FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

I was already going a bit stir crazy by the time I finished and put away my previous journal. I wanted to get up on deck for some fresh air. And when I did step outside and was greeted by the boundless sky, I was very surprised by what I found. The sky was so much clearer than when I last saw it. No gloomy gray clouds. The sun was shining bright. Even the wind felt noticeably warmer and gentler. As if autumn had disappeared and summer had rushed in to take its place.

Sure enough, someone came rushing up the stairs seconds after I had stepped out onto the deck. A familiar voice shouted as the tapping of feet and hooves reached my ears. "Hey! What did I say last time about... Huh? Whoa, when did the weather get so...nice?"

Ember and Rain Shine had figured out that I had gone up on deck without them. And after what happened last time, I could not fault them for being anxious. But they were instantly distracted by the radical shift in the weather forecast. The bitter and harsh autumn winds were gone. We had drawn much closer to the planet's equator and into a more tropical climate. We could even tell at higher altitudes. It was a good thing I had dressed into lighter attire by then. Rain Shine stepped forward with her eyes scanning the vast blue horizon out beyond the Olympia's vast gas sack looming over us. "The warmth on the wind... What a change in scenery. I can hardly wait to have solid ground beneath my hooves again."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGUazYad768[/embed]

While she was pleasantly distracted at first, Ember soon glanced sternly at me before marching right over and firmly grasping my left hand. "Hey. I know we'll be landing soon, but don't forget what happened last time. If you come up on deck, at least one of us needs to be with you. Got it?"

"Right, right, sorry. Maybe I need to just make sure we always bring my armor along on every trip just to be safe." I retorted while still annoyed over how I nearly went overboard the previous day in spite of the Olympia's safety protocols. As if the weather itself was openly mocking us. With my hand securely grasped in that of the Dragon Lord, the three of us approached the starboard side and gazed out over the horizon. Our altitude had lowered greatly, but we could still see far. And we were right over the ocean with the mainland spread out before us. "You really don't get to see anything quite like this where I come from..."

"Wow... Hang on! Rain, watch over him for a moment, all right?" Ember suddenly barked before rushing back inside the ship towards the stern. Rain Shine immediately stepped up beside me and offered herself for leverage. I draped an arm over her shoulders as we leaned into each other. We gazed out over the vast horizon while just savoring that moment high above the sea. We did not even find the will to speak. All we wanted was to enjoy this moment together as our auras mingled. But we barely had more than a minute alone together before Ember suddenly rushed back out on deck. And in her hand was the Bloodstone Scepter. She rushed over to us and held the scepter high. "Mom! Dad! Check out the view!"

How thoughtful of her. Ember did not want her parents to miss out on new experiences with us. They had never seen the tropics while gliding along high above. I could not hear them, but I am sure Torch and Blaze were really enjoying the view. Although Ember clearly could as she began to speak in conversation with no one in particular. "Yeah, we're almost there. They said we'll be landing in less than an hour."

Ember went on and on with what appeared to be a conversation with herself. It must have appeared weird to anyone who knew nothing about the Bloodstone Scepter's unique properties. She even completely forgot about me while Rain Shine stood by my side. I then had a realization and quietly asked my beloved, "Have you spoken to Torch and Blaze yet?"

Rain Shine happily replied, "I have. Ember was eager to introduce me to them properly during her first visit to the Grove of Silence. Although I confess I found their sizes...daunting at first."

"Yeah, me too. I don't know how it's possible for any living creature to get that big." I said while cracking a crooked smirk at the memory. Torch especially frightened me at first glance. I have seen big dragons before meeting him, but I swear they only reached a tenth of his size. Was it normal for the Dragon Lord to reach such gargantuan sizes? I looked over at Ember as she happily chatted up her parents. And I felt a certain fear in my heart. "I hope Ember never gets that big... How would I ever hold her?"

"I don't believe you have to worry about that. From what I have seen, the dragons of the west are a highly adaptive race. I doubt Ember will ever take on such a towering form. Simply because she does not need to. And I think she would be very happy staying small..." Rain Shine whispered to me while even sneaking a kiss upon my cheek. But her eyes then widened when Ember happened to glance over at us.

"Yeah, we even got to play with... Hold on a second, Dad." Ember said before turning her attention to us. And she spoke with a playful smirk on her lips. "Hey, what're you saying about my height here? Is the current Dragon Lord a midget to you giants?"

She was not entirely wrong. I seem to recall Ember's height as maybe three feet and ten inches. Very petite. Although I do not recall Ember ever being particularly insecure about her height. Certainly not when she has used it to her advantage. Rain Shine was at a loss on what to even say to Ember's question, but it was clear Ember was just messing with her friend. While Rain Shine struggled to come up with a tactful response that would not cause her to lose her usual serene poise, I came up with a question of my own. "Do you want to be bigger? Or rather...how big do you want to be?"

Ember crossed her arms with the Bloodstone Scepter still in her grasp. She appeared genuinely thoughtful about the concept. "Hm... I wouldn't mind getting bigger than this. But not too big. I really don't know what I would do with myself if I got as big as those big brutes that can take up an entire cave... Shut up, Dad."

What was this? Rain Shine and I just stared as Torch and Blaze appeared to have derailed the conversation with Ember looking increasingly annoyed. What were her mother and father prodding her about at the time? Ember's eyes widened in revulsion as she barked, "No, I do NOT want to stay small enough just to hold him in my arms instead of in one hand! I just want to be big enough to... Mom, knock it off! OK, last warning. Cut it out or... Right, you asked for it!"

Ember suddenly reached far back with the arm that was currently holding the Bloodstone Scepter. Was she...really about to do what I think she was? She then suddenly smirked at us with a delighted grin. "Hey, Rain Shine! Catch!"

And just like that, Ember chucked the Bloodstone Scepter over the side of the deck! And not simply to throw it far. It was rapidly tumbling over itself like a wheel as it went flying many meters away. I can only imagine what kind of results someone with Ember's strength would get if they took part in a shot put contest. While I stared in utter disbelief as Ember threw the symbol of her reign as Dragon Lord out towards what was surely the beach far below, Rain Shine managed to catch it in her levitation spell and pull it back over to us. She spoke with a raised voice as she asked, "What in heaven's name was that for?! You would just cast aside the symbol of your reign?!"

"Pfft, no way! I just needed to make a point." Ember replied smugly before taking the Bloodstone Scepter back into her hand. She then gazed at the Bloodstone itself and asked, "So, you guys feeling sick in there yet? You gonna stop poking me about that stuff, or am I gonna have to take you two for another ride?"

I had to cover my mouth to stifle a laugh. Ember did not throw the Bloodstone Scepter for its own sake. There was a reason she hurled it in a manner that caused it to rapidly spin around in a circle so rapidly. Having to gaze out at that vast sky with their view rapidly tumbling to show so much visual information in a short time would surely be disorienting to the point of being nauseating. Torch and Blaze probably felt sick after that display and Ember's proud smirk told me that she had won that debate. I soon asked, "Parents being parents?"

"Yeah, pretty much. I'm still getting used to having my dad back in my life. And finally having a real mom. I mean its been mostly good, but...I guess I'll always be their little girl in the end so long as I'm little." Ember groaned while rolling her eyes. Although she looked more annoyed than angry. She had no ill will towards her parents. And she proved that by waving a hand at us while saying, "Oh, don't get the wrong idea! I'm happy having them back in my life! Especially since they're together! Dad's never been better now that he and Mom are together again."

"I never assumed otherwise!" I laughed while still wondering what Torch and Blaze were up to on the other side. Probably trying to fight their gag reflexes after that sickening spiral they went into. I then looked to Rain Shine and was going to ask about her parents on instinct, but I quickly caught myself. I knew that her parents were long gone by then. Such is the curse of a kirin. Every kirin daughter will far outlive their mother.

Ember did not know this though. And so she asked, "Come to think of it... I never got to meet your parents, Rain. Where can I find them?"

It was a question born of ignorance. Ember knew very little about a kirin's lifespan. Fortunately, Rain Shine took the question in good grace as she explained. "I'm sorry to say that my mother and father have long since left this world. I was born of a wonderful human man and the one known as Sequoia Valley."

The Dragon Lord's eyes widened at this revelation. Her jaw even dropped open for a few seconds before she asked, "Your father...was human. That's... Um... Wow, I never would've guessed. But...how long do kirin live? I never even asked your age, but...I get the impression they're just as long-lived as we dragons."

"Oh, we are so much more long-lived than your kind, Ember. The average lifespan of a kirin maiden is five thousand years." Rain Shine explained while Ember stood there in deepening shock. It was daunting to imagine how the dragons of the east live twice as long on average than the dragons of the west. Although she then provided an important caveat. "That is...unless that maiden is no longer a maiden. For with every child a kirin mare brings into this world, her lifespan is cut in half. Five thousand becomes twenty-five hundred. And that becomes one thousand and two hundred and fifty. And so on... I was the only child born to my mother. And that was still enough to...have her end come much sooner."

Ember's gaze of shock turned into one of somber realization. And she spoke very softly to her friend. "To have children, a kirin...needs to make a sacrifice? That's...just so sad. Your mother must have loved you so much if she was willing to give up centuries of her time just to have you..."

I tightened my arm's embrace around my beloved Rain Shine. I knew enough about her mother to assume such, but it was the first time such a thing had been discussed in greater depth. I listened in silent respect as Rain Shine spoke serenely while showing little sorrow. "She did. My mother was a wonderful mare. She shaped me into what I am today. But do not weep for her. She gave up so many years willingly for me. And I...would do the same."

Rain Shine's eyes met mine and mine stared into hers. We knew the truth about each other. We desired to have a family together. To bring precious kirin children into the world and to bring the laughter of said children back to her home. But to do so...would mean Rain Shine sacrificing centuries of her life. How long ago had she even been born? How much time did she have left in her? With every daughter, centuries would be taken off of her lifespan. And Ember asked the most important question. "How many do you hope to end up having?"

"Enough. I only wish...to have enough with my beloved." Rain Shine whispered lovingly as she gazed into my eyes. I felt such a gentle surge in her warm and bright aura. A beautiful desire and a steadfast courage. She was ready and willing to make that sacrifice for the family she desired. I felt such...a profound sense of joy and sorrow. The love of a kirin mother must be like no other. The gravity of her desire to find love with me and to gladly raise a family with me... Was I crying? I must have been. Rain Shine gently rubbed her face along my cheek as she whispered, "Do not weep for me, my love. For nothing would make me happier. I will be yours. And you will be mine. And so long as our times to leave this world are not too far apart... So long as I may grow old with you, I will be happy."

Such powerful words... To say I felt honored was an understatement. I held Rain Shine and buried my face into her fragrant emerald mane. The soothing scent of pine assailed my nostrils. She was a towering tree ready to bear fruit. To scatter her seeds to let new saplings take root and grow. Even if it meant that she would wither that much sooner. I wanted to make certain that my beloved Rain Shine would not regret that decision. I wanted to be good enough for her. To keep her happy and fulfilled.

Ember was quick to notice what was wrong with that situation. She spoke up boldly, "Hey... Why're we even talking about this gloomy stuff anyway? Isn't that why we're out here in the first place? Because of all the gloom we had to deal with on the Empty Plains? Come on, smile! This is our victory vacation here!"

Rain Shine and I looked at Ember and then at each other. And we chuckled together as we both felt silly focusing too much on something that was not even relevant at the time. I then said, "She's not wrong... We probably should discuss this stuff some other time."

"Yes, let's. And we are so near too." Rain Shine said with such a happy smile in spite of the heavy subject matter we had just discussed. When she turned to face the western horizon now that we appeared to have sunk a little lower in that time, she began to step closer to the edge. "I feel...daring. Hold me, please?"

I suspected Rain Shine wanted to test her courage by looking over the side of the deck. Ember took hold of my hand while my other hand firmly gripped Rain Shine's mane. The three of us formed a living chain with our kirin companion easing herself closer to the edge and beyond the safety line on the floor. At least the tropical winds on a clear day were gentler than those bitter autumn gales back north.

Rain Shine leaned forward and over the railing to gaze down at the beaches and vast blue ocean below. Her eyes were very wide and she did look uncharacteristically nervous. So much so that it was hard not to laugh at that face. She was completely out of her element and being reminded of just how far away from solid ground she was did not help her mood. A full ten seconds passed before Rain Shine quickly backed away with rapid taps of her hooves. "I think that's enough courage for now!"

We were having a good time up there. Even if Rain Shine had to fight her apprehension all the while. The three of us went to the very front of the bow to gaze out at what was ahead. A seaside town could be seen coming up ahead. And out at the seaside was a great harbor. Both sailing vessels and airships were docked there with the latter even floating on the surface of the ocean. Ember noticed this and asked, "Hey, are airships supposed to be able to float on water like that?"

"I mean I guess being called airships means more than one thing. I think being able to float is necessary just in case they have to make an emergency landing at sea." I replied while finally able to see that feature at work. They would also be less vulnerable to strong wind by being kept at sea level.

Bit by bit, the Olympia drew nearer to the harbor. But there was one airship docked there that started to look familiar the closer we got. So much white... And then it dawned on me. "That... That airship right there... The Alabaster?"

My heart soared. That glorious elegant airship was the private royal cruiser of Capricorn Island. Novo was already there waiting for us. But by bit, more and more of the Olympia's passengers began to come up on deck to witness the last stretch of the landing. A small flock of pegasi dockworkers came flying up alongside the Olympia with most being towards the stern to communicate with the helmsman. With no effective way to see what was right below the ship, our pilot needed to be guided by others to land safely.

The Olympia descended more rapidly as the buzzing of the propellers at the rear became more relaxed. We were soon right over the ocean. Bit by bit, the Olympia was guided out towards an open spot at the docks set beside a long concrete strip where several other airships were currently moored. And the ship moored just off the starboard side was indeed the Alabaster. My heart leapt as I saw a few glorious hippogriff stewards out on deck in uniform discussing the matters of the day with the pony dockworkers up on deck. I am never not happy to see those beautiful bird horses. Perhaps their sheer positive nature is just that infectious.

It was such a shift in the feeling under my feet when the Olympia finally set down on the ocean. No longer suspended in the air, I could feel the airship rocking under us as the water gave way to let it float on the surface. And my two companions immediately reacted with displays of unease or even discomfort. Were they already getting seasick? Ember grumbled aloud, "Ugh, what's with this new feeling? The ship's rocking a lot now and I don't like it..."

"I guess not everyone earns their sea legs on their first time on water..." I replied while noticing Rain Shine looked particularly queasy. Kirin were apparently not meant for more than just the sky. They were the first ones to disembark from the ship when a gangplank was brought to the starboard side and they could not have gotten back on solid ground faster. One by one, the passengers passed me as they headed down the gangplank. Orbash was the last to leave while I took a moment to survey the view now that I was back in a place I only barely recognized.

The moon king stood beside me and immediately glanced at me with a smile to show that he did not stop there idly. Orbash inhaled that crisp ocean wind with a big smile on his face and let out a hearty sigh. "Ah, the scent of the briny warm sea. And I see my wife's sun is particularly radiant around these parts."

"You two never spent much time in the tropics, right?" I asked while not so certain that the king and queen of Equestria would truly never touch the tropical ocean even once in their very long lives. Even while living as vagabonds outside of the view of society. When alive for millennia and gifted with the power of flight and few instances of responsibility, the wonders of traveling all over the world is all but demanded of oneself.

Orbash got a laugh out of that question before he could reply. "Every once in a while. There's something about swimming in the warm surf that you can't experience anywhere else. And don't get me started about long moonlit walks along the beach. Don't tell Sunflare I told you this, but that was always her favorite thing to do at night whenever we were around these parts."

For some reason, I found the thought of imagining the mighty sun queen strolling along the wet sand on a night with a full moon tantalizing. Her billowing scarlet mane and tail glowing like a warm flame against the dark ocean and star-filled sky must be quite a sight to see. But we were soon distracted by a whistle from somewhere ahead of us. Our eyes scanned the deck of the Alabaster and were quick to see one particular stallion waving at us with his impressive wing. A stallion clad in bits of iridescent armor. And there was only one stallion among Capricorn Island's guard detail who sported such a radiant set. Orbash's eyes widened in joyous realization. "Why, I do believe that's the cap... I mean the admiral of the guard! That's the term he prefers, yes?"

"Yes, and he'll get quite cross with you if you say otherwise." I retorted with a happy chuckle. None other than Seaspray was aboard the Alabaster. Orbash and I did not want to keep everyone waiting and hurried down the gangplank while the dockworkers finished getting the Olympia properly moored for the time being. Seaspray gracefully dove over the port side of the Alabaster's deck and came in for a gentle landing with his vast wings spread wide to gently drift down. I immediately held out my arms to embrace my friend. "Good to see you, admiral."

"Oh so good to see you in fine spirits, my friend!" The kindly admiral of Capricorn Island replied while also reaching out to drape a wing over me for a hug. He did not even hesitate at the off chance of such a greeting being against protocol. A reminder of the jovial nature of a hippogriff. Our embrace was brief before he faced the rest of my companions. "Your majesties! Friends from afar! Welcome to Cantercun! Her royal majesty has entrusted me with escorting you to the resort of your choosing! Right this way!"

It seemed just like Novo to have her most trusted subordinate be tasked with guiding us along the docks. Ember and Rain Shine were especially taken with being in a new environment and kept looking all over the place while whispering amongst themselves. But as I followed Seaspray, my thoughts were elsewhere. I could still remember the love letter I sent to Novo. And the response she sent back to me mere hours later. She had promised it would not be long before we would be together again and that reunion was nigh. I was immensely excited yet terribly nervous. My queen was near.

I did not exactly recognize the seaside outskirts of the town we found ourselves in. It must have been an entirely different resort from the one Fluttershy and I spent our honeymoon at. That warm ocean breeze... It was a stark difference from that miserable late autumn weather I was dealing with back in Ponyville. A refreshing change of pace I did not know how badly I needed it. I could only hope my friends and family back home were enjoying themselves just fine to. And that thought reminded me. "Gotta remember to pick up some souvenirs while I'm here."

We were first guided away from the harbor and were even met by a few more of Novo's guard detail for extra security. Not that Cantercun ever gave me the impression that it was a dangerous place, but it was more as an act of protocol and good will from Celestia's best friend. Seaspray and his men guided us away from the bustling harbor and along a beachside road where other vacationers were having the time of their lives. Although it was not as busy that close to the harbor. The real fun must have been happening on the beach right outside the resort itself.

Palm trees lined the stone path before we were lead into the main building of our assigned resort. I was expecting something of utter decadence, but the interior of that great lobby was a bit humbler and oozed of a tropical humbleness. The walls had a certain stone finish painted in warm pastel colors with bubbling indoor fountains set about small gardens lined with plenty of tropical foliage. It had a certain timeless feel about it. A wave of nostalgia hit me in ways I did not expect. Such design aesthetics are probably just not a thing anymore where I come from.

Inspiration struck and I immediately got my DSi out of my pocket. I popped open the device, selected the camera feature, and started snapping photos of the lobby's interior design. I also started snapping photos of my companions as they beheld the accommodations for the first time. I focused more on Ember and Rain Shine due to them being so far out of their element. I then made sure to get photos of Orbash and Sunflare. My family would be thrilled to get a look at Equestria's king and queen during their first real vacation.

I was so distracted by my task that I did not even hear what Seaspray was saying to all of us. Although I was started by a suddenly call from across the lobby. It was shrill and echoed around the stone walls too well. I was almost startled into dropping my DSi as I glanced around. The sound of galloping hooves echoed through the lobby. But not just hooves. The tapping of something else joined the clopping of hooves against stone tiles. My entourage spread out as something came rushing right at me. A bit small, but brightly colored. And I only barely had enough time to close my DSi and get it back into my pocket before the incoming creature hurled itself at me through the air.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86KIkcxhu1w[/embed]

Someone grabbed me in a big embrace. Six limbs wrapped around me. Two arms, two legs, and two wings. The feeling of soft fluffy feathers pressed against me as more feathers rubbed up against my head. And the voice again... I heard it clearly this time. "I missed yoooooouuuuu!!!"

"Wha... Wait... Sil... Silverstream?!" I suddenly recognized the fluffy bird mare embracing me as if her life depended on it. That pretty pastel pink plumage and a mane of beautiful light blue. I recognized her instantly. And I was suddenly overwhelmed as I realized that a dear friend was hugging me. I threw my arms around that noisy little mare and squeezed her firmly in an embrace of my own. "Oh my god... I missed you too, pretty bird."

She was squealing incoherently and giggling in delirious excitement. Just how much did that silly little thing miss me? And...why was she there in the first place? Silverstream had nothing to do with the war effort outside of sending me a pillow full of her freshly molted feathers. And then I gazed ahead. Three more hippogriffs were approaching, but not at the frenzied excited pace that Silverstream had done. And I was soon wrapped up in the wings of an entire family of hippogriffs who were very happy to see me. "You're...all here?"

Sky Beak. Ocean Flow. Terramar. And Silverstream. They were all there. The entire family had shown up for this vacation. And Ocean Flow was the first to speak as her beak nuzzled my cheek. "So good to see you, dear! It's been months!"

"I...really wasn't expecting all of you to be here... God, it's so good to see you all again. I miss Capricorn Island more than I thought I did." I replied as the wife of the stallion I came to see as a father beamed at me. Although her eyes widened in some concern as her hand reached up and dragged its fingers through my hair. "Oh, uh... Yeah, about that..."

Ocean almost sounded distressed as she caressed my scalp through my much thinner head of hair. Not all that much time had passed since it had been shaved off, so it was still very comfortably short. Just slightly more than a buzz cut. "What happened to your hair?! It's barely more than peach fuzz now! You didn't shave it, did you?"

When considering that hippogriffs probably do not trim their manes in the same way as ponies do since they are usually composed of feathers instead of hair, I could understand why such a radical hairstyling job would alarm her. Thankfully, Sky Beak spoke in my stead. "They had to, dear. Our boy suffered a severe head injury and they had to get all that hair off to treat it. Remember?"

"Oh dear, I didn't know it was that bad. You poor thing! If I had known it was that bad, I would've baked you some honey cakes and sent them to you!" Ocean Flow said with a profoundly distressed gaze on her face. The kindly hippogriff mare snuggled up against me and even more securely wrapped her wing around me and her daughter. "Well, that's all over now. You need to come visit us more often now that everything's just fine. We miss you, James!"

"I...missed you guys too... Real bad." I muttered as the four of them swarmed me together. Not like friends. I felt like...I was being held by family. My wonderful papa bird and his precious wife and their son and daughter who had become very dear friends to me during my first stay on their island. Sky Beak and Ocean Flow were especially secure in how their wings were wrapped around me. Although I was starting to get a bit uncomfortable with how tightly that first layer of an embrace was getting. "Silver... Can I put you down now?"

"No way! I missed you so bad!" Silverstream replied while I felt her only tighten her embrace on me even further. Thank goodness she is closer to a pegasus in muscle mass than an earth pony. Although it did feel like she was trying to squeeze the life out of me. Not that I minded all that much. I could not be mad at her. But she then said joyously, "And we saw everything! We saw the big ceremony. When it was all live! I saw the king and queen touch you on the shoulders with their horns! You're a real hero now! A real knight!"

I had forgotten how that ceremony in the Hall of the Elements was being broadcast around the world by camera crews. And it sounded like Capricorn Island was receiving the broadcast as well. It was then that Terramar spoke up below me. And his words caused me to crack a smirk in amusement. "Yeah. And she just started bawling when that happened."

"I couldn't help it! I was just so happy for you!" Silverstream barked while sounding like she was starting to get more than a bit emotional. I could hear it in her voice. It was starting to quiver.

That was no time or place for weeping. And so I did what I could. I kept one arm under Silverstream's haunches to more effectively hold her up and gently stroked my fingers through her mane. "Hey... Hey, it's OK now. It's OK, pretty bird. Don't cry. I did enough crying of my own that day. You don't have to do any crying for me now."

Silverstream let out a loud sniffle since she really was trying to hold back tears. That little lady had always been very open with her emotions and that moment was no exception. She finally pulled her head back to look right at me. It was the first time I had seen her pretty face since we last said goodbye and she was just such a lovely sight as when I first met her. Fresh tears stained her feathery cheeks as she said, "Right... Right, sorry. It's just I know you got hurt out there. To see you up there and really getting knighted... That just hit me so hard in all the right ways, you know? I was just...so happy for you!"

"We all were, baby. We were all so proud of you that day." Ocean Flow whispered with a gentle kiss being placed on my cheek from her beak. That wonderful family of beautiful bird horses held me like I was one of their own. The sweet and gentle mother mare then said, "You came to our home a stranger, you left our home as a friend, and now you're family. We love you, James. Don't forget that, all right?"

"Thank you... Really. I'm grateful for you all." I whispered back to them while Silverstream still remained held in my arms. I wanted to put my arms around all of them, but Silverstream would not let me put her down just yet. I missed her too. But I then had to ask the most obvious question. "But...why are all of you here? How did you guys get invited to come along?"

"That would be me!" Another voice I recognized spoke up from outside those curtains of feathers around me. I tilted my head back and saw another hippogriff mare poke her head out from behind Sky Beak's wing. "Hi, James! I talked to Mom about letting Sky Beak's entire family come along and she said yes. We all had such a good time hanging out with you during your first visits to our place and we all agreed it would be great to have everyone together for this vacation."

Princess Skystar herself was smiling at me from just inches away. And she was right. I could still remember the long hikes my new friends and I had all over the towering mountain of Capricorn Island. Strolling through forests, riding the great hydraulic lifts up and down, visiting a few museums, and even enjoying a swim in a small lake full of stingless jellyfish. Those were such standout moments in my memory and I was eager to experience more with my new friends in this unfamiliar land. But if Novo's firstborn was right there in front of me, then...

Sky Beak whispered something to his family and they all understood. They began to release me from their embrace with even Silverstream finally finding it in her to lower herself back to the floor. And once those great wings were no longer obstructing my view... There she was. Standing just ahead while smiling in patient silence was the most beautiful mare in all the land. And no one dared to speak as our eyes met. Even my entourage, who had been remarkably patient in not interrupting my reunion with my feathered family, said nothing to allow us to reconnect.

My heart swelled as I beheld the beautiful queen of Capricorn Island. And the memories of that wonderful love letter surfaced in my mind. I stiffly and cautiously stepped towards my beloved queen. Our eyes never wandered as she waited for me to come near. I soon stood before her as we gazed into each other's eyes. I hesitantly reached out to her with a rising hand. Such a strange paradox, being so thrilled to see my beloved again while being bizarrely fearful as well. As if I was afraid I had disappointed her in some way. But there was no displeasure in those beautiful eyes. Novo raised her hand to meet mine even as her magnificent wings spread wide and wrapped around me to keep us hidden from prying eyes. Our hands met, our fingers clasping between each other's, and our brows touched. There were no words. Just...holding each other. Basking in the quiet joy of our reunion.

It was not fair. We should not have had to be kept apart from each other for weeks on end. We should have been able to be with each other every other day at least. And yet... Our time apart made our reunion all the sweeter. Our eyes closed as our heads remained bowed, her hand grasping mine. And I whispered a beautiful truth to that wonderful queen. "I love you."

"Love you so much, baby..." Novo whispered back to me with that succulently bold voice filled with soul. A voice no other hippogriff mare could hope to imitate. She tilted her head up just slightly as if to signal me. I opened my eyes and saw her eyes mere inches from mine. A quiet yet joyful smile had spread across her beak. And she whispered an equally loving thing to me. "My king."

"My queen." I replied with a matching smile. And then... We could not resist. Our hands released each other and rose higher. Novo's rested on the back of my head while mine held her at the base of her neck. Her head titled sideways slightly with her beak also parting. We leaned forward and... What a wonderful way to start our reunion. A kiss. A wonderful loving kiss as our tongues danced in a slow and meaningful tango. The sensation of Novo's beak holding my face, clamped over the sides to let her tongue reach out to mine... There is no kiss quite like that of an avian woman.

The kiss ended far too soon. Even a few minutes would have been too soon for me at the time. I had been longing for Novo so badly... Once I start thinking about her, it becomes hard to stop. For all of the amazing women in my life, Novo is the closest I have ever seen come to being the embodiment of what I consider a truly perfect woman. A woman whose perfection could only be had by being tempered by time and experience. A queen, a wife, and a mother. Even as Celestia's subordinate, she had experienced more in certain ways that even the Princes of the Dawn had not. And she was mine. And I was hers. And as we gazed at each other in longing with the urge to resume that wonderful kiss consumed us, I whispered my heart to her again. "Missed you... I love you..."

"Shhh... That's enough for now, baby. No tears now. Shhhh, mama's here for daddy now." Novo whispered oh so sweetly to me. She was the wiser of the two of us. And only then did she begin to release me from her winged embrace. I immediately tried to regain my composure now that we were no longer hidden as she turned to face the newest arrivals. Everyone was respectfully silent as they beheld the great queen of Capricorn Island. Sure enough, Novo knew exactly who she wanted to greet first. She stepped towards Celestia with her wing spreading wide for an embrace while Celestia did the same. The two longtime undying friends held each other in their wings for a moment. "Oh, Celestia... So good to see you, honey."

"Always good to see you, old friend. Did you have a safe flight? We had some nasty turbulence last night." Celestia retorted while she held her friend. Their greetings to each other appeared to be a bit subdued compared to prior interactions. I suspect they were just a bit tired from the trip or that the sudden shift in climate was taking a short while to adapt to.

Novo did manage to find some of her inner sass and spoke with that confident smile I always see on her. "I swear that this time of year is always the worst for flying. No one wanted to be up on deck."

One by one, Novo bowed her head in greeting to Equestria's royal family. Greeting Luna and Nightmare Moon with smiles and a handshake while giving Orbash and Sunflare a more formal bow. I was especially surprised in that she never once complimented Orbash on his outrageous handsomeness like she always does. Novo must have been tired. To be fair, I think we all were. Except for Silverstream, of course. Because right when Novo turned to greet Ember and Rain Shine, that silly bird rushed over to get first dibs on it. "Oh wow, what're you girls?! Are you a dragon?! Like the kind that breathes fire?! But what're you?! You kinda look like a pony, but...different!"

"Wow, you're loud. And you kinda remind me of someone... Someone pink, but not as loud." Ember retorted while recoiling from the sheer overbearing volume of Silverstream's inquiries. She was being a good sport about the whole thing though.

Silverstream recoiled in shock at Ember's response. She briefly covered her beak with both hands before saying, "Oops... Sorry! I just...love seeing and meeting new things! I mean Capricorn Island is huge, but we don't get to see much of what's across the ocean. I didn't mean to annoy you..."

Rain Shine was much more forgiving of Silverstream's directness. She gracefully strode past Ember and said, "My, such a bright and positive aura you exude. Do not fear, child. I too relish the opportunity to broaden my horizons. I am Rain Shine. Chieftain of the Grove of Silence. And I am what is known as a kirin."

"Oooh, I think Dad told me about you guys. You're those mares who can do all sorts of stuff with plants and flowers, right?" Silverstream replied while making an effort to quash her excitement. But I could see her almost quivering with just how much she wanted to really let out her amazement over meeting two new species. She then looked at Ember and asked after taking a moment to clear her throat. "And...ooh! Nice scepter! I bet it's for something really important!"

"It is. This is the Bloodstone Scepter. The symbol of the Dragon Lord. Which is me. Dragon Lord Ember." Ember replied as she stood proudly with the symbol of her reign in hand. Although her eyes began to widen as Silverstream's began to brighten with renewed excitement. "Uh oh..."

Silverstream opened her beak very wide to squeal, but she quickly caught herself and spoke with a more moderate tone of voice. "Oh my gosh, that mean's you're the dragon queen? Queen of all dragons?!"

All too relieved to not have Silverstream yelling at her, Ember spoke again. "I guess? The title has always been Dragon Lord. But I guess I'm technically queen then, huh?"

The excited little hippogriff mare glanced back and forth at me and her two new associates. Her eyes then lit up in intrigue before she asked, "Cool! But if you're here, then you must've done something important out there on the...Empty Plains, right? Did you lead an army of dragons and kirin against the enemy?"

Ember smirked at Silverstream proudly. She then sidestepped over to me and took hold of my hand with hers. She glanced up at me with a knowing smile before saying, "No, not really. Rain and I were part of a unit of three. With this guy."

"Yep. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for these two fine ladies. " I replied while Rain Shine also smiled over at me knowingly. Although I happened to notice that Shining Armor and Cadence were checking in at the front desk over yonder while the rest of us were distracted with each other. The husband and wife duo were probably ready to just relax in their assigned room for a little while.

With her curiosity satisfied for the moment, Silverstream stepped over to me while the rest of her family began to chat up Ember and Rain Shine. I got down on one knee when I noticed that she looked like she wanted to talk to me. The peppy pretty bird then said with a big smile, "How'd I do? Do you think I kept my voice down enough?"

I could remember that Silverstream had a bit of a problem with tourists back home. In that she could get too loud for her own good when overstimulated. I then said reassuringly, "Yeah, you did a good job. But you don't have to hold yourself back with me. You know I'm a good listener."

Silverstream's eyes brightened as she displayed a huge grin on her beak. Like I had told her something she really wanted to hear. In one swift motion, she grabbed me in a big hug before speaking softly into my ear. "And that's why you're my best friend. We totally have to catch up on lost time while we're here. There's so much I wanna ask you! You've been all over the place since we said goodbye!"

She was not wrong. Even though I mostly only saw the Empty Plains after I left Capricorn Island, my experiences out there forced me to broaden my horizons something fierce in a very short amount of time. Although Silverstream then tilted her head out to me and asked, "But now that you're here..."

"Ha, right! Scritches! Come here, pretty bird." I laughed before going to work on Silverstream's feathery scalp. I dragged my fingers through that plush plumage as the silly little mare began to beautifully churr like the pretty bird she is. I suppose the talons on a hippogriff's hands just cannot get the same result as the delicate fingers of a human. "How's that? Am I hitting the spot just right?"

"Mmmm, a little lower... Ooh, that's the spot. Nothing beats a good scritch. I've missed this." Silverstream cooed with he eyes squinted shut. She leaned into me the longer this went on. Further and further...until she finally pushed me right to the floor and laid atop me. I did not even mind so much. With how worn out I felt just from the flight over, it felt nice to just lie on the stone tiled floor of the lobby with that silly bird atop me. "Mmm... A little more..."

Terramar finally came over to us and looked down at me with a very amused smile on his beak. "Couldn't wait for the scritches, huh?"

"Looks that way. At least I like giving them. I know this looks silly, but I actually find the experience enjoyable myself." I replied while more than happy to satisfy his sister's craving for scritches. I then happened to notice that almost pleading gaze Silverstream's brother was giving me and asked, "Does someone else need scritches?"

"Uh... Yes? Please?" Terramar asked while I had Silverstream scoot over just enough to let her brother also find a spot. Despite being the calmer of the two siblings, I suppose Terramar was not entirely above his sister's antics. I soon had both hippogriff siblings lying atop me while bother hands went to work satisfying their cravings. Terramar's plumage was just as soft and enjoyable to touch as Silverstream's. I even started to crack a smirk when they both started to let out long reverberating churring in a pretty silly duet.

I must have been such a ridiculous sight. There I was with those at the highest echelons of power in all of Equestria. And what was I up to? Lying on the floor with a pair of hippogriff siblings lying atop me for a long overdue session of scritches on their heads. And of all people, it was Orbash who came over to gaze down at me with such a playful smirk. He then asked, "When will it be my turn?"

Silverstream's eyes popped open at a voice she did not recognize. And when she looked up at the handsome moon king above her, those bright excited eyes suddenly narrowed. And she lifted a hand while tapping on nothing in the hair. "Wait a second... One...two...three...four...five...six horns? Why do you have so many horns on your head?"

Terramar also suddenly glanced up at Orbash as if he knew Silverstream was about to be nothing short of thrilled of meeting who was looking at her. And Orbash glanced up at his own brow before explaining with a smile. "These? Oh, those aren't just my horns. They're also my crown. For I am the king of Equestria, my dear. And I'm sure you've met my queen over there?"

Sure enough, Silverstream sprang up into the air in a very Pinkie Pie like fashion. From relaxed to fired up in an instant. She landed before Orbash while shrieking in true astonishment, "Oh my gosh, really?! You mean you're the dad of Princess Celestia herself?! And Princess Luna? It's... I... Oh wow, I don't even know what to say! It's...so awesome to meet you, your majesty! Do all those horns around that really big horn make your magic super strong or something?"

Orbash had nothing but joy in speaking to the young lady before him. "Precisely! My magic is leagues beyond those of anypony else in all of Equestria. Hence why my wife and I only involve ourselves in crises when absolutely necessary. Such power should not be used brazenly."

Silverstream listened to everyone Orbash said to her. They had a lot in common, being very happy and positive people. Even Terramar stood up to have a chat with Equestria's king. But now that I was not the focus of anyone around me, Novo finally came over to me and held out a hand to help me up. And she whispered into my ear. "Let's go, honey. Somewhere quiet."

I was all too ready to get out of that noise myself. The lobby was abuzz with overlapping conversations. And i was already starting to feel more fatigued than I had any right to be. As we started to step away, Novo summoned Seaspray to her side and spoke quietly to him. "Bring his luggage to my place."

"Will do, your majesty. I shall see to it myself." The admiral of Capricorn Island replied with a bow. He flashed me a winking smile before trotting off to insure my luggage would end up where it needed to be. And I loved the implications of what I just heard. To be spending the next ten days bunking with Novo...

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Nfvv4zOS78[/embed]

I held my tongue until we finally reached the room just down the hall on the right. And Novo had spared no expense on what we were provided with. A queen sized bed with tropical patterns on the bedspread, a spacious bathroom with marble-patterned walls in the shower stall, and even a great wooden deck complete with a hot tub just beyond sliding glass doors that overlooked the ocean beyond. Accommodations fit for any queen. After surveying where I would likely be spending most of my nights, I finally looked at Novo while she adjusted the curtains in front of the glass door. "Are you all right? You've been quiet... Too quiet."

Novo never lost that calm smile on her beak. And she stepped my way gingerly before saying softly, "Not used to mama holding her tongue? Yeah, I suppose I am pretty tired right now. Between the change in climate and the jet lag, I need a good nap before I can really get myself going."

"I think we all are, really. Even if we didn't leave the time zone, something about being stuck on an airship for basically a full day does take a lot out of you." I replied before also letting out a long yawn. It was strange. Despite being my first day back in Cantercun, I just wanted to take it easy for a little while. And Novo's exhausted smile told me that she had the same mind as me.

"To be honest, honey... I think what's really got you so worn out is that you're a daddy. And every daddy needs extra rest now and then." Novo replied while not being entirely wrong. Even though Fluttershy's many little friends have made the transition to parenthood much smoother with all the extra assistance they provide, parenthood is not easy. It never has been. And I have found myself more tired than usual on some days. Novo could see this and climbed onto the bed without bothering to lower the sheets. No need for that until tonight. She set the pillows beside each to her and lightly patted the open space beside her. "Come to bed, dear. Mama missed Daddy."

There was no resisting the call of that majestic mare. I kicked off my shoes and laid myself down beside Novo while she rested on her side. An arm was draped across my chest as I beheld her beauty. Especially that face. Those beautiful eyes accented by some lovely faded pink eyeshadow. Just so radiant... "You are just...so beautiful... More beautiful every time I see you."

"More beautiful every time we meet, hm? You wanna know what the secret behind that is?" Novo asked with a quiet chuckle. It sounded like a trick question. And I wracked my brain to find an answer. But after maybe a good twenty seconds, Novo smiled more lovingly to me and took hold of my right hand. She lifted it up for both of us to see and pinched two fingers over my wedding ring. She rotated it back and forth on my finger as she whispered such honeyed words to me. "I look sexier every time because...whenever we meet again...we're another day closer...to both wearing a ring for each other."

Back and forth, Novo rotated the ring on my finger. The ring that Fluttershy placed on my finger before the altar. At the time, it was part of a set. My ring and her bracelet as a sing of our marriage. But now I was not wearing it just for her anymore. Celestia was always wearing a very special ring around the base of her horn. Rarity worn a lovely silver bracelet at all times. Smolder now had a set of pearl earrings to wear when the time finally came. I was wearing that ring for them while they wore theirs for me. But Novo...did not have a ring on her finger. Not yet. And I whispered to my beloved queen, "We really need to fix that... Next time I come over, we need to plan a visit to one of the best jewelry stores on the island. There has to..."

"No, honey. No. Not like that. I don't mean just any old ring. Not something you just pay for and carry home in a box to wear whenever you want to. The only ring that this mama mare will ever wear..." Novo replied somewhat firmly as she spoke to me. That firmness was not to be ignored or interrupted. I gazed at her harsher gaze before it quickly softened. Her fingers released my ring and wrapped around my hand entirely as she said lovingly, "The only ring this mama will wear is the one Daddy puts on her finger at the altar."

My eyes widened at that beautiful and unwavering display of devotion. The heart of a hippogriff truly is a wonderful thing. Especially one as experienced and wise as Novo. She knew the love only a wife could know. She had walked down the aisle only once before. It should have been the only time, but now it could happen again. Or could it? I gazed upon our hands before asking, "Novo... I know you like to say that. And...I would be far more than honored if we could...really do it. But really... Can we?"

Novo was unwavering in her belief. And she spoke with such confidence in her voice. "James. I don't just want to be your mare. I don't just want to be your queen. I want to be your wife. For real. I promise you, baby. I'll find a way to make it happen. I promise that one day, we'll be saying 'I do' with a ring on my finger. Just...give me some time, James. I don't know how just yet, but we'll make it happen. But...only if you want it to be that way."

There was no hesitation. I was dearly in over with Fluttershy. Marrying her was for the best. Had she not become my wife, I doubt things would have played out the way they did. It was an honor to be the husband of my beloved little Fluttershy back home. But...to officially become the husband of a mare as grand as Novo... A mare who loves me as much as I love her... I gazed into her eyes and asked a sacred question. "Novo... Will you marry me?"

"Yes. A thousand times, yes. I'll gladly be your bride and queen, my beautiful swan king." She said firmly without as overwhelming an emotional response as expected. Probably because...it was not at all a surprise. We were so deeply in love... We may as well have been husband and wife at that moment. Her beak was upon my lips, confirming her acceptance of my offer with a kiss. Such an inspiring woman. A mare who never doubted me or herself. I could imagine her becoming something of a rock in my family. A mare the rest of us could always look to for wisdom. But even so, she still needed to rest. As we gazed lovingly at each other Novo draped my body with her vast wing. "But for now... I'm sorry, honey. I'm having a hard time keeping my eyes open. Let's talk after we get a little shuteye, all right?"

"I guess it is hard to enjoy yourself on vacation if you need a nap first... Yeah, I'm with you on that. See you in a bit, dear." I whispered back to my beautiful queen. Her beak touched my lips again before her wing pulled me up against her warm fluffy body. I felt very comfortable in her winged embrace. And once her hand tenderly grasped mine, I soon fell deep asleep.

I was only out for a few hours at most. But I remember dreaming well. I remember birds... Birds with hooves. Soft feathers and being held as we soared. I remember hearing a beautiful voice, deep in pitch and filled with feminine soul. I remember Novo. She held me...and held...something in her arms. Something that I held too. It stirred in my embrace. And looked at me with such bright happy eyes. A little beak nuzzling my cheek... And I cried.

I awoke from my slumber relaxed...but also rather sad. I did not want to wake up so soon. That little thing in my arms... It loved me. It did not want me to let go. But when I tightened my right hand into a fist, I found that I was still holding something. Novo's hand. My beautiful queen was still slumbering with a very subtle smile on her beak. She looked so serene, her snoring gentle with every breath. Sleeping so deeply... She must have been more tired than I was. And while it would probably be wiser to wake her up, I just could not bring myself to do it. That experienced mother deserved her beauty sleep.

Stirring too much light wake her up, so I tried to be still. It was quiet there. Aside from Novo's gentle snoring, all I heard was the distant crashing of the ocean waves beyond the door. The curtain dimmed the light just enough to make the interior ambience very suitable for a nap. I gazed at Novo's sleeping face. What could she be dreaming of? Something happy, I hope.

I tried to keep my eyes open while just gazing at the ceiling. Waiting for Novo to wake up and release me from her embrace. I waited...but my eyes became heavy. I closed them to just rest a moment...and then fell right back to sleep. Novo's embrace and the sound of her breathing was too relaxing for its own good. Although I was not out for long this time. I awoke maybe thirty minutes later to the feeling of something sliding across me. And upon opening my eyes, I found Novo rolling onto her back beside me. She groaned and grunted, extending her arms and legs high for an amusingly graceless stretch. Only when her limbs relaxed did Novo look my way as her eyes opened. She looked just as rested yet unfulfilled as I felt. I asked softly, "Did you dream well?"

Novo sighed in disappointment. She was smiling, but...I could see that she was not entirely happy. And her next words shocked me. "I was dreaming...of our baby."

My eyes opened wide in shock as I too felt that subtle sense of longing in my heart. Novo's hand reached out and held mine as she whispered to me almost in mourning. "It was...a beautiful little boy. A colt. I could almost hear him, honey. Soft little chirps... And he loved being held in your arms. You couldn't stop snuggling with that baby boy."

Such a beautiful sight it must have been... The queen finally meeting her firstborn son? Was that who I saw while I was dreaming? Was I seeing my beautiful little boy for the first time? I reached out and held Novo while she held me. We needed each other at that moment. To comfort each other for the same reason. I whispered into her ear, "It'll be OK, Novo... Hopefully we won't have to wait too long."

"I know... It felt too real for just a moment. Like I was really gonna wake up to find our baby in my arms. If only..." Novo whispered to me in longing as I felt her head nuzzling up against me. And she began to regain her usual sass as the seconds went by. "Only one way to fix that... And you better believe I won't let a single heat cycle go by without us trying."

"Yep, there she is. There's that amazing queen mum I know and love." I retorted as we finally found the levity of the situation. Novo and I shared a chuckle before also sharing another kiss. It was no time to be sad. That vacation was supposed to be for us to escape any lingering sorrows from no so long ago. Not to dwell on them.

I did not want to get out of bed just yet. I wanted to hold that beautiful mama bird for a while longer. Novo and I embraced with her great wing trying to wrap me up in a veil of sturdy feathers. My face nuzzled up beside hers as she sighed deeply. My hands roamed through that layer of velvety feathers lining her body. Down her neck and through that fluffy ring of bright blue surrounding her neck. "You are just so beautiful... I keep forgetting just how beautiful until I see you."

"Maybe there's an upside to us not seeing each other every day after all. It just means mama gets to dazzle daddy every time." Novo chuckled as I savored the return of her playful and sassy confidence. She cooed softly as my fingers dragged themselves through her plumage. Over her shoulders and along her strong back. I could not reach all the way down her long and powerful body, those feathers hiding a mass of muscle despite her light build. Novo may have been my bird of paradise, but she was still a mare all the same. A low and sultry churr reverberated in her throat before she whispered to me. "Mmm, I missed you touch, honey. Those soft fingers... Nothing else like it. Could I trouble you for a massage while we're here? I'll see to it you're handsomely compensated. Please, baby? For me? For your queen?"

She was being very insistent. I am sure Novo gets massages quite regularly back home, but hippogriff masseuses do not have hands quite like mine. Those talons on the tips are hard and surely have their uses, but a softer touch is better at times. While tempting, I decided to play around with Novo on the notion. "I dunno... I'm supposed to be on vacation here and I give massages for a living back home. Not sure I should be spending time working down here."

"Oh, honey, don't be that way. Mama misses her daddy's touch sooooo bad and I've got a few kinks that need to be squeezed out here." Novo cooed very playfully before she started to push me onto my back. She was soon atop me with her magnificent and powerful equine and avian body pinning me under her. She pinned my hands under hers as well, but in a very loving way. Her fingers clasped my hands with her palms against mine and our fingers intertwined. It was a very comfortable position for me to be in with her body's weight pressing that layer of feathers into me. My beautiful queen gazed down at me lovingly as she pleaded softly. "Please, James. Just one time while we're here. I promise I'll make it worth your while. And not just by sending you home with a hefty payment in your pockets. Will you be good to me, baby? Because I wanna be good to you too. Please? Just one massage?"

"God, you are just so hard to say no to..." I said with an annoyed chuckle. At least I know that Novo is merely a persuasive woman and not a manipulative one. She brought her face lower towards mine until her beak was just an inch from my lips. My hands were thoroughly pinned under hers. I could not reach out and touch her. So I gave her an answer the only way I could. With a kiss. My lips reached out and touched Novo on the beak as I finally conceded. "All right, you win. One massage at the time of your choice. Just...not today, all right? Please, dear?"

"Oh, honey. Absolutely not today. Not when we're just settling in." Novo replied before giving me a kiss right back. She only then released her grasp on my hands and gently dragged a finely filed talon along my cheek in such a loving manner. Not at all sharp and so very smoothly polished. She cooed softly to me with that gently dimmed tropical sunset adding a loving ambience to our comfortable confines. Even though we had both woken up for a very comfortable nap, her eyes still looked more tired than smug or confident. "I think we all just want to take the day to relax and get settled in. Just about everyone who came in on the Alabaster with me is suffering from some nasty jet lag, me included. I just wanna take it easy today. But tomorrow? That's when the fun really begins."

"Sounds like a plan. Best to get accustomed to the place before you really start wondering what to do, right?" I said in return while my hand also rose to Novo's face even as hers caressed mine. I reached up and stroked those long and beautiful blue feathers that reached up from her brow and just behind her crown. A flourish no equine could ever have. Only a bird could have such a diverse flourish in their plumage. I whispered in awe as I beheld Novo's unparalleled beauty. "I...just love you so much..."

"And I'm over the moon for you, my love." Novo cooed to me before placing kiss after kiss upon my face. The touch of her beak was firm, but it still bent enough to feel like the outline of a pair of lips. Something only possible in a world filled with magic. She soon whispered to me even as her one talon slid along my jaw, "Be sure to write to me now and then, honey. It makes waiting much easier."

I knew what she was alluding to there. And I smiled up at my beloved as I said, "I loved the letter you sent back. You really have a way with words. I appreciated everything you said in it... Very reassuring. I needed to see that from someone like you."

Novo must have remembered everything she wrote in that marvel of a love letter she sent back to me. And she noticed the humble tone in my voice. She whispered to me tenderly, "Oh, honey... You don't still doubt yourself, do you?"

"I think it's natural for a man to doubt himself often in these situations. I feel like I have a better understanding of how my heart works now than I did back then, but... I just want this to work out in the end. But the risks are so high... If this fails, I'll drag down everyone with me. I don't want to do that to them... Or to you." I said in earnest as those linger doubts resurfaced in my heart. I knew they would disappear again if I had enough distractions to focus on instead, but they would likely never completely disappear.

Novo's other hand once again held mine while she never once showed any signs of disappointment in her eyes. "I know, baby. I didn't think it was possible either, but you convinced me otherwise. I know the risk is high. With every lovely lady who becomes something more to you, that's just another heart to balance in your life. And the wider it gets spread out... The more you have to balance... The easier it is to stumble and drop the whole platter."

An apt description of the challenges of polygamy. But Novo did not give me time to continue second guessing myself. She cooed to me in a bolder tone of voice. "But you know what, honey? You're not just holding us up. We're holding you up too. Because we want to see this work. I've become friends with fine ladies I probably never would've met had I not become your mare. And those fine ladies love you as much as I do. We're all in this together, baby. We're family now... Right?"

She was just so wise, that undying queen. Not even Celestia could offer me the kind of reassurance Novo could. This was a queen who was intimately familiar with the workings of the heart. And I loved her all the more for that. There was only one thing I could say. "I love you..."

Novo silenced me with another kiss while that smile never left her beak. "Don't ever think about quitting, honey. Because we won't ever give up on you either. It's OK to doubt yourself now and then, but don't ever let those doubts drag you down. Not when we want to see this work as much as you do."

We embraced. I felt so blessed to have had Novo come into my life. The act of polygamy may have been a foreign concept to her people, but the art of love has always been something Novo is very fluent in. So confident and experienced... I am certain Novo will make me feel impossibly lucky to have her in my life in the coming years. I whispered directly into her ear, "Thank you, dear. I needed that."

"And I'll tell you as many times as I must if it means pushing those worries away. After all... I hear you are a good listener." Novo giggled deeply before giving me a wink. Who told her that? Was it Ember? Maybe Silverstream? It must have been Silverstream, the little chatterbox. As if reading my mind, Novo then whispered to me. "Be sure to set aside time for your little friends from back home. I know there's some lovely ladies who want to hold you in their arms as much as you do, but don't forget about the friends you made along the way. Those two little things missed you and were chatting up all sorts of stuff you could do together. You spent a lotta time wandering all over Capricorn Island with them last time, right?"

"That sounds like a plan. Plenty of ground to cover out here on the beaches. I don't think this is even the same spot Fluttershy and I went to on our honeymoon." I retorted as I thought back to the times we had out there. Mingling with the sea ponies out by the shore, savoring tropical cuisine, and even getting to meet a nesting leatherback sea turtle. There was a lot to see and do out there. Silverstream especially would be all over the opportunity to explore the area.

"Speaking of which... What're we still doing in here, honey? We shouldn't be sleeping the day away." Novo said with a chuckle. She placed her hands and hooves on the bed and rose to a standing position high above me. It was a different feeling gazing up at that glorious queen from ground level like that. She smirked down at me and said, "Get your sandals on, baby. Let's go get some sun."

Funny she mentioned that. I did remember to bring a pair of sandals for the tropical climate. As soon as I got up, I noticed my suitcase by the door. Seaspray must have quietly dropped it off while Novo and I were napping. And my sandals were indeed tucked inside. I could just unload the whole thing later and left it on the bed. Clad in a polo shirt and shorts, I followed Novo out into the hall.

Voices echoed down the halls from the lobby as it sounded like other vacationers were mingling in the lobby. And Novo and I looked back when we heard a door nearby close. A glance back down the hall revealed Ember had just stepped out of her room with the Bloodstone Scepter in hand. She must have just woken up from a nap of her own since she gracelessly yawned while stumbling down the hall towards us. She almost ended up walking right into us before she fully came to her senses. "Wha... Oh, excuse me... Wait! Hey there, you two! Where'd you go? You just kind of disappeared a while ago."

I was about to greet Ember, but Novo spoke up first. And with a complete lack of subtlety. "Sorry for not saying anything back there, Ember. My king and I had some catching up on lost time to do."

Ember immediately brought a fist to her lips to stifle a laugh in the face of Novo's brazen display of love towards me. I averted my eyes, feeling too humble to openly acknowledge the love of such a queen. The Dragon lord was no stranger to Novo's burning love for her man. "Oh right, I won't ask the details. I guess you two took a nap? Most of us were in the mood for one too. I'm not even sure who's awake right now."

My eyes fell upon the Bloodstone Scepter in Ember's hand. She really was not comfortable leaving that ting alone in a place she was not familiar with. Since the risk of theft was possible, leaving it unsupervised was not an option for her unless it was being stored someplace like the Olympia where the public would not have access to it. But still... I glanced at Novo and asked, "Hey, Novo. Have to spoken to Torch and Blaze yet?"

"Huh? Who? Doesn't ring a bell, honey. Did someone else show up with you all?" Novo asked while unwittingly confirming that she did not have the opportunity to discover the Bloodstone Scepter's secret function during the victory party in Canterlot last month. And this admission put a big smirk on my face. It was time for a first meeting between royalty.

Ember noticed that smirk on my lips and began to mirror it. She reached out and gently nudged Novo down the hall with us. "You don't know them? In that case, come with me. There's someone I want to introduce you to as a friend."

"Now you've got me curious. All right then, lead on." Novo said confidently while having no grasp of what was going on. It was honestly kind of amusing to see the wise queen of Capricorn Island being so oblivious to the matters at hand. Especially when we entered the lobby. There were so other vacationers we did not recognize out there. Mostly just to speak to the front desk or to chat each other up about what to do next. Most were ponies dressed up in shirts with tropical patterns and even sunhats and sunglasses. Everyone there was clearly having a good time. But Novo then stepped ahead of us while suspiciously surveying her surroundings. "So then... Uh... Where do we find that Torch and Blaze you mentioned?"

Seeing Novo having no idea what was coming made me a bit giddy with amusement. She was completely clueless. That has to be something that almost never happens. Ember then guided us both over to a wide couch set in front of a fountain that was bordered by an indoor garden. "Over here. Get comfortable and I'll call them over."

Ember sat herself between Novo and I with the Bloodstone Scepter set across her lap. She rested her hand on the middle of the shaft. "OK then. Just hold the scepter, close your eyes, and relax."

"I don't see where you're going with this, but OK..." Novo muttered in confusion as she and I did what we were told. I waited for Novo to close her eyes before I did so. And as we relaxed, Ember spoke up softly. "Mom. Dad. There's someone I'd like you to meet."

The darkness over my vision began to brighten. And I soon found Ember and Novo resting on a vast stone floor underneath a starry sky filled with the aurora borealis. Novo glanced up and said, "What's that you just said about... Whoa, hold on now. How did we get here? Lovely lightshow, I have to say."

I looked up and saw none other than the towering forms of Ember's parents looming over us. Except Novo had her back to them for the moment. They were gazing down on the hippogriff queen with almost giddy smiles as they waited for her to inevitably turn around and notice them. After a moment of gazing up at the admittedly beautiful sky, Novo finally turned her head enough to notice who was behind her. And she immediately froze with wide eyes as Novo beheld the two prior Dragon Lords.

Novo did not shriek in fright, but she did stare unblinkingly at the towering dragons above us. And that lack of a response got me curious. It was after maybe fifteen seconds of stunned silence did Ember finally speak up. "Novo. This is my mother and father. Blaze and Torch."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P3Ds86Xg94[/embed]

The hippogriff queen did look at Ember when spoken to, prompting her to completely turn around to face the two Dragon Lords before us. Once back on her feet, Novo began to look back and forth between the three dragons. Over and over before she finally spoke...in the most Novo way possible. "Goodness me, Ember. I knew you were the Dragon Lord, but I never would've guessed you had such big shoes to fill."

"We don't even wear shoes! Not usually, I mean..." Ember barked in confused amusement over Novo being just as fun as always. All I could do was laugh under my breath at Novo's complete lack of fear in the face of two titans before us.

Torch and Blaze were laughing it up quite a bit at Novo's initial reaction to them. The former dragon king spoke first. "She's entertaining... And fearless. I like her."

Blaze brought herself lower to the floor and rested her head atop her interlocking hands to gaze upon Novo in her usual display of endearing sweetness. "A pleasure to finally meet you, Novo. It's a completely different experience to meet you in person like this. Just as entertaining as when we saw you from afar."

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance too, honey. You're little Ember's mama? I see where she got her good looks from. And she's sporting her daddy's horns too. I absolutely see the resemblance." Novo replied while bowing her head in greeting. For her to be so unfazed by the natural gargantuan sizes of Ember's parents, she must have seen it all by then. Or perhaps she is just that brave.

Ember was not quite as amused by Novo's unorthodox rhetoric. She buried her face in her hands and let out a shrill groan. "Oh my god, Novo... Enough! I'm starting to think this was a bad idea..."

"Ha! At least she got something from my side!" Torch howled as he took great amusement in Novo's behavior. He then began to reach out to her with that massive hand looming over us in a manner that even caused Novo to step back in unease. He could easily squash us just by offering a handshake. He realized this at the last second and pulled his hand back before turning to Blaze. "Dear, I think we had best assume a more reasonable size."

"My thoughts exactly. Excuse us for a moment." Blaze replied as she and her husband held hands. And in a matter of moments, they had once again shrunken to maybe a tenth of their original size. The former dragon queen then smiled at Novo and asked, "Is this acceptable?"

Novo just cocked her head to one size in confusion. "Uh... Is that normal for Dragon Lords? Does this mean little Ember here isn't so little and all I've been seeing is her assuming a pintsized form for everyone's comfort?"

"What?! No, this is my natural size!" Ember yelped while all I could do was watch and listen with great amusement. I was just along for the ride by then.

Torch chuckled heartily at Novo completely missing the point. And not realizing the circumstances regarding Ember's parents. He began to speak more cautiously, "No, it's just... I'm not sure you know much about how the Bloodstone Scepter works, but...Blaze and I are no longer bound by the laws of the physical realm. That is to say... We are no longer among the living."

"Wait, that would mean... Oh my goodness." Novo muttered before all that sassy joy left her eyes. And the tone immediately became more somber. Novo was no stranger to the death of a loved one. Although Ember did not appear all that downtrodden as the subject shifted. She had surely come to terms with the situation by then. And through the Bloodstone Scepter, it was like her parents were never gone in the first place. This did not stop Novo from speaking more kindly to the long deceased Dragon Lords before us. "Then...we are only speaking to your ghosts... I'm sorry. I didn't know."

"Why so glum, your majesty? Just because Torch and I are no longer among the living doesn't mean we're gone. That's the magic of the Bloodstone Scepter. It remains connected to the souls of the previous generation of Dragon Lords. All you have to do is hold the scepter and answer our call when the stone glows." Blaze explained happily before she held out her great hand towards Novo. The hand was held low, as if beckoning Novo to touch it. And she did. Novo gently rested her hand atop Blaze's fingers to find that she was very much in a physical form. Blaze then said softly, "Torch and I may have died, but we still live behold the realm of the living. Does that make sense? The body dies, but the soul lives on?"

"I...think so. Your touch is warm... I expected it to be cold... Maybe ghostly. But...it's like you were never even gone, huh?" Novo replied with her voice's tone gradually becoming happier. It was when Novo began to smile that Blaze made a cheeky move. She slid her hand under Novo and scooped her up with her limbs dangling off the sides. The hippogriff queen glanced about around as she was held aloft in the hand of the dragon queen while Ember and I watched in curiosity. Novo gazed upon Blaze while Blaze smiled right back at her. Her composure restored, Novo then spoke smugly. "Huh. And I thought I was always the big mama around these parts. I guess I've been dethroned for once in my life."

Torch snorted in amusement while Blaze just giggled at Novo's ever-present wit. Ember just rolled her eyes while I was cracking a big grin at my beloved's words. Blaze grinned at her fellow queen and said, "My, I do believe we will be very good friends from now on, Novo. If you ever want to talk to Torch and I, just hold the Bloodstone Scepter and call out to us. We'll answer if we're listening. You have express permission to have access to it."

"Sounds like a plan, honey. I'm sure I can set aside some time to chat up you and Big Daddy over there." Novo replied with that slick silver tongue of hers. I almost laughed, but Blaze started giggling shrilly as Torch tensed up with such a furious blush on his face. And poor Ember. She was curling up and trying to cover her ears in utter mortification over what she was hearing.

"Oh my god, I don't need to hear this! What is wrong with you, Novo?! I didn't invite you to talk to my parents for you to be like this!" Ember barked as the situation started to get to be a bit too much for her. At least Novo was being very entertaining to the rest of us.

Novo looked back at her younger friend and said proudly, "What? You got something against one mama complimenting your mama and papa? I've been a mama most of my very long life, baby. And I'm proud of it. If you don't know that, I guess you don't know me very well at all then."

"You're right. I don't know you all that well if I never expected you to be so brazen like this!" Ember barked while finding the conversation to be much too awkward.

I decided to step in as I noticed something about Ember. Or rather something she did not have in common with literally everyone else there. "You know, Ember... Maybe the problem here is you're the only one of us here who isn't a parent."

Torch was still at a loss for words. I think he wanted to say something, but just could not get a word in edgewise in the face of the two royal wives' shared wit. And Ember's eyes opened very wide as she froze in stunned and confused silence. She had no idea how to even respond to that. But that did not stop Blaze from playing along. "Oh my, you're so right! Two mothers, two fathers, and one maiden. How unfortunate, Ember! It's a shame you just can't relate in this conversation. Not yet, at least."

I had to catch myself as Ember visibly flinched at those words. She noticed the inflection in her mother's voice at that last line. "What do you mean by that?"

It was at that point which even Torch found some wit to add to the conversation. He smirked down at his daughter and said, "Oh, let's just say I seem to recall that you had a certain conversation with someone. Something about a formal request? To give you some heirs when the time is right?"

Ember just froze there as she stared up at her parents with a gaze of stunned fury. Eyes wide, completely stiff, and without a single word being spoken. We all gazed upon her with bated breath. And Ember's eventual response was not at all expected. She suddenly and rigidly grabbed both of her horns very firmly. And with one swift motion, she turned her head completely around with a loud and sickening crack ringing out.

And just like that, Ember was gone. She vanished in a sudden flash of light. And we could only stare at where she had been in stunned silence. Ember, desperate to get away, had snapped her own neck as well as causing whatever kind of damage fatally rotating her head that far would do to her. And in response to suffering a false fatal wound, her connection to the nexus was severed. I finally spoke first while glancing at the rest of them out of the corner of my eye. "I think she bailed."

"Did we go too heavy back there?" Novo replied with cautious wit in her voice. She had no idea if Ember had really harmed herself or not, but the way it played out was hard not to laugh at. Novo finally flapped her wings to lift herself out of Blaze's hand and landed back on solid ground. She then asked more sincerely, "Really though... Is Ember all right? She never struck me as someone who would hurt herself."

"Ha! She can't be harmed when she isn't even physically here. When inside this nexus, even significant harm will sever your connection with this place and...basically cause you to wake up. Ember is just fine. And she's probably waiting for you right beside your entranced bodies." Torch explained while showing no signs of worry at all. And he then began to smirk at us while Blaze too understood what had happened. He then added, "And from the look in her eyes before she kicked herself out, I think she's going to have some very choice words for you."

"Oh lord, she mad? It's not my fault she's got no taste for mama talk. Takes a parent to know a parent, am I right?" Novo laughed while I just smirked at the impending reunion with Ember. Granted, I found the conversation between Novo and Ember's parents to be more than just a bit silly, but I was used to Novo's sassy flirtatious wit by then. Poor Ember though. It was getting a little too personal for that virginal young lady. Although Novo then followed up her laughter with a more sincere tone. "But real talk for a moment here. You've both raised a fine young lady. Ember still comes across as a princess who's a bit green, but she means well and she tries hard. She's an inspiring little thing and I have nothing but respect for her."

Blaze giggled with a hand before her lips, but she appeared a bit...bashful at Novo's praise. And I quickly found out why. "Oh, I... I'm sorry to say I didn't play a direct role in Ember's upbringing. I was...gone before she hatched."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Xo94Jr-kgE[/embed]

Before Novo could even respond, Blaze turned her head to gaze lovingly at her husband. "That credit goes to this wonderful drake right here. He did it all on his own. All I did was be there for him when he needed me. Isn't that right, my love?"

Torch was once again blushing deeply, but he looked genuinely joyous instead of nervous. "I tried... I really did. And...I don't think I would've been able to see it through had you not been there for me, Blaze. I know you couldn't be there for Ember, but you were always there for me. Whenever I doubted... Whenever I faltered... You were always there. As if you were never even gone."

"I was never truly gone, Torch. I could never leave you to such a task. Not when the Bloodstone Scepter bound us together." Blaze said almost somberly. And Novo and I could only watch as the two Dragon Lords came closer and held each other in a spectacular winged embrace. Blaze tucked her head under Torch's very strong jaw while her protectively held her in one arm. Their eyes closed while they savored each other at that moment. "I love you, my wonderful king."

"And I have always loved you, my queen." Torch said very gently to Blaze. And for a moment, that was all they did. They held each other, showing Novo and I the depths of a dragon's love. It was...inspiring. I think I even felt a tear building at the edges of my vision as I beheld Ember's amazing parents displaying just how strong their love for each other had always been. A love than spanned centuries. And now a love that continued to endure well into the afterlife. It was then I truly understood. A dragon's love is not merely enduring. It is eternal.

Seeing Torch and Blaze's undying love only made me feel all the more blessed. For I knew that Ember's love burned just as hotly for me. She was mine forever. And I would always cherish her. But Novo... The joy in her eyes was gone. A grim realization finally came over her as she spoke up. "Blaze... Torch... I hope you don't mind me asking, but... How long have you been gone?"

The two Dragon Lords were reluctant to release each other. They continued to hold and embrace one another while their eyes opened. Torch looked down at us and said, "I only left this world just five years ago. I fell ill and it didn't ever leave me... I knew my time was short and passed the Bloodstone Scepter onto Ember. And...I went to sleep one night...just to awaken in the arms of my wonderful queen."

Novo then looked directly at Blaze. Her gaze still somber and curious, she asked politely. "And you... You were gone before Ember hatched? How long ago was that? I don't think I ever asked the little thing her age..."

Blaze sighed somberly, no doubt still knowing the biting disappointment of leaving the world of the living before she could even hold the daughter she and her husband had created together. And to spend more than a century just watching from afar. "That was...a century and a quarter ago. I had to wait a very long time before I could finally speak to our daughter for the first time. And poor Torch... He just wasn't the same after I was gone."

Novo started to give me the impression that she was experiencing a moment of weakness. And so I walked up beside her and rested a hand on her shoulder. She glanced my way with a grateful smile before looking up at the two Dragon Lords. "I...lost my first king too. Almost a full century ago. And it... The pain never went away."

Torch's eyes widened at this revelation. Novo was intimately familiar with the pain he had experienced. She reached out to the dragon king in invitation. Only then did Torch and Blaze release each other so he could bring himself down to the ground. Once before her, Novo reached out and gently rested her hand on his face. "You raised your daughter in spite of a broken heart. And she turned into a wonderful little lady. That's a true father right there and I have nothing but respect for that. As Ember's friend, I thank you."

"You honor me, hippogriff queen. I can rest easy knowing my efforts were not all for nothing." Torch said with a thankful sigh. He looked so tired. Just...pleasantly exhausted. And I was not going to prod him to say more. But someone else reached out to him. Blaze set her hand down over his. And I could not stay back either. With some hesitation, I reached out and gently rested my hand on Torch's jaw. Just to silently thank him for molding Ember into the strong and inspiring woman she is. Torch noticeably smiled at my touch and spoke softly to me. "I have done all I can for Ember, boy. The rest is up to you. Be good to my daughter."

"I will. I swear." I said promptly and without doubt. If there is one thing I can trust myself on, it is to always be good to that wonderful dragon woman.

Novo turned to me as she released Torch from her touch. Her eyes filled with loving pride, she stepped forward and embraced me in her wing. And I returned the favor with an embrace of my own. Novo began to regain some of her sassy wit as she said softly, "You have nothing to worry about, your majesties. Your little girl will be in very good hands if this man is meant to be hers."

Torch and Blaze were quick to notice how...intimate that embrace was between Novo and I. And Blaze was the first to speak. "If you don't mind me asking, Novo... What is the connection between you and this sweet little novelist?"

That amazing hippogriff queen wasted no time as she gazed at the Dragon Lords with a loving and proud smirk. "This wonderful man is my future king. We were...very fortunate to come into each other's lives. We understood each other's pain. Not quite the same experiences, but with the same results. He...convinced me to let myself fall in love again. And I haven't looked back since."

"What is it with you stealing the hearts of those in positions of power, boy? Do you have some hidden agenda at work?" Torch asked mockingly while giving me such an inquisitive smirk. I knew he was just messing with me, but it was a profound question all the same. One that got me nervous.

I looked at Novo while she too smirked at me from just inches away. She probably had one big speech planned to playfully tell Torch off, but she was allowing me to speak instead. I gathered my nerves and spoke honestly. "There is no agenda at work here, sir. I...don't decide who I fall in love with. You can't control your heart like that. Some of my beloveds just happen to wear crowns because...they are just such wonderful women in their own right. It's not about the crown. It's about the woman under it. And I'm...honored to be worthy of them."

"James, honey... Just come here." Novo said sweetly before pulling me into an even tighter embrace. She clamped her beak over my lips before all but demanding that her tongue be allowed to meet mine. I relented instantly. The two of us were locked in a most passionate kiss with the two former Dragon Lords bearing witness to that love. It did not last long, but it was enough to get Novo's point across. We were very much in love. And the crown on her head was not a factor in that. Novo gazed into my eyes and spoke loudly enough to insure that our witnesses would hear her. "Love you, sugar bear."

"Love you too, my bird of paradise." I replied with an equal lack of shame. I felt safe in the presence of Torch and Blaze. They understood me. Although I did gaze up at them while they smiled down at me. "I...uh...hope you see that this is all sincere here."

"Of course we do, dear. We know you don't have it in you to use a woman for the power she holds. Certainly not after that! Bird of paradise, hm? Lovely thing to say." Blaze giggled with such an approving gaze in her beautiful eyes. The dragon queen reached out and gently draped a few fingers across my back. "You're very brave. Novo, do be good to this fine man here. Artists are delicate and need to be handled tenderly just like their creations."

"Oh, you better believe I will, honey. And he and I will be...creating some beautiful works of art in due time. Maybe even sooner than you think." Novo replied before glancing at me and wiggling her eyebrows in such a flirtatious manner. While I did recoil nervously, I felt such pride to hear those words as well. I was so eager to create something with my beloved queen that only we could make together. Precious new little lives. To become a mother and father to beautiful royal children.

Now that Novo and I were on the same page for the moment, I glanced up at Torch and Blaze before recalling a request I had received from them just the other day. "To be fair, they do want grandkids. I guess it doesn't matter where they come from."

Torch and Blaze visibly recoiled from that revelation with looks of equal nervousness. I guess it was one thing to keep that between us and to reveal it to an outside party. And Novo smirked up at the towering king and queen. "Is that so? Well then, if Ember is meant to be this man's queen as well, does that mean our little baby bird foals will be your grandkids too?"

The two of them stammered incoherently. It must have never crossed their mind that any children fathered by the man who would sire their daughter's children would also be their grandchildren by proxy. Blaze, lovely mother she is, managed to find her composure first. "Oh my goodness... Little hippogriff children?! What are they even like? Are they tiny? Are they fluffy? Do they tweet like songbirds?"

I could have given some insight on that, but I allowed Novo to speak for me. She had much more experience with hippogriff children than I did. And she spoke with a smile. "Yes, yes, and oh yes. And I'd be more than happy to let our children meet you. Come to think of it, I should introduce you to my firstborn. She's a big girl now, but she's got an adventurous spirit. Always in the mood to try new things and meet new people... Oh, that reminds me. Have you met this sweet daddy's first baby girl? His princess?"

Ember's parents could not have known about Gladesong, could they? The Bloodstone Scepter had been brought into my house once before. And...the stone did glow once. They tried to reach out to Ember after she brought me home from Canterlot that day. Had they seen Gladesong? Judging by their inquisitive gazes, they may not have seen or heard much of what happened that night. Torch spoke first. "You are a father, yes? Who is your firstborn?"

"Gladesong. Fluttershy is her mother. And...she's a precious little thing I know you'll love." I replied while thinking back to my baby girl. She probably already missed me by then. I had already been gone for too long during the War of Preservation. I could only hope that all of the lovely ladies looking after her would be enough to distract her from my absence for a little longer.

Novo suddenly spoke up and began to gush about my daughter with loving pride in her voice. "That little sweet pea is just such a doll. Always so happy, knows how to make it clear what she needs, and has the sweetest little laugh! And she loves her Mama Novo. When can I see her again, honey? She's my baby girl too! Mama Novo wants to give her little princes some loving!"

My god, Novo really did sound and look so impatient. And the two Dragon Lords looming over us were finding her motherly enthusiasm to be all too amusing. I replied in response to that giddy pressure being placed on me. "Well, if you're that eager... You got time to stop by on your way home once this vacation is over?"

"Consider it done, honey! While Skystar and the crew hang out in Canterlot, I'll swoop on by to see our baby girl. Just don't tell her I'm coming. I wanna surprise the little thing." Novo giggled with such excitement in those beautiful eyes. There was no royal poise or protocol in that face anymore. I was seeing the raw soulful mother mare for who she was. Novo may be queen of her people, but she really is a mother first.

"My goodness, it sounds like your firstborn really is a little angel. Next time Ember comes by with us, we really need to make her acquaintance." Blaze said with some subdued excitement in her eyes. Although she then cast her husband a smug smirk while Torch could only flinch at that gaze. The playful dragon queen then said in a jeering tone, "Just be sure to be on your best behavior, my love. Don't want to frighten the poor thing."

"Of course I will, Blaze! Ember never once showed any fear towards me as a whelp!" Torch barked as if he had been offended. I could only wonder how that first meeting would go. Would Gladesong be scared of those two due to their imposing size? We would have to use caution when that day came. But at last, Torch cleared his throat and looked down at Novo and I. "But with all that said... I think we've taken up enough of your time. You have a vacation to get to, right?"

"Yeah, we really should. Best not waste time." I replied before reached out to the two of them. Torch and Blaze lowered their heads to the ground as if to beckon that I approach. I wanted to part ways on a happy note. I reached out and tried to hug their faces the best I could. Torch let out a happy sigh as I did so to him while Blaze giggled lightly at my attempt of an embrace. "We'll talk again soon, all right?"

"That we will. Just call out to us if you wish to say hello. And be sure to watch for the glow for when we have something to say." Torch replied before he and Blaze bowed to Novo while she did the same. "It was an honor getting to meet you, your majesty. Pease continue to be good to our daughter."

"Likewise, you two. And I'll be sure to give your daughter all the support I can. I think this is an alliance in the making." Novo replied with a very happy smile on her face. That meeting went on for much longer than expected, but it was a good time all the same. Novo always knows how to make a situation more fun.

Blaze then made an unexpected move. She brought her head down and placed a kiss right atop my head. I got a laugh out of that as I cringed happily at that lovely queen's parting affection. She smiled down at us as she and Torch embraced once again. "Have a good time, you two! We'll be watching!"

Torch and Blaze once again brought their hands forward and covered Novo and I with them to block out any sort of light. It was a bit of a squeeze to fit us both under their palms while in their shrunken states. Novo and I were pressed up against each other rather uncomfortably while she asked, "Um... What're they doing?"

"A little ritual to disconnect us. Unless you'd rather they squish us like a bug instead." I replied while Novo just snorted at the notion. And then I felt it. A strange lightheadedness. The darkness began to fade as a gentle light shone upon my closed eyelids. But when I opened my eyes... "Pahahahaha, what's with that face?!"

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uava\_sGrvPg[/embed]

Ember was seated before me as she was when we all held the Bloodstone Scepter. And she looked...ridiculous. She had her arms crossed and was glaring at Novo with fury in her eyes. What really cracked me up was that she also appeared to have her cheeks puffed out a bit. She was mad. Or at least extremely irritated. And Novo burst out laughing when she turned her head to look at Ember. "Good gracious, hahahaha! What's the matter with you, honey? You mad?"

"You think?! I called you there to meet my parents, not to drive me up the wall with those topics!" Ember snarled in irritation. How long had she been sitting there waiting for us to wake up?

"Honey, it ain't my fault that you're not on the same level as the rest of us. Two mamas and two daddys chatting each other up? Can't blame us for that. You should've headed on over to the singles club instead." Novo said smugly without shame in her voice. And Ember had no counter to that. She really was the odd one out in that meeting. Although Novo then rubbed a finger under her beak as her eyes narrowed almost menacingly. "But that won't be the case for much longer, will it? Don't your mama and papa want some grandkids someday?"

Ember was blushing furiously at that question. Blaze must have playfully asked her about that at some point, but probably not with the same sincerity she and Torch asked of me. The Dragon Lord averted her eyes as she grumbled, "It...is true that I'll need heirs someday. That's just how these things work... And there's no way I can just pass on the title to one of those boulderheads back home."

Novo glanced at me while I also noticed that smug gaze. I tried to show a little modesty as if I knew nothing of what Ember had asked of me just the other day. Novo then turned to Ember and asked, "And who's gonna be their daddy?"

"I...don't know yet. Have to choose carefully. And it won't be any of those boulderheads. Needs to be...a good man. No, a great man. One who...would make a great father." Ember muttered cautiously while also avoiding letting her gaze meet ours. It was clear she was trying to hide the truth and I was not going to blow her cover. Not openly, at least.

The hippogriff queen looked at me again. She was silent, but that gaze told me she was waiting for an answer from me. I nodded and placed a hand on my chest to confirm without words that Ember had selected me to be the father of the next Dragon Lord candidates. Novo got what she wanted since I then noticed a huge smile spread across her beak. She then looked back and forth at us before spreading those impressive wings wide and scooping us both up in them. She pulled us both together to border her sides with our heads peaking out of her winged embrace. "Come here, you two. I see what's going on here. No need to say anything. It's all hush hush between us, right?"

Ember looked startled while I was only mildly giddy. Novo was being playful yet supportive. The proud and motherly hippogriff queen whispered to us, "I can see what's happening here, you two lovebirds. And I won't ask anymore questions. Just remember. We're all in this together, right? If you two end up having precious little dragon babies, I want them to get to know their Mama Novo. All right? Can you promise me that?"

"Of course, dear. I want you to get to meet all of my kids. They'll love you." I replied quietly. It was hard to tell who might be listening in there in the hotel's lobby. It was not like anyone in that area knew that I was already married. And it was surprising that I had not been openly approached by anyone despite the nature of my presence in Equestria being made public on a global level. Perhaps the national population really did end up underreacting after all.

The Dragon Lord just nodded quietly with her eyes wandering all the while. "Sure... I think they'd like to meet you too."

Novo really wanted to chat up Ember about our relationship. But for how madly in love Ember and I were with each other, it could not be discussed openly. Not yet. And Novo knew that by then. She reached out and nuzzled us both with her forehead before she finally released us. "Good to hear. Now then, how about we get outta here and soak up some sun? I appreciate an air conditioned lobby as much as the next lady, but I want to get a breath of that ocean mist."

Ember and I nodded in agreement and stood up while Ember kept the Bloodstone Scepter grasped in her hand. We just wanted to get our mind off of any personal dilemmas and focus on why we were there. To relax and have a good time in a foreign land. We followed Novo out through the far sliding glass doors towards the shoreline. And the sudden surge of tropical heat was felt immediately. And in a pleasant way. I welcomed that hot and humid breeze after dealing with more autumn cold than I would like to admit.

The Dragon Lord was especially taken with feeling the warmth of something that was not volcanic fumes. She walked off at a brisk pace as the Bloodstone atop her scepter began to glow. Ember promptly held it up and asked, "What's up? Enjoying the view?"

Torch and Blaze must have been getting quite a view of their surroundings up there. And Ember was so distracted with having a conversation with her parents that she completely forgot about Novo and I. But while I stood there just outside the resort building to take in the sights, Novo gently nudged me to get my attention. "How have things been between you two, baby?"

There was no point in being coy around Novo. She had the right to know. "It's...complicated. We are just so madly in love, yet...it's still too soon to commit for her. All I can do is wait until she's confident enough."

"Dragon love really is something else, huh? I remember when you told me to wait and see. And now she's doing the same to you. But you're patient enough to wait, right?" Novo replied while even sticking her tongue out at me in teasing. She was not wrong. I still could remember how upset she was when I first departed Capricorn Island. We found love together. She was ready to be mine, but...I was too cautious. I insisted we wait to test our hearts. And she was furious when we reunited. At least until we were together and alone in her chambers. That anger and doubt was gone once we were back in each other's arms. That was the moment when we knew our love was meant to be. But Ember... No matter how many times our arms embraced... How many times our lips touched... How many times we shared pleasure together... She still was not ready.

I recalled how Torch and Blaze truly poured their hearts out to each other just a little while ago. Their loving words followed by that entwining embrace. That was the love of a dragon in action. An eternal love. And such a thing must not be rushed or handled clumsily. I turned to Novo again and said, "You saw Torch and Blaze. That's the kind of love Ember feels for me. I have to be patient for her. To let her decide when."

"It really does sound like a beautiful thing, James. I can tell whenever you two are together. Just so happy all the time... Oh?" Novo replied before something caught her ear. And then I noticed it too. A whistle? We looked ahead and saw Ember waving us down on the path that led out to the beach. Novo snorted and cast a smirk at me. "See? Someone misses you."

"Oops... Better not keep a lady waiting." I muttered before hastening my pace while Novo stayed by my side with a quick trot. We reached Ember shortly. I then asked, "What's up? You forget something?"

Ember replied with an action before offering words. She reached out with her spare hand and took hold of mine. Her face displayed an excited smile as she said, "Yeah. You. Come on, let's go see what's new!"

Novo raised an eyebrow at just how quick Ember was to hold my hand. And her insistence for us to be together. That gaze of curiosity soon turned into a smug smirk as Novo made clear without words how aware she was of our relationship. And while Ember was quick to notice, she did not stammer or try to withdraw as much as I expected. "Oh, uh... I mean... The Dragon Lord needs a capable knight in her presence when traveling to new places, right?"

"Sure, sure, whatever you say. I'm not objecting here. Not like I go anywhere aboard without my own guard detail myself." Novo chuckled before she started to stroll along to the beach. It was not quite as crowded as expected, although perhaps only those staying at the resort we were in allowed onto that particular stretch of beach during business hours. Novo looked back at us before flashing a wink.

I looked down at Ember while she smiled crookedly back up at me. I happened to then notice how...comfortable she was showing an intimate show of affection in front of a good friend. "You weren't as embarrassed as I thought you'd be doing this in front of Novo. You feeling bold today?"

Ember's eyes wandered a bit, but her hand never released mine. "I dunno... I feel like I can trust Novo. She feels...dependable. Experienced and wise. Like she could carry a mountain of secrets with her without any problems."

"To be fair, she is queen of her own mountain." I retorted while Ember cracked a smirk at that bit of wit. But her eyes then began show a certain...softness. And uncomfortable need. Like there was something she wanted to ask, but could not. I took note of her gaze and asked, "Something wrong?"

A sigh of mild frustration hissed from Ember's nostrils. She lowered her voice to a whisper in sheer caution before she spoke. "I want to kiss you."

"I...would like that. Just not here, OK? Never know who might be watching..." I replied before accidentally noticing the Bloodstone Scepter in her other hand. I had said that with any strangers who might see us in mind, but then I realized that there was very likely someone watching from right atop that stone scepter. I scowled dryly at the Bloodstone and added, "And they might be closer than we think."

Ember only then noticed as well. She looked at the scepter in her hand before scowling in annoyance. She then let out a groan and said, "OK, fine. If you guys want to watch us make out, you can. Just don't say anything to kill the mood!"

The way Ember rolled her eyes seconds later told me that her parents did hear that. And they were surely cracking up in laughter in response. With some reluctance, Ember let go of my hand. A smile returned to her face and said, "Well, whatever... Come on, let's go. I want to experience new things with you."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AP3RXKRrv\_U[/embed]

I followed along and remembered to leave my sandals in a safe spot before we reached the sandy beach. I would never get all that sand out of them if I did not remove them beforehand. And that soft feeling of that warm tropical sand under my feet was a sensation I did not know how much I missed. Even Ember reveled in the sensation between her toes. "Ooh, that's so different from walking on ash! And it doesn't stick to you like it does either!"

Ember even reached down and scooped up a handful of sand before letting all those fine grains slip between her fingers. She looked genuinely pleased as if seeing sand for the first time. I loomed over her and asked, "You've never seen sand before?"

"No! I mean it's crazy, right? You'd think living in the dragon lands would mean you'd see all kinds of rock. But nope! I guess there was never a time or place for sand to end up happening." Ember replied happily before scooping up another handful of sand to watch it fall through her fingers. I was about to say something, but then froze in bewilderment as Ember flung a handful of the stuff right into her mouth. She noisily crunched and chewed on that stuff thoroughly. As if to carefully sample it like fine cheese. She soon swallowed and looked up at me without a care in the world. "Mm. Very gritty."

I almost had to laugh at that display. "You dragons really will eat anything. Does rock even taste good?"

Ember grunted with a smirk on her face. "No, not really. Ordinary rock is pretty bland. But it does make for a good palette cleanser."

The more you know, I suppose. We continued on closer to the shoreline and ended up passing many vacationers along the way. They were more interested in their own fun than anyone around them. The air was filled with the chatter of conversation and the splashing of ocean waves nearby. And it was not just ponies partaking in the tropical festivities. I saw a few griffons among the bunch. Even a minotaur or two who looked like a couple of macho bodybuilders decked out in a pair of trunks. And out in the shallows was a volley ball net with some of the aquatic locals lobbing a ball back and forth. And Ember was quick to see something wrong with the ponies who burst out of the surf to better repel the ball. "Hey! Those ponies... They kind of look like fish!"

"Them? Those are hippocampi. Also known as seaponies." I replied as I beheld the aquatic ponies gloriously leaping from the surf to bat the ball over the net. Their manes shimmered in the sun as the fish fins they really were. I then explained, "They're actually closer to dolphins than fish. Completely mammal."

"And I don't even know what a dolphin is." Ember muttered in confusion. She was completely out of her element in a land she knew nothing about in more ways than one. She looked up at me and asked, "Care to explain?"

"Dolphins aren't fish because they don't have gills. They breath air and have to surface to do so. They're actually mammals instead of fish. You know, like me. You can tell the difference between fish and aquatic mammals by the way they swim. Fish swim with their tailfins moving side to side while mammals like dolphins swim by moving their tailfins up and down... Oh, and seaponies have mammal tailfins too! Even if they look like fish fins." I said before pointing at another seapony who was launching herself up and out of the surf. Her tailfin spanned out to the sides instead of vertically.

Ember had her arms crossed as she examined the seaponies at play in the surf. One side scored a goal in the meantime and soon served the ball again. "Huh... I think I see... Hey, wait. Some of them are wearing something... Some kind of necklace?"

She had a good eye to notice those. And I was happy to explain. "Oh, those? Those are a kind of magic necklace that seaponies have been making for a long time. It let them become regular earth ponies to come out of the ocean and mingle on dry land. But it also works in reverse. See those? Those are unicorns. And the ones with big fins reaching out from their backs? They're pegasi. They've got those necklaces available for rent around the place if you wanna try going into the sea and not having to worry about drowning. You can even buy them if you wanna take one home with you."

"Wait, what's the point of that? You said seaponies are mammals instead of fish. That means they don't have gills for breathing underwater, right?" Ember asked while making a very good point. One cannot have gills and lungs simultaneously, right?

Normally, perhaps. I mean there are a few rare exceptions of fish that do basically have lungs, even from the world I came from. But I then explained, "No, seaponies are a weird exception. I mean yeah, they do have gills for breathing underwater, but they also have lungs for when they surface. They're weird like that."

"I guess there's all sorts of weird stuff to see out here..." Ember replied before looking back out at the frolicking seaponies. She then glanced back up at me with an inquisitive smile. "So then... You say those necklaces can turn anyone into a seapony? Or at least an aquatic version of their own species? You think that would work on me?"

Ember was giving me quite the smirk. Like she was teasing me with the idea. I replied earnestly, "Maybe? I mean it would probably work? I just can't guarantee what the results would be. Why do you ask?"

"This vacation is an opportunity for me to try new things. Trying out weird exotic artifacts might be one of them." Ember replied while also winking one eye at me. Now I was curious. I had only seen those necklaces at work on ponies. What sort of results would those necklaces get on literally anything else? But it was then that Ember tried looking around to see past the clusters of vacationers around us. "Where is everyone anyway? Hang on a second."

Ember flapped her wings to launch herself up high. She hovered in place while surveying the area before she landed beside me and pointed back towards the edge of the beach. "Over there! Come on!"

I followed Ember through the crowd while scanning the horizon. It turned out that our entourage had been assigned to an entire beachside patio complete with a swimming pool, a private bar, and a reserved section of the beach as a type of VIP section. Some were soaking in the pool, some had pulled up a seat at the bar, and some were relaxing under a large beach umbrella in the sand. A pair of guards were minding the only gap in the fence and allowed us by. Ember was quite distracted from me then. "Mm... Where to start?"

"I'm gonna grab drink. You know where to find me." I spoke up before stepping away from the Dragon Lord. Ember was too taken with curiosity to mind us parting ways for the moment. I saw that Sky Beak and Ocean Flow were seated beside each other at the bar while sipping tropical martinis complete with a tiny paper umbrella stirrer. They were too tall even when seated to bother with a stool, but I pulled one out from under the counter to take a seat beside the wonderful hippogriff father I loved. "This seat taken?"

"Hello there, my boy! Come on, drink up! Bartender, you have a guest!" Sky Beak replied while draping a wing over me. Ocean Flow was equally happy to see me as she leaned forward to peer around her husband.

The bartender, a unicorn stallion who looked very dressed for the tropical local, came up to me with a metal shaker already at work preparing a refill for Sky Beak and Ocean Flow. "Hey, what can I get you?"

I wanted to start off simple and light with something that would be perfect for that summer heat. "I'll have a strawberry banana daiquiri, please."

"Coming right up." The bartender topped off the hippogriff couple's glasses after they quickly sipped down the last of the first round. It looked like a bit of a dirty style martini since the fluid was a bit cloudy. The telltale sign of the presence of olive juice. Could never stand those things myself. Too inherently salty.

I looked over at the two feathered friends of mine and said, "I always keep being reminded of how much I just love everything about your people whenever we meet up. I really need to schedule another stay at Capricorn Island sometime."

"We really miss you too, dear. It was so nice having a new friend coming by, and then you were just gone. But then the Alabaster set out with a whole cadre of archers for that war out of nowhere with Sky Beak going with them! You have no idea how much I missed my handsome eagle while he was gone." Ocean Flow replied while sneaking a kiss onto her handsome husband's cheek. His beak parted to display what I think was an avian smile that would have been showing a full set of teeth if they were present.

Sky Beak chuckled at his wife's affection and sighed in recollection. "And I missed you too, my beautiful lovebird. None of us were expecting the war to go on for as long as it did. After spending our lives on Capricorn Island, it's easy to forget just how big the world can be! We spent more time marching across the Empty Plains than we did launching arrows at the enemy! Seeing the pure white architecture of our home... I didn't know how homesick I had been until that majestic mountain started to appear on the horizon across the sea."

At least Sky Beak managed to go home with a clear head. My perception was viewed through a haze of exhaustion by the time I saw Ponyville again. I did not truly feel like I had come home until after I had undergone that mental trauma treatment in Canterlot. But even so, the hippogriff archers who served with us out there contributed heavily to Equestria's success. They trained new recruits and provided vital fire support against the rear lines. And...they saved me during the Battle of the Purple Tide. Surrounded by Hollows that started dropping like flies, but not from the explosive arrowheads used by most of the archers. They were picked off individually by regular arrows hitting them in the gaps of their armor. A feat only possible thanks to the keen vision of a hippogriff's eyes. When Sky Beak looked at me at that moment, I came to realize that my father had saved me that day. This realization filled me with a heavy sense of gratitude as I said, "Thank you for being there... You and your men... I wouldn't have made it that day if..."

"James... My boy. It's all right. Don't think too hard about back then. There was no way I was going to let my boy die out there like that." Sky Beak said kindly before wrapping his great wing around me and making me leaned into his feathered embrace. I rested my head atop his as he said, "I'm just glad I was finally able to do something for you. We were always safe in the back row doing what we do best. You were the one out there on the front lines. I wanted to do something to help you and we finally got that chance."

Ocean Flow was understandably out of the loop when it came to specific details about the war. She leaned over the counter to look at us more easily and asked, "Oh dear, are you talking about why you had to get your head shaved? What happened out there that day?"

I spoke first. And I spoke with some brevity. "War hammer to the back of my head. Skull fracture. I was lucky it wasn't worse. We didn't see it coming. The enemy never attacked me directly until then. I had to be evacuated, but the enemy threw everything they had at us to stop our retreat. There was...just too many."

I dearly wanted to avoid bringing up Trixie's role in my successful evacuation from the battlefield. My vision was unsteady and my focus poor, but I could still remember that moment when the Hollows began to descend upon her. It was then Sky Beak's turn to speak. "Admiral Seaspray ordered us to focus all of our attention on the unit that was carrying our boy here. Explosive arrows were to not be used under any circumstances until there was enough distance between them and the enemy. We picked them off one by one and then cleared a path with explosive rounds. And...I'll admit my aim was shakier than usual when I saw him being dragged along..."

Sky Beak turned his head to gaze at me. His eyes were filled with such pained look. "I wasn't ready to see you like that. You had gotten through every battle out there with hardly a dent on your armor. To see you like that... Just...down and being dragged like that... There's nothing a father can to do prepare himself to see his son in such a state."

It hurt to see that wonderful stallion looking so pained. As if he felt like he could have done more to stop me from getting hurt at all out there. And I knew that was impossible. There was so much we did not know. Could not have expected. So much was unexplained until the final hours of the war. And I could not bear to see the stallion I had come to know as my father looking like he was on the verge of tears. I held his head to my chest and spoke softly to him. "You saved me that day, papa bird. And I'm OK now. Everything's all right."

"Oh my lord, it better be!" Sky Beak gasped as he barely managed to contain a sob. He held me in his arms while I held him. I have never known the horror of being a father who had just witnessed his child suffer a life-threatening wound. I hope I never will... Sky Beak tearfully nuzzled his head against my chest as he whimpered, "I love you, my boy. Live long and happy, all right?"

"Oh, look at you silly things. Here, let me have some!" Ocean Flow stood up from her spot and came around to my other side so she too could give the two of us a winged embrace. She got her face past her husband's wings and nuzzled my cheek from behind. I glanced at Ocean out of the corner of my eye while she whispered to us both. "You're family now, James. And we love you. Don't be a stranger whenever we're around, all right?"

"Right... Just...so glad to have you guys." I whispered back while finally starting to feel a bit emotional myself. Those tears were cleansing. To be held not just by my father, but quite possibly the mare who might be the only one I might ever see as a mother? I may not have been back on Capricorn Island yet, but I was still home.

It was then that the sound of hooves on stone started to reach our ears. And a familiar voice spoke out to us. "Sky Beak! So good to see you, my friend! This spot taken?"

Sky Beak and I smiled instantly. We knew that voice. And once we released each other from that wonderful group hug, we found Orbash and Sunflare standing patiently to my left. And Sky Beak was more than happy to greet Equestria's true king. "Your majesty! Hello! Please, have a seat!"

Sky Beak and Ocean Flow returned to their spots to my right while Orbash and Sunflare took a stead to my left. I was bordered by the two husband and wife duos with the two father stallions bordering me. The kindly king then asked, "I hope we are not intruding on anything. What were you and my boy up to, my good stallion?"

"Oh, just catching up on lost time and reintroducing him to the missus." Sky Beak replied while Ocean Flow leaned over the counter to wave at the king and queen. I felt happy, yet also a bit uneasy and awkward. I was sandwiched between two wonderful stallions who had basically become fathers to me. Not that I was in protest of their presence. I was very happy to have them there. Sky Beak also noticed Orbash's choice of words and asked, "And how have you been, your majesty? With you living so close to Ponyville, you must see my boy more often than I do."

Orbash cast the two of us a smirk and said, "Sky beak, my friend. I do believe this fine fellow is our boy now. I mean it's only a matter of time before he and dear Celestia bless us with grandchildren at this rate."

Utterly shameless, that stallion... Sunflare just groaned while rolling her eyes, but I buried my face in my hands. "Oh my god, your majesty! Not here!"

Sky Beak and Ocean Flow howled with laughter while the former placed his hand on my shoulder. "Get used to it, my boy! It looks like you really do have two daddies now!"

"I don't know if I should laugh or cry..." I grumbled while still finding the will to smile. I felt thoroughly embarrassed, but I loved those two stallions. Orbash and Sky Beak were like two peas in a pod or long lost best friends.

"Ugh, there really are two of them now. What did I do to be cursed so?" Sunflare grumbled while doing so with a smile. Although I then happened to notice her gaze wander to the other side of the counter. And then I noticed it too. The bartender was just standing there with my prepared drink floating in his magical grasp. And the gaze he was giving us... Sunflare noticed immediately what the problem was and asked, "Is there someone wrong, sir?"

The bartender immediately flustered as he found the queen of Equestria herself glaring him down. Orbash then gave the bartender a very intimidating yet playful gaze as he said, "Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the saying goes...what happens at the bar stays at the bar. Am I right?"

"Ye... Yes, your majesty!" The bartender nervously chuckled before sliding my beverage over to me. He then stood at attention and asked, "Anything I can get you, your majesties?"

Orbash lost that playfully menacing stare and perked up with a smile. He replied in turn before looking over at his wife. "One honeypot for me, my good sir! What're you in the mood for, my love?"

I too was curious of what Sunflare's preferences in mixed drinks were like. I had only ever seen her drink wine until then. She replied without much hesitation, "You know I always like to start off with a full moon, my dear. On the rocks."

"Coming right up, your majesties." The bartender replied while he appeared to start on Sunflare's drink first. I suppose the queen takes precedence, ladies first and all that. I paid close attention to what even is a 'full moon' cocktail. It turns out that it only uses two ingredients. Amaretto liquor and orange curacao. He then put together Orbash's drink and slid the two glasses over to their rightful owners.

I was particularly surprised by the warm orange hues of Sunflare's drink It was clear she ordered it because the name of the drink reminded her of her husband, but I expected the resulting color to be...cooler. "Funny how it's not as pale as a full moon when it's all stirred together."

"You would think so, yes? And yet, the color brings to mind the sky at sunset. When the moon is about to rise... Although I suppose a tequila sunset looks the part better." Sunflare retorted before she shared a loving smirk with her king. The two of them then levitated their drinks over to their right for a toast. "Cheers, my friends! To a prosperous future for Equestria!"

We all happily brought our glasses together to lightly clink them together before we all took that first sip. My definitely tasted like a daiquiri with the strawberry and banana notes perfectly complimenting each other. Although I then eyed the bartender as he started cleaning some glasses and checking his stock. He looked like he was really trying to note pay attention to us by then. Orbash sneakily leaned my way and whispered, "You know what they say. Every good bartender is good at keeping secrets."

"He better be..." I muttered in some unease. Goodness knows what kind of a scandal would break out if word spread so far about the Princess of the Dawn courting a married man. And that bartender was pretty much the only one outside of the list of vacationers there who could listen in on such conversations. And yet, Orbash was so eager to discuss that topic in the presence of good friends. "Then again, maybe you shouldn't be so quick to openly talk about your daughter's love life."

"True, but you know how this king of fools is. He's all heart and little brain." Sunflare said with such a snide smirk. Even moreso as she smirked at Orbash with only her eyes while she took a long sip of her drink. Orbash could only bow his head in a wheezing laugh in response to his wife's snarky jab. And she was not done. "For heaven's sake, Orbash. Where would you be if you did not have me, you loveable imbecile?"

Now it was Orbash's turn to throw words. "How ironic, as it was I who pursued you! Remember when you thought it was more appropriate to answer my courtship with orbs of celestial fire? Never again will a mare play so hard in the game of hard to get!"

Instead of reacting with embarrassment or anger, Sunflare just suddenly hunkered over in some of the most sincere and raucous laughter I had ever seen out of her. And she was hardly intoxicated at all by then. "Ohohoho my! All right, yes! I concede! And your persistence rewarded me quite handsomely, I must admit. I knew not what I was being offered until I received it."

"You two are such a good couple." I finally said while taking a gulp of my thick and icy drink. And the king and queen could only snicker together before sharing a quick kiss. I then looked back and saw that Sky Beak and Ocean Flow were watching with keen interest. I leaned their way and asked, "Aren't they so good for each other?"

"Oh, they really are. I wasn't sure what to expect when I heard about the king and queen returning to their people, but now I see why they've been married for so long." Ocean Flow giggled before sneaking a kiss onto her husband's cheek. Sky Beak snickered at his wife's sneaky display of affection before she added, "Kind of reminds me of us. Doesn't it, dear?"

"Hmmmm... I think I do see the resemblance. But I really need to look up ways to grow my mane out like he does. I can't compete with that glorious flag of shimmering silver." Sky Beak chuckled before his wife playfully tugged on his mane of feathers with her beak. As if she was being silly in protesting him fancying changing up his look. Really, one should never feel inadequate in the presence of the royal family's beauty. Especially the king and queen. Those two blur the line between mortals and gods.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H84NHErkHE[/embed]

I regretfully had little to offer to the conversation the longer we were there at the counter. Perhaps if Fluttershy was there, it would have been different. Unfortunately, I was the odd one out as the chat turned into a couple's conversation. I eventually finished my drink and excused myself to let the two fathers and mothers have fun together. I tried locating the three royal sisters and saw that they were playing darts in another covered area in the VIP area that served as an outdoor arcade. Quite a few of the rest of our entourage were hanging out in and around the swimming pool. But I did happen to see someone lounging out on the beach.

Rain Shine was happily resting under a beach umbrella and almost looked like she had passed out for a nap while still keeping her head up. Until I stepped to the side and saw that she was gently sliding her front hooves through the sand past the edge of the large towel under her. It was almost like she was kneading the sand.

My heart was calling for my beloved. I tried being sneaky and stepping through the sand as lightly as possible while all eyes nearby were focused on other things. But just when I was almost at arm's length of her, Rain Shine opened her right eye as she smiled. "Hello, my love."

"There's just no sneaking up on a kirin, is there?" I said while just barely not having a laugh at her being too aware of her surroundings when on solid ground. I took a seat on the towel beside her and observed the movements of her hooves. It was so tempting to just reach out and kiss her. And yet...who knows who was in the crowd beyond the fence? We were surely getting a lot of gawkers. I looked down at Rain's hooves and asked, "Getting reacquainted with the earth?"

"Yes. And I am savoring this sand. I never got to see such warm and fine earth even back in the east. I could listen in from afar, but never imagined I would feel it with my own hooves. Such a vibrant sensation, the tropical flora that has sunk its roots into this..." Rain Shine replied with her eyes closing again. She was both in her element and very far out of it. But I knew by then that the earth is soothing for the kirin. And I was happy for my beloved being so pleased with being able to try something new for the first time in so long.

All I did was watch for a moment. Doing nothing more as we sat in the shade of the parasol above. I was almost tempted to just lie down and take a nap. We were taking it easy for our first day after all. But as I watched Rain Shine's hooves shift the sand around them, I was reminded of her connection to the earth. And an idea suddenly came to mind. "Have you tried calling the girls back home to let them know what's going on?"

"You're right! I should!" Rain Shine gasped with her eyes lighting up. Seconds later, a large bellflower suddenly sprouted from the sand with bright yellow petals. The lovely kirin matriarch then spoke into the flower. "Hello? Gather around, my people. I have just arrived at our destination. Or I did...some hours ago."

I wish I could hear what was on the other side of that flower. But it sounded like everyone back in the Grove of Silence was hurrying to gather around another bellflower that had sprouted in town. Rain Shine soon smiled as something surely reached her ear. "Yes, hello! It's so good to hear from all of you! Yes, the flight was...um...pleasant? Turbulent at times, but safe. Although I am so very relieved to feel the boundless stable energies of the earth beneath my hooves once again."

And so she talked. And talked and talked with what would have looked like a conversation with herself to the untrained eye. Not even two days had passed since she left home and Rain Shine was talking to her entire village as if they had been deathly worried about her. And maybe they had every right to be a little anxious. They surely could not reach out to Rain Shine at all while she was flying aboard the Olympia. But I then noticed that she looked like she had just heard something unexpected. And then Rain Shine looked my way with a smile. "Autumn says she misses you."

"Yeah? Well I don't miss autumn at all... Wait! You mean Autumn Blaze?!" I replied before suddenly realizing who was on the other end of the call. It had been too long since I last saw her and I had been just recently reminded of why I dislike the season of autumn as much as I do. "No, no, I do miss Autumn! She's great."

Rain Shine burst out into a hearty chuckle before she said, "Do not be so afraid. They're all laughing right now. Oh? Ah, Winter says to give you her regards too."

"Winter...Flame, right? Yeah, let her know I'm doing fine. She really helped me back then." I replied while also trying to think back to the kirin medicine mare who had tried to soothe my skull fracture to the best of her ability. It was not much in the grand scheme of things, but it did lessen my symptoms at the time.

All of the kirin of the Grove of Silence made my visits there so memorable. But the two that stood out in my mind most was Autumn Blaze and Winter Flame. They were the only two I could remember completely off the top of my head. Probably because they were the only other two I had spent personal time with. And...I did find myself longing for them. Autumn Blaze especially. She knew how to make me feel special and welcome.

I tried to not think too deeply about those two lovely mares. Besides, it was not my call to talk through. Not like I could have heard what was being said anyway. Although I then noticed Rain Shine whisper something into the bellflower. She then held her ear to it, nodded a few times, and then spoke loudly enough for me to overhear. "Yes, I will discuss this with them this evening and get back to all of you on that. Let's talk again then, shall we?"

It looked like everything had been said that needed to be said for the time. The bellflower quickly retracted back into the sand like it had never been there. I then asked, "What happened there at the end? Something special?"

Rain Shine spoke with a playful smile on her lips. "I asked everyone if they would like to visit our homeland for the lunar new year with me. At least if I can convince Celestia and her sisters to fly us there."

"Getting the whole village back east for a visit in time for the big event? Wow, they'll be going stir crazy in no time aboard a sky ferry. But I'm sure it'll be worth it." I retorted while almost cracking up at the thought of the entire village of kirin being herded aboard an airship to get them all east and just having such a stressful time having no connection to the ground. Or would they be able to behave themselves during the trip?

The mention of that little issue caused Rain Shine to frown with her brow furrowed. It took her a good while to become comfortable aboard the Olympia and she could not stand to be near the edge of the deck, even during gentle winds. I am sure the only thing that made the trip bearable was being in good company. She was very relaxed the night before while with Ember and I. So relaxed that she and I even made love together for the first time. But an entire village of little kirin mares? That sounded like a mess waiting to happen. And Rain Shine knew this. "Hmmm... Something will have to be done to make the journey more comfortable for them. My people are not meant for the sky. We belong with our hooves on the ground and connected to the flora of the earth. There must be a solution..."

"I hope you and the royal family can figure something out. It would be a shame if the ladies back home missed this again." I replied while placing my hand on my beloved's shoulder. I had traveled the Empty Plains quite a ways before the militia caught up to me out there. The solitude is deafening. To be so far from home with nowhere to rest along the way... Even if the kirin of the Grove of Silence are able to live a happy existence out there, they are not mean to be so isolated. Rain Shine and I shared a gaze as I felt so very tempted to kiss her. But there were too many nearby who might see. "Do you think things will change out there? Where you and your people might find a way to become more directly connected with the outside world?"

"I can only hope... Now that all know of the truth of the Empty Plains' history, maybe changes will come. Although I doubt it will happen anytime soon." Rain Shine said with a sigh of resignation. She and I gazed at each other. And there was such a look of longing in her eyes. Her wonderful spirit called out to mine. Beckoned me to draw near. We leaned closer...but just barely resisted the urge to let our lips touch. We belonged together, but the rest of the world would not understand that. Rain Shine then whispered instead, "Please... Do visit us from time to time. I am yours now, my love. I would loathe to not see you again at regular intervals."

I would hate myself if I ever deprived any of my beloveds of their husband for any great length of time. Rain Shine especially. That accursed distance between Ponyville and the Grove of Silence... The only way to get there swiftly would be through flight. And if the people of Equestria will end up resettling out there in the Empty Plains, that could take generations. I know I will not live to see new towns and cities be founded out there. Regardless of my frustrations, I rested my hand over Rain Shine's hoof and gazed into her eyes. "I will. I need to. Because I love you."

"Thank you, my love. I pray that I will not take too much time away from you and the wonderful mares who have and will become your brides." Rain Shine said with very pleased smile. She brought her face closer to mine for a kiss, but she resisted that urge. She instead bowed her head and gently rested her horn against my brow. And for a moment, we just rested there. Hoof in hand, eyes closed, the noise of the busy beach nearby and the conversations behind us on the patio no longer registering with us.

Rain Shine and I were in our own little world for the moment. Our souls embracing as a certain harmony settled over us. Man and mare. Human and kirin. It all felt so natural. To belong together. To need each other. I was ashamed to have ever doubted us. The world I once called home and my own unfair experiences in the art of romance made me more cautious than I ever should have been. Even towards a woman whose very species naturally longs for my own. That old shame surfacing in my heart, I whispered to my beloved without ever opening my eyes. "I'm so sorry I ever had doubts... I never should've made you wait."

"Think nothing of it, my dear. Your caution only made the time that much sweeter when it came. I could sense the tiny cracks still present in your soul. The cracks only a broken heart could cause. I still sense them even now." Rain Shine whispered to me while I think I even felt a tear forming in each of my eyes. Such soothing words. Words spoken from her soul to my own. And she continued to whisper to me. "I have much work to do. I will continue to fill those cracks day by day. So you may love without doubt ever again. I swear that I will mend your heart, my love."

"I'm...so honored to have you, Rain..." I almost whimpered as those tears squeezed themselves out. Her soul was so nurturing. So soothing... Rain Shine then surprised me by gently pulling me down and draping an arm across my chest. I gazed into those beautiful red eyes as I muttered, "Love you so much..."

"As do I, my dear James. Wonderful times are ahead for us, I'm sure. But for now... Let us rest. Let me hold you in sleep, my love. Please..." Rain Shine whispered to me while only barely resisting the urge to kiss me. I had to even resist the desire to embrace her. And there under the parasol with the sound of a busy tropical beach becoming white noise, the two of us drifted off to sleep for a brief nap. It was the best day for it.

My dreams were vague, but happy. Just sleeping with my soul embracing Rain Shine's made me happy even in slumber. But something started to feel strange... I felt...feathers. Like I was being wrapped in a blanket of fluffy feathers. And as my barely dreaming mind started to process this sensation, I sprang awake to find myself being held from both sides. Rain Shine was on my left while on my right was... "Hey there, pretty bird."

"Did I wake you? Sorry. Just... I wanna snuggle!" Silverstream squeaked before clinging to me with her beak nuzzling up against my face. She then added, "And I want scritches. Lots and lots of scritches. You still give scritches, right?"

"Only the best scritches in the world." I retorted with an amused grimace. I had forgotten just how much I enjoyed her company. I could not even be mad at her for waking me up. If anything, she did me a favor. It would be a shame to sleep through my first day of vacation, even if I kind of needed it. How long was I even out? Thirty minutes? Regardless, I reached an arm over and held Silverstream by the back of her head and let my fingers go to work through her feathers. And sure enough, that silly little lady started to puff up in delight. "Heh. You fluffy girl."

"Mmmm, sooooo good, I needed this. Gimme more scritches and I'll get extra fluffy for you!" Silverstream giggled as that coat of soft pink feathers puffed up further by the second. She looked like she had just gotten out of a bath and had freshly dried herself off with a hairdryer. But I then felt stirring behind me as someone else also began to rise from their slumber. Silverstream noticed too and lifted her head to see that Rain Shine was now gazing upon us. "Oh, hi! Did I wake you up?"

"Mm, perhaps. Your aura is so bright and overflowing with vigor that I suspect it may even be infectious." Rain Shine chuckled while maintaining her near constant serenity. She pushed herself up and rested on the towel beside me. Although Rain then titled her head up a little more to look past us. "And hello to you, young one."

"Hey there. Just waiting for my turn." Terramar was seated patiently behind Silverstream where I had somehow overlooked him. He looked down at his sister while appearing as if he was trying to not laugh at just how fluffy she was letting herself get. "Sis, come on. I think you've reached maximum fluffiness by now."

"Awww, fine. But I want more scritches later! Please, best friend? For me? I've been waiting months!" Silverstream pleaded while I could only snicker at her enthusiasm. I just never get tired of that silly little lady. She and Pinkie Pie would make quite the duo if they ever spent time together. Silverstream then stood up and rapidly quivered in some kind of stretch. Her fluffy plumage quickly relaxed and smoothed itself out before she stepped away. "All yours, bro!"

"Thanks. Hey there, James. You don't mind, do you?" Silverstream's brother asked as he lied down beside me. I answered with a smirk before placing my hand on the back of his head and let my fingers do the talking. And he liked what they had to say. "Ooooh yeah, that's the spot. How are you so good at this?"

"Experience. And fingers. Yeah, having fingers with soft tips helps." I said smugly while even Terramar could not resist the urge to let himself fluff up in pleasure. He started to look like a very excited white cockatoo in very little time. I do not think they normally did that last time... Maybe it was to show just how starved for scritches they had been. And it was adorable.

Rain Shine took the opportunity to hit us up for some conversation. "Silverstream and Terramar, yes? Have you known my friend here for long?"

Silverstream took the reigns as she spoke first. "Yep! We met him on his very first day on Capricorn Island! Never saw anything like him before, so I just had to get to know him! And it's kind of a funny story on how it first happened. Wanna tell her, James?"

I rolled my eyes at that memory. A perfect example of pure serendipity paving the way for wonderful new friendships. "Let's just say I found out the hard way that humans aren't designed for flying without facial protection. I couldn't keep my eyes open and couldn't breathe all of a sudden. Would've had a nasty crash if their dad didn't see me stalling in the air and grabbed me to set me down nice and easy. And then this silly little lady saw the whole thing and came over to check on us and the rest is history."

"Mmhm, just like that! I made a new best friend that day! All because Dad saw you were in trouble and swooped in to help!" Silverstream giggled in fond recollection of that day. I too remember my time spent on that island. Like a special slice of heaven in an already wonderful world. Terramar was too absorbed into his scritches session and just listened without a word. His sister tends to do most of the talking anyway. Silverstream then added, "And then he came by for dinner that night and met Mom and Terramar! We live in the Omega sector at the top of the mountain right next to the Ivory Palace, so James found us pretty easy. And then he stayed the night! He gave me such goooood cuddles in bed. Such a nice sleepover!"

"I have to admit that hippogriffs make great bedmates. They're so nice to hold and hug, especially on cooler nights." I confessed with a chuckle while I remembered the times I spent with Silverstream in her room. I was hoping we could do so again sometime during a future visit. Maybe she added some new framed photos of opulent staircases around the place.

Rain Shine then looked back and forth at the two hippogriff siblings with a gaze of curiosity. She asked gently, "If I may be so bold to ask... Who is the eldest of the two of you?"

I too never asked much on who was born first. It was just not a question that came to mind during my time on Capricorn Island last time. But Terramar did provide a response. "Us? Oh, we're twins. And our birthday's coming up in a few weeks. Although Mom and Dad said Silverstream came out first."

My scritching on Terramar's feathered scalp came to a sudden halt as I heard that admission. My eyes widened in surprise as I said, "Twins?! Huh... You almost never hear about equine races having multiples."

Silverstream was excited by my words. As if it brought to mind something she was eager to share. She held out her hands before moving them further apart to add some emphasis to her words. "Yeah, you should've seen Mom back then! Dad took lots of pictures of her! She was huuuuuuge! So wide that there was no way she could fly down to the seaside and back up everyday!"

"Had to call in maternity leave, huh?" I said with a laugh while trying to imagine just how big hippogriff mares get while pregnant with offspring. Especially with two foals! So heavy with child that flight was an actual challenge? Even with such huge and powerful wings? Impressive...

Even so, as a father who knows the indescribable joy of witnessing the birth of my own child, I took some comfort in seeing just how happy and pleasant those two hippogriff siblings turned out. They had been raised by wonderful parents who must have been absolutely overjoyed to see them for the first time. I remembered the birth of Gladesong at that moment. How I just...burst into tears when I held that tiny little thing in my hands for the first time. Not tears of sorrow, but tears of sheer joy. To know that she was mine... It is an experience I want to go through again. Hopefully many times.

My thoughts must have distracted me quite a bit. I almost did not even notice Terramar calling out to me. "James...? You OK? You kind of spaced out there."

"Huh? Oh, uh... Just... I just wanna say you two have amazing parents. And they did a great job raising you. Great parenting results in great kids, right?" I retorted while I glanced back and forth at the twin brother and sister beside me. Born on the same day, yet so vastly different from each other. And such great people in their own rights. As fillies and colts or stallions and mares and anywhere between, I was thoroughly impressed with just how good hippogriffs tend to turn out in the end. If there was one place I could have chosen to end up the first time I was ever brought to Equestria besides cozy little Ponyville, it would be Capricorn Island. I would have been very happy living amongst those beautiful bird horses.

Something about those words seemed to trigger something in Terramar. His fluffed up feathers began flatten themselves out against his body again as his smile faded. And to my surprise, he crawled up to me and held me in a big hug while Silverstream just watched in quiet curiosity. My young friend then said, "I think you turned out great too... Even if your dad wasn't the best guy."

Right... I told him. Terramar found out first about my own father during the first night I spent at his home. And then his father overheard. Rather than be wistful about it, I embraced my young friend right back. "Hey, it's OK now... Sometimes not so great parents end up serving as an example of what not to be to their kids. Besides, I found another father during my time in Equestria. Two, if you want to be technical."

A snicker crackled in Terramar's throat. As if he knew exactly what I was on about. "Heh, yeah... Dad let it slip a few times that he sees you like your his own kid. And...I kinda like the idea of having a big brother."

Those words touched me in a way that I did not expect. And all I could do was wrap my arms around that kindly hippogriff boy to hold him against me. "Terra, I... I'll try. If you're gonna be my little brother, I can...try to be yours too."

Terramar nuzzled his head against the side of mine while he did something I do not believe he has ever done in my presence. He began to churr very beautifully. He was very happy. And a bit tired too. I think just about everyone besides Silverstream and maybe Skystar were running on a half tank at the time. Although I then looked at Silverstream as she beamed at us with a fist held near the underside of her beak. She clearly thought the sentimentality the two of us were showing was just too precious. I cracked a crooked smile and said, "Uh... Does this mean you're my little sis now too?"

"Hmmmm... Nah! I'm just not feeling it. But you are my best friend!" Silverstream chirped with a giggle. And it was mutual. While I did feel an almost brotherly kinship with Terramar, I never felt quite the same feeling from Silverstream. She was just my silly little friend.

Silverstream slivered her way back under my arm to get some cuddles as well and I found myself snuggling with both of the two hippogriff siblings while lying back down. Rain Shine had been patiently quiet for a while to just observe the three of us reconnecting. Although Silverstream then asked, "Waaaiiit a minute... When you said you have two daddies now... Who's the other one?"

I was surprised she did not assume I meant my father back on Earth. But I was happy to explain. "Him? That would be King Orbash. No, really. He's an amazing guy and did a lot of good for me out on the Empty Plains. I...really adore him. He's an amazing king as well as an amazing father. And I think it's obvious right now that I have a lot of respect for good fathers."

"Wow, really? Equestria's king has been like a dad to you too?! That's...wow. I mean we read the newspaper article. That was...a lot of crazy stuff about the humans who were here before. And that it got so bad that the king and queen had to help out?" Terramar asked with surprise while Silverstream was more preoccupied by being silly with how she cuddled with me. Such as gently gnawing and tugging on my ear in a manner that almost made me laugh.

Being reminded of that newspaper article was jarring. The first time I met those two siblings, they knew nothing about humans. And in just one day, they learned everything about the humans of Equestria's past. I tensed up a bit and asked, "I hope learning about everything that happened out there hasn't changed anything..."

"No way! I don't care what those old humans were like. You're the best human I've ever met! And you're my best friend! And..." Silverstream squealed happily yet defiantly right next to me while I was still wrapped in her arms. But her train of thought was derailed for a moment as she tried to think. And then she only squeezed me tighter in her embrace. "And you're a hero! You're a real life knight! My best friend's gotten soooo amazing since I last saw him!"

Terramar just cracked up in laughter at how ecstatic his sister was over my most recent accomplishments. "Oh man, Silverstream... But she's right. You're a real hero now, huh? But it kinda doesn't feel like it when we hang out now. It's like...nothing really changed about you, James."

"Well, that's kinda how it is with me. I might be a knight now, but I'm still me. I'm just a guy who loves this world and wants to just live happily in it." I replied while taking no shame in wanting to keep my desires relatively simple and uncomplicated. If I could go the rest of my life without ever getting roped into another crisis that would require me to take up the sword again, I would die a happy man.

"Mmmmm, you're the best. Don't ever change, James." Silverstream said rather softly while she nuzzled her head against mine. She was just so happy to have me back in her life. I still remember when she chased down the Olympia just so she could say goodbye.

It was right around then that I noticed Rain Shine just watching the three of us with serene patience. She was not even frowning at us. Although I was still worried that having her sit out the entire conversation might have been a bit rude. Rain Shine was quick to notice the realization in my eyes and spoke before I could. "Do not mind me. Carry on. I'm interested in hearing more."

Terramar and Silverstream looked at each other as if they both suddenly realized that they had intrigued on my time with Rain Shine. The former nervously asked, "Uh... We did kinda wake you two up."

"Maaaaybe we should go do something else... Like talk to the king!" Silverstream giggled with such a nervous grin on her beak. She then looked over at the bar behind us and said, "Hey! He's having a drink with Dad! You think they're friends now?"

They did not know the half of it. I looked back and did see that Orbash and Sky Beak were still seated at the bar with bottles of cold ale at the ready. Sunflare and Ocean Flow were nowhere to be seen, so I have to assume they stepped away to have some woman talk. They surely had all sorts of stories to share about their loveable husbands. The king of Equestria himself and one humble royal guard of Capricorn Island, talking as friends. Two fathers to the same adopted son. I felt...blessed. Truly blessed. And I spoke softly to my young friends. "Why don't you go say hello to your dad's new friend? He's a great guy. Really knows how to hold a conversation."

That was all the persuasion they needed. Terramar and Silverstream nuzzled me goodbye before trotting off to chat up Equestria's one true king. Now that I was alone with her once again, Rain Shine turned to me and spoke with a smile. "They were very happy to see you again. That little mare especially. Friends of yours?"

"Very good friends. Silverstream and Terramar were basically my lifeline on Capricorn Island whenever I was out of the palace. We explored and saw so much of the island together. I'd say that they were the ones guiding me around nine times out of ten. They were very good hosts to me." I explained happily as I tried to recall some of the standout locations we visited. That waterfall basin filled with stingless jellyfish. That ocean museum. Hiking through forests and gazing out upon the vast ocean from rocky cliffs. And getting roped into a ridiculous yet harmless feud between two of the richest families on the island. It was a physically taxing time, but a very rewarding one too. "Man, I need to ask Rarity to put together some tough hiking boots before my next visit."

Rain Shine's smile only broadened at my words. Maybe she could sense my joyful recollection of those events and my longing for that beautiful island. The lovely kirin queen said sweetly, "You've made many friends during your time in our world. Here and across the ocean. I wonder how many more you will make?"

A poignant thing to admit. And it made me ponder how much I had experienced in just a few short years. "I never would've made so many if it wasn't for the royal family. I know I'm technically under their watch as basically some kind of ambassador, but they've given me opportunities I never would've gotten back home. I'm grateful."

The two of us shared a gaze. And then a smile. But then we turned to look back at the reserved patio that had been prepared for our entourage. The three royal sisters were still in the entertainment section and looked like they were having a playful squabble fueled by a few bottles of beer. They had done away with the likes of fancy wine and were having fun like commoners do. Rain Shine looked at me knowingly and asked, "Shall we?"

"Yeah... Let's go see them." We both rose from the towel and sandy beach before heading over to the lounge. Nightmare Moon was taking her turn at a pool table with her displaying some impeccable aim with that floating pool cue in her magical grasp. The clicking of those numbered balls reached my ears before the two of us could reach them. I spoke up gently once w had stepped in out of the sun. "Afternoon, ladies. Having fun?"

"A grand time, my friend. Simply a grand time." Nightmare Moon replied as she took another shot with that white cue ball bouncing around the table to send another numbered ball down a hole in the corner. The Princess of Dreams then looked at me with a smile and took note of Rain Shine's presence as well. "And a good afternoon to you, Rain Shine. Are your nerves more at ease now that you are back on solid ground?"

"Much more at ease, yes. And such vibrant variety I sense through the sands. So very different from the quiet serenity of the Empty Plains. The tremors through the sand make this land feel so alive!" Rain Shine giggled as I am sure she could still feel all the activity around us through the stone tiles on the floor. She then glanced at me out of the corner of her eye and said, "Although I do believe someone here has something to say."

Nightmare Moon lifted her head from the pool table as she was about to take another shot. Her eyes widened in curiosity while her sisters also began to gather around. Celestia spoke first. "Really? What is it then, James?"

My will to speak dulled as I found myself standing before the three royal sisters. I had been so eager to speak my heart to them, but now that I found them right in front of me... It was strangely daunting. So difficult to speak so formally to some of the most powerful mares in all of Equestria. Those at the very top of the governing power of the world. Luna noticed my hesitation and asked, "Is something wrong, my friend? Are you well? Is there anything we can do for you?"

It was too late to back out now. I steeled my nerves and spoke from my heart. "I just wanted to say...that I'm grateful. For all that you've given me. For the opportunities you've provided. All I've seen beyond Ponyville and everyone I've met... I don't think it ever would've happened if you weren't in my life."

"James... Come here, my love." Celestia said with a growing smile on her lips. The Princess of the Dawn stepped forward with a wing extended before she held me in an embrace. Luna and Nightmare Moon too joined in as I was embraced by the three royal sisters. Celestia whispered to my ear, "Is that all you wanted to say? Because we have always been happy to see you expand your horizons."

"And we have received as much as we have given. You have done much for our world in such a short time. It is only fair that you be rewarded for such services, my friend." Luna added while her eldest sister placed a kiss upon my cheek. I felt so warm all over. And not just from the hot tropical air around us.

Nightmare Moon also snuck a kiss onto my other cheek as she spoke too. "Do not be afraid to ask should you need anything. Our ears are always open to your requests and needs. Always."

They were true friends, those wonderful mares. Royalty, yet also friends eager to share their blessings. I put my arms around the three of them and just stood there in their embrace. Just to savor a moment of sentimentality. "Sorry... I guess I had a moment of weakness and just had to say all that."

Someone wedged their way into that embrace. And my nose was greeted by a familiar and subtle scent of pine needles. Rain Shine kissed me on the ear before whispering to me. "I am grateful as well, my love. Thank you for being here. For finding your way to me."

"So much good fortune. All because we found just the right human candidate to bring to this world. Could our choice have been more fortunate?" Luna asked with a little laugh. And I could only hope I would never let them down. Maybe there was someone on Earth who would have fared better. Someone who would have benefited Equestria more than me. I tried my very best to not think too hard about that...

Those four wonderful mares finally released me from their embrace. And Rain Shine was quick to jump at the opportunity that she had been presented. "But now that we have your attention... A word with you, my friends?"

I had a hunch of where that conversation was going and looked on in anticipation. Celestia faced her old friend and said, "Of course! What's on your mind, Rain?"

Rain Shine looked at me and flashed me a knowing smile. And I smiled back. It was now or never. The kirin queen faced her friends and said, "I am not certain if it has crossed your minds, but the lunar new year is approaching. And you know how important it is in the land of my people's origins."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened in pleased realization. "Ah, that it is. In just a few months, no less. Are you suggestion what I think you are?"

"I am. After all that has happened, I propose that we all plan a visit to my homeland in time to partake in the lunar new year celebrations. I would so dearly cherish being able to see my home for the first time in so very long now that the Empty Plains are no longer a guarded secret. Even moreso if the entire Grove of Silence could attend as well." Rain Shine explained while I listened with great interest. We had only discussed that topic with each other in private. It was time to get an answer from those who could make it happen.

Luna was the most excited about the request. She jumped at the opportunity. "I vote in favor of it! I have not seen the eastern lands since my banishment a thousand years ago! And Nightmare Moon! You have yet to see those lands at all!"

"Hm... True. I have not. Perhaps we are overdue for a scheduled visit to the east. There has been no troubling news from there in some time, but a diplomatic visit is certainly warranted at this time. I understand the current dynasty is nearing its end with the newest emperor being sworn in just years ago. It would not be proper to wait any longer for our first meeting in person." Nightmare Moon spoke next with intrigue in her eyes. All that was left was Celestia.

Cold drinks started getting passed around from an ice bucket now that the conversation had turned into a rather fun chat. I was eager to listen in and learn more as Celestia spoke. "You do bring up a good point, Rain. And it just isn't fair that your people have been isolated for so long out there after the fall of the empire. This could be the first step in healing these old wounds. You and your village deserve to see home after so long. We would have to make certain they would all fit aboard an airship for the most efficient results."

"I doubt you would have to worry about them having to bunk close together to save space. My people have always been communal and sociable in the Grove of Silence. They are used to being near each other." Rain Shine replied while I also pondered what sort of airship would be needed to move so many. Probably a royal guard transport. They would likely have to use simple bunk beds as a means to save space. Not the fanciest accommodations, but it would be worth it to spend a week or two in an exotic yet familiar land. They would surely manage.

"Right, kirin do love to socialize, don't they? And...yes! This could be opportunity for others! Twilight would adore a chance to see the eastern lands. We could invite all her friends too! James, do you think Fluttershy would like to see the eastern lands?" Celestia asked as her private student came to mind. And not just her either.

I was pleasantly reminded of all the adventures Twilight Sparkle and her close circle of friends have been on together. Or so I had heard after my arrival. From Appleloosa to Cloudsdale to the Everfree Forest to Canterlot to even the dragon lands, my closest circle of friends had a knack for visiting new places as a group. Either by choice or sheer circumstance. How could they say no to a pleasure cruise to a distant land just in time for an annual festival? And so I said, "I'm pretty sure all six of those mares will find something to love about that place. And I'm pretty sure it's been a while since they last went together as a group just to have a good time. Why not call them all up?"

Celestia was genuinely excited "I think I will do just that! Rain Shine, consider it done. As soon as we get back home, we'll start making plans and appointments. We have too many reasons to not miss out on this coming lunar new year celebration. Luna? Nightmare Moon? Are you in favor?"

"Absolutely! Oh, I can only imagine how things have changed over there since last time... Much happens during a thousand years. We had best discuss this with Mother and Father. They need to be introduced as well!" Luna said in contemplation. And I smirked at myself in intrigue. It would seem I have a lot to look forward to next year. A trip to the Republic of Aquila for that promised fencing tournament. And now a visit to the far eastern lands beyond the Empty Plains? I better pack plenty of paper because I know I will have a lot to write home about.

The four mares began to chat each other up with a very active conversation about their memories of the past in the east. Previous dynasties and emperors. I think I even heard them bring up Mistmane at one point. With nothing to add to the conversation myself, I quietly excused myself with a cold bottle of beer in hand and began to wander the fenced off section of the resort where my entourage was hanging out. Not so much to have fun, but rather to see what everyone else was up to.

Novo's guard detail were onsite as expected while even clad in varying bits of gold or silver armor. Except for Seaspray, who was clad in his custom set of iridescent armor that beautifully shimmered in the tropical sun. And it looked like they were there just out of sheer protocol. They were not even armed. Just standing around enjoying some drinks and even looked like they were having some pleasant conversations with each other. Maybe their presence was unnecessary. Or maybe Novo had them there just to have a good time as well. No wonder Novo's men seem to like having her as their boss.

Skystar was hanging out in the beach section of that location and looked like she had rounded up a cluster of seashells from down by the shoreline. Silverstream and Terramar had gathered around as they appeared to be making seashell necklaces with her. I forgot how the princess of Capricorn Island has a passion about oceanography despite her royal status. And now she was making souvenirs to take home.

Sunflare and Orbash had joined Sky Beak and Ocean flow in the private pool at the back. Ponies and hippogriffs have very similar manners of swimming, but are equally graceful. Just the way Orbash and Sunflare's manes and tails appear to become curtains of silver and scarlet while being dragged behind them is just a sight one needs to see. Then tried looking around for Novo herself and found that she had joined Ember in the hot tub nearby. It was kept under a straw roof section to let the users stay out of the hot sun while staying warm in that bubbling heated water. Shining Armor and Cadence were there as well while chatting each other up and even the Bloodstone Scepter was propped up against the outer side where Torch and Blaze could get a decent view from within.

I was very tempted to join them, but noticed I was not wearing my trunks for it. So I quickly tracked down my sandals and hurried back to the hotel to swap out for more appropriate clothes. I almost forgot that my luggage had been delivered to Novo's room and had to ask the staff to point me to the right door. I quickly swapped out into my trunks and even left my shirt and footwear behind before heading right back out with a large towel draped over my shoulders. Nothing had changed in the tub by the time I got back and there was enough room for me to join. "Room for one more?"

"Oh, hey! There you are! I completely lost track of you!" Ember said as she looked up at me. She even scooted to the side to let me climb in and sit down between her and Novo. That glorious hippogriff queen had sunken herself to the deepest part of the tub to let only her head come above the surface. Shining Armor and Cadence barely even noticed me while they lounged at the other side of the tub. Once I was seated, Ember sighed while she started to lean against me. "This is so different from the lava pools back home. Not as hot, but all that bubbling feels so nice..."

"I wouldn't know. A lava dip would kill me." I replied with a snarky smirk that got a chuckle out of the two royals beside me. I draped one arm over the side of the tub, but Ember's hand found its way to my left under the surface. Her fingers wrapped around mine, preventing escape. Not that I wanted to.

Novo happened to notice the choice of words Ember used and found a conversation topic to partake in. "Hang on a minute there, Ember. Maybe it because I don't have much knowledge on your kind, but you say dragons swim in lava pools? You really can take that kinda heat?"

"Yep. Lava is cleansing to dragons. Although I wouldn't say we really...swim in it. I mean we can, but only because we're strong enough to do it. Even the thinnest hottest lava is still molten rock. That stuff is thick. It would probably be like trying to wade through sand if you guys could take the heat." Ember explained as I suddenly realized that molten rock...is still just that. Rock. No matter how fluidly it can flow, it is not really a liquid.

Realizing that lava is not a substitute for water when it comes to dragons, I felt the need to ask. "It sounds like lava isn't entirely safe for dragons to use. Do dragons even really swim in it besides bathing in it?"

Ember glanced over at me and spoke with no joy on her face. "No way. I mean we can swim on the surface, but no dragon would dare dive under lava. For one, it's not like you could even see through the stuff if you had your eyes open. And opening your eyes...would hurt like you wouldn't believe. Can you imagine that stuff rubbing against your eyes? That would blind you faster that the lava would roast them!"

A ghastly thought. I am not even entirely certain if the ocular tissue in a dragon's eye is even as resistant to fire and heat as the rest of them is. Even Novo looked unnerved at the thought. Novo then asked, "If that's the case, I guess you don't hear about many people drowning back in your territory?"

"No, because no one wants to drown in lava. You inhale lava into your lungs, there's no getting that stuff out. And they'll never recover your body. Lava is useful to dragons for bathing, but that's about it. We dragons have to learn very early on to be cautious with lava pools and to always stay on the surface." Ember explained further without a shred of humor in her tone. But she did end up smiling as she leaned against me again. "Now I see why water is the more popular substance. So soothing..."

Novo and I very quickly changed the subject. Lava is scary, but now it only seemed more terrifying if even dragons have to be somewhat fearful of it. And no matter how much we talked, Ember never released my hand from her grasp under the surface.

If the whole point of that first day was to relax after a long flight and settle into our new environment and routine, then it certainly did its job. The rest of the day rolled by nicely. Just relaxing on the beach, having maybe a bit too much to drink, and enjoying some nighttime activities in the form of fire dancers whirling their burning sticks through the air with levitation magic.

The beaches became quiet once the sun went down. The air was still pleasantly warm as the beachcombers started to leave for the night. And under the moon and the sea of stars above, I decided to just go for a stroll along the seaside. Walking along the crashing waves and even stepping into the wet sand to let those briny waves wash over my feet. It felt good to be alone for once. To think and just bask in an environment I do not get to enjoy often.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ci-jfCljdxM[/embed]

Along I strolled with the cooling winds blowing along. Pleasantly dark with just enough light shining from the moon and stars above. And the dark ocean before me with licks of white moonlight glistening along every cresting wave. Even the seaponies had gone under for the night. I almost envied them. They were at home in the ocean. No reason to fear it. Yet to me... Gazing out over that dark layer of billowing water... I was reminded of how beautiful yet terrifying the ocean could be. I dared not try to go swimming in the surf under the cover of night.

I did not go undisturbed for much longer. Something swooped overhead to briefly block out the moon. I glanced up and noticed a large soaring form that banked around and came down for a gentle landing. It was none other than Seaspray, but he was out of uniform at the time. The admiral of Capricorn Island greeted me with a smile and said, "Are you well, my liege?"

"Someone send you to check up on me?" I asked while not particularly bothered to have my solitude interrupted.

Seaspray was direct with his words, but never took leave of his pleasant attitude. "Standard protocol, my lord. Someone has to keep watch over our king-in-waiting if he strays too far from the resort. Especially after nightfall. If you would prefer, I could watch from afar if you would rather wander a while longer."

I was tempted to continue on, but seeing Seaspray's majestic form in the moonlight reminded me of someone. A fellow hippogriff of unparalleled beauty. One I needed to see soon. "Come to think of it... I do owe Novo something. And I shouldn't keep a lady waiting. Sure, let's head back."

"At once, my liege! Right this way." Seaspray replied with an enthusiastic chirp before he trotted past me. I hastened my pace to keep up with him at a leisurely jog. He looked my way with a smile spread across his beak. "Just a reminder, but should you need me for anything, do not hesitate to approach me. I am at your service, my liege."

"I'm not used to having an assistant to help me with anything I ask. I'll try to not ask for too much, Seaspray." I retorted with some reservation. I mean I get it. I was in line to become Novo's king in due time and Seaspray was more than enthusiastic about it. But I did not want to lose any self-sufficiency on my part.

I had to wash my feet off once we reached the resort. Seaspray took his leave while I headed inside the hotel. I suspect he and his men were assigned to the Alabaster. Not that he seemed to mind, that glorious airship had very comfortable accommodations. And I was greeted by an amusing sight when I entered the lobby. Sky Beak and his family were gathered together while saying goodnight to Sunflare and Orbash. And Silverstream was passed out fast asleep across her father's back. That silly little thing must have finally burned herself out.

Just about everyone had turned in for the night. Sunflare and Orbash headed down one hall while Sky Beak's family went down another. The lobby was gently lit with only a few clerks minding the main desk. And seated on one of the sofas in the lobby was Ember with the Bloodstone Scepter set across her lap. The way she was just sitting there doing nothing... She must have been waiting for me. I stepped her way with my towel draped across my shoulders and asked, "Staying up late?"

"Someone had to stay up to make sure you came back. I volunteered." Ember replied softly as she rose to her feet. She then looked at the Bloodstone Scepter before giving it a good shake. "I think Mom and Dad are asleep now too. Even the dead need to rest their eyes, I guess."

"They probably saw plenty today. That'll tire you out." I replied while also feeling very pleasantly fatigued. I would sleep well that night. I dropped to one knee to bring my eyes down to Ember's and asked softly. "How was your first day?"

"A lot of fun. If this was how things are when I'm just taking it easy, I'm really looking forward to the rest." Ember replied while her hand rose to cup my cheek. At least until she suddenly realized what she was doing and pulled her hand away while turning to look at nothing in particular. "Right... Not in public... I'm just the Dragon Lord on vacation."

"Tch... I guess we are a little too comfortable with each other." I chuckled while I too was tempted to just hold Ember for a moment. To cradle my blue rose in my arms and shower her with kisses. But not there. Not out in the open. Even if no one knew who we were or our history together, we could not take such risks. And so I guided Ember down the hall to where we were staying. I suspect all of the royal entourage were assigned to the deluxe suites. And once we were alone in that narrow hall with no prying eyes, Ember and I embraced. "There... Please let me hold you a minute."

"You can hold me forever, if you'd like." Ember giggled with her hand tenderly stroking the back of my head. My hands were more explorative. They slid over her blue spines one by one and down the middle of her back. I examined the spot where her torso and tail transitioned into each other. I could not even wrap my hand around the whole thing at the base. Ember took note of my touch and asked with a chuckle, "You really like my tail, huh? Not like the tail of a mare, is it?"

"Nope. So strong with how robust it is..." I said while continuing to examine and admire Ember's beautiful body. A true dragon princess bordering on becoming a real queen in due time. I thought of where she got all that beauty from in the first place. That beautiful dragon queen beyond the mortal coil. Blaze was the loveliest dragoness I had ever laid eyes on, but a woman of such gargantuan size was difficult to appreciate from anything more than a distance. I whispered to my beloved, "I really hope you don't get much larger... I don't want to stop holding you like this."

"I better not. I like being in your arms like this. I don't want to be the one doing all the holding later on." Ember said as I am sure she started to smirk. She then pulled her head back and showed that she was in fact smirking at me. Ember placed a quick kiss upon my lips before saying, "And to think I used to be kind of insecure about my size... I think I wouldn't mind staying small forever. Just as long as I get to always be your little blue rose."

"Ember... I... Come here." I whispered to her before I tightened my embrace. Ember did not return it. She instead leaned into my grasp. Just letting me take control. She was making herself vulnerable, but she was not in danger. And I displayed my love for her. Soft little kisses along her horns and face before finally kissing along her neck and shoulders. She shuddered and gasped, tilting her head back as those beautiful blue wing spread wide. And I whispered something to her she had heard before. "Someone loves you."

"And who...could they be?" Ember said with a ragged giggle. She quivered and could not even try to laugh. I was giving her pleasure. Pleasure that had to be cut short. Ember finally wiggled out of my embrace while grinning nervously. "OK, that's... That's enough! You're way too good at that... I'm gonna need a cold shower before bed."

"Oops... I..." I muttered and stammered as I just felt awkward over having tried too hard to please my beloved. It is so hard to wait when your future bride is a dragon. But Ember was quick to push that awkward distance between us away by suddenly reaching out and placing a kiss upon my lips. I smiled, but then sighed as well. "I'm sorry that I'm having such a hard time waiting... I'm usually a patient man, but...I guess this is one thing I don't know how to be patient with."

"Hey... It's OK. I'll...try to not keep you waiting for too long." Ember cooed to me as her fingers tenderly slid along the side of my face. She gazed at me with those beautiful scarlet eyes, her gaze filled with longing. "I wish I understood myself better... I hate making you wait. I can see just how badly you want to sweep me off my feet and just...carry me to paradise. To give me a life I'll never know by myself."

I asked a very bold question. "Would you let me do that?"

Ember laughed off my inquiry. She smirked at me facetiously and said, "Why wouldn't I wanna be carried in your arms? This little blue rose knows she'll be in good hands. Very good hands. The hands of a artist, right?"

"You really are the spitting image of your mother." I said with a snicker of my own. I wish I was more adept in other fields of art. I wish I could write a song about her. Serenade my beloved with a violin or the chimes of a piano. Paint her a glorious portrait to hang on her walls. Something she could see or hear... Nothing something that she would have to take time to read and process. I fear the written medium does not get the appreciation it deserves at times.

Ember cupped my face in one hand before she glanced at the door behind me. She smirked at me and said, "Speaking of motherly queens, I think one is waiting for you. Or am I gonna keep you from her a little longer?"

My eyes suddenly widened. And just behind me, I think I heard a chuckle muffled by the door. Had Novo been eavesdropping? I muttered quickly, "Sorry... It's just... You... I... I'm so..."

"Shhh... Not today, James. Tell me when the time is right." Ember whispered to me before reaching out and silencing me with a kiss. She then turned to walk down the hall and said, "See you in the morning, my little warrior poet."

I wanted to follow her. To hold Ember in bed and stay by her side. But I knew I was needed elsewhere by an equally wonderful woman. For as madly in love with Ember as I am, I must not let her take precedence over every other woman in my family. I tried opening the door to the room behind me and found that it was unlocked already. I was expected. And a voice spoke up past the door, "Spending time with a lost little flower, baby?"

"You heard that, huh?" I muttered as my face became warmer. Novo was relaxing on the bed and appeared to be writing on a little slip of paper. The room was lit only by a single lamp on the most distant nightstand. She paused to give me her undivided attention and smirked at me without a word. And I felt it was best to be honest. "You know I love Ember, dear. Just...so madly in love with her."

"Sounds like it, honey. That little wildflower? She's something special. And I'm curious of how she'll grow during her reign. She's just a little thing, but she's got her mama and papa's big heart. And they're super sized." Novo said with a snicker as she replied in about as Novo a way as possible. I was so in love with that wonderful woman. Just because she was Novo. And there is not a single woman like Novo in all the land.

I then took notice of the slip of paper Novo was writing on with a pen in hand. It was much wider than it was tall. I stepped forward and asked, "Whatcha writing there?"

"I'm just doing my part of the bargain, honey. Just writing out a check for the services I'll be getting in a little while." Novo said smugly before I noticed that it was not just a slip of paper under her hand. She was writing in a checkbook. And Novo soon tore it from the book and handed it to me. "How's this? You think this will cover a session with your magic fingers, baby?"

My eyes widened at the amount of cash set to be transferred into my bank account. All I would have to do was take it to the bank in Ponyville and it would be deposited with no questions asked. But the amount written on it... "Novo, this is at least a month's worth of my salary at the spa. You don't have to..."

"Only a month's worth?! In that case, gimme that!" Novo chirped before suddenly yanking the check out of my hand and tearing it up into many pieces. I was left confused and stunned over why Novo would write that out only to destroy it. Only for Novo to started writing out another check. "That's not good enough for you. Let's double it!"

All I could do was laugh. And sure enough, Novo handed me a newly written check that stated exactly double the previous amount was to be transferred into the receiving account. I shook my head in bemusement at Novo's generosity. "Man, even I'm not that generous with my tips... What am I even supposed to do with this?"

"That's because your pockets are as deep as mine, honey. Not yet, at least." Novo said smugly while holding the check out to me. She then smiled more sweetly at me and said, "Use that on whatever you want. Set up a vacation for you and your mare, put it towards your girls' schooling, whatever you want."

"Something to think about... I'll be sure to spend it wisely." I replied while knowing I was frugal enough with money to not spend it frivolously. But when I reached for the check, Novo suddenly yanked it away from me. "Huh? Come on, Novo. Don't go tearing that one up too."

I thought Novo was just being playful. But she then said proudly, "Not yet, baby. Daddy hasn't earned it just yet! You want this? Give mama what you promised."

A quiet stare was shared between us for a moment. And then I laughed. She was right. I had been hired to provide her with a thorough massage in exchange for a cash prize. And I had not done my part yet. "OK, OK, I'll do my part. Just get comfy and we'll get started."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAZB5QCzVgs[/embed]

"That's what I wanna hear." Novo replied before letting me take the check so it could be set aside for afterward. I was not used to working in near silence and turned on a complimentary tape deck in the corner. The hotel had a stack of cassettes provided that was mostly soft relaxing music. Not by any big name bands either, probably as a means to discourage theft. The music that started playing definitely fit our location when I heard the sound of metal drums. With nothing but my trunks in the way, I sat on the bed beside Novo. She set herself out on it and extended her left wing towards me. "Let's get the girls outta the way first."

"Always the simplest place to start." I replied as I felt along the frame of Novo's impressive wing. It reached so high that it was more effective to lay it flat before me. I felt along and gently kneaded the joints one by one, the occasional pop reaching my ears. "Come to think of it, how much use do you tend to get out of these? I don't see you fly all that often now that I think about it."

"You're right, I don't usually have a reason to take to the air all that often. Mama usually just takes it easy. That don't mean I'm out of shape though. Your queen keeps herself busy enough." Novo replied proudly as I went to work on her wing. I knew that Novo had always been proud of her figure and strived to be physically active. And she needed to keep herself in shape to make certain her fencing skills were up to par.

I moved to the other side of Novo once that wing had been dealt with and started on the other. And one that was done and both wings had been folded, it was time for the main event. Novo laid pretty upon the bed and let me kneel atop her to start the massage in earnest. She looked back at me with a smile and said, "I'm expecting to get what I paid for, honey."

"I won't let you down, your majesty." I said in a professional manner as I got started. The shoulders are always a good place to begin with a massage. Between feeling my way through that layer of cushioning feathers and the pleasant tropical tunes coming from nearby, I quickly found myself in the zone. I reached through the feathers to find Novo's underlying flesh. I firmly prodded with my fingers and pressed down firmly with my elbows when needed. Novo would chirp suddenly if an audible pop was heard. She must have gone quite a while since her last massage and had been saving herself for me.

It was impressive just how much more I had to work with the further back down Novo's body I went. I was much more used to working on the average pony. But with her limbs being so much longer than theirs, Novo's torso had to be that much larger as well. It reminded me of just how strong a mare could be. And yet...the mass of muscle under her feathers was not as pronounced as that of an earth pony. She had to be light to be able to fly easily, even with such massive wings. Novo was definitely a mare, but she was also a beautiful bird. Somewhere in the middle. I came out of my zone just enough to speak up. "I forgot just how strong your body is, Novo."

"Half mare. Half hen. All woman, baby. I'm the best of both world sin more ways than one." Novo replied in pretty much the way I expected. She was so strong that I doubt the weight of my body straddling her was uncomfortable at all. Although I was suddenly distracted by a loud click. The cassette player had reached the end of the tape and shut itself off. Novo sighed and looked over at it with a disapproving scowl. "Just ain't the real spa experience when it's this quiet. "Honey, if you would?"

"Sure, I got it." I dismounted Novo and went over to turn the tape over and set it to play again. I then returned to Novo and resumed working my way down her back. I eventually got to the point where I had to turn around to work on her flanks. But when I did and looked down... "Um... Wow."

"What's up, honey? See something you like back there?" Novo replied with a sultry coo in her voice. She swayed her long beautiful tail feathers before me as well. Now that I was looking down at her rump from above... I was being reminded of just how impressive Novo's body was compared to even the likes of Celestia. Those flanks...So wide. So...round! And she was very proud of that aspect of her body. Novo could sense my hesitation as I beheld her womanly hips. "Didn't I tell you, James? A mare doesn't get hips like mine without popping out a foal or two. What you're seeing there? That's a mother's set of flanks."

"Yeah... I see that. Anyway, back to work." I replied while tiring to not let myself get too distracted by Novo's obnoxious beauty. My hands took hold of those rounded motherly flanks and felt through the feathers coating them. And I was careful to not look directly down under Novo's tail feathers. I instead started to look directly ahead at those long fuchsia feathers arcing behind her while guiding my hands through nothing but touch. Knowing Novo, I am sure she would have been very happy if I bailed on the rest of the massage right there and started making love to her. But that was not the right time. Novo had done a favor for me and I needed to return it.

Novo's flanks felt very strong, yet also covered with a cushioning soft layer of what must have been fat. Any excess body fat would have to go somewhere and it seemed like they went to her hips. No wonder I could have sworn I saw them jiggle a bit at times... Keeping my eyes off of Novo's hips did wonders in keeping my libido in check. What did not help was how...vocal Novo was being. She cooed and sighed and moaned softly as my fingers dug deep to knead her muscles and feel around the deeply buried joints. I finally looked back at her and asked, "You liking this a little too much?"

"How can I not, honey? Daddy's hands are right where they belong." Novo said with such a proud smirk when she looked back at me. And the wiggling of her eyebrows... Was she only being playful or actively trying to seduce me? I did all I could to focus on only my work. And I think that was when Novo noticed what kind of effect her beauty was having on me. "Sorry, honey. I'll keep quiet while I let the master do his thing."

"It's appreciated, dear..." I mumbled as I continued on. Finishing up on Novo's flanks could not come soon enough. I dismounted Novo as soon as I finished and gently rolled her onto her side. "OK... Now the arms and legs."

"Go right ahead, honey." Novo watched with a quiet smile as I went to work. The ankles, elbows, and knees were easy for me. Once I was done with them, I went down to Novo's arms. But when I reached her hand... I gazed upon it and its pink flesh. Novo noticed my hesitation and asked, "Something wrong, honey?"

I responded with a kiss upon her wrist. And then one upon the back of her hand. And I whispered wittily, "I love you."

"Oh, James... Love you too, baby. You got time for a short break?" Novo asked while she adjusted her grasp. Her hand held mine. And nothing more. We just sat there for a minute hand in hand. I did have to resume anyway. No sooner had I finished with massaging her arms and hands did that infernal click ring out again. The room had gone silent once more. Novo grunted with a suppressed laugh and said, "Honey? If you would?"

"Sure thing. Lemme play something else." I replied before leaving the bed and removing the tape from the player. I popped in a new cassette and set it to play. While not the same album, it was more of the same relaxing tropical tunes. And that was good enough for us. But when I looked back at Novo, I found that she had rolled onto her back right in the middle of the bed. I then asked, "Uh... Aren't we done?"

"Are we? I dunno. Don't you give undercarriage services too sometimes?" Novo asked with genuine curiosity on her face. And she was not wrong. Although it is usually my pegasi customers who request those services. Their pectoral muscles are the most responsible for working their wings.

"Sure, I bet your pecs could use it. Be right there." I replied before hurriedly returning to the bed and straddling Novo atop her belly. I reached down and was briefly distracted by that ruff of fluffy blue feathers that looped over her shoulders and behind her neck before coming back around and over the top of her chest. And it just looked so good on her. "Why do you have the prettiest plumage, Novo?"

"Why? Because I'm the queen, honey. Doesn't that mean I should always be the prettiest pretty bird on the island?" Novo chuckled while I just rolled my eyes at the obvious answer. If I ever doubted the reasoning behind her beauty, Novo would always give me the same answer. Because she is the hippogriff queen. And what a queen she has always been.

My hands and elbows went to work on Novo's fluffy chest. And I was impressed by just how firm her muscles were under that cushioning plumage. "Mmph... Your pecs must be totally ripped under there. Are hippogriffs normally that buff in terms of upper body mass?"

"With wings like these? We gotta be, honey. Hippogriffs have the strongest wing beats of any avian out there." Novo replied while I was not at all surprised. Even griffons could not match the strength of an adult hippogriff's massive wingspan. Big wings require big pecs to work properly. Their back muscles must be equally strong as well. It would help with the hippogriff archers and their legendary skills to be able to pull back on the strings of their longbows.

I gradually worked my way down Novo's underside while marveling at her impressive physical fitness. Strong pecs leading to strong abs. I could not help snickering as I felt the underlying strength of that beautiful queen. "Mama sure does feel buff down here. You do any bodybuilding on the side?"

Novo burst into giddy snickering at my observations. "Ha! No, I don't work out that much. I just do so to keep in shape for the sake of my fencing. Gotta make sure I'm in peak shape whenever I'm required to provide a quick spar at the end of a tournament. Or the occasional title defense."

That last term caught my ear. Novo had centuries of experience under her belt when it came to sword duels. A world champion who had held onto that title since the day she earned it. I then asked, "How often does a contestant get to take a shot at you for the title?"

Novo's tone became more sincere as she spoke to me. "Rarely. I've gone entire generations without someone meeting the requirements to challenge me for the title. To be qualified for a shot at world champion, you need to win at least once at every tournament all across the globe. And those tournaments only happen once a year. Even the best duelists can spend an entire lifetime trying to meet that criteria only to slip up in the end. But when they do hit that mark... Woo, they always give me some of the most thrilling duels I've ever had."

That left me wondering about the fencing tournament that I was set to participate in down in the Republic of Aquila next year. And Novo did not know. I paused in the massage to look up at her and said, "I think you should know... I'll be taking part in the next tournament down in the Republic of Aquila. Does that mean I'll see you there?"

"Aquila?! Oh, you better believe I'll be there. Their people are some of my favorite to vacation with. Maybe it's just because we're all birds of a feather, by I was named an honorary citizen a long time ago. I guess we hippogriffs get along naturally with harpies." Novo chirped with a big smile on her beak. She must have been there many times. And when considering just how fun Novo is as a person, it was no wonder she was so loved by Celaeno's people. Although she then asked me more softly, "And you say you'll be there too? My little sugar bear's gonna be taking up the saber there?"

"Yeah... How do you think I'll do?" I asked sincerely. Novo had witnessed at least one saber duel between Celaeno and I. And when considering her centuries of experience, perhaps she could accurately sized me up.

Novo's eyes narrowed as she looked at me. She appeared hesitant to speak. I said with a smile, "Don't tell me what you think I want to hear. Just be honest."

The widening of Novo's gaze told me that was exactly what she was considering. Her gaze then wandered for a second before she said, "Well, if you want the truth... I mean you're not bad at all, honey. You really do grasp what it means to use a sword. But personally... I really don't think it's likely you'll make it to the finals."

"I'm still too green with a saber, huh? That's fine. I wasn't expecting to come close to winning in my first tournament experience. If I can at least make it past my first opponent, I'll at least feel like I accomplished something. I'm not even really going to win. I'm mostly doing it just to have an excuse to see what thing's are like in Aquila." I replied while not all that bothered by Novo's conclusion. I was far better suited for a sword and shield or a longsword anyway. It would take some time for me to become genuinely competent with a saber.

"James... No matter how far you make it in the tourney, you'll always be my champion." Novo said with a low and sweet tone. I smiled at her with my face feeling warm before resuming on my massage. My elbows went to work on those firm muscles just under that feathery surface. I was worried that I should be careful around her ribs, but that wall of firm muscle made it unlikely I would hurt her. I gradually scooted back off of Novo as I went lower and past where her ribcage likely ended and... My hands rested over her lower belly. And it was there I paused. Novo noticed my hesitation and asked, "Honey?"

I became thoroughly distracted as I realized what was under my hands. My hands were now resting over Novo's womb. Instead of firmly prodding, I began to caress her belly and just over her most sacred place. I sighed in longing... Something was missing from my beloved queen. Her womb was empty. And we both wished it was not.

My hands slid gently over Novo's womb as she went silent. My beloved sighed long and deeply at my touch. No objections and no words. She just laid before me and allowed my hands to do as they pleased. My fingers curled and reached through the feathers to feel the layer of flesh underneath. Still coated by a layer of firm muscle, but also softer. Soft enough to stretch and expand. And my heart fluttered as I imagined what would hopefully soon be growing in there.

Merely touching it was not enough. I moved my hands to the sides and brought my face low. My lips placed kiss after kiss upon that beautiful queen's smooth feathery belly. I heard Novo gasp, but not in pleasure. I heard her inhale sharply. As if she was fighting back tears. And her beautiful voice soon whispered a loving word to me. "Daddy..."

"I want to be, Novo..." I whispered back to her as I kissed her belly again. Just so many soft kisses upon her empty belly. How I wanted to see her smooth belly expand outward. To grow round and heavy with the most wonderful gift we could give each other. Novo desired an heir from me. Many heirs. And I wanted to give them to her. I wanted to see my queen finally have a real family again. I whispered again as I gently nuzzled my cheek against Novo's belly. "I hope I won't keep you waiting too long..."

"James... Come here. Right now." Novo demanded with an almost pleading tone of voice. And I answered that call. I crawled up and over her before finding myself embraced in her arms and glorious wings. Her beak met my lips before my head was nested in those beautiful blue floof atop her chest. "Oh honey... I know you're so ready to be a daddy... Soon, James. Very soon. I promise it won't be long before we can try again... I want to be the first, baby. I want to be the first to give you a beautiful baby boy. A fluffy little brother for your baby girl..."

"I wish we didn't have to wait so long... I want to see those beautiful little baby bird foals, Novo. I want to hold them with you..." I whispered back to my beloved as I held her beautiful body in my arms. We were so ready. I do not believe I have ever felt more ready to be a father again. Oh my goodness, how beautiful will our children be when we are finally blessed with them? With a mother like Novo, they would be the most glorious foals to ever grace Capricorn Island. My mind was swimming with thoughts of those precious little baby birds. Little bird foals with such vibrant and colorful plumage. Fluttershy would be all over them whenever they would meet and they would love her just as much. I can only imagine what kinds of symphonies she would conduct with them gracing us with their voices...

My mind was racing. And I became very aware of it. And it hurt. I hated how I had been denied one opportunity already. Novo and I had already tried. It was all a spur of the moment, but our love for each other was true. Out there on the Empty Plains... It should have happened that day. A child should have been conceived then. But...it did not happen. Why? Novo and I were more than ready to finally have a family together, so why was her womb still empty? My hand reached low as I rubbed her belly again. It was not fair... Why was it not there? Why could I not feel our son growing inside her? What prevented our efforts from bearing fruit that time? When we so very dearly wanted to create something beautiful together?

My caresses over her belly caught Novo's attention. And her embrace only tightened. "Soon, honey... Soon. I know you want to make me a mother again. And let me tell you something special, baby."

I noticed a certain...playful inflection in Novo's voice. And she whispered something into my ear that sent an excited shiver down my spine. "I want to make you a daddy too. I want to be able to point at you from afar and tell people that I made that wonderful man a father. So...just a little longer, my love. Just a little longer...and I'll give you such a beautiful son to love."

"Thank you, Novo... I just...can't believe how hard it is to wait when you know you're ready." I sighed in resignation. All I could do was wait. No matter how unfair that waiting was.

Novo brought her lips to my forehead for a kiss. Just to get my attention. And when I lifted my head to gaze at her, the tip of her beak met my lips for another kiss. Those beautiful eyes gazed into mine as she said, "I think that'll do, dear. Mama's feeling much better now. You earned that little bonus. How about we go wash up for the night?"

I had no objections. Novo and I soon stood in the shower stall with warm water flowing over us. But it was just...so hard to focus on the simple act of bathing. We were nearly constantly distracted with each other. Holding each other, sharing so many kisses... It was like we were already a married couple. All that was missing was a ring on her finger. I know that it would be illegal to marry her officially now that I had already done so, but... I hope Novo is right. I hope she finds a way. To be not only the father of her beautiful future children and her officially crowned king, but her husband as well... I hope it does happen, however it might be possible.

The moment immediately after the shower was something I did not know I missed until it happened. The act of drying Novo off with a pair of hairdryers. There were two provided in the bathroom and we both went to work with each. Novo took care of whatever she could reach while I directed my hairdryer to every other spot she would have difficulty dealing with. It took a while, but we saved time by having two at the ready. And once Novo was entirely dried off with her plumage adorably puffed up and unkempt, she smirked at me and suddenly struck a sassy pose with her great wings halfway spread. "Fluffy queen."

"Pfft... You really are. And I still have no idea how you can be so sexy and adorable at the same time." I snickered at Novo's playful attitude. She really was utterly adorable with her normally smooth layer of feathers now fluffed like freshly harvested cotton.

Novo strolled past with pride in her stride while dragging the arc of her wing right under my chin. "Because I'm the queen, honey. A queen who only does everything."

If only she knew. I could only gaze upon Novo with such admiration. I was not simply madly in love with her. I found her just so...admirable. I followed Novo out of the bathroom and retrieved some clean undergarments while Novo pulled the sheets down for our bed. And I never took my eyes off of her. Just...beholding her unparalleled beauty, savoring how blessed I was to have her be mine. And for me to be hers. Once Novo was on the bed, she then noticed my constant gaze. She then asked with a sweet smile on her beak, "What? See something you like, baby?"

I had been caught, but I was not in trouble. And I decided to speak the truth. "It's...more than that, Novo. I just feel so...fortunate."

Novo rested her head atop one hand while she replied, "Honey, what's the matter? What's got you feeling so sentimental all of a sudden?"

"There's nothing wrong with me. It's just... How do I say this...?" I replied as my eyes scanned the beautiful mare before me. Her and that ridiculously fluffy and adorable plumage covering her.

The glorious hippogriff queen watched with silent patience as I pondered my words. I needed to make this count. "It's just... I know I'm lucky. So much could've gone wrong with this whole thing, but...we've been making it work. Fluttershy. Rarity. Celestia. Ember. Rain Shine. And everyone else who has come into my life... Become a part of my family. They are all wonderful women. Amazing and unique in their own way. I can't replace any of them because they're...them. But you..."

Novo's eyes began to widen with some excitement. She restrained her voice to wait and see what I had to say about her. Whatever it was, she knew it was going to be something special. But she could never have expected what I was about to say. "You're more than just amazing... You... There's really no other way to describe it. In my eyes, you... You're the closest example I've seen of a...perfect woman."

She was silent. Novo's eyes remained wide open, but her beak also parted to show a look of stunned surprise. And all I could do was stand there and wait for a response. Which she did give. Novo soon began to fluster in a way that I never thought I would see. She had always been so proud and confident, but now she... She was genuinely sheepish over such heavy praise. "Oh my, honey... I know I can be vain, but I've never been so vain to say that I'm perfect. I only say I'm the best because I'm just the best that ever was."

"Yeah. Because you're perfect." I retorted while finding some humor in Novo being so at a loss of how to take that compliment. She giggled adorably before beckoning me to approach. But once I was seated on the bed, Novo pulled me down and placed herself above me. "Uh... Novo?"

"Do you know why I'm the best, James? Why I know I'm at the top?" Novo asked softly yet playfully as one finger stroked my cheek. When my eyes wandered in uncertain silence, she spoke again. "Experience, honey. I'm the best because I've got loads more experience in ways that even little miss Sunbutt doesn't."

"Oh? Do tell." I asked now that I was intrigued over how she came to that conclusion.

Novo proudly whispered to me while continuing to gently caress my face. "Celestia's been around longer than I have, but I've got her beat in experience when it comes to a few things. And that...is the art of family life. I've been a wife and mother longer than just about any other mare in the history of Equestria. I mean sure, old Sunflare's been married to that hunky Orbash since well before I was around, but I've been involved in my daughter's life longer than she's been with her girls. And I've been wearing a real crown and presiding over my people from a throne longer than any of them have. Put all of that together...and you have the best queen, the best wife, and the best mama this world has ever seen. And that's a statement I will always stick by."

Such profound points to make... Novo was right. Even Sunflare had less experience in actually being a mother to her children than Novo. But she had been by Orbash's side for much longer. This one disadvantage made me smirk. "But does that mean you can learn a few things from Sunflare if she's been married longer than you?"

"Ah, details, details. Even if she tops me in one category, I still beat her out in the rest." Novo lifted her head defiantly before the two of us had a little laugh at that. She then began to smile down at me before speaking much more softly. "But really, James... I know I'm not perfect. I may be the best, but even that's not perfection."

She began to frown as she lowered her beak to my face. I gazed at Novo as she began to smile with such loving pride in her smile. "But...I'm...so very honored that I can be your perfect woman."

There was only one thing I could say to that seemingly perfect creature above me. "I love you."

"And I love you, my dear." Novo kissed me so sweetly upon the lips over and over, I felt the thin and firm outline of her beak touch my lips. She cooed to me with those beautiful eyes gazing into mine. "If you say I'm perfect, then it must be so. I'll always strive to be your perfect woman... Your perfect wife. Your perfect queen. The perfect...mother of our babies. Just don't ever forget about all the other lovely ladies that are yours and will be yours, James. Because they'll all be perfect in their own little ways too. Promise me, OK?"

"I will, love... I will. I promise." I replied as my hand touched hers. For as much as I loved and admired Novo, I could never forget everyone else. Never.

The room fell dark. I could feel Novo draping her wing over me once the covers were pulled over us. That day had been used to relax and settle into our new accommodations. The following day would be when we could start enjoying ourselves in earnest.

My eyes closed. And in Novo's feathery embrace, I quickly fell asleep. I was hoping for beautiful dreams that night. Dreams inspired by that perfect woman at my side.

I would soon learn that would not be the case. For my dreams were about to get...weird