“I like that new eyeshadow.”

“Oh, thank you, dear,” Trixie stated as she fluttered her eyelashes in demonstration to the stallion beside her. “Sparkles do tend to bring out the best in a mare.”

Not finding any argument with that statement, the blue-roan male beside the smaller pony smiled and lifted his head tot he afternoon breeze floating past them. It had been a little while since Masquerade and Trixie had gotten to spend some quality time together, and the blond stallion had missed easy days like this. With Trixie trying to settle into a new job as a part of Princess Twilight’s personal magic counsel (along with Starlight Glimmer, Sunset Shimmer, and Sunburst), and he himself having a tough time fitting in to the new life they were living, good, quality time with one’s mother could be lost in transit.

“How are things in Ponyville?” Trixie spoke up after a moment, addressing her son and bringing his focus back to her.

“They’re going all right,” the stallion spoke in his smooth, warm tone. “I’m enjoying my time working in Mantra’s shop. I was surprised to see that more and more ponies are starting to take interest in old magic.”

‘Old magic’ being fortune telling, runes, tarot cards, herbs, rocks, and crystals. Masquerade himself specialized in such aspects, especially when it came to fortune and cards. That’s how he gained his cutie mark, after all.

“I’m glad to hear it,” the blue mare replied, having dropped the 3rd-person speak when her son was born, as he had a difficult time understanding what the hell his mother meant. “I miss you so much when I’m back in Canterlot.”

“I miss you, too, but don’t worry, mommy-dearest,” Masquerade smiled, a twinkle in his handsome eye as he craned his head over to nudge his muzzle against his dam’s. “Little Masky’s a big boy now - he’s got it all under control.”