One week later...

"Glitter... Glitter, wake up".

I woke up when I felt a small nuzzle on my left cheek. After a yawn and rubbing my eyes for a few seconds, I looked up and saw Auntie Luna standing over me.

"Auntie Luna...?", I groggily said.

"Yes, it is I", Auntie Luna said. I looked over at Mom's clock.

"It's 7:00 in the morning", I said, "Why would you be up so early?"

"We'll talk sooner", Auntie Luna said, "For now, wake your skunk and meet my daughter, Twilight, Spike and I in the garden".

I nodded as Auntie Luna walked out of Mom's bedchamber. I sat up and stretched my hind legs, looking at Abigail, who was sleeping peacefully with a smile on her face. I really didn't like to wake her from a peaceful sleep, but Auntie Luna asked me to, so I did.

"Abigail?", I whispered, lightly nuzzling her. Abigail gave a cute yawn and rolled up into a ball, her face in her tail-fur.

"Yes... Glitter...?", she weakly said.

"Wake up", I said, "Auntie Luna and Caddie want to talk to us in the garden".

"*cuter yawn* Why?", Abigail said.

"I'm not sure, yet", I said, "But they want to talk about something, apparently. We'll be in the garden, so you can have breakfast while we talk". Abigail yawned one last time and stood up.

"OK, Glitter", she said.

I smiled and carried her downstairs and outside into the garden. Sure enough, Spike, Caddie, Twilight, and Auntie Luna were all sitting out in the garden on small pillows. I sat down on the available pillow in between Caddie and Twilight. Caddie smiled and hugged me.

"Morning, little cousin", she said.

"Morning, Caddie", I said. I let go of Caddie and gave Twilight a small nuzzle. "Hello to you as well, Twilight". Twilight returned my nuzzle.

"Good morning", she said.

"Um... could you excuse me for a minute?", Abigail said, "I have to tinkle".

"Go ahead, Abigail", Cadence said. Abigail nodded and walked behind a bush about three hooves away from us as Auntie Luna spoke.

"Alright, let's get started", Auntie Luna said, "I apologize greatly for waking you all up so early. Believe me, I should've been sleeping an hour ago. But, today is a special day, and I need all the time I can get to make it worth it".

"What is today?", I asked.

"It's Auntie Celestia's birthday", Caddie said.

"Oh, right", I said, "Why do I always forget?"

"Probably because it's exactly one week after Nightmare Night?", Twilight said. I shook my head, smirking as I gave her a playful noogie on the top of her head.

"Right", I said.

"Anyway", Auntie Luna continued, "Yes, it is the 5,000th anniversary of the birth of my elder sister, Celestia. This is the reason I have woken you all up. I need your help to make sure the start of my sister's fifth millennium is her best".

"But Mom has had 4,999 birthdays", I said, "And the last seventeen I've seen, she's been as happy as she was at my wedding".

"True, my nephew", Auntie Luna said, "But I would like this birthday to be even better than all of the previous ones. I want to show Tia that 5,000 is her lucky number". I smiled.

"Alright then", I said. At the same time, Abigail had come back and sat herself right next to Spike, smiling at him. "Feel better, Abigail?"

"Yes, Glitter", Abigail said, "So... much better". Spike and Abigail smiled at each other, staring into each other's eyes. I chuckled.

"Alright", I said.

"Now, we are going to schedule the party at the Castle as always", Auntie Luna said, "But, I'll need each of you to help. My daughter, I would like you to provide decorations".

"Can-do, Mother", Cadence said happily.

"Twilight Sparkle", Auntie Luna said to Twilight, "I would like you to pick up refreshments. More importantly, cake".

"But Princess Celestia likes so many types of cake", Twilight said, "Which specific type should I get?"

"How about the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness?", I asked, "Pinkie Pie said the Cakes made another one for a special occasion. Why don't you ask her for that one?"

"OK", Twilight said, "I'm sure we'll surprise Princess Celestia well when she sees that cake". Auntie Luna smiled.

"Yes", she said, "But remember, you'll need to pick up more than just cake. Cake is the main entrée, but you'll need to get some side refreshments too".

"Yes, Princess Luna", Twilight said.

"As for you, Glitter Sparkle", she said, "I think it's time you get the best task".

"What's that?", I asked.

"You will be in charge of keeping Tia out of the Castle until it's time for the party", Auntie Luna said.

"Keeping her out of the Castle?", I asked, "How do you expect me to do that?"

"Well, why don't you plan something for you and her to do mother-to-son?", Caddie asked, "That's a surefire way to keep her out of the Castle".

"Exactly", Auntie Luna said, "That's what I want you to do. And I would also like you to have Spike and Abigail tag-along with you so Tia doesn't get too suspicious".

"So, it's like a date?", Spike curiously asked. Auntie Luna chuckled.

"If you and Abigail decide to turn your half into a date, then go ahead", she said. Spike and Abigail smiled at each other again, holding paws. I let out a small "aww" under my breath, then looked at Auntie Luna again.

"Alright", I said, "I'll do it. When do we start this?"

"We will start all of this at 8:00 tonight, and hopefully, the party will commence right at midnight", Auntie Luna said, "For now, I'm going to rest my sleepy eyes. I can barely see straight right now". We giggled as Auntie Luna flew into her open bedchamber window.

"Hey, Twilight", Caddie said, "I bought a face-paint set last night. Care to have some fun with it?"

"Sure", Twilight said, "Glitter?"

"No thanks", I said, "You too have your girly fun. I'm going to sit out here with Spike and Abigail and play with them".

"Suit yourself, Glitter", Caddie said. The female Alicorns went back into the Castle while I turned to face Abigail and Spike. Abigail was digging, while Spike was watching with interest. After digging for thirty seconds, Abigail came back up, crunching on a grasshopper and swallowing.

"Was that a cricket?", Spike asked.

"No", Abigail said, "That was a grasshopper. Grasshoppers taste so much better than crickets".

"You eat bugs?", Spike asked.

"Yep", Abigail said, licking her paw, "Me and all types of weasels".

"Are they... good...?", he asked.

"Yeah!", Abigail said, "They taste amazing! But, you've never had a single bug before? I thought reptiles loved bugs".

"Well, yeah", Spike said, "But, that's smaller reptiles. The main course for a dragon is gems. However, I have eaten a 'baked bad' before, which was a muffin that was worm-ridden but I've never had a plain bug before".

"Oh, well, do you want one?", Abigail said.

"Uh... sure", Spike said. Abigail smiled and went back into the hole, returning with another grasshopper. Spike lizard-tongued it out of her paws and chewed, Abigail smiling again.

"Well?", she asked.

"It's a bit hard to chew", Spike said, "But, it isn't bad". I chuckled.

"Well, you two enjoy your breakfast", I said, "I'm going to spend the rest of the morning with Zecora".

"Glitter, wait", Spike said, swallowing the grasshopper, "I've got something to say to Abigail, and I want you to hear it". I smiled.

"Alright then", I said, sitting back down and resting my hooves in my lap, "Go ahead". Spike smiled and looked at Abigail, who was working on a black emperor scorpion.

"Abigail, may I speak to you?", he asked.

"Sure", Abigail said, "Just excuse me if my chewing is a little noisy. Scorpions are delicious, but have tough exoskeletons".

"It's fine", Spike said. He then pulled the skunk in his lap. "Abigail... I've been thinking... and with a little help from Glitter, I think you and I should come together..." Abigail's eyes went a little big as she stopped chewing.

"Wh-what did you... say...?", she asked.

"I said, I think you and I should come together", Spike said.

"You mean...", Abigail said, "...you want to connect your heartstrings with mine?"

"Do I really need to say it again?", Spike asked, "Fine. I'll say it like this". Spike leaned down and kissed Abigail right on her lips, Abigail gasping loudly through her nose. After a few seconds, they stopped, Spike smiling at her.

"Believe me now?" he asked.

"I... Spike... kissed... I...", Abigail stammered hard.

"I think that's a yes, Spike", I said, "I greatly congratulate you two".

"Thanks Glitter", Spike said, "But Abigail, if you knew I was single and Rarity rejected me, why didn't you confess your feeling toward me?"

"Because I didn't think you'd listen", Abigail said, "I figured you just thought of me as a stinky weasel that would be better off dating a bowl of cat food".

"Abigail, I'm not cruel", Spike said, "I think all animals should be treated like ponies. One of my best friends help me see that". Abigail blushed a little.

"But, what about... my...?", she asked, peeking at her behind. Spike smiled, knowing what she wanted to ask.

"Do you know how strong this nose is?", Spike said, "You're talking to a dragon that likes the smell of his own dirty feet, and even the smell of his own farts". I choked on a little bit of vomit as I dry-heaved. Spike wasn't lying about that either. It was like a weird fetish for him that I doubt he'll ever get over. But, I told him I don't care about that as long as he keeps his foot odor and gasses to himself, and that's what he does, thankfully.

"So", Spike continued, "Unless your spray smells like a timberwolf's breath, which I couldn't stand if I lived with one for the rest of my life, it isn't going to even make me cringe". Abigail smiled and nuzzled Spike, purring lightly.

"Uh, Spike?", she said, "You wanna share the rest of this scorpion with me?" Spike smiled.

"Sure", he said. The two cutely shared the remains of that scorpion as I let out another small "aww" under my breath.

"Alright", I said, "I'm going to enjoy the rest of the morning with Zecora. Once again, congrats you two".

"Thanks, Glitter", Spike said.

"And don't forget", I said, "At 8:00, we meet back out here. Don't be late".

"We won't", Abigail said.

I smiled and walked back into the Castle, closing the door behind me. After that, I walked back up stairs to my bedchamber, slowly opening the door and peeking in. Zecora had just woken up and was sitting up against the frame, rubbing her eyes. I smiled and sat next to her in bed, smiling at her.

"Good morning, my sleepy wife", I said. Zecora smiled and sat herself in my lap, licking my cheek.

"Good morning indeed, Glitter", she said.

"Did you sleep well?", I asked, lightly rubbing her chubby stomach.

"Yes I did", Zecora said, "Much better with my husband around". I smiled and hugged her a little tighter, affectionately licking her cheek. Zecora blushed and returned the lick, working her tongue into my mouth as she gave me a major tongue-kiss. She then laid herself on top of me, arching her back to keep some of her weight off of her stomach. I moaned lightly, loving the kiss. As she kissed me, I slowly rubbed her cutie marks, making her moan as well. After about a solid minute, we stopped, staring into each other's eyes.

"Oh Zecora", I whispered very low, "I love you so much..."

"I love you too, my loving husband", Zecora said, "*sigh* If only you and I could perform that 'dance' again".

"Me too, hon", I said, kissing her muzzle, "But, we have to keep our twins alive. Family is more important than personal urges".

"Yes", Zecora said. We shared a small nuzzle as Zecora raised herself and laid next to me again. That's when I saw a black and cracked hoof on the edge of the window, and soon, a weakened changeling crawled into my bedchamber. I instantly jumped off the bed.

"Intruder!", I yelled. I leaped onto the changeling and pinned it to the floor. "Zecora, go get Mom!" Zecora nodded and went across the hall to Mom's bedchamber.

"Wait!", the changeling said, "I come in peace! I just have something to say!" I slammed my hoof on its mouth, keeping it from saying anything.

"You're not saying anything until my mother comes in!", I said. At that point, Zecora came back, Mom with her.

"Mom!", I said, "Changeling intruder!" Mom walked over to him and used her magic to paralyze it from the shoulders down.

"What is the meaning of you invading Equestrian Territory?!", Mom said, "You better have a good excuse if you don't want me to disintegrate you!" The changeling spoke.

"I am not here to cause any threats to Canterlot, or Equestria", it said, "I am just a messenger. If you allow me to speak, I shall be on my way". Mom's eyebrows raised.

"Speak", she said.

"It's in regards to our Kingdom", the changeling said, "As you know, you have recently captured our Queen. I am her underboss, and I figured everyone else could manage themselves. But, we can't".

'What do you mean?", I asked.

"We changelings are in total anarchy right now", the changeling said, "Everyone's fighting like animals, shoplifting, murdering, hijacking, and committing several other crimes. I've tried calming everyone down, but it isn't working. Without our Queen, we changelings aren't going to survive".

"Well there isn't anything we Equestrian Royals can do", Mom said, "Chrysalis isn't leaving our dungeon until she agrees to sign our peace treaty". The changeling sighed.

"I figured you'd say something like that", it said, "Well, could you at least lock me with her, just so I don't end up decapitated?"

"You want to turn yourself in?", Mom asked.

"Yes...", the changeling said, "I am the only changeling who is acting civilized, and if getting locked inside of a cell is the only way to keep me like that, then so be it". Mom scratched her chin to think about it, then looked at me.

"Sweetie", she said, "I leave the changeling to you. Since I have already captured their ruler, my business with them is done. You may do onto him what you wish, but do not sentence him to death. We cannot kill off anymore of Chrysalis' subjects while she is imprisoned with us. It would be considered genocide if we execute her subjects while she is in our territory".

"Yes, Mom", I said. Mom nuzzled me and walked back to her bedchamber as I turned to the changeling. "Now, as for you, you've got a lot of nerve intruding Equestria and trespassing into my personal territory. But, since you have given a decent alibi for doing so, I will not punish you too harshly.

"Thank you, Equestrian Royal", it said, "Uh... would you please return my movement to me?"

"Oh, right", I said. I used my magic to disable the paralysis, but activated a different spell. "The spell I have casted upon you will keep you inside the Castle. Unlike Chrysalis, you will be allowed to roam free throughout the Castle, as a maid".

"A maid, hmm...?", the changeling said, "Well... I guess it's better than being locked up".

"And to make sure you aren't a spy", I said, "The spell will keep you from leaving the Castle. Every time you try and leave the Castle, the spell will instantly cause every single one of your muscles to spasm and cramp, and will continue for twenty-four hours". The changeling gulped.

"It won't happen", it said, "You have my word. Now, may I have your approval to see my Queen?" I looked at Zecora for a few seconds, then back at the changeling.

"Sure", I said, "But, on my mother's immortal life, if you betray my trust and conspire with that scum, I will completely obliterate your nervous system, and you can enjoy the rest of your life in a power-chair!"

"I will not", the changeling said, "You again have my word". I lead the changeling down to the dungeon and to the cell where Chrysalis was, while Zecora stayed in the bedchamber. Chrysalis was sleeping in her cell, very uncomfortably.

"Chrysalis!", I said, shooting a bit of magic at her, waking her up. She yelped and fell off of the cement block consisting of her bed.

"What do you want, Equestrian Scum?!", she said, stretching her back as a few bones popped.

"You have a visitor", Zecora said. Chrysalis saw the changeling and glared at him hard.

"Cocoon!", she yelled at him, "I told you and my other subjects to stay in the Kingdom! Trespassing into Equestria won't free me any quickly!"

"Forgive me for disobeying your orders, my Queen", Cocoon said, "But I had to. Your subjects are acting like drunken animals!"

"What?!", Chrysalis yelled.

"We changelings are in anarchy, and only your return can set them straight", Cocoon said, "And the Equestrians won't let you go unless you agree to make peace with them".

"I know...", Chrysalis said.

"Without you, the rest of us will not survive...", Cocoon said, "So... I beg of you, my Queen... sign the treaty, and return to your Kingdom". I began to get a bit excited. I knew Chrysalis would have to bring peace to Equestria if she wanted to save her subjects. But, Chrysalis refused, snorting at Cocoon.

"Never!", she said, "I will NEVER give these filthy Equestrians the peace they want!"

"But my Queen!", Cocoon said, "The Kingdom will not survive if you aren't around to lead it!"

"My Kingdom can survive on its own!", Chrysalis said, "I will not surrender to Equestria, ever!" Cocoon sighed in frustration.

"Your highness... listen to yourself...", he said, "You're putting Equestria Domination over your own subjects! We changelings have been fighting for you for hundreds of years! The least you could do is fight for me just once!" Chrysalis growled at Cocoon.

"You better watch your tongue, Cocoon!", she said, "You are talking to the one who created you!" At that point, I knew it wouldn't be wise to stay, so I decided to leave.

"Cocoon, I am leaving now", I said, "You and Chrysalis settle things. Just remember what will happen if you try to leave".

Cocoon nodded and continued to try and persuade his Queen, while I walked out of the dungeon. Before going back to Zecora, I decided to pay Mom a little visit, remembering it was her special day. I walked to Mom's bedchamber and knocked on the door, entering once Mom said I could. Mom was laying on her back, on her rug lazily like a dog, smiling happily, humming a small tune to herself. I smiled and laid next to her.

"Enjoying yourself?", I playfully asked. Mom giggled and rolled over onto her stomach, draping one of her wings around me.

"Yes", she said, "I'm just enjoying my free time before court". She then gave a small sigh and smiled. "*sigh* 5,000 birthdays".

"That's right", I said, "Happy 5,000th birthday, Mom!"

"Thank you, Sweetie", Mom said, kissing my cheek, "It's nice to share my fifth millennium with such a wonderful family, especially my wonderful little colt". I blushed a little.

"Mom~...", I whined playfully, "You're making me blush..." Mom chuckled and kissed my cheek again.

"So, what did you do with that changeling?", she asked.

"Well, since he had a solid alibi for trespassing", I said, "I'm letting him act as a maid until Chrysalis finally decides to sign the treaty".

"Ah, I see", Mom said, "But, what if he tries to escape?"

"I gave him a spell that will cause all of his muscles to spasm and cramp terribly if he tries to leave", I said, "Just to make sure he isn't a spy". Mom smiled.

"Great", Mom said, "And thank you for honoring my orders and letting him keep his life".

"Hey, I've never ignored your orders, Mom", I said, scooting a little closer to her, "And I never will". Mom smiled again.

"And that's what makes you the best colt I've ever known, Sweetheart", she said, kissing my cheek. That when her stopwatch began beeping. Mom looked at at, sighed, and turned it off. "Alright, I must get ready for court now..." Mom started to get up, but I grabbed her tail with my magic, as I got an idea.

"You know what, Mom?", I said, "Why don't you sit this one out? I'll take over your court for today". Mom looked down.

"Sweetie... I couldn't make you do that...", she said, "I put Midday Court on hiatus for a reason, so you could spend all your time with Zecora until she gives birth... and I shouldn't make you end your vacation for me..."

"But I don't mind", I said, "It's your birthday, and you should get to enjoy it without working. Plus, you took over my court for several days while I was in Ponyville, so the least I could do is repay you by letting you have your birthday to yourself".

"Are you sure?", Mom asked.

"Yes", I said, "Think of it as my birthday present to you". Mom smiled and hugged me tight.

"Thank you so much, Sweetie", she said, affectionately licking my cheek.

"No problem, Mom", I said, licking back and standing up, "Enjoy your free time". Mom smiled and rolled over onto her back again.

"I surely will, Sweetie", she said, "Good luck". I smiled and nodded, walking down to the courtroom.

After Mom's court and attending a tea party with Twilight and Rarity to burn some time, I had met outside with the family to discuss how to got with everything, and after telling Spike and Abigail to wait by the Castle's front door, I went upstairs to Mom's bedchamber again. Entering once I was approved, wonderful smells or flowery shampoos and expensive perfumes pleasured my nostrils as I saw Mom standing at her mirror. Her mane and tail was primped and styled with sparkly glitter and a few jewels hidden inside, flowing gloriously as usual. Plus, her coat was shined and groomed nicely, and her horn was sharpened a little bit more. She looked beautiful.

"Wow, Mom", I said, walking toward her, "You look so pretty!" Mom blushed in flattery.

"Thank you, Sweetie", she said, cuddling me lightly. The very powerful scents of her coat smelled very pleasant, and I couldn't help myself as I inhaled it.

"I see you've been fixing up a few things", I said.

"Of course", Mom said, "Since you decided to take over my court, I had six hours of free time, of which I used to improve my appearance a little. There isn't anything wrong with wanting to look fabulous for my fifth millennium".

"Of course not", I said, "Today is all about you, and you can look how you want". She smiled and kissed my muzzle, her mane lightly brushing my cheek, leaving behind a bit of glitter. That's when a slightly foul odor crept its way into my nostrils. Mom saw my muzzle twitch and blushed lightly.

"Please forgive me for that unpleasant smell...", she said, spraying a little bit of her rose-scented perfume in the air, "I am responsible. My stomach's a little upset right now, and I wasn't expecting you to come in, so while the coast was clear... I decided to..." I smiled and nuzzled her.

"It's fine, Mom", I said, kissing her cheek, "It's just a normal bodily function. Besides, it's your bedchamber anyway, so if you wanna relieve yourself of a little bit of gas, then I can't stop you". Mom smiled and gave me another nuzzle.

"Oh Glitter...", she said, "You're such a sweetheart".

"Thanks Mom", I said, "Anyway, I wanted to ask you something".

"What is it?", she asked, going back to grooming.

"Well, since it is your birthday, I decided to take you out for some mother-son activities", I said, "You know, some of the things you like to do outside the Castle". Mom smiled.

"Hmm... well, I could use something else to spend my free time with", she said, "What sort of activities do you have in mind?"

"Well, I figured we'd go for a walk in the park first", I said, "And whatever else comes up, we'll do". Mom smiled.

"Oh!", she said, "Well, I personally love walks in the park, so this is already off to a good start".

"I'm glad to hear", I said, "Well, should we get going?"

"Of course", Mom said, using her magic to turn off the lights. After that, I led her downstairs to Spike and Abigail. "Oh, and I hope you don't mind if Abigail and Spike come along. I promised I'd take them too".

"It's alright, Sweetheart", Mom said, "The more, the merrier". I smiled as we all walked out. Before completely walking out, I looked back and winked at Auntie Luna, who smiled and signaled to everyone else to get started.

"Good luck, my nephew", she silently mouthed to me, walking away. Once we got to the park, Mom and I snuggled on one of the benches, while Spike and Abigail were digging for bugs.

"Ah... what a beautiful day...", I said as the Sun's warm rays shined on us.

"Indeed it is, my son", Mom said, kissing my cheek, "A wonderful day". I blushed and nuzzled into her chest, my muzzle buried in her soft, warm fur. I loved the feeling of Mom's coat so much, and she knew it. I heard her giggle at little and wrap her front leg around my neck, hugging me and nuzzling the top of my head.

"Well, somepony's quite affectionate today", she said, kissing my cheek again.

"*comfortable yawn* I just love it when we get to spend time alone together...", I said, nuzzling deeper, "It just reminds me of my foal days... when I always got your attention... and now... those days are getting rarer and rarer..." Mom smiled and pulled me into her lap, lightly rubbing my back.

"Well, you're always my little colt in my book, no matter how old you are", she said, "And you can sit in my lap or sleep on my rug anytime you please". She nuzzled deeper. "Bottom line, you can act as young as you want, and I won't mind..." I smiled and kissed Mom's cheek.

"Thanks Mom", I said. I was going to look over at Spike and Abigail to check on them, but their conversation changed my mind.

"Ha! I told you I could get a worm to slither out of my nostril after putting it in my mouth!", Spike said. I then heard a slurp and a gulp, touching my gag reflexes a little bit.

"Well, you wanna see where I can make one come out of my nostril after putting it in there?", Abigail asked. I quickly used my magic to mute their conversation from Mom and I.

"So Sweetheart", she said, "Are you sure you and Zecora don't want to know what sexes your twins are? I promise you I am not untruthful if I tell you". Mom knew exactly what sexes they were when she would check on the embryos and make sure how they're doing, but Zecora and I refused to hear it. We already knew that we were having twins, and that was all we needed to know. We wanted the sexes to be a surprise and hear them from Nurse Redheart's voice when it was time.

"No, Mom", I said, "The only mare we wanna hear it from is Nurse Redheart after they're brought into Equestria so we can be really excited when they're born". Mom smiled.

"Alright, Sweetie...", she said, nuzzling my cheek, "I'm just a little anxious, as I'm sure you are".

"I'm really anxious, Mom!", I said, "I'm gonna be a father to two little ponies!" I nuzzled into Mom's coat. "But... being brought here into Equestria is my most precious moment of my life... and always will be..." Mom kissed my cheek.

"And that's wonderful, Sweetheart", Mom said, "Because it's my most precious memory as well". I smiled and nuzzled into her coat again, feeling a small vibration come from her stomach.

"Are you hungry, Mom?", I asked. Mom giggled.

"Yes", she said, "I skipped dinner so I could enjoy a seven-hour bubble-bath". I thought for a minute, then smiled, knowing I had a new way to keep Mom away from the Castle.

"Well, why don't we get some dinner at that new French restaurant they recently opened, hmm?", I asked. Mom looked to the ground.

"You mean Plus Beaux de Paris...?", Mom asked. "Well... it sounds very tempting... but that place is very expensive... and I can't make you treat me to something that expensive just because it's my birthday..."

"But I want to, Mom", I said, "Zecora and I are multimillionaires, and treating you to a few hundreds of bits worth of fine dinner isn't gonna dent, or even damage my fortune. Plus, everypony loves pleasant dinners, especially on their birthdays, so I insist". Mom gave me another nuzzle and stood up.

"OK, Sweetie", she said, "Thank you so much". I returned her nuzzle and went to get Spike and Abigail, who were finally done talking about bugs and nostrils.

"Spike? Abigail?", I asked, "Mom and I are going to an eatery. Are you coming?" Spike and Abigail looked into each other's eyes and smiled.

"Actually Glitter... leave us here...", Spike said.

"Yeah", Abigail said, "We're having a good time right now, and there's a centipede migration happening right now. I wanna get the rare pink one!"

"Alright then", I said, "Meet us at the door of Plus Beaux de Paris whenever you want to reunite with us".

Both nodded and dug a huge hole while Mom and I walked to Plus Beaux de Paris, ignoring the several surprised faces turning our way as we walked the three miles to the restaurant. Once we got there, there was a really long line, as it was Saturday, but once everyone saw us, they instantly let us move to the front of the line, of which we were finally at the podium.

"Good afternoon, Sir and Madam...", the manager said, looking at his clipboard, "Do you have a reserva-?" He looked up, cutting himself off as he saw us. "Oh mon Dieu! It's Princess Celestia! And her son, Prince Sparkle!"

"Yes", Mom said, "Are any tables open right now?"

"Yes, of course!", he said, "Table or booth?"

"Booth, please", I said.

"Very well!", he said, still very excited as he grabbed a couple of menus, "Booth for two! Follow me please!" We followed him to a booth and sat down next to each other on the same side as he gave us our menus.

"Sit tight, and somepony will be with you in a hot second, alright?", he said, quickly going into the kitchen.

"Well, somepony was excited to see us", I joked.

"Tell me something I don't know", Mom said, chuckling. Just thirty seconds later, a waiter came out, smiling bright.

"Bonjour, fellow Royals", she said, "I am Chloe, and I will be serving you tonight". She placed a few napkins and silverware on the table. "Can I start you off with a drink?" I smiled.

"A bottle of your finest white wine, please", I said.

"Oh my! 'Ze finest?", Chloe said, "Certainly!" She went behind the counter and grabbed a bucket of ice chips with a large bottle of white wine in it, setting it on the table. "Would you care to sample it?" Mom smiled.

"Yes, Lady Chloe", she said. Chloe blushed lightly and filled Mom's wineglass with the cold wine. Mom inspected it like a wine-tasting and sipped.

"It is perfect", she said.

"Wonderful", Chloe said, "Well, I will give you a few minutes to 'zink about what you want, and will return shortly". We both nodded as she left again.

"Sweetheart, this place is so gorgeous", Mom said, "It's no wonder everyone wishes to eat here regularly". I smiled and nuzzled into Mom's side.

"I know", I said, "I wonder how Rarity would feel being in here". Mom looked up and smiled.

"Well, why don't you find out", she said, pointing toward the entrance. I looked there and saw Rarity and Fluttershy at the podium. I smiled and called them over.

"Rarity! Fluttershy!", I said, "Over here!" Both mares looked over at our table.

"Oh my!", Rarity said, walking over to our table, "Greetings Princess Celestia! Prince Sparkle!" She bowed in front of us.

"Greetings to you as well, Lady Rarity", Mom said, "To you as well, Lady Fluttershy". Fluttershy blushed, smiled, and gave a small bow as well.

"What brings you to this fine restaurant?", I asked.

"Well, Fluttershy and I were scheduled for a spa treatment today", Rarity said, "But the spa had to be evacuated because of a fire-ant infestation. We decided to come here instead and maybe order an appetizer or two".

"Well, why don't you join Mom and I?", I asked, "I'll treat you to some stuff".

"Are you sure, your highness?", Fluttershy asked, "We wouldn't want to pester with your Mother-Son time..."

"No, it's fine", I said, "I'm a good friend. Plus, the appetizers here are pretty high, so unless you want to pay twenty bits for a basket of croissants, I recommend having dinner with us". Fluttershy giggled and sat down on the other side of the booth, Rarity sitting next to her.

"Thank you, Prince Sparkle", Fluttershy said.

"A thank you from myself as well", Rarity said, "In fact, I've been meaning to thank you for a while now".

"Why is that?", I asked.

"For helping Spike get over his depression...", Rarity said, "...after I rejected his feelings..." I smiled.

"It's no problem, Rarity", I said.

"I just want to let you know, your highness...", she continued, "...I too had feelings for him, because he was a sweet little dragon... but I just came to a realization that there was no longer any room in my heart for stallions... and Twilight is such a wonderful mare... I just couldn't tell Spike that I loved Twilight, and instead had Twilight do it..."

"Rarity, it's fine", I said, "It's your sexuality, your love, your desires, and your heart, and only you can decide what stays and leaves. And sure, Spike may have taken it a little too hard, but I easily cheered him up. Plus, he decided to make it official with Abigail this morning".

"Aww!", Fluttershy said, "That's so adorable!"

"It is indeed!", Rarity said, "I was really hoping he'd find another fish in the sea".

"Well, he did", I said. Rarity grabbed the wine bottle and helped herself to a glass.

"So, your and her highness", Rarity said, "What brings you here?"

"I'm treating Mom to a good dinner for her birthday", I said.

"Oh my!", Fluttershy said, "Happy birthday, Princess Celestia!" Mom smiled.

"I thank you, Fluttershy", she said.

"I politely ask", Rarity said, "How old are you?"

"I am living for my fifth millennium", Mom said. Rarity raised her eyebrows in surprise.

"You're 5,000 years old?", she asked as Mom nodded, "Oh my..."

"Impressive, isn't it", Mom joked, making Fluttershy giggle as Chloe came back.

"I have returned, your and his highness", she said, "Oh, and bonjour fellow mares".

"Hello, ma'am", Fluttershy said, "I am Fluttershy".

"Mon nom est Rarity, Madame Chloe", Rarity said, speaking French. Chloe smiled in flattery.

"Well, are you ready to order?", she asked. We all looked at our menus.

"I'd like the Escargot, please", I said. I gave Chloe my menu and she wrote that on her notepad.

"One oat omelet, please", Rarity said, giving Chloe her menu as she wrote that, "Extra mushrooms".

"Ratatouille please", Fluttershy said, also giving Chloe her menu.

"I'll just have some buttered croissants and a soufflé, please", Mom said, giving Chloe her menu, "I'm a mare who only orders appetizers and dessert whenever I eat out". Chloe chuckled.

"Believe me, Princess Celestia", she said, "You're not the only one. Anyway, you shall be dining in a few minutes". Chloe walked off again as we continued to converse.

"The most awkward part of eating out, am I right?", I joked, making Rarity and Fluttershy giggle.

"Yes, my son", Mom said, nuzzling me, "It is".

"I love eating out", Rarity said, "Especially at wonderful places like this. I mean, not that it's better than my own cooking, but it's still fantastic". I giggled.

"You really love to promote yourself, don't you?", I joked.

"Of course I do, Prince Sparkle", she said, "I am a fashionista. Fashionistas always promote themselves, and there's nothing wrong with that".

"Hey, I didn't say there was anything wrong with it", I said, "I was just joking about it. Besides, your beautiful creations are way too prestigious not to promote". Rarity blushed hard, her white fur easily making it shown.

"Oh, you...", she said, "You're making me blush, now..." I smiled and gave her a small nuzzle.

Three hours later, we had eaten our dinner, had dessert, and saw Rarity and Fluttershy off as Mom ordered the Pegasus Royal Guards to fly them home in the carriage. After leaving Plus Beaux de Paris, Mom and I started walking back to the Castle after collecting Spike and Abigail. I peeked at my pocket-watch I was hiding inside my wing, seeing 11:45, and I knew it would take ten minutes to get home, meaning we would be five minutes early. I was hoping they'd be ready, because I had run out of ways to keep her occupied.

"Sweetheart, I had a great time tonight", Mom said.

"I'm glad you did", I said, "I just wanted to make your 5,000th birthday perfect".

"And it was absolutely perfect", she said, kissing my cheek, leaving behind a lipstick print, "But like I said, getting to spend time around you is wonderful, no matter what". I smiled in flattery.

"Indeed it is", I said, nuzzling her. I then looked down at the ground and mumbled underneath my breath. "If only it didn't have to end so soon..."

"What was that, Sweetie?", Mom asked. I shook my head.

"Nothing, Mom", I said, "Just mumbling to myself". Mom giggled as Spike spoke to us.

"Glitter, Princess Celestia?", he asked, "My sweet tooth is killing me. Can we stop to get some candy, please?"

"Ooh! Yeah!", Abigail agreed.

"Candy?", I asked, "You two just ate".

"But we haven't had dessert yet", Spike said, "Twilight always lets me have dessert after dinner".

"Hmm...", I said, stopping to think.

"Please Glitter...?", Abigail asked, nuzzling my front leg, "Please...?" I was about to say no so we could get back to the Castle, but then, I realized that was the perfect distraction I needed for a few more minutes. But first, I looked at Mom to make sure she was OK with it, since we were out for her. Mom smiled.

"Kids will be kids, Sweetie", she said, "Plus, they did behave themselves while we were having dinner, so I believe they deserve some candy". I shrugged.

"Alright then", I said, "Let's go get you some candy".

"Yay!", Abigail said, crawling up my leg and resting on my back, "Thank you!"

"It's no problem, Abigail", I said, nuzzling her cheek and placing Spike on my back as well.

Ten minutes later, we all bought ourselves, Auntie Luna, Caddie, and Twilight each a large bag of candy and finally began to walk back home. Looking at my pocket-watch again, it was 11:56, and we were literally four minutes away from home. I smiled, knowing we would be right on time.

After stopping one last time to let Abigail tinkle, we finally reached the Castle. I smiled as my pocket-watch read 12:00, and we were right on time. I felt a little proud that I was able to keep Mom away from the Castle for a full four hours. Once I unlocked the door with my magic and opened it, it was pitch black, and Auntie Luna's magic was slyly tinting the windows to keep the Moonlight out of the room. And the only light seen was coming from the dining room.

"What's going on?", I playfully asked, pretending I didn't know.

"I think somepony left the dining room's light on", Mom said. She then walked into the kitchen to turn it off, myself following behind. Right when Mom stepped hoof into the dining room, a confetti popper was activated in her face, blinding her for a minute.

"Surprise!", a simultaneous yell was heard. Sure enough, the party had been perfectly set up. Cake, cookies, pies, punch, corn chips, salsa, cheeses, and even a chocolate fountain were on the table, along with a few presents. Lights matching Mom's mane were hung up all over the place, and a banner saying "Happy 5,000th Birthday" was hanging from the ceiling. Everything looked magnificent, and it was a little impressive that they were able to do so well in only four hours. Anyway, after Mom recovered from the confetti attack, she looked around, gasping in surprise.

"What's... all this...?", she asked. Auntie Luna smiled and walked over to her sister.

"It's a party for you, dear sister", she said, "The family and I decided to throw you the best birthday party you ever had, to kick off your fifth millennium".

"And we all pitched in to make it happen", Caddie said, "Glitter had the biggest job". Mom looked at me.

"So, the walk, and the dinner?", she asked, "It was a diversion?"

"Mm-hmm", I said, "Pretty good one, huh?" Mom giggled.

"Yes, it was", she said, "Everypony, thank you. I am so flattered that you took time out of your own days to kick off my 5,000th year in a good direction". She looked at me.

"Especially you Sweetie", she said, giving me a slow nuzzle, "You decided to take over my court even though yours has been on hiatus, just so I could have some time to myself. And you even spent four more hours to make me even happier".

"Mom, whenever you're happy, I'm happy", I said, "And when Auntie Luna told me to keep you out of the Castle, I only saw it as a Mother and Son Bond, like I do every time". I hugged her. "I love you, Mom". Mom began to show a few tears, her makeup running down her face a little.

"I love you too, Sweetie", she said, hugging me back as a few "Aww's" rang out between everyone, "Alright then... *sniffle* Let's party".

The party was great, and the food and snacks were delicious, but to be honest, I couldn't really enjoy myself like I wanted to. Even though my time out with Mom was only to distract her, but I really loved it. Like I said, there was nothing I loved more than spending time with my mother, and those times weren't always available. As the years went on, more and more responsibilities entered our lives, and we couldn't spend every day together. After the party was over, Spike, Twilight, and Caddie all went home, Abigail went to stay the night with Spike, and Auntie Luna went to court, while I was sitting at the filthy table, picking at a piece of cake I had eaten half of.

"Sweetie?", Mom asked, walking over to me, "Are you alright?" I quickly wiped a sneaking tear from my eye.

"I'm fine, Mom", I said.

"You don't look fine", Mom said, feeling the fur on my face, "In fact, you've been weeping". I looked down again.

"Alright...", I said, "Something has upset me... but you wouldn't care..." Mom sat down next to me, giving me a nuzzle.

"Sweetie, I always care if my family needs a little cheering-up", she said, "So please, what's the matter?" I sighed and nuzzled into Mom's warm coat.

"It's just... I wish we could spend more time together...", I said, nuzzling deeper. I felt Mom hug me as she rested her chin on my shoulder.

"Oh... is my son feeling a little too far away from me...?", she whispered into my ear.

"*sniffle* Yes...", I said, "It's just... when I was a foal, we spent almost every minute of every day together... and I loved it... but now... we barely get two hours together... because of court and relationships and duties..." I buried my face in Mom's coat completely. "I just wish... I wish I could feel like the Mommy's colt I used to feel like..." Mom pat my back.

"I see...", she said, "You feel like you're being forced to grow up because we don't get much time together...?"

"*sniffle* Yes...", I said, "I just want more time to spend with you..." Mom pulled me into her lap, still cuddling me.

"Aww, Sweetie...", she said, "I understand how you feel... but just because we can't spend 24/7 together doesn't mean I love you any less. Even if we only saw each other once every blue moon, I'd still love you just like I did sixteen years ago..." I looked up at her.

"Really...?", I asked.

"Yes", Mom said, "In fact... hmm..." Mom thought for a bit, then smiled again as she slid me off her lap and stood up.

"Why don't you follow me to your chambers, hmm?", she asked. I looked up in confusion.

"Why...?", I asked.

"You'll have to find out, Sweetie", she said, "I'm sure you'll find it an enjoyable surprise".

I shrugged a little and after blowing my nose, I obeyed Mom and followed her to my bedchamber. Zecora and her family were all out at the lake, so the chamber was empty, and we were alone. Mom sat in my bed, using the comforter to cover her lower body, then smiled at me.

"Lay across my lap, Sweetheart", she said.

"Your lap...?", I asked.

"Yes", Mom said, "Please?" I shrugged again and did, laying on my back across Mom's lap. Mom smiled and lifted me into her front legs, holding me like a foal. Very strong confusion hit me as I looked up.

"Wh-what's this...?", I asked.

"Well, since you feel like we're growing apart...", Mom said, "I just want to show you how close we really are... and how serious I was when I said I love you no matter what..."

Mom began to cradle me as if I were a foal, petting my mane. At first, my teenage mind found it very uncomfortable and awkward, but after two minutes, I began to slowly like it. The cradling reminded me of my foalhood. I began to remember the several hours I spent in her hooves, slowly rocking back and forth. I felt my chest warm up a little as I buried my face in Mom's coat again, giving a very delighted sigh, making Mom smile.

"How do you feel now, sweetie?", she playfully asked.

"W... wonderful...", I said, "L-like... like I... don't have a care... in the world..." Mom smiled, cradled me for a solid hour, kissed my cheek, and laid me down on the bed, covering me up with the comforter.

"I love you, Sweetie", she said, petting my mane, "And don't you even think about forgetting it. No matter how much time we get together, it's always valuable, and I still love you just as much as when you were a foal". She gave me a warm nuzzle. "And remember, you can sleep, lay, sit, eat, talk, or play with me anytime you wish, as long as I'm free. No matter if you're sixteen, eighteen, forty, or even 100,000, you're always gonna me Mommy's little colt, OK?" I smiled and kissed Mom's cheek affectionately.

"OK Mommy...", I said, nuzzling her again as I snuggled underneath my covers. Mom smiled and began to walk out. "Wait... where're you going...?"

"I must get some rest now, Sweetie", she said, "If I stay up too late, I will not have the energy to raise the Sun". I looked down.

"OK...", I said, feeling a little bit discouraged. Mom smiled.

"But you know what, Sweetie?", Mom asked, "I'll do something very special for you tomorrow. Think of it as my gift to you, for helping make my 5,000th birthday magical". I smiled again.

"OK!", I said, "Goodnight... Mommy..." Mom smiled and blew a kiss to me.

"Goodnight, Sweetheart", she said, "I love you with all my heart".

Author's Note

Thanks for 180 followers!