it is so unlike the home he remembers that he's never reminded about it."

"Better to just move on and forget about it, right? He's not there anymore. He's here now. And he's happy, right? I mean those cracks... I think there are fewer than when I first met him. He's healing." Ocellus muttered with a nod. Although we then had to go silent when we heard the door to the restroom open. Ocellus froze with eyes wide and her breath stopping in her throat. Barely a minute went by as they did their business, washed their hooves, and then stepped back out. Ocellus exhaled harshly before inhaling sharply. "Haven't held my breath like that for a while..."

"Sorry. Maybe we should get outta here." I replied with only three minutes having passed. But Ocellus shook her head and tightened her embrace around me. I sighed and found myself smiling. "OK, love bug. A couple more minutes."

"Thanks... I love you." She whispered to me again before our eyes met. And we could not fight the urge. Our eyes closed as our lips touched. And our arms held each other tightly as our lips parted. I could feel Ocellus feasting on my love as our tongues danced and twirled with our muffled voices trying to stay quiet. And I felt it. Ocellus siphoned some of her own love back into me. Not much. Just a drop compared to the full dose she consumed from me. But we could keep it going for much longer. We had spent too much time in there already. But when our kiss did end, my little lover gazed at me with lidded eyes. "Love you...so much. I can't wait to truly be your mare someday."

"You're so wonderful... I can't believe that...after all I've heard about your kind... I can't believe a changeling mare could be so...amazing. You really are the best little love bug ever." I whispered to that precious little lady in my arms. Ocellus giggled very quietly as I could see her cheeks darkening. Even her wings spread wide in a show of delight. But I then whispered to her ear, "But...have I been a good boyfriend so far? Am I good enough for you?"

Ocellus leaned closer and whispered right into my ear. "James... I said you're the best thing to ever happen to me and I meant it. You've been a great person... A great friend... And I know you'll be a great husband to me someday. I love you."

"Hus... Wow, going a bit fast there, aren't we?" I chuckled while feeling my body become warm with anticipation. Not like that would ever legally happen. I could not marry another officially while still bound to Fluttershy and I would never dare leave her like that.

And yet, Ocellus gazed so lovingly into my eyes with no shred of doubt in her. "I can't help it. Not when I can sense that your heart would never deceive me. Why do you think I'm so...eager to be yours? It's because your heart is very honest with how much it wants to love and be loved."

I felt a sense of shame come over me. No matter how many times she told me of just how fluently she could read my heart, I just could not do the same. I could not trust myself as strongly as Ocellus could. I closed my eyes and bowed my head. "I'm sorry that you have to keep reminding me of that. I wish I could hear my own heart as well as you can."

"Then it's a good thing I'm here to translate it for you." Ocellus replied while giving me a whimsical wink of her right eye. I just rolled my eyes at her charming response. Having a changeling as a good friend did carry all manner of benefits. She then kissed my ear and said, "And that's why I know this will all work. For me...and for them. The way your heart works is perfect for the family you're creating. Please trust me, James. It'll all work out in the end as long as your heart always stays the way it is."

Despite her youth, hearing that from Ocellus was very reassuring. I still had my doubts about the very unorthodox relationship I had with Fluttershy, Rarity, Celestia, and every other woman who had become more than mere friends in my time in Equestria. It was a daring endeavor, one that I had doubted I was capable of many times over. I was still learning. Still trying to figure out the nuances of such a relationship. And hearing such praise and validation from a changeling made a world of difference. I sighed in disappointment with myself and said, "Ocellus... Could you please remind me of that whenever it feels like I'm starting to doubt myself? I feel like I can trust your words on this more than anyone else."

That precious little love bug nuzzled me under my jaw and whispered tenderly to me. "Of course I will. I never get tired of telling you that. I want you to be happy. And I want them to be happy. It's like you said... We're all in this together, right? So I'll do my part in a way no one else can."

I embraced her firmly with one hand sliding over the smooth back of her head and over that delicate and flexible crest atop her head. Ocellus was truly a blessing for me. A mare unlike any I had ever met. "I think...we're both much richer after coming into each other's lives... I'm sorry I kept you waiting before I could...say those words. I love you."

"I love you too, dear..." Ocellus whispered before her lips found their way to mine again. And for another minute, that was all we did. Kiss after kiss upon our lips. Allow our lips would at times veer away and kiss each other on the cheek or jaw. She soon sighed with a look of such loving desire in those eyes. "I... I just know that... You. Me. And everyone... We'll all be so happy together."

"I hope so, love. I really do. I want nothing but the best for you all." I whispered back to her. And I truly meant it. Even as I write this, the one thing I do not want to ever see happen is for any of my beloveds to come to regret building a life together with me and every other wonderful woman in my family. The risk was and still is high, but the rewards...will surely be amazing.

With great reluctance, I decided it was time for us to get out of the restroom. I started to prepare myself to stand as I said, "OK, I think we should be getting back out there. We've been in here for too long already."

Unfortunately, Ocellus had gotten a little too comfortable. She tightened her embrace and whimpered into my ear, "Noooo... Please, just five more minutes? I wanna keep loving you..."

I was left with no choice but to speak firmly yet quietly to her. We were lucky no one else had come in yet. "No, love bug. If we stay in here much longer, someone might come knocking. We'll have time to snuggle at the party in the basement, all right? And no one will be able to bother us down there."

"Awwww... All right, fine. I guess it would be best to wait anyway." Ocellus grumbled before looking at me with such a disappointed pout on her lips. She may have been easy to please as a changeling, but those few needs were very strong needs. But she was then quick to plant one little kiss on my lips before speaking more flirtingly, "But when we get down there, don't expect to get away too easily. I wanna cuddle for a while."

"Heh, I wouldn't have it any other way. Anyway, let me go first before you come out." I replied before standing up and gently setting Ocellus down on the toilet seat. I heard her use that transformation magic once I closed the door behind me and had surely assumed the stallion disguise she had been wearing at first. I washed my hands before heading out the door. I passed another stallion who went in after me and returned to the table where Gallus was waiting. "Hey, sorry for the delay."

"It's cool, dude. When you gotta go, you gotta go." Gallus replied while being rather understandable about my prolonged absence. Although he then glanced over at where I had emerged from and raised an eyebrow. "I'm just surprised Ocellus is taking so long. You'd think changelings don't really need to eat much, right?"

"I mean she does eat sometimes just to try different flavors, but she really doesn't need much solid foods. Especially not when I'm around. Who knows how changeling biology works?" I replied in an attempt to play dumb to the fact that she had faked the whole thing. And not even a minute went by before Ocellus emerged from the hallway entrance in her true form before trotting our way. And right behind her was the waiter bringing along our orders. "Perfect timing, love bug."

"Wow, isn't it?" She replied while trying to maintain the facade. Everything was tasty as always and Ocellus really loved her drink. She was quick to try and find a conversation topic. "So... Did you boys know they're coming up with a Project H movie next year?"

That teaser trailer I saw at the Canterlot theaters was still fresh in my mind. And Gallus suddenly looked pretty psyched to. He swallowed his mouthful of sandwich quickly before saying, "Yeah! That's gonna be so sick! Hey, James. They haven't gotten a voice actor for Hunter's role yet, right? Maybe you should give them a call."

Flattering as that was, I was far from qualified for the job. I threw up my hands and said, "Whoa, no way I'm cut out for that! I mean sure, I've assumed his persona the handful of times I've gotten sucked into that crazy spell on the back covers, but that's not the same as simply acting. Putting your voice in a motion picture requires a certain art. And it's not an art I'm particularly skilled in. I can't imagine having to raise my voice all the time for those more intense lines."

"I guess being human isn't enough to qualify for a role voicing a human character. I mean...a robot character designed to be as human as possible." Ocellus giggled before slurping down some more of her drink. She then winked at me and said, "And yeah, you're voice isn't the best for yelling. Much better for whispering."

"Glad to see someone gets it." I retorted while Gallus thankfully did not assume she had a double meaning behind that. After what Ocellus and I had done in the restroom, it had suddenly become awkward for her and I to be sharing a meal with a mutual friend of ours who was completely oblivious to our blossoming relationship. I carefully tried to keep us all distracted by asking, "Does Spike know about it yet? He's the one who introduced me to those comic books in the first place."

Gallus wiggled his eyebrows at me as he said, "When it happens, I'm gonna get it on camera. You know he's gonna spaz out when he sees it."

I could already picture Spike just falling out of his seat. Hopefully he would not roar gouts of fire in the theater lest he risks getting ejected by security. I snickered to myself and said, "I hope Twilight has the foresight to be ready to reign him in."

We all promised to not discuss the upcoming Project H film with Spike just so he could go in blind for the best reaction. Although I did keep glancing back and forth at the clock. I only had so much time to spare. I glanced back and forth between the griffon boy and changeling mare before me. While I understood that equines mature more quickly than humans, I was especially astounded that Gallus looked much more like a man than a boy. He was right on the threshold by then, making it tricky for me to find the right balance in exactly how to address him. But as I thought back to what Ocellus and I discussed mere minutes ago, I came up with an idea. "Hey, Gallus. How've you been lately? You all right?"

Gallus predictably raised an eyebrow while sipping from his drink. "Huh? Yeah, I'm good. What's up? Am I supposed to not be OK?"

Ocellus chimed in with a happy and knowing smile. She could read his emotional state better than I could. "He's just concerned for our favorite bluebird, right? Nothing wrong with that."

Our griffon friend just shrugged his shoulders while showing an aloof and relaxed smile. "I dunno what's your deals here. I'm living the good life in Ponyville, right? What's wrong with that?"

That was a good response. And I was glad to see Gallus focusing on the recent instead of dwelling on the past. I then asked, "Yeah, good point... Say, Gallus? How about during the party... You and I just chill in front of the fireplace upstairs for a little while? Just to have some guy talk."

"Sure thing, man. I'll grab a couple of beers and we can chat about chicks and all that good stuff." Gallus said almost jokingly while knowing what I was getting at. I have much fewer male friends than female, so it is always a refreshing change of pace to spend quality time with another guy. Although I did initially respond with a sudden sense of alarm when he mentioned bringing beers to the meeting. At least until I remembered that anyone at the age of fifteen can partake in alcoholic beverages while supervised by an adult.

Lunch went by at a pleasant pace and we left not a single morsel uneaten. But the time finally came where my lunch hour was nearly up. Gallus noticed that I was getting a bit fidgety as I kept glancing at the clock nearby and asked, "What's up? You gotta be somewhere soon?"

"Yeah, I'm only given an hour for lunch and I really should be getting back to my shift soon." I replied before setting my payment of bits on the table after the waiter came by and left us with the bill. Gallus had his and Ocellus' funds tucked under his wing before setting them beside mine. I quickly pulled my jacket on and said, "I had a great time. See you two at the party, right?"

"Uh huh! See you there!" Ocellus replied before flashing me a whimsical wink. And I knew why. All I could do was imagine the time we would have together in the basement that evening. I hurried along at a brisk pace to get back to work.

As much of a shame as it is to admit, the rest of my shift was hardly worth writing home about. I got a number of clients at the massage tables, but none I could call my friends. They were all returning customers and we engaged in some friendly chitchat while I provided my services, but nothing noteworthy came up. But that was fine. Because the main event of the day would be happening as soon as I left the spa.

The sun had set early by the time I left the spa. Autumn was in full swing with winter being right around the corner. And I was admittedly a little giddy about the whole thing. It was Smolder's first proper birthday celebration in her life. And I hurried off under the autumn moon to reach the library. Upon arrival, I noticed something was not right with the windows on the ground floor. I could not see anything beyond them. "They got the curtain drawn or something?"

It was a very different story one I opened the door. The interior was perfectly illuminated by indoor lighting and many familiar faces were present. Scootaloo had brought Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle along for the ride. Sweetie Belle even shared a quick kiss with Spike when it looked like nobody was watching, but you did not hear that from me. Fluttershy had made it along with all five of our closest friends. Although there was no sign of Ocellus and Gallus. They were probably out there leading Smolder right to the party.

What especially caught my eye was the stack of presents on the table in the center of the main room. Some were bigger than others and one of them was a fancy sack bearing the logo of Rarity's local business. Probably the cache of gemstones Ocellus and Gallus dug up. She was the one who pointed them in that direction anyway, so she must have provided it for them in the first place. A big table featuring an impressive layered cake was on display that I am sure Pinkie Pie put a lot of work into. It even sported a total of fifteen candles on top arranged into a pattern to form a 15 when seen from above. Very clever placement. Someone had even taped a sign on the wall over the stairs leading up to single more snacks and refreshments upstairs. Every open space in the library was in use for this event.

I was very pleased with my surroundings. Smolder was going to have a great time so sure. And I was soon approached by Applejack while she sample a cup of punch resting atop her hoof before also tugging on her red neckerchief. That little ensemble I got her a ways back must be very helpful during cool windy weather. "Howdy, James! Glad you could make it! Ready ta party?"

"I wouldn't miss this for the world. Been waiting for the perfect time to give Smolder a little something special anyway... Come to think of it, where is it anyway? Is it buried under the rest of the stuff?" I replied before scanning that circular stack of presents more closely. All of the gifts were wrapped in brightly colored paper. Except for the white sack of gemstones. That one had its mouth secured by a big purple bow. I did recall Pinkie Pie saying she was going to tie it with a blue ribbon, so it should have been easy to spot. But there was no sign of it.

Pinkie Pie noticed me staring at the stack of presents and came trotting over. "Hey there, James! You looking for that little present you bought? I tucked it under the rest so it'll be the last one she sees and opens. Saving the best for last, right?"

"Heh, that's a great idea. She'll never see it coming." I said with a smirk on my lips. Pinkie Pie then winked at me with a big smirk of her own. She knew enough about Smolder and I by then. It is hard to keep secrets from that mare, but it is equally difficult to pry such secrets out of her.

Applejack got curious and leaned my way with a whimsical gleam in her eye. "Got somethin' extra special for the birthday girl? Come on, you can tell us, pardner. Whatcha get 'er?"

Seeing as how there was not enough time left to let such a secret simmer for too long to be contained, I felt I could trust Applejack with that information. I leaned in close and said, "A pair of pearl earrings from Capricorn Island. I was waiting for a good time to give them to her and this was the first thing that came to mind."

"Jewelry, huh? Here's hopin' she don't think it's a snack!" Applejack chuckled while Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes. It was such an easy assumption to make about a dragon. Although she then gave me a cockeyed glance and added, "Hang on... Don't ya need...I dunno...ears to wear earrings in the first place?"

"James said she could wear them from her horns! I can already picture it in my head. She's gonna look so pretty rocking those!" Pinkie Pie retorted before I could. I was hoping I would not be asked too many times. Having to explain my reasoning for getting earrings for someone without external ears would get tiresome.

Now that I had shared the identity of my present for Smolder, I then looked down at Applejack. Pinkie Pie had trotted off to make some last second adjustments on the decor around us. "Now that I've told you mine, how about yours? Got her something good?"

Applejack seemed rather proud of her gift. "You know me. I prefer gettin' folks practical stuff. So I boxed and wrapped an old hatchet of mine. Gently used and I just sharpened it for 'er. I reckon Smolder can get a lotta use outta that when she's out foragin' in the Everfree Forest. She still does that, right?"

"Yeah, she does. I think she'll appreciate that. She's no stranger to roughing it in the wilds." I replied while noticing a fairly flat box wrapped in bright autumn themed paper. That must have been Applejack's gift.

For as active as things were down there, the party had not started yet even as everyone mingled. Even the music was not playing yet. And I eventually noticed that Rainbow Dash had disappeared when I was not looking. Only for her to come swooping down the stairwell and calling out to us. "They're almost here! Kill the lights!"

"Good job, Dashie! Everypony up against the far wall!" Pinkie Pie called out with us all heading over to the wall opposite of the front door. Rainbow Dash must have been up on the library's highest balcony to watch for the approaching changeling, griffon, and dragoness. And once we were all lined up in rows, Twilight used her magic to turn the first floor's lights off and bathe the entire room in darkness. No wonder the windows had been covered. It had been done to prevent anyone from peeking inside as well as to keep any faint light from outside from getting in, no matter how dim.

The air became tense yet quiet. Almost the only thing we heard besides the collective sound of our own breathing was the whistling of that bitter autumn wind blowing against the trunk of the tree we were inside. But we did start to hear some muffled voices before long. And then the door opened. The area outside the library was only slightly brighter than the room we were in. This allowed us to see the silhouettes of a griffon boy and changeling mare before the door closed behind them. Twilight then used her horn to generate a magical glow to let them see the rest of us. "Over here, you two. Is Smolder right outside?"

"Yep. And she doesn't have a clue of what's going on." Gallus snickered as he and Ocellus came trotting our way. They both looked a little giddy as if they were leading their friend into a very playful trap. Gallus took his place beside the crowd and let out a quick laugh. "The suspense is what gets me."

Twilight snuffed out her magical light while Ocellus spoke up next. "We asked her to come inside in one minute. And she's been confused the whole time we were on our..."

We were all shocked to see and hear the door open very suddenly. Smolder's silhouette briefly stepped into view before she quickly slammed the door before herself. "OK, it's way too cold out there to be standing around doing nothing! What's the... Uh... Guys?"

Smolder definitely sounded confused now that she was standing in complete darkness. And I could hear some of my companions trying to not laugh. I heard Smolder's soft and meticulous footsteps as she felt around in the dark. "Guys, are you still there? And why's it so dark in here? This is too dark even for this time of day."

"Three...two...one..." We heard Twilight whisper low enough for Smolder to not hear her from that distance. Once the countdown ended, the lights suddenly flicked on and we all cheered with arms and wings raised. "SURPRIIIISSSEEE!"

Smolder understandably recoiled in shock from her senses being suddenly assailed by her brightly illuminated surroundings and the roar of our voices. She was standing on one foot once she realized who was standing ahead of her. Startled and confused, she then asked, "Wha...?! Huh...?! What's going on?!"

"It's a very special day! YOUR special day!" Pinkie Pie giggled at just how good we had gotten our guest. And Smolder could only gaze about at her surroundings as her shock gave way for utter confusion. She turned and stared while we all patiently waited for her to say something. At least until her eyes met ours again with Pinkie Pie being the host of the party. "As for what day it is... Happy birthday!"

"My...birthday?" Smolder asked in genuine ignorance. At that point, the joy among most of my companions began to fade and be replaced by equal confusion and even some stares of concern. And I understood why. Responding to one's own birthday celebration with bewilderment was not normal in any society. And I never went into great detail on what usually happens on one's own birthday. Smolder looked around again and asked, "What is this? Why's the library all decorated with this stuff? What's the pile of pretty boxes on the table? What's with the huge cake?"

The situation had gone from being joyous to actually pretty sad. Smolder had no idea just how important that day was. And as the one who first educated her on what a birthday is, I felt it would be best to do the explaining. "It's your birthday. That means its a special day, remember? It's supposed to be a day to look forward to."

"Yeah, you told me that one time. But...is it really that special?" Smolder asked while still not getting the situation.

Spike was more than happy to speak up next. "Yeah! It's...like...the most special day of the year for you! All your friends get together and throw a big party! You also get presents and gifts from them, have fun, play games, and eat lots of great stuff! It's always something to look forward to!"

Fluttershy gently shushed Spike before speaking more profoundly than the youngest boy in the room. "And most importantly... If you were never born...we never would've met you. By celebrating your birthday, we also celebrate you...just being alive. Isn't that a good thing?"

A wonderful sentiment for my wife to draw attention to. Smolder then turned her eyes all around the room again. I think it was starting to dawn on her that the decorations there were not done for its own sake. It was all for her. She then looked our way again and asked, "You did all this for me?"

Rarity then took the opportunity to speak. "Of course, darling! You are the guest of honor here! This is YOUR special day!"

Smolder looked around the room again. From the streamers and balloons to that towering cake to the piles of presents on the table in the middle of the room. And she was beginning to smile. "You know what? Maybe there is a point to birthdays..."

My eyes widened when she looked at us again. Tears were beginning to form at the edges of Smolder's eyes. "If I never hatched... I...wouldn't have ever met you guys. I wouldn't...be so happy to...be alive right now..."

She was on the verge of bawling. Smolder had never experienced a true birthday celebration before and it was proving to be too much. Ocellus then stepped forward and looked back at us. "I think we all know what she needs."

That we did. All at once, we swarmed her. The lot of us surrounded Smolder and held her in a big embrace. And so she wept. But not a grieving wail. More like something between a sob and a laugh. It was a joyous cry. And I was happy for her. Smolder knew she was loved. She knew she had friends who value her existence. She soon managed to stabilize her voice and said, "Now I know I've got something to look forward to every year... You guys are the best."

"And you're amazing too, Smolder. We're very happy to have you in Ponyville with us." Twilight replied while giving her little friend a nuzzle on the head. Although she then said, "But since this is your first ever birthday party, let me take you through the steps. Spike?"

"Yes, ma'am!" Spike replied as we all backed away from Smolder. Twilight then lifted him in her levitation spell up to the cake's top. He then breathed a small stream of green fire atop the candles to set them alight. Spike was then lowered to the floor with Twilight's magic aura disappearing from around him as he said, "The first thing you do is blow out the candles! And you get to make a wish when you do it!"

"A wish? Nice. What to wish for...?" Smolder muttered with arms crossed. Although I did notice her glance up at me out of the corner of her eye before smirking at me. It was too brief for anyone else to really notice before she lowered her arms and began to approach the cake. "All right, I've got an idea what I want... But i don't tell anyone what it is, right?"

"Only if you want to! But first..." Pinkie Pie replied before she pulled a conductor's baton out of her mane and held it in her teeth. Smolder just stared in confusion, but I knew where this was going. There was one little prerequisite for all of us to fulfill before anything else happened.

Everyone there began to sing a simple and admittedly corny song. But with it being Smolder's first real birthday, it could not be skipped. In unison, we sang while Pinkie Pie playfully moved her baton through the air while clearly not having any idea of what she was doing. "Happy birthday to you... Happy birthday to you... Happy birthday dear Smolder... Happy birthday to you!"

"And many moooooore!" Gallus cheekily added at the end with one hand on his chest and the other held high. I think Smolder might have been on the verge of tears again only for Gallus' solo line to take the wind out of her sales. She went from looking almost tearful to snickering with hands over her mouth. Gallus then snapped his fingers before pointing at his friend. "Come on, birthday girl! Blow 'em out and make a wish!"

Smolder grinned brightly before taking to the air on her wings. She hovered beside the top of the cake and brought her hands together with eyes closed. She was taking her wish very seriously. After a brief moment, she then opened her eyes and blew out all fifteen candles to leave the smoldering wicks giving off thin trails of white smoke for a moment. I honestly was worried she would unleash a gout of fire from her mouth by accident with that breath, but that thankfully did not happen. Everyone applauded as Smolder descended back to the floor while she looked very proud of herself. Rarity then came trotting over and took a long plastic knife into her levitation spell's billowing light blue aura. "Next step of any birthday party. We serve the cake! And you get the first slice, darling."

The dragoness watched with wide eyes as Rarity went to work on cutting out a pretty big slice for Smolder before setting it on a little paper plate. A line began to form at the table while Smolder stepped away to try a bite. It looked like a dark chocolate cake under that pale icing. Even the strawberries set atop each layer added to the charm. Pinkie Pie even got the phonograph in the corner going with a jaunty and lively tune playing. I watched as everyone finally got to start enjoying the party before I went last in line. There was just a certain pleasure in watching Smolder's first real birthday party unfolding. Once it was my turn, I held out a plate for Rarity to decorate with a cake slice. There was still plenty of cake left for seconds if needed. My beautiful beloved then asked, "Lovely little soiree this is turning out to be, no?"

"It really should be. After all Smolder's been through, she deserves nothing but the best for her first real birthday. It's gotta be perfect and I think we've been succeeding with that so far." I said while Rarity then served herself a slice of cake. My eyes then turned to the rest of the room around me. Everyone was having a good time. Some gravitated towards others more. Smolder was surrounded by Ocellus and Gallus as they chatted each other up with Smolder just looking beside herself with joy. Scootaloo and her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders were talking to Applejack while Spike remained near Sweetie Belle. Seeing Spike being so constantly near Sweetie Belle reminded me of the love I share with Ember and Smolder. If his love for her burns as hotly as theirs does for me, then he was going to be a wonderful husband for the little filly someday.

Pinkie Pie was chatting up Fluttershy and Twilight, but she was also frequently glancing over at Smolder. And as soon as Smolder's plate was empty save for some leftover icing and crumbs, she rushed over to the guest of honor and spoke up gleefully. "Had your fill yet? Now its time for the best part of any birthday! You get to open..."

The overexcited party planner then held out both arms towards the table at the center of the room. All but bursting into song, Pinkie Pie called out in joy. "Preseeeeeennnts!"

Smolder stared in confusion at the pile of colorfully wrapped boxes. She then looked around at us and asked, "Wait, I gotta open those? I thought those were just there to look pretty."

Rainbow Dash laughed heartily at Smolder's lingering ignorance. She then flew over to the pile and hovered next to it. She then explained while tapping the highest box with a hoof, "Nah, you gotta open these! The whole point of a present getting wrapped up is just to make it look nice so you'll get hyped over what's inside! Come on, we all pitched in and got you good stuff!"

The delighted dragoness brought both hands to the side of her face as her eyes widened in joyous disbelief. "All this is for me?! And from all of you guys?! Oh man, I... Where do I start?!"

"How about ours?" Ocellus replied before she used her levitation magic to bring that very pretty sack down from the table. She winked at her friend and said, "Gallus and I got this for you. It's from both of us."

Smolder was tapping her feet in place one after the other. When was the last time I had ever seen her that excited? She really was acting her age by then. The woman in her had taken a backseat to the sheer unbridled childlike glee of the girl in her. She very quickly pulled the bow off and peered inside. We all leaned forward and craned our necks to look down into the sack while Smolder's eyes lit up. Sure enough, it was loaded down with gemstones of varying colors. Those two really did dig up quite the haul. Smolder then quickly set it down and grabbed both of her two friends in a hug. "So many gemstones! You guys are the best!"

"Yep. Dug them up ourselves. Just don't gulp them all down in one place." Gallus said before he and Ocellus were released. He and Ocellus then bumped a hoof and fist together as if to celebrate a job well done. Sure enough, dragons are easy to please through their stomachs.

Now that she knew what to do, Smolder began to reach into the pile and pulled the next one out. "This one is from... Applejack! Thanks! What do we got...uh... Whoa, an axe?"

Smolder tore open the paper to reveal a flat box inside. And opening it revealed a hatchet that looked to be in pristine condition. For being used, it looked like Applejack had never even used it. Applejack then winked at our little friend and said, "That lil' beauty's in mint condition and I even gave it a good sharpening. I reckoned with all the trips ya make into the Everfree Forest, I'd get ya somethin' that you can use out there. Chop through thickets, chase off any hungry critters, all sorts of stuff."

"Ooh, now I get it." Smolder said before taking the hatchet in hand. The whole thing was about as long as her arm. Smolder effortlessly made a few quick swings to get a feel for it before placing it back in the box. It even had a holster and sling to allow it to be carried around in the field. "I'm definitely gonna get a lotta us out of this. Thanks...whoa, does something smell good in here?"

Smolder had gotten distracted by a subtle aroma coming from the pile of presents. And I noticed Spike suddenly looking pretty smug with his arms crossed. I suddenly recalled what he was up to the last time I had visited the library and knew where this was going. Smolder sniffed around the pile for a moment before reaching in and pulling out another largely flat present. "This one! Hey, it's kinda warm too..."

That aroma was definitely rekindling Smolder's appetite. She tore the wrapping paper off with extra gusto to reveal what looked like a large food container. Almost like the kind one would bake brownies in. And when she pried the lid off, we saw that it was loaded with an assortment of chocolate chip cookies that were also adorned with gemstones of alternating colors. Smolder's eyes lit up in awe before she looked over at Spike. "I know who put these together!"

"Heh, yep! It was me! Give them a try! I took the last batch outta the oven less than an hour ago." Spike said proudly before Smolder did just that. She chomped down on a cookie lined with rubies as they crunched loudly in her mouth. Spike titled his head back a bit proudly and said, "Pretty good, right?"

"These...are amazing!" Smolder squealed as she gulped it down. She was so giddy that she ran over and snatched up the dragon boy in her arms for a hug. "That's my favorite digger!"

Spike was not expecting Smolder to be that openly affectionate. I could tell with how his eyes kept darting around while he was held off the ground. The rest of the kids just got a laugh out of the display. But Smolder then put him right back down and rushed back to the pile. She was on a mission while I found myself just smirking at how amusingly happy she was. But where was my present for her? Surely it would be the last one to be seen.

"This one's from Rainbow Dash!" Smolder spoke up as she took a perfectly square box off the table. She did not even have to read the tag on it to tell that Rainbow Dash was the one who wrapped it. The wrapping paper consisted of rainbow stripes entirely. And once the box underneath was revealed, Smolder lifted a plastic jar from inside it. Even I was not entirely sure what it was at a glance. A protein drink mix? Certainly something I could see someone like Rainbow using. Smolder just gazed at it with such a gaze of uncertainty. "Uhhhh... What's this stuff?"

Rainbow Dash herself got a good laugh at Smolder's reaction. Regardless, she then explained, "It's an energy drink mix! I use it all the time if I'm having a hard time getting my morning going. Just whip up some if you just can't wake yourself up in the morning. Think of it like coffee, but tastes better."

"Ooooh, I gotcha. Yeah, I've had mornings like that. Thanks! I'll use it first thing in the morning." Smolder replied before setting it aside with the rest of her growing stash Even with gifts she was not entirely sure of, Smolder constantly had a big smile on her face. The next box was wider in one direction than it was tall. "This one's from...the Cutie Mark Crusaders? Who are they?"

"That's us! We made that for you!" Scootaloo called out while Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom waved at her. Smolder just gave them a cockeyed stare like she had no idea what she was even talking about. I mean she certainly knew about Scootaloo's friends, but I suppose they had never explained in great detail what the title of their little posse had always been. "Wait, did I never tell you about us? Yeah, we always called ourselves the Cutie Mark Crusaders! But...I guess that's kinda outdated now that we have our cutie marks..."

Sweetie Belle then excitedly waved at Smolder and said, "Anyway, open it! We all came up with something useful for you!"

"Sweet! Let's see...uh... This?" Smolder said before she quickly got the box open. Although even I was confused on what she pulled out. It appeared to be a very compact backpack with simple leathery browns all over it. "Uh... A backpack? Pretty sure I already got one."

Apple Bloom especially found Smolder's response funny. She giggled for a second before saying, "Nah! It's a parachute! For when yer flyin! Ya just pull the string there and it comes out! It's supposed ta save you if ya end up fallin' outta the sky. Try wearin' it next time ya gotta fly somewhere. And don't y'all worry none. We made sure ta test it just in case it didn't work."

"Ooooh, you mean like if one of my wings get hurt or cramps up, I just pull this string here and it lets me float down nice and easy?" Smolder asked while the three fillies nodded in confirmation. She then tried wearing it like a backpack and found that it was narrow enough to fit snugly between both wings when folded. It would not interfere with their performance at all. She then removed it and ran over to the girls to give them a grateful hug. "Thanks, girls! I'll take it with me next time I gotta fly somewhere high."

Pinkie Pie tapped her hooves rapidly as Smolder reached for what was surely hers. She could not stay quiet and spoke up before Smolder could even read the tag on it. "Eeheehee, open mine, open mine!"

"Well, I guess I know who got me this one." Smolder said with a snicker. She ripped the box clean. And what was inside was predictable of Pinkie Pie, yet was very fitting when considering that winter was approaching. "Huh? What's this? A...gingerbread house kit? You can make stuff outta gingerbread and stuff like that?"

"Uh huh! You build it and use it as decor! And then you eat it! Unless you wanna keep it forever like holiday decorations. But i eat one every year and I can promise you that you'll love it!" Pinkie Pie giggled while Smolder was actually starting to look very hungry as she beheld the logo displaying a fully constructed gingerbread house on the box. Those things always look absolutely delicious to the point where it must be difficult for anyone to resist the urge to devour the whole thing right after building it.

"Oh yeah, I'm so gonna put this together this holiday season. And then I'm gonna eat it! Thanks!" Smolder laughed before carefully setting it aside with the rest. There were only a few presents left by then. One of which was not even a properly wrapped present. It was a book with a large bow tied over it. I cast a glance over at Twilight while Spike did the same, but he was giving her a much drier look than me. She did not overlook his disapproving scowl and grinned sheepishly. Perhaps Twilight has a one-track mind when it comes to gifts. Thankfully for her, Smolder did not own many books at all and was eager to put her newly blossomed reading skills to use. "Ooh, we got a book here. From Twilight! What's it about?"

Smolder's approval of Twilight's gift for her caused our brainy friend to smile more sincerely as she spoke up. "I thought you might like that one. It details centuries of studying dragons from an outsider's perspective."

"Ha! Sounds like my own perspective! I'll give this a read later for sure!" Smolder laughed at the irony of how she herself had become something of an outsider to her own people in recent years. She was probably going to enjoy reading about a much less biased observation of her own people. From where I was standing, there was only two presents left set up against the decorative horse head centerpiece at the middle of the table. And I was starting to feel disappointed. Where was mine? Did Pinkie Pie lose it and hope I had forgotten about it?

The second last remaining box was tall and wide, but also narrow. It was surely from Fluttershy and I saw my wife smiling more excitedly than she usually does. Smolder almost seemed to know on instinct and removed the wrapping paper a bit more gently than the rest. And inside were three cylindrical tea tins on display. "Nice! We got tea here! There's one with black...one's a green tea...and this one's an herbal tea. Thanks, Fluttershy!"

"Mmhm! They're all seasonal too. Try them by the fireplace when the first snowfall comes." Fluttershy beamed before Smolder ran over and gave a big hug. Fluttershy then looked over at Rarity, who looked rather excited as the only present remaining must have been from her. Fluttershy then said, "There's still one more, Smolder. Go ahead nd open it."

"Oh man, it's a big one too! It's gotta be something good!" Smolder quickly ran back over to the table with the two piles of unwrapped gifts and assorted wrapping paper growing larger by the minute. It was definitely the largest boxed gift by far. I glanced over at Rarity in confusion. What could she have possibly got for Smolder that mould demand a box of that size?

"This one's gotta be from Rarity!" Smolder had no trouble getting the box down and savored the moment. And once the paper had been set aside, she opened the box and removed what was responsible for its size. A pair of pink winter boots were in her hands with the tops of the cuffs lined with white fluff. The entire inside of the boots were even lined in soft cushion white felt. But before Smolder could thank Rarity, she then appeared to notice something that had been under them. "Nice boo... Wait. What's this too?"

Rarity was beaming in excitement as Smolder reached in to lift something out. And it practically unfurled when she lifted it up. It looked...vintage. Like a pink lady's winter long coat that also had a great cloak of mantle attached to it that consisted of a burgundy hue. The bottom and top rims were even lined with more soft fluff. It even looked like it might have been designed for someone of noble descent. Smolder was awestruck at the elegant and insulating ensemble in her hands. "Oh man, this is... Just... Wow... Rarity, did you make this yourself?"

"Don't I always?" Rarity replied proudly before giggling in delight at Smolder's reaction. Rarity never bought clothing. If she needed something that is meant to be worn, she would craft it herself. And she had familiarized herself with Smolder's measurements on an earlier date. She then explained, "I know you don't have any winter clothing, so I wove these for you! And I settled for nothing less than something fit for a true lady! Although I'm sorry to say I could not possibly find a means to allow your wings to be used with it..."

"Hey, that's OK. I hate flying in freezing weather anyway. That wind chill is brutal." Smolder laughed before carefully folding up her new winter ensemble and rushing to Rarity for an embrace. She was very happy with that surprise and Rarity was equally pleased to see Smolder so happy with the results. "Thank you. I... I love it. I'm gonna wear it on the way home tonight."

Rarity nuzzled her little friend's head before she then lifted her head to look over Smolder. She then smirked knowingly as her keen eyes detected something that the rest of us had overlooked. "Don't look now, darling...but it looks like you missed one."

We all turned our gazes to the table one last time And there it was. Tucked behind all the other presents was that little white box I had given Pinkie Pie earlier. And as promised, it was wrapped in a dainty blue bow. Smolder finally noticed, started silently countering the people around her to check who she had received presents from by then, and finally looked up at me. And she smirked in smug realization. "Saving the best for last, huh? And haven't I seen that box somewhere before?"

I could not keep a straight face. I still remembered the day I came home from Capricorn Island with that box in my pocket and when Smolder first saw it when she and I took a stroll through the forest that Fluttershy had become the warden of. Grinning broadly, I then said, "I couldn't think of a better time to give it to you. Take a look. I'm sure you'll like it."

Pride in my heart, I stepped closer while everyone else also started to gather around. Smolder excitedly rubbed her hands together before taking that tiny box in hand. She slowly undid the bow to let it fall to the floor. She was taking her time. Savoring the this moment. I can only imagine what she had fantasized about what might be in that little box. And when she finally lifted the lid...

The reactions from Smolder and everyone else differed vastly. Everyone around us muttered in awe at the lovely little pearl earrings resting atop a bed of cotton. But Smolder... She jerked her head back at the sight of what was in the box. Her eyes were wide and unblinking, her breath caught in her throat. She was unsettlingly stiff. Until finally her eyes rolled up in her head...and she fell back into the conveniently placed pile of tattered wrapping paper.

Everyone gasped in shock. And I could only stare in worried confusion. Smolder...had outright fainted. She was down with the box still held in her palm and the earrings inside still intact. Pinkie Pie was even quick to turn off the phonograph now that the fun had momentarily stopped. I was not sure if I should be concerned or embarrassed. I asked no one in particular, "Was it that bad?!"

"What're you talking about?! That's one sweet set of earrings!" Gallus replied as everyone wondered what would be the best way to wake Smolder back up. They nudged and called out to her, but Smolder was not responding. She was not harmed. All that wrapping paper provided a very handy layer of cushioning with the floor. How does one wake someone from fainting? Whatever the case, Gallus had an idea. "Tch, I got this. Hang on."

Gallus rushed over to the cake table. Along with the cake were a number of other sweet treats available. One of which was a pumpkin pie. A complimentary can of whipped cream was provided, which Gallus then snatched off the table and came back over to us with it in hand. I was wondering where he was going with this. And then he deposited a fresh pile of the stuff onto her upturned left palm. "This is what she gets for fainting at her own birthday party."

"Dude, that's..." I muttered before I could not find any sort of rebuttal to this obvious prank he was about to pull on Smolder. It was too classic. Even everyone else began to take a step back now that Gallus made his intentions clear. I snorted with anticipation and said, "You know what? Go ahead, you do what you gotta do."

"Serves her right. Stand back." Gallus said with a smirk. He then stood beside Smolder with a wing spread over her. He lowered the feather at the very tip of his wing to her nose and began to wiggle it around. We all watched with bated breath. "Wakey wakey, birthday girl."

Barely ten seconds later, Smolder began to stir. I saw the fingers of her right hand curl inward to detect that she was holding something in it. Not wanting to smack herself in the face with whatever she was holding, she opted to do so with her left hand. The instant she suddenly raised the hand holding that dollop of whipped cream, Gallus raised his wing high. Smolder then hilariously splattered that white cream right into her snout. And sure enough, even with her eyes squinted shut, she let out a shout. "Agh, GALLUS!"

"That's whatcha get!" Gallus cackled while just about everyone else watching burst into laughter. It sounded like it was not the first time Gallus pulled that prank on her. Smolder sat up with a start and used her tongue to lick the cream off her hand and her snout. While not as long as Spike's, it was long enough to get the job done. Gallus then tapped the very annoyed dragoness on the head and said smugly, "It's bad form to pass out at your own party. You should know better."

"I passed out? Really? Why? What did... Oh... Oh man..." Smolder started to say before she saw what was in her right hand again. And once again, her eyes widened greatly in what looked like a gaze of the greatest shock of her life.

Fearing that we were about to have a repeat of what just happened, Rainbow Dash reached out and touched her hoof to Smolder's head. "Hang on! Don't you go passing out on us again! You freaked us out enough the first time! Take a few deep breaths!"

"No, no, I'm fine! It's just... It's...just..." Smolder wheezed a bit as she tried to contain her emotions. What did I do wrong? I waited without a word until she finally looked up at me. And she asked quietly, "Do you have any idea what you just gave me?"

What a strange question. Of course I knew what I had given her. "Yeah. They're earrings. Pearl earrings. I got the idea because pearls are the birthstone of November. And I thought you would appreciate some jewelry for... Oh god..."

It suddenly dawned on me. And my heart jumped into my throat. I could not have known at the time when I first purchased them. I only learned the implications of what I had just done only after the War of Preservation started. I threw up my hands and raised my voice. "I swear I didn't mean it like that! I didn't even know a thing about dragon courtship until after I met Ember! It's just a gift and nothing more!"

Half of the guests around us were confused while the rest appeared about as shocked as I was by then. How could I have forgotten? Just the very act of presenting jewelry to a dragon one is seeking to have a relationship with is the equivalent of asking them to marry oneself. In the language of a dragon's heart, I had just proposed to Smolder!

Smolder looked equal parts excited and shocked. Almost no one around us knew of the love blossoming between us. But as she looked down at the earrings and back at me, she then asked, "Are you sure? It's...just a gift?"

"Yes. I knew nothing about dragon courtship at the time I first purchased them. I meant it to be a gift for you as something special. I swear." I replied now that I was starting to calm down. With those earrings being out of sight and out of mind for so long after I brought them home, it never occurred to me what giving them to Smolder would actually mean to hear. But as I thought back to the nuances of dragon courtship that Ember had imparted onto me, I suddenly recalled a convenient loophole. "And...last I checked, a dragon's suitor has to personally craft said jewelry before presenting it to a potential mate. I didn't make those. I bought those. So by that logic, it can't be used to propose to a potential mate."

Smolder smirked very dryly at me while she let out a snicker of amusement. "OK then, wise guy. I believe you. But first...I'm gonna put these on right...uh..."

And then the holes in my intended gift became apparent to Smolder. She lifted one of the earrings to the side of her head and found there was nothing there for her to attach it to. "Wait... How am I supposed to wear these anyway?"

I glanced at Rarity while she happened to notice my gaze. We both glanced at Smolder before she suddenly realized what I was asking of her. My beautiful beloved's eyes lit up with inspiration before she came over to Smolder. "I see what this needs, darling. If I may?"

"Huh? Uh...sure." Smolder muttered while Rarity took the two earrings into her levitation spell. Pinkie Pie got in on the plan and pulled a pair of scissors out for Rarity to use. But just when I thought Rarity would also procure some spare thread, she instead snipped off several strands of Pinkie's own mane. Hair fibers tend to be very strong and she effortlessly tied them into knots at the end before having the earrings dangle from them. A moment later, we all beheld Smolder wearing her first real piece of jewelry. And they looked absolutely lovely with them dangling like that. Smolder looked at her reflection in a handily provided mirror with her fingers gently wiggling them. She then looked my way and spoke softly with a deep blush filling her cheeks. "Thank you."

All I could do was smile in silence. I was certain Smolder wanted to say much more than just that, but that time and place was not appropriate for it. But that did not stop everyone around us from applauding the birthday girl trying on her last and best gift. Once the applause had died down, Pinkie Pie reactivated the phonograph to get some peppy music going again. And she then called out, "And now for the last part of birthday party 101! It's your party, so let's PARTY!"

And just like that, Smolder's birthday party descended into just one big good time. Rarity tidied up all the discarded wrapping paper and set the pile of goodies Smolder had received in a neat stack by the door. But I barely had time to consider what to do next before Spike came over to me. And he beckoned me to kneel down for a chat. He then asked quietly, "Hey, um... What was that you said about dragon courtship? Is there some special way for me to do stuff?"

Despite being a dragon all his life, Spike was understandably oblivious to how his own heart worked. Even if he grew up in Equestria's more cosmopolitan society with no influence of the dragon lands' barbarism, he was still a dragon. The way his heart worked was bound to his very blood and he did not even know it. I then whispered while down on one knee, "Well, you tell me. Didn't you have eyes for Rarity a while back? What changed? Did she turn you down?"

The fact that Spike had gone from pursuing Rarity to finding love with Sweetie Belle intrigued me. I knew from both Ember and Smolder that dragons are single-mindedly focused on only one possible suitor at a time. Spike would never let himself fall for anyone else if Rarity was the apple of his eye. And Spike responded almost with a look of shame on his face as he fidgeted a bit before me. "I... That was...hard for me to do. I could tell that it probably wasn't gonna work. And...well..."

"Hey, I get it if you don't wanna talk about it." I replied while gently rubbing the dragon boy's head. I then looked over at the far side of the room where the Cutie Mark Crusaders were helping set up some party games for Smolder to partake in. Spike and I both focused on just Sweetie Belle. "I think you two will be very happy together someday. Be good to her, all right?"

"Oh yeah, I will. She's just..." Spike muttered before covering his face with both hands. He was grinning so brightly even as I could see that he was blushing profusely. He was just a boy...yet he was so very much in love. Spike had found his future life mate and I was happy for him. After he let out a boyish giggle, Spike then looked up at me and asked, "Anyway! Tell me what I gotta know about dating as a dragon! Is there something special about it?"

When considering the fact that Sweetie Belle has never been a dragon and could never understand a dragon's inherently commitment towards potential mates, it would be very easy for her to do something that could never be undone. All it would take is giving Spike the wrong answer to completely ruin their relationship when the time came. I then explained carefully, "I'll tell you what Ember told me. When a dragon finds a potential mate, they focus on just them. And when the time is right, they forge a piece of jewelry and present it to their future mate to invite them to become lovers. If the answer is yes, they are bound forever. If the answer is no, then the suitor will give up on their target and never seek them again."

Spike's eyes widened before he placed his hands over his own heart. He did not understand himself as much as he thought. "If she says no... It'll break my heart so bad that I'll never let myself love her again?"

I moved my hand from Spike's scalp to his shoulder. Or what little I could call a shoulder at the base of his arm. "If she's not sure at the time, just tell her to take some more time to decide. It doesn't have to be a yes or no. You can just ask again later."

A big hopeful smile spread across Spike's lips. And he proceeded to give me a big hug in response. "Right! Thanks! I really needed to know all this."

I saw Spike off with a smile as he hurried over to talk Smolder through the games they were about to play. My eyes then fell upon Sweetie Belle again. She was not Rarity, but judging by her cutie mark... I knew for certain that filly had a lot of love to give. Especially if she came from the same parents as my dear Rarity. She would never betray Spike's heart. After all, she gave the first kiss and not the other way around.

It was a bit too early for me to go back for more sweet stuff at the time. And I soon saw Gallus standing at the base of the stairs. He noticed my gaze meeting his while he pointed up the stairs before ascending out of sight. I remembered what we had promised each other and made my way up the stairs too. The upstairs loft had another table lined with more traditional party staples. Chips, some more savory baked goods, and some very impressive bean dip I suspect Rainbow Dash put together. The fireplace was going over yonder and Gallus was reaching into a cooler by the table to pull out a couple of icy bottles of beer. We were not the only ones up there in the quieter loft either. Rarity and Ocellus were up on Twilight's bed to have a quiet chat alone.

"Great first time for the birthday girl, huh?" Gallus asked as we took a seat by the fire. The popping and crackling helped drown out the distant whispers of the two mares behind us along with the distant music from downstairs being carried up the stairwell. We twisted off the caps on our bottles and clinked them together for a toast. "Sweet choice of good stuff to give her, man. Crazy how she thought you were popping the question when you're already a married man."

"Yeah, I wasn't kidding when I said that really wasn't the idea when I got those for her." I said with some unease in my heart. Gallus really did not know and I would not be able to hide the truth from him forever. The only question was when the right time should be. We both took a swig of our booze and sighed in satisfaction. I really adored the warm glow of the fireplace at the time. It was a gloomy time outside, but the atmosphere indoors was bright and cozy. Just the way it should be. "What a day... I'm glad it got good for Smolder. After all that happened before, she deserved for her first time to be a great time."

"Yeah, I say we've all had it pretty rough. But hey, now we're all buddies. A love bug, a stray dragon, and a bluebird. Weird how life works out like that." Gallus said before downing some more of his drink. He sounded pretty chill about it, but I knew that Gallus had a much darker past than his two peers. Smolder's life did not get upended until she turned fourteen. Ocellus was a member of the changeling hive her entire life, but was not really victimized among her kind. But Gallus...

I was very tempted to ask. I knew he had run away from a miserable home life. One he had likely suffered through the entire fifteen years of his life until he found safety on the Empty Plains. Ocellus and Smolder had no such trauma in their lives. I considered my options carefully. Would it be better to just not talk about anything? Dare I risk digging up bitter memories? Gathering my courage, I tested the waters. "How've you been lately? Good times? Have you...been happy?"

Gallus raised an eyebrow as he looked at me. "Huh? Yeah, things have been good. I mean Applejack keeps me busy instead of charging me rent. And at least she pays me. Although I guess things are gonna get quiet now that there's nothing left to harvest out there this year."

"It's good to have a routine to stick to. Especially when the autumn and winter doldrums set in." I replied as Gallus derailed the conversation topic a bit. But he still seemed a bit too aloof. And so I asked carefully, "Glad to see you're happy. But...are there times where you...ever feel sad?"

"Where are you going with this, dude?" Gallus asked with a more inquisitive gaze. Those piercing avian eyes stared right into my soul. And before I could try and find an excuse, Gallus smirked in some amusement. "Oh, I get it. Worried about the bluebird, huh? You think I've got some baggage on me?"

I could have told him how I was certain his traumas were greater than those of his two closest friends. Or they at least must have been. All I did was nod. And Gallus just let out a sigh before setting his bottle down. "Well...yeah. I guess I got times where...I remember something don't want to and it kinda just...takes all the fun outta me."

This confirmed my fears. For once, I wish I could have understood what Gallus had gone through. But just trying to imagine it was immensely depressing. I then asked cautiously, "And...what do you remember when that happens?"

Gallus said nothing. He just...stared at the floor. Rarely blinking as we remained seated before the fireplace. What sounds were playing through his head? Had I made a mistake? "Gallus...?"

He said nothing. And all I could do was wait. He appeared very stoic the entire time. And utterly despondent. Until finally...I saw it. His eyes beginning to glisten. And so I reached out and pulled him into my embrace. He did not resist. I dragged my fingers along his soft feathery head with my cheek resting atop it. Over and over, my fingers dragged through his plumage and down over his soft feline coat. Before long, the touch of warm tears began to seep into my shirt. Only then did I hear Gallus mutter forlornly, "Was I...really such a mistake?"

"No... No, bluebird... Finding you was not a mistake." I whispered to him as I tightened my embrace around that precious boy. I placed a soft kiss atop his feathery head as I whispered to him. "Finding you was a happy accident for me."

He put up no resistance to my shows of affection. Gallus had all but shut down in my embrace. Although I did feel him press his head more firmly into me. "You really mean that?"

I nuzzled my cheek against his soft fluffy head as I even felt a tear of my own starting to flow from my eyes. I sighed harshly as I could almost feel the poor boy's pain. "Yes. You're a great guy, Gallus. And I'm glad you're hear with us. And you wanna know what the best part about you is?"

Those words confused him. Gallus finally lifted his head and gazed tearfully at me with a look of uncertainty. And I gently touched him on the beak before whispering a precious truth to him. "You're here and not there."

A bitter chuckle came from his throat. He really was trying to smile, but those old sorrows did not release Gallus so easily. I then whispered to him again with my fingers applying scritches all over his head. "You've never been an mistake. The only mistake was who got to raise you at the start. They were the mistakes, not you."

Gallus did not try to argue with that sentiment. And he closed his eyes while leaning into the delicate touch of my fingers. No bird could ever resist a good set of scritches. I wanted to push all of those dark memories out of his mind. And so I scooped the griffon boy into my arms and embraced him. He felt so limp and lifeless in my arms. More like he was just allowing it to happen. With his head resting on my shoulder, I whispered very special words to him. "We love you, Gallus. I've never regretted meeting you. I've never regretted bringing you home to Ponyville. I've never regretted seeing you smile. I love you, bluebird."

I felt Gallus' chest tighten as he tensed up. Breathing labored, gasping as he tried to restrain himself. He then suddenly responded to my embrace with one of his own. All six of his limbs clung to me with those majestic blue wings wrapping around me. He whimpered and hissed as he did all he could to not outwardly weep. But I did hear him speak with his voice sounding the most pathetic I had ever heard. "Love you too, man...!"

"Shhh... It's OK... It's all gonna be OK." I whispered to the weeping boy in my arms. Stroking my hand down his back and doing all I could to ease his tears. But as I did so, I noticed some movement ahead of me. Rarity and Ocellus were heading for the stairs with very light steps of their hooves. They watched us carefully while I watched them. And I understood what they were doing. They had seen Gallus' emotional state deteriorate and were leaving the room to give us some privacy. They both held a hoof to their lips to convey how they did not want me to let Gallus know that anyone else was around. I waved back at them before the descended the stairs and were out of sight.

Now we were completely alone. And that happy music coming from down the stairwell did not mesh well with the tone around us. But this was Smolder's birthday party. It would be selfish to ask them to play something more somber or relaxed. Not that Gallus seemed to care. With that griffon boy clinging to me as if he was afraid to let go, I whispered carefully to him. "I'll never ask about what happened back then. Best to just let those memories go. You're here now, Gallus. And I just want you to find happiness."

"I...think I've found it." He finally whimpered as he began to regain some semblance of composure. Gallus kept his head on my shoulder and began to nuzzle up against my head in a more feline fashion. It was hard to say if he was more bird or cat. "I've never been happier since I came here..."

He then did something I did not expect. I felt his hand rise to the back of my head. Not to hold me, but to...feel me. The way he slid his hand of the thin layer of hair on my scalp... I heard Gallus sigh forlornly before he whispered to me. "I'm...sorry you had to get hurt just to get me here..."

"Hey, it's all right... You know you had nothing to do with why I was out there. Finding you and bringing you home was just a bonus. One of the few good things to come outta that crisis." I replied while bringing my hand to the back of his head as well. I dragged my fingers along feathery scalp before I also added, "And besides... You were looking out for me when I needed you most. I did get hurt, but you made sure my worst injuries didn't kill me that day. Thank you..."

Gallus chuckled almost bitterly as I brought up that day. The horrors of PTSD nearly claimed me, but he saw the warning signs and informed someone he knew could be trusted in talking me out of any rash decisions. Gallus suffered from lingering bad memories and had grown to recognize the signs in others. He then muttered, "I guess it takes one to know one, huh?"

"Yeah... And... Right. You deserve what I ended up getting." I said before I had a striking epiphany. The memories that nearly killed me had been nearly buried. Dulled and muffled, but never erased. They were still there, but I could not recall the finer details. Just a vague unpleasantness. I knew what could be done for my friend. And I then said, "Gallus. I won't ask what happened. But if your memories of those times are becoming a problem... As in...they begin to actively interfere with your daily life in any way... Let me know. And we'll deal with those memories the same way they saved me in Canterlot that day."

My friend suddenly pulled his head back to look me in the eyes. And he looked genuinely shocked over what he had just heard. "You mean that? They'd...do that for me?"

"You saved the life of a war vet who was suffering like you were. I'm sure they'd be willing to make an exception for you." I replied before pulling Gallus back into another firm embrace. Doing all I could to make him feel safe and secure. And I then said with a firmer tone of voice, "No one deserves to have to live with the memories you have. Especially when they were created during childhood. If they don't benefit you in any way and are an active detriment to your life... You shouldn't be forced to carry them."

"Just one question." Gallus asked almost bitterly next to my ear. "Would I still be...me when those memories are gone?"

I was confused by this question. Although I soon understood what he was saying. "Huh...? Oh... No, you don't have to worry about that. The way it works is that only the most unbearable memories are targeted. And even then, they're not erased. Just...dulled. To the point where you remember that it happened, but where it's more difficult to remember the details. And besides... Your memories don't make the person. It's the experiences you have in life that mold you into who you are. I'm still me. Having all those memories dampened didn't change me as a person at all. It was...relieving to wake up and not be able to recall those events... Like a weight had been lifted from me."

Gallus sighed before embracing me more gently. And after a moment more, he gave me his answer. "If that's how it works... Maybe. Just maybe. If...my memories from back then actually start to...mess my life up here, I'll let you know. Seriously though. Thanks for doing this for me."

"A horrible past should not interfere with one's pursuit of happiness. You deserve the best, Gallus." I said before once again resuming my tender caresses. Applying scritches to his head and petting his sleek feline body. Gallus soon began to slump out of my embrace with even his wings folding against his sides. I noticed him sliding out of my embrace before asking, "You OK?"

"Yeah... Just getting comfy here." Gallus said while looking and sound much happier by then. He draped himself across my lap like a large housecat and allowed me to do as I pleased. Tucked between me and the warm glow of the fireplace, he was very comfortable And he began to purr before long. The deep rumbling in his throat was definitely the relaxed call of a feline. My only concern was that he might pass out for a nap. Although he never did.

We sat there for a while longer with my hand repeatedly stroking Gallus down the length of his back. Dragging my fingertips through his very pleasantly soft coat. After a few minutes, I tried to break the ice. "What did you say about earlier? You wanting to talk about chicks or something?"

"Pffft, you remember that? Yeah, we probably should." Gallus snickered while I too cracked a smirk. What were we even supposed to talk about as a couple of guys? Whatever the case, I decided to let Gallus lead. I reached over to grab his beer so he would not have to get up. He chugged the rest and rolled his bottle away before saying, "Well, I gotta say... Your wife is pretty hot. Fluttershy acts all sweet, but she's got a gorgeous mane and tail. And don't get me started on her flanks. You found yourself a keeper."

It was weird to hear a good friend of mine ogling my own wife. Although him complimenting me as well for being fortunate enough to find love with Ponyville's most timid mare did feel like high praise. I cracked a crooked grin and said, "Tell me about it. She's always been a pretty thing, but I think she's only gotten hotter after she had Gladesong. Becoming a MILF does things to the body. Or so I've been told."

"Right, it's hard to believe she's a mom. When I see her hanging out with her six friends... I mean...at least when she doesn't have the kid with her, you wouldn't know she's a mom. That's a good thing, right?" Gallus replied while I just nodded. In the months following the birth of Gladesong, changes have occurred in our lives. But Fluttershy never really stopped being herself. And we were all grateful for that. Gallus then glanced up at me with one eye and asked, "What about you? Any hotties in town you've seen lately?"

"I dunno, man. It's not like I'm planning to cheat on my wife. But if pressed..." I decided to play along with a bit of a half truth. While I would never leave Fluttershy, she was no longer my only beloved. I decided to mention the mare who became the first to become something more to me. "Rarity. She's the most beautiful mare in town and has a gorgeous figure too. She's a top tier beauty and any man who finds a place in her heart is a very lucky man indeed."

Gallus snapped his fingers before pointing up at me. "Totally. She's a hot one. And if we're gonna be talking about moms... What about Button Mash's mom? I didn't get her name, but... Man, I think she's a little...too aware of how hot she is."

I facepalmed at the mention of that lovely mare. Gallus was not the only one who noticed. "Oh, you mean Eleina... Unorthodox name aside, yes. Yes she is. Just the way she carries herself... Yeah, that's a hot mom right there. I never see her husband, but I bet they're very happy together."

Since we were only talking about the ladies of Ponyville, I tried to narrow down searching my memories. And I suddenly got a sly idea. "Yeah, totally. But if you're gonna simp for my wife, then I can say things about one of your best friends. And that's Ocellus."

Gallus very suddenly turned his head to look up at me. "Ocellus?! Whoa, isn't she a bit...young? I mean I know I'm the middle child of my posse, but...really?"

"She's sixteen, Gallus. And she turns seventeen in a couple of months. She's legal age, so she's not a filly. That means she's fair game when it comes to evaluating her." I replied while Gallus covered his beak to suppress a laugh. I then patted my friend on the head and said, "Besides, I'm not so convinced you're not a man yourself. You birds grow fast, you know?"

"Heh... Yeah, I guess we do." Gallus snickered as he relaxed over my lap. He then looked back up at me and asked, "OK then. You really think Ocellus is hot, huh?"

I then asked in return, "Well, you tell me. Isn't she a beautiful little love bug of a lady?"

Gallus rapidly shook his head. "Huh?! I mean... I think she... Look, dude. I've never considered hitting on her or Smolder. They're my peeps, not my chicks. So it's...weird trying to seeing them as being...hot. But hey, this is about what you see in them. And Ocellus... She's a hottie to you?"

"No, I wouldn't say she's hot. There are mares in Ponyville I can consider to be much sexier than her. But she is... She's..." I tried to say before my love for that wonderful little lady started to well up in my heart. My gaze wandered as I said, "I mean back before she settled on her new real look, I did find her cute. Very endearing in spite of her menacing appearance. But now... Have you seen her? She's just...so lovely."

"Dude, it sound's more like you're crushing on her instead of thinking about how hot she is." Gallus said with a chuckle as I froze in newfound tension. He was right. I was not thinking about how physically enticing Ocellus was. I was only thinking about how much I loved her and how seeing her makes me happy. Gallus thankfully did not notice the meaning in my choice of words and said, "But I get it. She's gotten way prettier now that she's got that whole ladybug motif going for her. Yeah, I can see her being good for cuddles in bed. Needs more work in the hip department though."

"I think changelings in general have less defined physical features than ponies. You'll have to forgive her for not having the same kind of curves as a mare like Rarity." I replied while kind of hoping that Ocellus was not listening in from anywhere. While she would never take offence to my praise, doing so around one of her dearest friends would be too much for certain. "Anyway... How about we broaden things out a bit? Enough about mares. You got any thoughts on ladies who don't have hooves?"

Gallus just shrugged his shoulders. "Uh... I mean there's Gabby, but she's more cute than hot. What about you?"

Now that Gallus had mentioned a fellow griffon, I too thought of the only other griffon hen I knew. One who I remembered fondly. "Well, if we're talking griffons... Gilda. She's gorgeous with those golden eyes and that sleek lioness body. And her wingspan... Yeah, Gilda is hot. Change my mind."

"Nah, I don't think I will. She's totally got some bad girl vibes and the sexy kind. And I remember how her wears her bangs over her left eye. Now that's hot. A smooth and steamy kind of look like she's gonna drag some lucky guy into a closet somewhere." Gallus laughed while I just rolled my eyes. He hardly knew Gilda at all and only met her once, but she does have a look about herself that is hard to forget. Although goodness knows how she would react to that griffon boy speaking so candidly about her physical appear.

Gallus went on a tangent about Gilda's outer beauty, but I hardly noticed. My thoughts went back to that beautiful hen. What a history we had built between each other in a matter of months. From being exactly the way I had been told about her to being given a push in the right direction and blossoming into a truly admirable person. Friendships restore, new friendships made, and...

My fingers rose to my lips. I remembered the moments Gilda and I spent together. Both on and off the Empty Plains. Especially...the rare kisses she shared with me. I remembered the testimony Gabby had provided about the few meetings she had with Gilda after the war. And...I found myself genuinely longing for Gilda. Where was she? Was she happy? Did she miss me?

It sounded like Gallus was wrapping up his talk about Gilda and I nodded at him to make it look like I had been listening. Although it was then that he finally stood up and took a moment to stretch. He splayed his fingers with tail raising high. I even saw the claws on his paws extend for a few seconds before he finally relaxed. "Anyway, I'm gonna go load up on some more goodies. We shouldn't be stuck up here for the rest of the party, right?"

"Yeah, good idea. I'll be right down too." I replied while Gallus and I bumped fists together. Although I then suddenly had a realization. "Say, before I forget... When's your birthday?"

Gallus looked at me with wider eyes than before, but he soon spoke with a smile. "July 15th. Why? You gonna surprise me that day?"

"Maybe. I'll be sure to mark it on my calendar." I said in return. But when Gallus started to turn away, I reached out and placed my hand on his back. The blue griffon boy looked my way with a raised eyebrow conveying his curiosity. I said softly, "Just remember... My offer is open."

Gallus showed me a much brighter smile before he nodded. He then headed back down the stairs while I was left up there alone. While I was hopeful that a life in Ponyville would be enough to conquer those old memories, I knew it was likely that such a thing would not happen. I did not want to see Gallus suffer at the hands of memories he could not control left behind by events he should not have experienced. "You're a good guy, Gallus... You deserve to be happy."

I grabbed another beer from the cooler and loaded up a plate with assorted snacks before heading back down the stairs. The party was as lively as before. Smolder was staggering around blindfolded to try and pin the tail of the pony, Pinkie Pie was dominating at a game of twister in ways only she can while Rainbow Dash was bending over backwards trying to keep up, and...Gallus was grooving with Ocellus and Spike over by the phonograph. The griffon boy must had been loosened up just enough by his drink to lose his inhibitions since he soon performed a moonwalk while maintaining a bipedal stance. Those smooth soft paws must be ideal for it on a polished wood floor. "Wow. The bluebird's got some moves."

Fluttershy came trotting my way before taking a seat with me by the stairs. It looked like she had a bottle of beer in her wing as well. Maybe she had snuck into the loft upstairs and grabbed one while Gallus and I had our backs turned. She took a quick swig before asking, "Having a good time, honey?"

"I'm a lot more used to hearing Novo call me that than anyone else." I said with a snicker. Calling each other by those sweet little pet names was something that took some getting used to before it all started to come naturally. Although 'honey' is definitely one of our lesser used honorifics. Fluttershy giggled at that observation before I said, "But yeah, it's been a good time. You can't go wrong with parties when Pinkie Pie's the one setting it up."

"She picked a good place for it too. It feels so much cozier and warm in here on a cold and dreary day." Fluttershy retorted before we clinked our bottles together for a toast. We then chugged a mouthful in synchronization. It almost looked odd to see sweet and timid Fluttershy knocking back a bottle of booze like the rest of us. She was hardly buzzed at all. My wife then said, "Smolder's fifteen now... Just one more year to go. I hope she won't do anything reckless before she gets there."

"She'll be fine. I have faith that she'll keep her mind on the stuff that matters for girls her age." I replied with confidence. If I heard that a few months ago, I would be less sure. But with how Smolder's life is now with her having a close circle of friends and being on the verge of moving out to get her own house, her life was about as stable as it could get. Although I soon noticed Fluttershy smirking up at me. And it is not like her to smirk. "Um... Honey? What's with that look?"

Fluttershy giggled for just a second before asking, "Are you sure you didn't get those earrings for Smolder so you could pop the question to her? I mean didn't you say that you're supposed to offer a dragon jewelry when you want them to by your wife?"

"Fluttershy, I swear that was not the intention when I bought those. I knew nothing about how dragon courtship works until I met Ember and that was a few months later at most." I grumbled in embarrassment. I was glad everyone around us took it in good humor when it happened. I then crossed my arms and muttered, "But now that I can't use for earrings for that purpose... What should I get her for when that day finally comes?"

"Let's think about that when the time comes. It's still too soon, right?" Fluttershy said before reaching up and kissing me on the cheek. That got a smile out of me. "We love you. And we know you love us. But I'll always be honored to be the first mare you put a real ring on."

"And I'll always be honored to have walked down the aisle with you, love." I replied before kissing my beautiful wife between the eyes. We then joined lips as her hoof found its way to my hand. My wedding ring rubbed against the bracelet wrapped around her wrist. And when my eyes fell upon them, a realization came to mind. "Hm... Come to think of it..."

I pointed at Fluttershy's bracelet. And then I saw Rarity serving up glasses of punch to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. And on her wrist was that silver bracelet lined with opals. And then I saw Smolder as she tried to partake in a game of twister herself. Getting down on all four limbs was easy for her. And I saw her new pearl earrings dangling from her horns. And I could not forget that gold ring bearing a single amethyst that Celestia always wears at the base of her horn. I began to brainstorm as I pondered those four different pieces of jewelry. "You and Rarity have bracelets... Smolder has earrings... Celestia wears a ring on her horn... Maybe we should make that a thing."

Fluttershy was very curious over my observations. She leaned my way and asked softly, "Make what a thing? You mean we should all have a piece of jewelry to wear sometimes?"

I turned to my wife now that my heart was filled with inspiration. I then reach ed out for her hoof and held it. My finger tapped the side of her wrist in a way specifically to allow our wedding bands to clink against each other. Fluttershy's eyes widened in realization before I whispered to her. "I love you. And I'm honored I was able to marry you. But...they will never be able to do the same. At least not legally. They'll never be able to wear a ring that matches mine. So I was thinking..."

The two of us looked at Rarity. And then at Smolder. Their very personal choices of jewelry were prominently on display. And I then whispered, "What if...we didn't let that stop us? What if I were to give them each one specific piece of jewelry? Something for them to wear for me while I wear this ring for them as much as I wear it for you?"

Fluttershy beamed at me before promptly kissing me on the cheek. She gazed into my eyes before whispering lovingly, "That's such a lovely sentiment, James. I think it would be a wonderful thing to do for them. Just don't break the bank for it."

"Hey, no worries there. It's not the price tag that matters in these situations. I just want each of them to be...meaningful." I replied while knowing I try to be frugal when it comes to special gifts like jewelry. I looked at Smolder again and jumped when she lost her balance on the mat and did a sudden full rotation before ending back up onto her hands and feet. Almost as if she was breakdancing for just a second. And she got a lot of applause for it. "For example, the reason I got Smolder pearl earrings was because pearls are her birthstone. It has symbolism behind it. But...what about the rest?"

My eyes fell upon Ocellus. I was so very much in love with my precious love bug. And she wanted to be mine as well. We have a happy future together, I am sure of that much. But what should I get her? Something she would wear for the rest of her life. But as I watched her, it did not occur to me that she was trotting right towards me. It was not until Ocellus was maybe ten feet away that I realized she was coming right for me. "Eh...? Oh, hey! How's the party, love bug?"

"It's great! This is my first real birthday party experience. Even if it's not my own." Ocellus beamed in delight with even her beautiful gossamer wings spread wide and fluttering for a second. She was in a wonderful mood. She must have been sipping at all the positive emotions and love in the air just by being there. Happy parties must be some of the best places for a changeling to be. Although she then began to fidget a bit. Her eyes wandered and head bowed before she asked, "Anyway... Um... Remember what we talked about today? Do you think...we could...um..."

"Ooooh... Yeah, we can. I've got time." I replied as our conversation earlier came back to me. We had gotten situated at the party and enjoyed ourselves well enough. Now it was time for some quiet time together.

Fluttershy was curious about this. Not that she had any reason to doubt Ocellus and she had more than welcomed that wonderful little lady into our family by then. My wife leaned towards Ocellus and asked, "Is something wrong? Did you hurt yourself?"

Ocellus perked up and shook her head. "Huh?! Oh, no no no, I'm fine! It's just...James and I promised each other that...we could slip away into the basement and just...be together for a little bit. Just to...to..."

My wife let out a sweet giggle before winking at Ocellus with a tender smile. "I get it. The love bug needs to have some love in private? I understand. You go do what you have to do. I'll keep them distracted. Have fun, you two."

I gave my wife one last kiss before she trotted away from us. I had cleaned my plate by then and rose from my seat before pointing over at the only other door on the ground floor. Ocellus and I waited from Fluttershy to chat up anyone who was not preoccupied with anything else. Some were dancing and others were playing party games. Once Fluttershy had drawn the attention of those who were just standing around talking with drinks at their sides, Ocellus and I made our move. We slipped past the door leading down to the basement and even locked it from the inside. The music and clamor of conversation instantly became much more muffled. Ocellus said softly, "Wow. It's a lot quieter in here already."

We knew better than to do anything literally on the other side of that door. And since no one had any reason to go down there in the first place, no one would try to open it. I led Ocellus down the stairwell to try and get as deep under the library as possible. And once I opened the next door at the bottom of the stairwell and flicked a switch next to the following door that turned on the lanterns in the room beyond, Ocellus marveled at the sight of Twilight's private laboratory. "Huh?! Wow, has this stuff always been here? I...wasn't expecting this."

"Yeah, Twilight's had an interest in science for a while. She dabbles in the stuff down here now and then. Although I'm pretty sure she's not the one who installed all this weird equipment... Who ran the library before she showed up anyway?" I replied as we walked along the earthen walkway up top before descending the stairs deep into the earth. The library's roots reached deep and dangled from the walls and ceiling. After having not been down there for a good while, I was surprised to find that the floor at the very bottom of the basement was a single piece of wood. Like it had been cut out of the tree above that the library had been carved out of. Had the tree's trunk reached much deeper only to have a massive chunk removed from it? Or had a slab of the trunk of an equally wide tree been cut out and placed down there to serve as the floor? That library was full of mysteries that I doubt even Twilight had an answer for. I crossed my arms as I beheld my surroundings down there and the inactive science tech. "This tree was probably here when Ponyville was founded several decades ago. I can't imagine who dug out this basement and installed all this tech. I wonder if Derpy's doctor friend had something to do with it..."

"It's...pretty cool down here too... Feels like its in the 50s..." Ocellus muttered before I too noticed the lower temperatures. And the library's ventilation did not reach that low. The tree roots around us naturally filtered the air and I recall it being rather pleasant during summer, but the colder seasons still reached deep. Although we soon figured out how Twilight deals with the cold down there. Ocellus notice something by the bottom of the stairs and perked up. "Ooh! A space heater!"

One of those boxy fan heaters was set near an outlet installed on the side of the stairs. Ocellus took hold of its cord with her magic and plugged it in before setting the output to maximum. We would need as much warmth from it as possible to fill up a room that large. Ocellus was then distracted by something down there that routinely saw a lot of use. "Ooh, is this a chemistry set?"

"Be careful not to mess with that. Twilight's had more than a few...accidents in recent times. The last big accident put her off of dabbling in science for a month." I replied before suddenly remembering an accident that happened right around this time last year. One that filled me with a complex surge of emotions. Amusement, discomfort, and many things all around. "Seriously, how did she do that? Was that an accident? Or is there really potions that can completely transform you into other species?"

This really caught Ocellus' attention. The little changeling turned to me and asked, "That happened? I wonder if the existence of us changelings inspired scholars to try replicating our abilities through magic or potions? It must e pretty niche since I never heard about it in the hive. I guess it's far less practical when you need a potion just to do it... What happened last time? Did you get turned into something?"

"Nah, it wasn't me." I replied before taking a seat on the lowest steps we had just descended. Ocellus came over and draped herself across my lap to get comfortable now that our time alone had shifted to some intriguing conversation topics. "It was Pinkie Pie. Right around this time of year too. She goofed around down here and triggered something with Twilight's concoction and...somehow...was turned into a human."

Ocellus looked up at me with wide eyes and a genuinely bewildered stare. After a moment of silence, she asked briefly. "She what now?"

"Yeah. A human. Homo Sapien. Or maybe I should say Homo Pinkius." I replied with a crooked smile as I tried to make a lame pun about that. And it must have worked since Ocellus covered her snout with a hoof as she let out a snort and chuckle. I rolled my eyes and said, "Yeah, that was a weird day. Pretty interesting day with highs and lows... She got used to that body pretty quick. But she still had to get changed back later."

The little love bug on my lap looked up at me with a smile and said, "Wow... And that's actually possible with the right potions? Impressive... What about you? Have you ever become...something else?"

"Me? No, I've never... Wait... Hang on, it's coming back to me..." I started to say before I got the creeping suspicion that I was forgetting about something. And then the memory came to me. "Actually... Yeah! But it was from exposure to poison joke. You ever seen them before? Light blue flowers that...do stuff to you if you touch it?"

I saw Ocellus' eyes widen at my words. "Oh dear... And what did you become? A griffon? A dragon? Maybe even a big majestic hippogriff?"

I cracked a smirk as I looked back on that situation and laughed. "Heh... Nope. I was just a regular little earth pony. And I hated it. Was forced out of my clothes and I could not for the life of me figure out how to walk right, let alone run. And being in that condition was not something I needed while I was in the Everfree Forest. If I didn't happen to bump into Zecora when I did, I probably would've ended up as something's lunch out there."

"Oh... I guess it would be harder to go from being biped with hands to suddenly quadruped with none than the other way around." Ocellus replied while her smile became increasingly crooked. She must have been trying to imagine me as a stallion staggering about while having no idea how to make my new limbs work. I could still remember the indescribable sensation of feeling my knees basically bending backwards. She then asked, "But now that we know there's ways to becoming something else with potions... Is there anything you'd rather be?"

The first thing that came to mind was the majestic forms of the hippogriffs. They are easily some of my favorite people in all of Equestria. I would still have hands. And I would be able to fly anywhere I wanted with those powerful wings. I would not even really shrink in height while on all fours. And Novo would most definitely approve. I would probably even have an easier time fathering foals with her with such a body. We would have a much easier time making our family grow. And I could only imagine how majestic I would look as one of those beautiful bird horses. And yet... Despite my admiration of the hippogriffs... My eyes wandered as I muttered, "I...don't think so. It's weird, you know? For as much as I find the concept of transformation fascinating... For all the problems my species has caused where I come from, I'm...uneasy about letting go of my humanity. I don't want to risk...no longer being me."

Ocellus then brought up a point I had never considered before. "But...what about when you became a stallion? Did you feel any differently? Did you think any differently? And what about Pinkie Pie? Did she act more...human than pony that time?"

I had to stop and think for a moment. It was such a profound thing to bring up. "Now that you mention it... No. Neither of us did. Pinkie Pie, even when human, was still completely Pinkie Pie. And...I was still me at that time. I didn't have any strange thoughts. I didn't feel any unnatural urges. I was still me, even if I was in a different body. Does that mean...our brains didn't change?"

"Maybe it's not your brains that decide how you think and act. Or maybe the process doesn't change your brains at all except maybe to stretch and mold it to fit your new skull. Maybe what really matters...is your soul." Ocellus said softly before resting a hoof on my chest. Right over my beating heart. She then whispered sweetly to me, "And I would never want you to change that about yourself. I love your human heart. I don't care what you are. Just as long as the way you love never changes, I support whatever species you want to be."

"Thank you, dear. That's the one thing I don't want to lose the most. I don't want to think differently...because that would make me love differently." I said with a sigh. I then reached down and kissed the little mare on the back of her horn. She giggled in delight before I then added, "But more than anything... What I dread most about changing bodies is how I'll have to adapt to not wearing clothes. That's a tradition I can't imagine giving up, no matter how effective that fur, feathers, or scales are at protecting me from the elements."

"Well, as someone who's been a dragon, I can say that those scales do a great job at making me feel comfortable and secure. Like not a single part of you is really exposed. If you want to try becoming something else, maybe you could start with that." Ocellus replied without taking much humor from my observations about the general nudity of the majority of Equestria's people. But she then looked up at me in curiosity and asked, "But come to think of it... What did Pinkie Pie look like as a human? Or maybe I should say... What does a female human look like?"

This question only prompted me to ask one of my own. "Didn't you say that you...can't take on a human form?"

Ocellus shook her head. "No, not really... Only a changeling queen can easily take on the forms of bipedal creatures. Even harpies and minotaurs are a hard choice for us. The only reason why I can become a dragon is because they technically count as quadrupeds. I'm only asking because...um...even if I could become a bipedal creature easily, I...wouldn't be able to because I don't even know what a human female looks like."

"You...don't? I guess that would make a certain kind of sense... Wait. I don't suppose you've seen me without my clothes on?" I started to say before a realization came to mind. I gave Ocellus a cockeyed stare while I started to smirk.

Ocellus' cheeks darkened instantly while she smiled crookedly at me. "Um...yes. Many times."

"Oh my god..." I burst into a snickering fit. For being so sweet and demure, precious little Ocellus was bolder and more cunning than one would expect. I suppose it is in a changeling's nature. Regardless, I then said, "Well...I think you know that females don't have what I have between their legs. And...their teats are instead n their chests. You know that much, right?"

"Mmhm, I assumed that much. Minotaur females have their mammaries on their chest too, so I assumed it's the same for human ladies." Ocellus replied softly while not particularly flustered about the topic. But then her eyes widened as she came up with an idea. "Hey! I know I can't become a human, but...what if I try to do my best with what I have?"

It sounded like Ocellus had come up with a little game for us to play. And I was intrigued. I sat up more on my seat while Ocellus hopped down from my lap to the bottom of the stairs. "Hm... You mean you want me to critique and help you look more human for future reference? I think I see what you're getting at here... Sure, let's see what we can do."

Ocellus grinned before being engulfed by a flash of green fire. The embers faded as quickly as they came to reveal a beautiful little dragoness before me with her hands clasped behind her back. Ocellus looked shyer that usual as she swayed in place with those adorable eyes gazing at me. "I almost feel like I'm modeling for you... How do I look?"

Her dragon form was already very feminine even by human standards. My eyes fell upon Ocellus' chest. Her pectoral muscles were still a bit more pronounced than the first time she ever assumed that form. A minor modification she made that had grown on her. "Well, you are already kind of replicating a human woman's breasts right there. Although they aren't universally small like that. Human breasts on women can vary wildly. Being anywhere between that small to being very large."

My little beloved looked down at her own chest in surprise. She then looked ahead at me and asked, "They can be bigger than this?"

I did not want Ocellus to get the idea that she could go overboard in experimenting with her proportions. I quickly explained, "Yes, but...I'm pretty sure just how big they can get depends on your own proportions. You're a very little lady, so you have less space to spread that mass around."

"Oh, I get it... Yeah, I would just topple over if they were too big. But...maybe just a little..." Ocellus replied with a giggle before looking down at herself. She then held her hand ahead of her pecs with the palms facing her. Her entire upper torso was shrouded by green flames for a moment. But when the flames faded, I did not notice anything different. At least until Ocellus curled her fingers inward while she pursed her lips. "Ooh... Soft."

"Ocellus, did you...?" I asked before she lowered her hands. And the changes were immediately noticeable. Her pectoral muscles had expanded further. Right into her open hands. While still modestly sized, Ocellus now looked like she was sporting a proper set of breasts hidden under her smooth ventral scales. "That's...uh..."

"Do I look more...womanly?" Ocellus asked with her hands behind her back. She leaned forward with those lovely and expressive eyes looking at me with excitement, hoping for my approval. However, the way she was leaning forward also caused her newly enhanced false breasts to...dangle enticingly under her.

"Yeah... Yeah, that's a very womanly bosom you got there... Not too big either. I can believe a human woman of your height would have a figure like that. Although almost no adult human women are as petite as you." I replied while trying to not let myself get too distracted by Ocellus' body. We were simply playing a game of sorts. We were not trying to seduce each other.

Ocellus clapped her hands a few times quickly while beaming with a big smile. "Nice! Now, what else do I need to know about human female proportions?"

My eyes scanned up and down Ocellus' body. And my eyes rested upon her pelvic area. "Hmm... Well... I'm not sure you can perfectly replicate a human woman's lower body while maintain the proper anatomy of a dragon. The way your torso transitions into a tail... Humans don't have something like that."

"Oh... Wait, I think I see what you mean. I've seen you like that. The way your legs connect to the pelvis... How the haunches take up the entire rear... Right. A dragon's haunches mostly apply to the side since the tail gets in the way." Ocellus muttered before looking herself over. She even reached under her tail and hoisted it up a bit near the base to examine how it connected to her torso. Her eyes narrowed and lips pursed as she contemplated her own anatomy. If she were to force her body to adjust its proportions in a way that would be impossible for a reptile, her disguise would likely crumble and force her back in to her natural changeling body. She then looked my way and said, "Let's see what I can do with this. How does a human female's proportions differ from a male's?"

I was completely serious about the topic at hand as I explained to her. "Firstly, the hips in general are wider than those on a male. That includes the width of the gap between the two halves. It's larger than with males to allow for the birth of offspring."

Something about the last few words I said appeared to trigger a reaction in Ocellus. Her eyes widened for just a second before she completely regained her composure. "Uh huh... Sounds similar to minotaurs. Anything else?"

"That's pretty much it. A human female pelvis is generally wider than a male's with a larger cavity between the two halves." I explained again. I was growing increasingly curious over what sort of results Ocellus would come up with.

"Right. Let's see what I can do..." Ocellus muttered before she started to place her hands all over the sides of her hips and waist. Trying to feel through her scales to get a better understanding of where everything was. After a moment loner, she went to work. Ocellus lifted her hands out to the side to allow her magical green fire to shroud her lower torso. It lingered thee for a moment as I am sure she was trying to picture in her head how she should look. The flames eventually faded while she asked, "How do I look? Did anything change?"

I have to admit the changes were more subtle this time. There was only so much she could do to work around the reptilian anatomy of her body. Having such a robust tail and her lower torso essentially being one in the same made the task of molding her body into a more traditionally proportioned female hominid form. But I could see it. The more pronounced rounded curves of her ilium could be seen pressing out against the scales lining her hips. Ocellus slid her hands over her hips before saying, "There they are! Yeah, this does... Wait..."

What was she thinking? I remained silent to allow Ocellus to examine herself more closely. She slid her hands down the sides of her hips to her thighs. And then back up to her waist. She then spoke with a determined smirk. "Hang on... I feel a brainstorm coming on. Just a second!"

Another veil of green fire coated Ocellus' entire body below the head. And when it faded in just a few seconds, my eyes widened at what I saw. I did not notice anything at first. Until I happened to notice her thighs. They were now fuller with more meat on the bones to set them apart even further from her very slender shins. And then I noticed her waist. It had narrowed just slightly in a manner that drew attention to the width of her hips as well as the size of her bust. So many little details that all came together to be greater than the sums of their parts. And Ocellus was very happy with the end results. "Hey... I look good! From these...to this...and then down here... I look...nice! How do I look, James? Like a real lady?"

I was spellbound. Ocellus had always looked lovely in that beautiful dragon form. But now... I was seeing something intimately familiar that I had not seen since leaving Earth. A form I instinctive recognized. The general silhouette of a human woman. Ocellus was still clearly a reptile at the moment, but she looked so...womanly. All i could do was stammer while my eyes darted about. "I... Uh... You... You look...amazing..."

"James... Your heart... It's...giving off so much love right now." Ocellus replied with her own eyes widening in response to something I could not control. I yelped in annoyance before glaring down at my own chest and pounding it with my fist. But when I looked back at Ocellus, I noticed she was beginning to smirk. The cunning little love bug then slowly reached up and crossed her arms behind her head. She then spread her beautiful dragon wings and pushed her chest out. With lidded eyes, she then asked, "James... Do you find me...sexy?"

She looked and sounded so smug... A side of her I would never see when she is around others. Instead of the timid little lady I had always known, Ocellus was showing just how comfortable she was around me. With the space heater gradually warming up the basement, I too was becoming more comfortable with being more...open towards my little lover. But I could hardly speak a reply. "Uh... You... I mean you're..."

A sweet little giggle escaped her throat as Ocellus briefly dropped her sultry facade for a few seconds. But she then regained that needy gaze in her eyes as she slid a hand over her thigh and brought her other hand to gently fondle her own false breast. Taking a moment to fully appreciate the results of her little experiment. She cooed at me with such an inflection in her voice, "Now I see why you like how I look... These proportions... These assets... They feel so nice..."

It was hard to ignore my own growing libido. Ocellus was all but shamelessly presenting herself to me. I just sat there and tried to hold my tongue and well as my body. It was a good thing no one would come looking for us. Ocellus then gazed at me and began to slowly saunter my way. Wings spread wide, her newly enhanced hips rocking seductively more than ever before with every step, and those beautiful eyes gazing at me with such a loving desire in them. I leaned back a bit as she leaned towards me over those first few steps under me. Ocellus whispered to me, "I haven't forgotten why we came down here."

I began to sweat as a powerful warmth began to fill me. And I whispered back to her, "Right... Although I think...our little cuddle session is becoming...something more."

"That's not a bad thing, is it?" Ocellus giggled lowly in her throat without ever losing that gaze of desire in her eyes. She was so confident at that moment... She was in her element. A changeling. Alone with the love of her life. Someone who's heart she could read like a book. She had no reason to be timid now. My heart's openness towards her had emboldened her. No matter how cautious or reserved my mind was, my heart never lied. My beloved then whispered again, "You didn't answer my question though. Am I...sexy?"

There was no lying now. I gently stroked the side of her face and lightly slid a long lock of her hair out of the way before I replied quietly. "You are...one of the sexiest little ladies I've ever seen in Equestria.

"And I want to be your lady." Ocellus cooed to me before she leaned ever closer. Our eyes narrowed before our lips finally met. We embraced as we basked in each other's love. Groaning and moaning, tongues dancing vigorously, I rested my hand on her back between the wings and on the back of her head. Ocellus did the same with her hands lovingly holding my head to insure I would to pull away. She was just so beautiful... Such a wonderful woman of a changeling. And we were so very much in love.

Our mouths only separated briefly to allow ourselves to breathe. Only for us to desperately resume our wonderful kissing while holding each other as if afraid to let go. That beautiful false dragoness would whisper with each moment to breathe, "I am just so in love with you... So addicted to you..."

"Love you so much, dear... I'm just... What did I do...mmm...to deserve being loved by someone like you?" I whispered between breaths as I felt so blessed at that moment. With no one around and no one coming to interrupt, we could be true to each other. And I did not hide my heart this time. "You're the best love bug ever... My little love bug."

"That's why, my love... Because I'm your little love bug and no one else's." Ocellus cooed sweetly during another lull in our kiss. And instead of immediately resuming, she brought a hand to my face and tenderly caressed my cheek. Those eyes... Hardly any lust was in them. She was just so happy to be there with me. "I'll always be yours. Because I'll always love you."

How could I have ever hidden my heart from her in the first place? Ocellus was so sincere with her love for me. So sure of herself with no doubts. She understood the workings of my heart better than anyone else. Even me. I was angry at myself for ever doubting myself. And I wanted to never repeated that mistake. I pulled Ocellus into another wonderful kiss, my hands sliding over her as those beautiful wings spread wide. nd she cooed beautifully deep in her throat as I felt her beginning to feed on my boundless love.

As she fed, Ocellus began to let her hand roam over me. And it soon found its way between my legs. She began to caress me through my pants. Her desires were clear. And my body began to react accordingly. A painfully tight bulge began to form. And after a moment longer, Ocellus finally broke the kiss as we gazed at each other in a haze. But she was still coherent. She took a step back down the stairs to lower herself to my waist. Her delicate hands began to undo my belt while she gazed up at me on such a lovely angle. "I know we said we shouldn't do this again until the right time, but...I just want to be good to you right now."

I could not bring myself to refuse. I wanted her. And she wanted me. And it was all out of love. I gently caressed my beloved between her two horns and whispered, "I won't stop you, dear... I trust you."

"I love you." She whispered again as she undid the zipper on my pants. And with a tug of my underlying boxers, my erection emerged. And I could see the awe and need in her eyes as she beheld my male equipment. "It's...just as beautiful as last time."

Just like last time, Ocellus greeted my body's offer with a kiss. I gasped lightly as she placed tender little kisses all along my shaft. And with each kiss, I felt a twinge of her love being injected into it. Letting her love join mine that would soon be merging with my seed. And she soon rose high again and brought her lips to mine. Our eyes closed as our tongues danced again, but her hand continued to reach low. Ocellus took hold of my shaft and began to slowly slide her grasping palm and fingers up and down its length, masterfully coaxing me further towards what would surely be a wonderful climax.

The smooth scales lining my beloved's palm were a delight to feel. How was she so good at this? Are changelings simply naturals in the art of lovemaking? They are creatures sustained by love. Creatures that want to love and be loved. And one of those precious little love bugs was very much in love with me. And during a lull in our kiss again, I whispered my heart to her. "I'm so glad that...of all the changelings in the world... I'm so glad you were the one to become mine."

"And I'll always be yours, my love. I'm not going anywhere. I'll never leave you. And...I know we'll always be happy together." Ocellus whispered to me as she spread a line of kisses all over my face. Her hand never ceased its tender movements along my shaft. Not until she was ready to descend again. Ocellus finally brought herself low as she gazed at my length. "I want this inside me so bad... I'm burning..."

I expected her to mount me right then. But instead, she once again took my shaft into her mouth. And I was greeted by the narrower length of her dragon jaws and its longer tongue. I threw my head back and groaned at the sudden surge of pleasure engulfing me. And as she once again masterfully pleasured me, I began to notice a cloyingly sweet scent in the air. Not quite the musk of a mare in need.

As she gently showed love to my body, I heard Ocellus moaning beautifully with her jaws around my length. And when I looked down, I saw why. She had one hand between her legs. Her fingers were deep in her cloaca to pleasure herself while she pleasured me. It felt so much better knowing we were both in ecstasy. And during brief moment, Ocellus pulled back to release me from her jaws while her other hand took hold of my shaft and began to caress it again. She gazed up at me with those beautiful eyes and whispered such honeyed words to me. "I want you inside me... To love me... To breed me..."

Such a tender choice of words. But...that last part. And she mentioned a burning sensation earlier. And so I had to cautiously ask, "You're...in heat?"

Ocellus resumed her feverish sucking of my length. But I could tell by that loving gaze filled with desire from above that my words rang true. She took joy in knowing that I was aware of her...fertile state. Knowing that at that moment, I could give her my child. And my heart almost demanded that I do so. But I resisted. I grasped the stairs under me as I allowed Ocellus to make love to me entirely on her own terms.

But Ocellus did not remain silent. After a moment more, she released my shaft from her maw and allowed her hand to pleasure it instead for a moment. She gazed up at me as a beautiful whisper came from her lips. "I would be honored to have your baby... To have a family..."

There was no doubt in those words. Everything she said came straight from the heart. And I was both alarmed, yet excited. Ocellus was probably doing everything in her power to satisfy her lust without taking me inside her and having new life would bloom within her womb. And yet, the father in me demanded that I do just that. To give that wonderful little mare what she desired most. To let us be father and mother together.

"You...never had a family." I asked as I tried to think more logically. Ocellus wanted a family...because she never had one. I reached down and caressed her smooth head of hair as I breathed deeply from the waves of pleasure washing over me. "You always had the hive...but never a real family... Did you?"

"No... I never did..." Ocellus said mournfully while her eyes told me that she was still taking comfort in our shared pleasure and love. She applied a few more tender kisses to my length with each touch sending another jolt of her love into me. She then gazed up at me and said, "Would you want...to have a family with me?"

"Oh my god, yes... Yes, I would, Ocellus..." I spoke truthfully while her eyes widened in genuine joy. Ocellus released my length from her hand and once again began took it into her mouth. She began to wordlessly resume her oral pleasuring of my body and with renewed vigor. I felt so honored to be offered such a sacred request... If not then, then hopefully someday when the time is right. To be a father of changeling children... Precious little love bugs who only need the love of their parents to survive... They would always be happy and never go hungry. They would be the happiest little changeling foals in history for sure.

Ocellus began to channel more and more love into me as she hastily pleasured me and herself. I could hear her muffled moans growing all the more shrill with every passing moment. Her scent hung heavily in the air as her fingers were likely soaked in her cloaca's juices. And all I could do was just let her have her way with me. She was so good at what she was doing... A natural in the art of love. Such is the beauty of a changeling's heart. Demons on the outside, but angels on the inside.

The more love Ocellus pumped into me, the quicker I was brought to the brink of orgasm. How was she doing that? I felt as if I had been gradually and meticulously been pleasuring myself for hours in order to bring myself to a truly explosive climax. Was filling my body with her love having a similar effect? Whatever the case, my body demanded released. I placed a hand on her head as I began to subtle buck my hips in time with the movements of her jaws. "Ocellus... Oh god... Oh god, I'm..."

It was almost time. And Ocellus was all but shrieking with her jaws clamped around my length. I could even hear the slick wet motions of her other hand furiously pleasuring her cloaca. She was so close. And so was I. With my pleasure peaking, I groaned out what was in my heart. "I love you... My little love bug... Ocellus, I love you...!"

It came. And it came hard. I grunted as the floodgates opened. I closed my eyes as Ocellus also let out a muffled scream as she hastily gulped down the torrents of thick potent seed that my shaft was releasing down her throat. I could literally feel how much I was releasing into my little lover. The strongest climax I had experienced in a very long time. Truly, changelings are naturals in the art of lovemaking and seeing to it that their partners achieve the most ideal results.

I was seeing stars. Such a release was unexpected and left me reeling. I leaned back onto the stairs as I caught my breath with that wonderful afterglow settling over me. The air was thick with the scent of a changeling mare in need. And that little love bug came crawling up the stairs beside me. She panted heavily, face flushed with a blush, not a drop of my seed having been spilled. She gulped down every last drop of my liquid love. And she then whispered to me, "I couldn't help it... I just love you so much."

"It's OK, dear... I...love you...so much. Just...love you." I whispered back before tenderly sliding my hand along the lower jaw of that beautiful false dragoness. She smiled weakly at my touch while I whispered again. "I love you. And I'm...honored to be yours."

"Me too... I know we'll always be happy together. That's why I never have any doubts. Because your heart will never lie to me." She whispered back with one hand resting over mine. We shared a silent gaze of raw love for a moment. Those beautiful eyes... Eyes of a woman who knew that she had found who she was meant to be with. But she then asked with those eyes filled with hope, "James... Would you really...want to have a family with me one day?"

"When the time is right, dear." I replied in brief before she leaned down to bring her lips to mine for a kiss. It was an impressive show of restraint for her to put herself in a situation where she could have ended up carrying my child well before she was ready. We could have gotten carried away... But she knew what she was doing. She did everything to satisfy her body's urges without doing something that would carry consequences she was not ready for. And I was proud of her for that. "I love you."

"Love you so much, James. I hope I can really be your woman for real someday..." Ocellus whispered as she started to bring her other hand to mine to hold it. But as she did, my beloved sniffed the air. And her eyes widened. Her hand was still soaked with her own pungently sweet fluids. "Uh oh... Um... I better wash my hands before anything else happens."

"You might have to wash them more than once. That odor really sticks to you." I retorted as the intimacy of the situation started to be replaced by an awkward and almost humorous atmosphere. While we were able to avoid having anyone see or overhear our lovemaking, we could not afford anyone seeing or smelling any evidence on us after we went back upstairs.

What to do? Twilight did not have running water down there in the basement... Did she? I saw no signs of indoor plumbing down there. I hurriedly adjusted my pants and stood up. "Twilight's a bit of a neat freak, so she must have some wet wipes or something down here."

We started searching high and low in the basement while Ocellus was careful to not touch anything with that one hand. And we thankfully found some. Ocellus rubbed one such towelette over her hand thoroughly before sniffing it to make certain that pungent feminine odor was gone. She then did the same between her legs and even down her thighs. I suppose some of her own secretions leaked out of her when she climaxed. She pitched the used towelette into a nearby bin before engulfing herself in a flash of green fire to reveal her true changeling form. Ocellus grinned brightly at me while looking and sounding more than just a bit sheepish. "I guess that killed the mood. Sorry."

"There's nothing to be sorry about. That's just how a lady's body works." I replied with an amused smirk on my lips. At least by then there would be no real evidence being left behind. I then unplugged the nearby space heater now that there would be no one down there needing it soon. I placed my foot on the first step leading up and said, "They're probably starting to wonder where we ran off to. Shall we?"

"Sure. But...um... Carry me?" Ocellus asked before she came fluttering up to me on her beautiful wings. I all too happily took her into my arms and allowed her wings to fold before turning her over and carrying Ocellus up the stairs. I cradled that lovely little lady in my arms all too easily. And once we were nearing the top of the second flight of stairs, Ocellus reached out and kissed me on the cheek. "Love you."

No sooner had I set Ocellus down than the door clicked ahead of us. And it suddenly swung open to reveal Rainbow Dash with a key in her teeth. She flung it back over her shoulder before leaning past the doorway to look at us. And I felt my heart jump into my throat as I dreaded what might have happened had they resorted to using a key to get that door open sooner. "There you are! We were wondering where you two ran off to! What're you doing in Twilight's basement anyway?"

I had to think quickly to come up with an excuse that would actually make sense. "Ocellus heard about the weird gadgets Twilight keeps down there and wanted to check it out. We fiddled around a bit, but put everything back the way it was before we came back up."

"Mmhm, lots of weird stuff down there! I couldn't even figure out what it all does!" Ocellus replied with a cheeky grin on her face. It was not exactly a lie. She did take an interest in all that stuff once we got down there. She then passed Rainbow Dash while asking, "Did we miss anything? How's Smolder?"

"Why don't you check out the twister queen and see for yourself?" Rainbow Dash said with a snicker. And then we saw Smolder and Gallus over on the twister mat. And they were all down on almost all of their limbs. But it looked like Smolder was having an easier time than Smolder. It looked like she had been dominating the game.

Pinkie Pie looked over the cards that read the next step. And she looked like she was having fun serving as the referee. "Gallus! Right front hoof, yellow!"

The griffon boy, who had one wing tip touching a red spot, groaned in frustration. "I don't even got hooves!"

"She means your right hand, birdbrain!" Smolder laughed while Gallus struggled to make the move connect. If he ended up having to turn himself over, he would fall and lose. There was no way a griffon could perform a crab walk, but Smolder surely could. Gallus did pull it off, but was almost completely turned over onto his side. The next move for him would probably be his last. The birthday girl then said, "My move!"

"Yep! For Smolder, it says..." Pinkie Pie said before holding the next card atop her upturned hoof. "Tail, red! And then it says here in parentheses 'if applicable' for some reason."

"Ha! I got this!" Smolder laughed before smacking her tail spade onto the most conveniently placed red circle. She then looked over at Gallus and said with a smirk, "Your move, bluebird."

Gallus did not even respond. He just looked unbelievably frustrated if that exaggerated glare was anything to go by. Pinkie Pie then excitedly read the next card. "Gallus! Left wing, blue! And it says 'if applicable' again."

His eyes widened as the griffon boy considered his options. He was not allowed to touch his game partner or use their body for leverage. His right wing was already down. And the only other blue circles were mostly behind him. He carefully started to spread his left wing while attempting to maintain balance. He must have been tightly gritting his molar back in the jaws past his beak. And Smolder just added fuel to the fire. "Gallus! Don't fall over! Or you're cringe."

"I'm gonna...make you eat those words... Ack! Why did I have to be born with wings for this?! Is there a way to make me an amputee for a day?" I started to snicker at Gallus and his precarious position. If only he did not have wings, he would not have to bend very backwards quite literally to make this move work. But he was a griffon, so he had wings. And so he was bound by the rules to comply or forfeit. With his wing reaching back, it started to affect his balance. And then...down he went. "I got this...I got this... NOOOOOO!"

Gallus fell right over and onto his back. And Smolder quickly hopped back up onto her feet with fists raised high before pointing right down at her fallen partner. "The twister queen strikes again! And this bluebird is cringe!"

"Don't push it, birthday girl. If this wasn't your party, I'd be down to scrap with you." Gallus sulked with arms crossed. He then folded his wings and rolled off the mat before trotting off for the refreshment table. "This bluebird's going for some more cake."

I reached out and patted my feathery friend on the head as he passed me. "Hey, you were really impressive right there. No bluebird of mine is cringe after that."

Gallus just let out a snort before looking up at me with a really annoyed smirk on his lips. He then held up his fist and bumped it against mine before heading back over for another slice of cake. Smolder then called out over to us. "Hey, Ocellus! You wanna go a round?"

Ocellus was more than happy to oblige and went trotting over now that the twister scene had drawn quite a crowd. Rainbow Dash smirked up at me and said, "Pretty rad party, huh? And the birthday girl's really digging it too."

"Her first real birthday party should be something special. I'm glad to see we all pulled it off." I replied as the two friends got started on another round. But when my eyes fell upon Rainbow Dash, I suddenly had an idea. "Hey, Rainbow. You think you got enough food in your belly to weather a beer?"

My wild friend of a mare glanced up at me with a big smirk on her lips. "I thought you'd never ask! Come on, let's go crack open a cold one!"

The two of us hurried back up the stairs into the loft. No one else was up there and that was just the way I wanted it. The two of us loaded up another pair of plates with less sweet party fare and grabbed a couple of beers from the cooler. I saved Rainbow Dash the trouble of opening hers by doing it myself. The two of us took a seat in front of the fireplace with the sounds and songs of the party downstairs becoming more distant and muffled. We then clinked our bottles together and shared a swig. I then glanced at my friend and said, "Don't go getting wasted on me. Don't wanna set a bad example for the younger folks here."

"Yeah, I get it. Relax, I know myself enough to know I can only take this stuff when drinking on a full stomach." Rainbow Dash said snidely before helping herself to her serving of chips and salsa. The atmosphere was calm and quiet. A stark contrast to the festivities going on downstairs. My friend then let out a long sigh before she said, "It's nice to chill in front of a fireplace when it's cold outside. I wish I could install one in my place, but Cloudsdale architecture just doesn't agree with the heat and smoke."

"I can imagine. Even if it did, the smoke would probably merge with the clouds and turn your whole house black eventually." I replied while Rainbow Dash snickered at the mention of it. The entire house would end up reeking of smoke in due time for certain. After a brief moment of silence and enjoying our snacks, I decided to speak of what I really wanted to talk to her about. "Come to think of it... It's almost been a year."

"A year? Since...what happened?" Rainbow Dash asked while she set her bottle down. When her eyes met mine, I was left unsure of how to remind her. But when my gaze wandered in uncertainty, her eyes widened with a subtle blush forming on her cheeks. "Oooooh... That day... Ye... Yeah, it really has almost been a year."

I could never forget that night. A special occasion planned by my wife and her longest known friend. To mares who loved me dearly and wanted to soothe any lingering doubts I may have still had after a crisis...I could not remember. Something I knew had happened, but the memories of that time had been buried. I lowered my gaze and focused on just the fireplace for a moment. "I...really enjoyed my time that night. You and Fluttershy were so good to me. Made me...feel special."

"Because you are special, big guy. I just didn't know how special you were back then." Rainbow Dash said softly before I felt her embrace me from behind. That wild little mare had moved behind me without me noticing much. And she whispered into my ear with a sweetness one might not expect from her. "There really is something special about your heart, you know? You've got Fluttershy... Then you got Rarity. And then...how many more lucky ladies have found happiness with you?"

My hand rose to Rainbow's hooves as the crossed over my chest. There was something I wanted to tell her. Something she knew by then. "I love you too."

My wild beloved responded with a kiss. A little peck on my ear before she rested her chin on my shoulder. "Thanks... Love you too, big guy. And thanks for being patient for me. I really wanna be good enough for you... Especially after I...almost did what I did that day."

"Rainbow, that day... It almost feels like half a lifetime ago. And you didn't do it in the end. You didn't take me away from Fluttershy. You were just...inexperienced with how the heart works. And you only got wiser in time." I replied while remembering that day all too well. My first Hearts and Hooves Day. And how Rainbow Dash came dangerously close to feeding me a love potion recipe she had dug up. But she did not in the end. My friend stayed true to her greatest quality. And in time, she found the love she thought she would never have. I whispered to her, "Good things come to those who wait, right?"

"Heh... I know I'm not a patient mare. But I guess waiting paid off for us, huh?" Rainbow Dash chuckled before nuzzling her head up against mine. "I'm still getting used to this whole...being in love for real thing. Kinda been keeping those thoughts on the backburner all year after that... We really need to start seeing each other more often, but autumn's just such a drag for us weather patrol ponies. You think you hate autumn? You don't know what it's like when you actually have to work with those gloomy gray clouds more often than not."

"I was wondering why I don't see you in town more often around this time of year. Being stuck right in the middle of all that gloom just takes the fire outta you, huh?" I replied while Rainbow Dash almost looked embarrassed over her spending more time at home than she would probably like. The latter half of autumn is when the weather tends to become more miserable anyway. Even the flora around Ponyville retaining its vibrant green all year does not help much. I then whispered to her, "But since the anniversary of that night is coming up... Wanna make it a holiday tradition between us?"

Rainbow Dash tightened her embrace around me. And she then whispered into my ear. "Next time... I wanna do it under the mistletoe."

"Got it." I whispered back before I turned my head to look at her. And our lips met for a kiss. I then whispered again to her, "Love you, Rainbow."

"Love you too, big guy. For real." Rainbow Dash replied before she finally released me. She then came around to my front and sat in my lap so we could both hold each other in front of the fireplace. She gazed upon the crackling flames before letting out a long sigh. "Being in love...is pretty awesome when you get used to it."

I knew Rainbow Dash had never been in such a relationship before. She probably put the concept of romance at the back of her mind for a long time. Too full of herself for too long to consider letting a stallion be on her level. And now that she had allowed her heart to long for another, she had a lot to learn. And I knew that feeling too. I nuzzled my cheek into her mane from above and said, "Trust me, I've been there. I doubted myself a lot the first time I fell in love. Kept wondering if it would actually work out or if it was worth it. It took maybe several months before I got outta that phase."

"And then it crashed and burned in the end anyway, right?" Rainbow Dash muttered with less joy in her voice. My smile also left my face. She was one of the few who knew the full story of my first experience of falling in love. A love that ended painfully very shortly before I arrived in Equestria. Rainbow Dash leaned more firmly into me with her head tucked under my jaw. "I won't ever do that to you. You know that. I won't let anyone tell me who I can love. If you think I'm good enough for you... If I have a place in your family...then I'll stick with you forever."

"I'll never know what was real or false in that relationship. I mean it's something I can look back on and laugh about now, but... So many answers I'll never have. Did she really love me only for her twisted family to turn her against me? Or was she playing me for a fool the entire time?" I muttered in bitter recollection. It was not even all that long ago when it happened. Equestria had healed me so quickly. But as I contemplated the possible reasons over why that relationship failed, a crooked smirk crossed my lips. "At least we won't have to worry about your parents getting in the way. Right?"

"Oh good grief, I forgot about them!" Rainbow Dash groaned before burying her face into my chest. I had met her parents very recently and found out just how overwhelmingly supportive they are of their only child. Windy Whistles and Bow Hothoof. At least Rainbow Dash had convinced them to tone down their enthusiasm last time. For all of their sakes. Rainbow Dash then grumbled bitterly as she asked, "How am I gonna even tell them I have a boyfriend now? They'll freak!"

"In a good way, right?" I asked while also a bit uneasy about the possibilities of how they would react to my face. But then another darker question entered my mind. One that filled me with dread. "And...what if they don't support us because of...everyone else in my family?"

Rainbow Dash did not have an immediate answer. She became silent. No doubt thinking long and hard about what her parents would do. Even Rarity's parents are not yet aware of their daughter's relationship with me. One aspect of courting a woman that I have rarely experienced during my time in Equestria was the act of meeting the parents of my beloved. Largely because most of them...no longer had any. A very sad thought to be sure. But Rainbow Dash soon sighed in what sounded like relief. "What are we so worried about? Of course they'll be OK with it. Even if they completely disagree with the whole concept of this kinda relationship, they'll still support me."

She certainly sounded confident about the outcome. I looked down at my beloved and asked, "You sound awfully sure about that. You really think they won't mind that...you're basically in a relationship with a married man?"

That wild mare snorted with such an amused smirk on her face. "I know my parents, James. Even when I did stupid stuff as a kid, they never stopped supporting me. When they were not screaming their lungs out to cheer me on, they were great parents. Even if this relationship goes completely against everything they believe in, they'll never disown me for it. Trust me, they'll let us be together."

That was quite the endorsement. If Rainbow Dash was that certain about her parents giving us their approval, then I was not going to question it. Although there was one more question I still had on my mind. And I found myself grinning giddily before asking. "While we're on that topic... You think your parents want grandkids?"

Rainbow Dash...squealed into my chest. She just started growling and squealing and making all sorts of hilarious sounds that sent me into an equally silly sounding snickering and giggling mess. I almost fell right over with her in my arms and had to struggle to remain upright. Once Rainbow Dash caught her breath, she looked up at me while blushing profusely. "Oh my gosh, don't even get me started on that! If they end up becoming grandparents, they'll be just as crazy about their grandkids as they were for me! They'll be all over those kids. Yeah... Yeah, you better believe they probably want grandkids someday. I mean they never talked to me about it, but I know they do!"

The two of us shared an awkward stare of silence for a moment. And Rainbow Dash finally broke the silence before looking away with a much drier look in her eyes. She then faked a cough before saying, "I mean it's not like I'm in a hurry to have foals myself... Having kids has never exactly been on my radar."

For as much as I love my daughters and how eager my heart desires to father more beautiful little lives with my lovers, I would never force any of my beloveds into having children they did not want. If Rainbow Dash had no desire to become a true mother, I was not going to force that upon her. And I made sure she knew this while I held her in an embrace. "Hey, that's fine... If you don't want to have kids, I can respect that. Not everyone is meant to be a parent. I was only asking because it's something worth knowing ahead of time."

"I...didn't mean it like that." Rainbow Dash muttered before she looked up at me with a much calmer smile. She then whispered sweetly to me, "It's just... We only really just started being sweethearts. Let's not hurry into that kinda stuff too quick, yeah? I just wanna see where things go for now. Right now... I just wanna be your mare."

Surprisingly wise words from such a reckless mare. Almost like she had taken such words to heart from someone else. Regardless, I was happy with her answer. I whispered back to my beloved, "And I'll always be your man."

It felt good to reconnect with Rainbow Dash. There had always been an uncertain back and forth indecisiveness between the two of us since that night. We had always loved each other, but whether or not we could be in such a relationship had been a question hanging over the two of us that just did not seem to have an answer. An answer that finally revealed itself this year. At least now... Now we know that it could work and we no longer needed to keep any space between us.

Right as we were finishing up our snacks and drinks, Rainbow Dash gave me a very smug smirk. Perhaps her drink actually was getting to her. "Say... What were you and Ocellus really doing down there anyway? You sure she just waned to see all of Twilight's weird egghead gear?"

"Well, seeing as you're in the know regarding stuff like that..." I mumbled as I felt there was no reason to hide the truth between us. She knew enough about Ocellus and I to be trusted with that information. "While we did get into a chat about that stuff down there, the primary reason why we slipped away was because...she wanted some time alone for us to love each other."

"Just the love bug being a love bug, huh?" Rainbow Dash chuckled before nuzzling my cheek. She then placed a kiss on my cheek before she whispered, "Yeah, she's really into you. And you're just as into her. Was that all you did down there? Just hugs and kisses?"

A long sigh hissed from my nostrils with my eyes rolling in internal debate. Should I really tell her? Finally deciding that my beloved had the right to know about what happens with the rest of the wonderful women in my family, I turned to her and said, "She...was very good to me. Went down low to...taste me."

Rather than be alarmed, Rainbow Dash looked like she almost anticipated such a move on Ocellus' part. "Mmm, wanted some of that liquid love? Kinky. I didn't think she was like that."

"Me neither, but I guess she's not as naive as she seems. I think changelings in general are very sexually minded. They're naturals in the art of lovemaking." I replied while also having never expected Ocellus to have so much innate skill in bringing pleasure to her beloved. She always looked so unassuming and demure regardless of what form she takes on. One would never assume that delicate little love bug could ever be so eager and lustful behind closed doors with the love of her life.

Rainbow Dash smiled at me more sincerely as she then said, "You two look really good for each other. I hope you'll always be happy together. That little love bug sounds like she had it rough for a while. She deserves a man like you."

"I'll always try to be good to her. I just want her to be happy." I replied before sharing another soft kiss with my friend and lover. Although it started to sound like there was a lot of yelling going on downstairs. Like someone just could not stop raising their voice. "Is that...Smolder? What's going on down there?"

"Maybe things are getting crazy on the mat." Rainbow Dash replied as she stood up before chugging the last of her drink. She hardly seemed tipsy by then. Eating beforehand severely dampened the effects of alcohol on her.

I raised an eyebrow while looking back at the stairs. "We've been up here for roughly fifteen minutes. Are Ocellus and Smolder still going at it?"

I cannot imagine a game of twister going on for that long. Our curiosity got the better of us and forced Rainbow Dash and I to head downstairs and see what was going on. And as soon as we got down there, Rainbow Dash recoiled in confused amusement. "What the hay even is that?!"

Just...what was even going on over there anymore? Smolder had all seven of her limbs touching down somewhere on the mat while looking like she was posing in the middle of breakdancing while Ocellus... The cunning changeling was outright cheating. Her body looked no different than usual, but she had used her shapeshift abilities to sprout extra limbs and even extend them to allow her to stand tall over Smolder and trapping her inside a cage of her own legs. I just about burst out laughing at the sheer audacity of Ocellus bending the rules in a way only a changeling could. And Smolder did not approve. "Ocellus, you are totally cheating!"

"The rule book never said I couldn't have more than one front left hoof!" Ocellus giggled as everyone gathered around to watch the ridiculous spectacle unfolding. Pinkie Pie called out another move for one of her hind legs only for Ocellus to opt to cause another elongated hind limb to appear in a flash of green fire to take up another spot while also giving Smolder less room to maneuver. The very sight of Ocellus would almost have been creepy were the situation not so absurd. She then smugly called out down to her friend, "Your move, twister queen!"

"I'm not...giving up my crown to... OW!" Smolder finally reached too far and flopped to the floor after straining herself too much. She did not seem to be actually hurt, but she did lie flat on her face while everyone burst into either laughter and applause. Ocellus then shrouded herself in a flash of green fire to return to her original size and anatomy while she bowed to our friends. Smolder turned her head to the side to look at her friend and grumbled loudly. "I didn't know you had it in you to play dirty like that!"

"I'm a changeling! Being sneaky has always been in my nature!" Ocellus laughed with a big cheeky grin on her face. She was definitely coming out of her shell at that party and proving she could have fun as much as anyone else.

Time went by and the party started to wind down. The snack tables became increasingly empty and the energy in the air began to calm. But Smolder tried to keep herself going for as long as she could. This was the most special day of her life up to that point and she was milking for all it was worth. But even she could not fight the fatigue of excessive social interaction. At last, I found Smolder lying on her back upstairs in front of the fireplace. And the logs inside it were looking much more charred and burned out than before. Only a modest amount of flames flickered along the glowing embers and gray ash lining the firewood. I stood over the birthday girl and asked, "You had your fun?"

Smolder looked like she was trying to fight off the urge to take a nap. Her eyes looked heavy and she did let out a yawn before speaking to me. "Yeah... Man, what a day. If this is what every birthday is supposed to be like, I can't wait for next year."

"Don't fall asleep just yet. We gotta get you back home first." I replied as I got down on one knee beside her. I then reached down and gently nudged the earring that was hanging from her left horn. "You never took these off?"

"Why would I? They're the best present I got today." Smolder said proudly with such a tired voice. The poor thing... Would she even have the strength to get home? Smolder soon reached for my hand and asked, "Sounds like it's about over... I don't hear the music anymore. Help me up?"

I took hold of her hand and gently helped the happy dragoness to her feet. She spread her wings wide and reached her fists high before groaning with quite a stretch. Smolder hunched forward suddenly the instant she relaxed before looking up at me drowsily. "I guess the party's over... But it was a good time."

"Happy birthday, Smolder. I'm just glad your first real party was the best one yet." I said softly while resting my hand atop her head. Not wanting to risk her passing out right there, I led Smolder downstairs. It was time to go home.

All the youngest kids had already left for home while Spike was taking a broom around to sweep up at the scattered confetti. And hilariously enough, Gallus was slumped in a corner while fast asleep. He had an almost empty beer bottle in hand. Smolder snickered at the sight of her friend and muttered, "And I thought I partied hard."

"I'd assume Applejack can carry him home, but he's bigger than she is... That won't go well." I muttered while everyone looked like they were looking ready to wind down for the night. Smolder then got a sly gleam in her eye before she started to approach the slumbering griffon boy. "Hey, what're you doing?"

"I'm gonna make this rooster crow." Smolder said smugly before she pried the bottle out of Gallus' grasp without waking him. She then turned it over and dumped the remainder of its contents right onto his fluffy face. "Wakey wakey, bluebird. You don't sleep around at MY party."

"Gah, blah, peh, what's that?!" Gallus woke with a start and coughed and snorted with the pungent beer getting all over his head. It was not much, but it was enough. He then snorted and gasped while rubbing his beak. "It got down my nostrils! Ack, was that booze?!"

Oh lord, that had to suck. Getting water up your nose is bad enough, but beer? While Smolder surely did not mean to cause him discomfort, she was snickering and giggling like a fool at the doused griffon. He then sat up while scowling bitterly at her. "Thanks a lot. Now I reek of booze. If anyone asks me questions on the way home, I'll blame you."

"And I'm guilty as charged! Except at least I don't drink the stuff." Smolder replied while I suddenly had a realization. Now that Smolder had turned fifteen, she was at the bare minimum legal drinking age so long as she was supervised by a legal adult. And just as that thought came to mind, Smolder gave the bottle in her hand a funny look. "What even is this stuff like anyway? Is it any good?"

Smolder held out her tongue and shook a few remaining drops of the beer onto her tongue. She then paused with a very contemplative look on her face before shrugging her shoulders. "Meh, I don't get it. Don't taste like much. I'd prefer a cold soda."

Gallus just rolled his eyes at Smolder's first taste of beer. It was not like she could fully appreciate it with only a few drops. But I was not going to treat her to any unless she asked for some. I then looked over at the treat table nearby. The punch bowl was virtually empty and everything but the cake had been consumed. Only the bottom layer of the cake remained and had a few slices taken out of it. Twilight was even in the process of boxing it up for Smolder to take home. It was her party, so she got dibs on the leftovers. Pinkie Pie then hurried over to Smolder and grinned with such excitement with her hooves tapping rapidly in a little dance. "So then! How was your first real birthday party, Smolder?! Was it the most fun you ever had? The best cake you've ever tasted? Huh, huh, huh?!"

No wonder Pinkie Pie was so excited for Smolder's evaluation. She had done the most work in setting it up and wanted to make the best first impression. And Smolder took a deep breath before reaching out and grabbing Pinkie Pie in a big hug. She was beaming with such a bright smile. "It was awesome! I wish all my birthdays before this one were so good! All my future birthdays will be just as great, right?"

"You better believe it! Same time next year! And I'll bring the goodies!" Pinkie Pie giggled as she returned Smolder's embrace with one of her own. Pinkie Pie then turned to all of us and said, "Mission accomplished! She says the party was the best ever!"

Rainbow Dash swooped over to Smolder and lightly patted her on the head with a big confident grin on her face. "We know things were pretty rotten for you before you showed up in town. Now you know just how sweet things will be as long as you're here. Great to have you with us, kid."

"Rainbow, surely you don't see little Smolder here as a mere child. This fine little dragoness is a sophisticated young lady!" Rarity spoke up at the first sign of Smolder showing any disapproval over Rainbow Dash's choice of words. I seconded that notion. And I cracked a smirk when I remembered how Smolder responded when she met Fluttershy for the first time. She did not take well to being called a baby dragon at all.

"See? She gets it." Smolder replied smugly while pointing her thumb at Rarity. But she then started to show a more somber smile as we all started to draw near. The birthday girl then said, "Guys... Really. Thanks for such a great time. I knew it was my birthday from the start. I just...didn't expect this because all my other birthdays were pretty much just like any other day. I didn't know it was supposed to be this special."

Applejack smiled sweetly before patting Smolder on the back. "Well then, y'all better get used ta this. Because every birthday needs ta be celebrated. There'll be more where this came from next year too."

Smolder was beaming with excitement at that response. But her eyes then suddenly widened before she looked at her closest friends. She ran over to Ocellus and Gallus as she asked, "Wait! What about you guys? When're your birthdays?"

I already knew the answer to one of them, but I just stood to the side and allowed Gallus to speak for him. "Me? July 15th. What about you, love bug?"

Ocellus did not immediately respond and she even appeared puzzled. And I suddenly understood why and felt my heart sink. She likely did not know because the changeling hive likely does not celebrate individual birthdays. To the hive, every changeling is like a cog in a great machine with their own duties to fulfill. At least at this time of writing. Fluttershy noticed the changeling mare's uncertainty and asked softly, "Do you not know?"

"I...don't..." Ocellus muttered as we all looked on with everyone displaying gazes of quiet shock or disbelief. Smolder was at least able to pin down the exact date when she hatched. But Ocellus? Apparently not. But I did see her eyes narrow in careful thought. "Wait... I think...it's sometime right when...winter starts to go away and spring is starting to move in..."

"February? Is it February?! Right at the end of the month?!" Pinkie Pie asked while Ocellus could only nod with an uncertain smile. The excited mare then pulled a notepad out of her mane and a pencil with it. She held the pad atop her hoof while scribbling something down in it with the pencil in her mouth. "All right, that's going down in memos! July 15th and...late February. We'll figure out the exact date some other time!"

I knew that Ocellus was turning seventeen in only a few months, but it was vexing that she only knew the passage of time by the passing of every year. What a shame... Just how isolated is the changeling hive? And would that ever change? I suppose it will not until their queen is removed from power.

Smolder gave a hug to everyone around her while wearing such a smile on her face. But she then went over to the stack of gifts she had received and...suddenly realized she could not possibly carry them all home. It was a pretty sizeable stack too. "Uh... Come to think of it... What're we gonna do with this stuff? I'm probably strong enough to lift it, but I can't carry all this stuff."

Awkward gazes were all around. Everyone had been so preoccupied over what to give Smolder than they had not planned a means to get all those items home with her. Although Applejack then spoke up. "How about y'all just carry what ya can and I'll swing by here in the mornin'. Just leave it ta me. I'll get these goodies home in one of my wagons."

"Sounds like a plan, AJ. I'll make sure I'm here to help you load up." Twilight replied before she walked over to Smolder before nuzzling her head. "Maybe we should've seen this coming. We'll make sure to get everything home next year."

"Hey, it's cool. I dunno where I'd even put all this stuff yet." Smolder replied while I took the little jewelry box in hand that had once held her earrings. She did not need them to be carried as long as they were on her horns. Smolder opened the box that contained Rarity's gift. She would not have to worry about carrying that if she could just wear it home. She slipped on the boot before draping herself in the coat and its glorious cloak. And everyone marveled at just how lovely she looked now that she was wearing it. Smolder even reached back and pulled a hood over her head that served as part of the cloak. "How do I look?"

"Stunning, darling! Simply stunning!" Rarity applauded in glee as she finally got to see her newest project being worn by her friend. It was such a good look for Smolder. And so practical too. It would serve her well when winter arrived. She had perked up enough too by then.

Everyone began to head out for home. I at least tried to be helpful by carrying that sack of gemstones over my shoulder. While Fluttershy headed off to pick up Gladesong from her foalsitter, I headed home with Ocellus and Smolder by my side. It was dark and bitterly cold outside by then and we would surely not stay up much longer once we got home.

Almost no one was outside at the time and Ponyville's many homes had their windows aglow from indoor lighting. The occasional lamppost also helped combat the oppressive cold with their warm glows along the road. And I had to frequently swap arms to keep the sack slung over my shoulder from being too hard on either. Ocellus did not appear to mind the cold that much and Smolder looked very comfortable in her knew winter attire. I glanced down at the birthday girl and asked, "You comfy in there, Smolder?"

"Oh yeah, Rarity did an awesome job on this. My feet are warm and I don't even really feel the wind except on my face." Smolder said happily as she walked along beside me. She then looked past me at Ocellus and asked, "Uh... Ocellus? Aren't you cold over there?"

"Nope! We changelings have a high tolerance for low and high temperatures. Although we have to take on more fitting forms in freezing weather. I'll probably have to take on the form of something fluffier when winter gets here." Ocellus replied while looking like she really was not fazed by the autumn chill in the air. Or it at least did not affect her in the same way it did us. She did not even have a pony mare's winter coat over her smooth chitinous body. Changelings really are a fascinating race...

We eventually came to the western edge of Ponyville. And it looked like a light was on inside Fluttershy's cottage. Scootaloo must have made it home before us. But we first had to pass by the plot of land where the future home of Smolder and Ocellus was being constructed. The construction crews had gone home for the night, but we could see how much progress was being made out there in the dark. Ocellus spoke softly, "It's coming along so nicely... They'll be done by next month at this rate."

"Yep. Our own little place to call home... Can't believe it's almost here." Smolder said with a happy sigh. She was tired, but so hopeful too. And it would be healthy for her to finally get her own place away from me. A place to live on her own terms. Although she then looked over at Ocellus and said, "Hey, Ocellus. How about you go on ahead and get some tea going? Chamomile helps a girl sleep, right?"

"Mmhm! It'll be your own little birthday gift before bed! See you two soon!" Ocellus replied before trotting off. But she did not get far before she slunk lower to the ground as if she had suddenly felt a twinge of discomfort or pain. But she then shook it off and continued on her way without so much as acknowledging it.

I was not the only one who noticed Ocellus stagger a bit there. Smolder looked up at me and asked, "Did you see that? Is she OK?"

My eyes narrowed as I watched Ocellus' brightly colored form stick out quite a bit in the dark of the night. I did not look away until she disappeared into the cottage. "I hope so. Maybe she set her hoof down weird and almost twisted it... Or maybe it was something she ate. Maybe she had too much of a good thing and it's not agreeing with her stomach. And I know changelings do have a proper stomach."

"Yeah, who knows how changelings work? Maybe real food isn't all that good for them after all." Smolder mumbled before shrugging her shoulders. But as she and I gazed upon the increasingly developed frame of what would become a new duplex down the road from my home, Smolder asked quietly. "James. Be real with me here."

I looked down at Smolder as her hands rose to her hood. She pulled it back to reveal her head before she looked up at me with a curious smile. A finger rose to the earring hanging from her left horn before gently wiggling it. "Did you really just get these for me as a gift and not for...something else?"

I sighed heavily at that question. I knew what she was hoping for. That those earrings were a means of asking her the most precious question one could ever ask a dragon. And I replied honestly. "Smolder. I didn't say what I did because I was trying to keep things hidden from everyone. When I acquired those on Capricorn Island, I knew nothing about dragon courtship. And even after Ember educated me on the subject, those earrings had been out of sight and out of mind for so long that it completely slipped my mind on what giving them to you would mean. I'm sorry... I should've saved those for the day I...finally ask you."

I began to feel genuinely angry at myself. Those earrings could have served as the equivalent of a wedding ring for Smolder when the day finally came. Even if tradition dictates that the suitor has to craft the jewelry by hand themselves, the fact that I have no such skills in the art meant I would have to acquire such jewelry in another manner. Just a detail I am sure no one really cares about. And Smolder did look disappointed by my explanation. "Right... I get it. Not like it's the best time for it anyway..."

My eyes wandered. Smolder's birthday had been such a happy day for her. And now I was worried that I had spoiled it by disappointing her right at the end of it. But Smolder then looked up at me and motioned towards me with her fingers. As if she wanted me to come closer. And so I did. I dropped to one knee and set down the sack I had been lugging around. Smolder stepped closer to me and said, "Well, even if these earrings didn't have anything special behind them... I just want you to know something. If you did give those to me and asked me to be your mate..."

Smolder moved suddenly. And my eyes went wide. In one swift move, she brought her hands to the sides of my head and held me. And that gaze of disappointment became a very sly stare as she smirked devilishly. "I wouldn't have said no."

She got me. Smolder pulled me into such a wonderful kiss. Her tongue invaded my mouth almost instantly and I could not bring myself to resist. No matter the outcome, the results were still the same. We were very much in love as we held each other in an embrace, hidden under the cover of night out on that meadow path. For just a moment, we could be honest with each other. And my heart was filled with relief. Nothing had changed.

That lovely little dragoness pulled away from me slowly, the subtle taste of sulfur still fresh on my tongue. And I could vaguely see a blush on her cheeks in the darkness. Smolder then whispered to me, "Since we'll be doing this again next year... Mind if I put in a birthday gift request ahead of time?"

A smile returning to me face, I spoke with a nod. "Name it. Whatever you want next year, I'll try to make sure you get it."

"Next year... For my sixteenth birthday..." Smolder whispered before she brought her brow to mine. She gazed into my eyes with those beautiful blue dragon eyes as she whispered a sacred request to me. "Next year... I want you."

"Me...?" I muttered as I staggered from that plea. But what about me did she want? Did she want my body or...something more?"

Smolder cooed to me as she delicate dragged a claw smoothly along my jaw. "Yeah. Next year...I want you. Because by then... We won't have to hide anymore. You can finally be mine. And I can be yours. We won't have to act like we're just friends anymore. We can finally be...a couple. Please? Next year for my birthday, would you give me...your hand? Please, mi amor?"

She was right. The age of consent throughout most of Equestria was sixteen years old. And a final countdown had begun. Smolder was far more woman than girl, but it was still too soon. But in just one more year... One more full year was all that was left to wait through. We would no longer have to wait. We would no longer have to be cautious. And there would never again be a risk in allowing ourselves to love each other openly. At least no more risky than any other relationship between me and the wonderful women who have become my beloveds. My heart filled with a joyous anticipation, I barely resisted the urge to speak a direct answer. "I think...there is a very high chance of that."

"Not saying yes or no? That's fine. Because I know what the answer really is." Smolder whispered with equal excitement in her eyes. Another year of her life had gone by. And only one more remained before she would finally become a woman in the eyes of society. And the eyes of society can only see what is on the surface. At least that is what I assume. Regardless, Smolder then kissed me one more time before caressing my cheek with her smooth little hand. "One more year to go. Start counting the days. When my sweet sixteen gets here, we'll be done waiting."

"It's a goal to look forward too... Anyway, let's get outta the cold now, birthday girl. The waiting passes by faster when you're not actively thinking about it." I replied while prompting a quiet snicker from my little beloved. I then snatched up the sack of gemstones by my side before we carried on our way with a happier spring in our step. It was a good day. And the beginning to one last challenge in our way.

Smolder and I entered the house very quietly. The lighting was dim and only came from an oil lantern nearby. Ocellus heard us enter before she stuck her head out of the kitchen. "Scootaloo's already gone to bed. Keep it down, OK?"

"Gotcha. Thanks." I whispered back before Ocellus ducked back inside. Smolder removed her boots and hung up her new coat by the front door and placed her earrings back in their box after I handed it to her. And a piping hot cup of chamomile tea was waiting for her in the kitchen.

"Man, this is what I need after today... Thanks, Ocellus." Smolder whispered with a sigh. She gently sipped from the cup after removing the bag. The boiling temperatures did not faze her as she gingerly sipped it all down bit by bit. She let out a satisfied sigh after the first few tastes and said, "I'm gonna hit the sack as soon as I'm done with this. This birthday girl's ready for a birthday trip to dreamland."

We did not object at all. Once Smolder had drank every last drop, she gave Ocellus a hug and gave me a goodnight kiss before she quietly slunk away to Scootaloo's bedroom. She was very careful to not wake her and took the box of her earrings with her.

Now it was just me and Ocellus. And I did not want to get ready for bed until Fluttershy got back. I at least wanted to give Gladesong a goodnight kiss. The two of us got comfortable on the sofa at the back of the living room. The precious little love bug draped herself across me with only the occasional call of an owl and the whistling of autumn winds reaching our ears.

My hand stroked Ocellus down the middle of her back while she rested her head atop my chest as it rose and fell with every long breath I took. It was tempting to just try and fall asleep right there, but I resisted it. Although I did eventually notice Ocellus curl up a bit more while letting out a muffled groan or mumble. I asked softly, "You OK there, love bug?"

"It's just my heat... It kind of burns." Ocellus muttered in an almost feverish haze. And it left me wondering. I have seen Fluttershy in heat several times, but it usually does not put her under such duress. And she usually is not in it for long since we usually...bypass it with a tender lovemaking session. Ocellus must have assumed this as well since she then muttered while looking up at me with an almost sickly gaze, "Changeling heat cycles can be...a little intense. It's because we're just so fertile."

I felt bad for her. Poor Ocellus being a victim of her own body's biological functions left me feeling powerless. All I could do was hold her and offer her my support however I could. There was one way to put an end to her heat cycle right then and there. But if what she had told me not long ago was true, then doing so was out of a the question. "We...really shouldn't..."

Ocellus sighed almost dreamily as she gazed up at me. She almost looked like she was smiling. "I know... I'll have your baby if we do."

"You sound very sure of yourself... Are changelings really just that compatible with all other creatures?" I asked with growing curiosity. As tempting as it was to make love to her for the first time and...father a child with my beloved little love bug, I knew I should not. Ocellus may have been a mare, but she was still sixteen. She was not ready for that. I was sure of it. All I could do was hope to keep her distracted with pleasant conversation for the moment.

The beautiful little mare atop me nodded before she whispered to me. "Yes.. It's never a matter of 'if' when it comes to changelings. If a stallion makes love to a mare who is in heat... Or if a man makes love to a changeling mare when she is in heat... There will be no stopping it. A baby will happen. If you make love to me now, I... We will have a foal on the way. By this time next year, we'll have a family."

The way she said that... I think she genuinely hoped that I would do such a thing to her right then. And I could not deny the love in my heart for her. It was just so tempting... I stroked my hand over her head and whispered softly to Ocellus. "I love you."

"And I love you..." She whimpered back to me as she tried to cling to me more tightly. Just trying to find a comfortable position. Ocellus sighed again and asked, "Hold me, please? Your love... It helps ease the burning."

"Shhh... I'm here for you, dear. Come here, love bug." I whispered as I helped myself sit up. I sat at the corner of the sofa while cradling Ocellus in my arms while she snuggled up tightly against me. She mumbled and cooed without words. The poor thing... In so much discomfort and so eager to breed and have children, yet she knew it was not the right time for her. And I wanted her to remind her of what we promised each other that day. "Someday, my love... Someday... We'll have a family of our own when the time is right."

"I...love you so much, James... You are...my everything." Ocellus cooed to me with her words stabbing me in the heart. I dared not let go of that precious little lady. Not when she needed me more than ever.

We thankfully did not have to wait much longer for someone to come home. The front door quietly creaked open to reveal Fluttershy. And she had little Gladesong bound up in swaddling at her side with barely any of her face exposed. Fluttershy had wrapped up our daughter very tightly to keep her shielded from the frigid autumn wind. She whispered to us while quietly approaching, "Hey there, you two. Did Smolder and Scootaloo go to bed ye... Is something wrong? Ocellus? You don't look so good..."

Ocellus could only squirm in my embrace while mumbling incoherently. I had never seen Fluttershy in such discomfort even once. With the unwell changeling being unable to really bring herself to speak, I explained the situation to my wife. "She's in heat. And it sounds like changeling heat cycles can be more severe in their symptoms than with pony mares. I'm just...trying to keep her comfortable."

"She's... Oh!" Fluttershy replied before sniffing the air. And her eyes widened upon detecting a scent I was clearly not noticing. A human's nose is just not keen enough to pick up on pheromones. Fluttershy then whispered with an unexpected smile, "Just let me put Gladesong to bed and I'll get something for that. The poor thing slept like a log all the way here."

Fluttershy was not wrong Gladesong did not respond to anything as she quietly snored at her mother's side. She quietly went into the nursery to very carefully set Gladesong down in her crib. She then came back out and hurried to the kitchen. Ocellus watched in sickly confusion before asking, "What's she doing?"

"I'm not sure... We don't have any medication for... Wait a second, wasn't there that one time?" I started to say before trying to recall previous experiences. The number of times Fluttershy has gone into heat since she and I first became lovers can be counted on two hands. But a few times before she and I could put her cycle out early with some tender lovemaking... My eyes widened as I recalled. "Oh right, she has a certain tea for that."

"Tea? Really?" Ocellus asked dryly. It was as if she could barely believe such a thing even existed for her symptoms.

I nodded and explained quietly, "Yeah, it's a kind of tea. If our schedules get in the way and her symptoms become too severe, Fluttershy drinks a certain tea that soothes herself. I think they do supply that stuff to places that sell tea, but she prefers Zecora's homemade recipe for it."

"I gotta get me some of that..." Ocellus muttered with a weak giggle. All we could do then was wait for Fluttershy to prepare a cup and wait for it to cool.

Not much happened beyond that. While Fluttershy and Ocellus talked to each other while waiting for that tea to cool enough for poor Ocellus to drink it, I took a shower to prepare myself for bed. I think Ocellus was already showing less discomfort by the time she joined Fluttershy and I in bed and she was feeling much better by morning. Although if this is something Ocellus has to deal with at every heat cycle... I need to make a mental note to stop by the local pharmacy this week. It would be wise to keep some contraceptives on hand in case her urges become too strong to resist.

I have been picking away at this entry throughout the course of the following day whenever I have had time. And now that it is dark out again, dinner smells like it is ready. But what a day we had yesterday. Smolder's first birthday in Ponyville and it was absolutely worth writing home about.

But now the hard part begins. Just one more year to go. And to say I am excited is an understatement. I love Smolder. And I know she loves me. Even if we literally cannot say so to each other quite yet. And by this time next year, we will finally be able to tell each other.

Three hundred and sixty-five days to go. Just a little longer. We made it this far. We can wait one more year. Until then, we just have to be patient.