Chapter 26

Twilight’s Old Room, The Royal Palace

Sunset slowly cracked open her eyes and awoke to the sound of cheerful birdsong. From what she could ascertain, it was still quite early in the morning. The slight chill in the air and the orangish-purple light filtering through the window were telltale giveaways to early hour of the day. Not that she was at all bothered by any of it, of course.

The forest dweller’s sleep cycle had naturally attuned itself to the way nature intended, urging her to rise at dawn and sleep near dusk. One could say that, over years of repetition, Sunset had become what many would consider a morning person. She wasn’t exactly on the verge of bursting into song herself at the moment, but the fiery-haired woman was alert and fully conscious of her surroundings.

A satisfied smile spread across her lips. She’d never slept in such an exquisitely crafted bed in her entire life. The tactile sensation of the silk sheets as they brushed up against her bare skin made Sunset shiver with delight. It was a pleasure that she’d never experienced before. Such a simple thing, but an experience that she’d love to repeat if given the chance.

More than that, however, she relished the feeling of Spike’s muscled form as she laid cuddled up next to him. Being the taller one, Sunset was obviously the bigger spoon but being so close to the man she cared about made her feel accepted and loved in a way she could scarcely begin to describe.

Everything about her life now just seemed so… surreal. Like she was living in a fairytale or something. On many a lonely night, when Sunset was left with her own thoughts, she’d often fantasized about finding a special someone to share her life with. However, being a staunch pragmatist, she had long given up hope of ever having a meaningful, romantic relationship with another person. Such was her burden living in isolation within the Everfree Forest. Now that she’d met Spike and Ember, Sunset knew that she’d never feel lonely again. She’d miss her adopted mother, but it felt nice to finally be amongst her own kind, amongst… family.

Sunset had to shift her position when Spike suddenly rolled over onto his back. She somewhat expected him to wake up afterwards, but such was not the case. He snorted softly, and simply continued to sleep. Sunset couldn’t help but snicker when a noticeable bulge formed shortly thereafter. It pitched up the center of the bedsheets and the comforter to boot! With a mischievous smile, the amazon slowly peeled back the layers of luxurious cloth (she didn’t want Spike to wake up just yet) and pondered what she would do next.

Front and center, standing at full attention, was Spike’s erect member. Sunset knew exactly what morning wood was and had prepared herself to expect it, but to actually witness the biological phenomenon firsthand was an entirely different matter altogether. Sunset carefully extracted herself from Spike’s side and laid upon her stomach in-between the V of his legs in order to get a better look her intended target. Even though she’d already seen it several times, including the night prior, Sunset still found herself captivated by his girth.

Sunset never considered the size of a man’s penis to be of great importance when it came to sexual compatibility or the continued health of a relationship for that matter. She was far more interested in the person attached to it. That being said: she was keenly aware that Spike was a bit larger than the average male. Perhaps, pushing around seventeen centimeters. Nineteen at most. But what truly made his remarkable was the sheer thickness of it and, of course, the hefty pair of balls that hung just below. Sunset cradled them with the utmost care in the palm of her hand, wondering if that was why he was able to produce so much semen.

Despite the unquestionable measure of his manliness, Sunset realized that Spike was almost completely smooth down there. Save for his adorable little tuft of emerald-green pubic hair. In fact, Sunset had noticed that neither he nor Ember seemed to have much in the way of body hair at all. She, herself, never had much to speak of either.

The only places it seemed to grow in earnest were on her head and privates. A curious genetic adaptation worth looking into, but one that Sunset would research later. Her mind was focused on far more immediate physical matters.

The closer she got to it; the stronger Spike’s natural scent became. Sunset took in a deep breath and enjoyed the earthy, almost cologne-like aroma of it. Without further ado, she wrapped her fingers around the base of his shaft, and started sucking his cock at a languid place. Making sure to gently swirl her tongue around his head every so often. She didn’t want to wake Spike up immediately. Sunset wanted to properly savor his look of surprise when he finally did.

Within the span of thirty seconds, the young Dragon Lord began to moan softly. He instinctively arched his hips towards the source of pleasure, his body subconsciously urging him to thrust his manhood deeper into what it perceived to be the inside of a woman’s sex. A few more seconds was all it took for him to open his eyes and take stock of the situation.

“Mmmnngh. Wuh? Sunset… is that you?” Spike mumbled groggily.

Sunset removed Spike’s cock for her mouth with a slick pop and looked up at him with an affectionate smile. “Morning, sleepyhead. Thought I’d treat you to the proverbial male fantasy of a wake-up blowjob. How’re you liking it so far?”

Spike barely had a moment to collect his thoughts before he felt Sunset take him into her mouth again. “Sunset I—unnnh—Gods does that feel good. This really is the best way to start the day, if I’m being honest. Aww geez! Listen to me: I’m starting to sound like Delmira. Not sure if that’s a good or a bad thing. You really don’t have to keep—”

“No,” Sunset replied while she massaged his balls, “But I want to. Just lay back, relax, and let me do this for you.”

Spike decided it was in bad taste to argue with a woman who, quite literally, had him by the balls and did as he was told. He wasn’t entirely sure how long he’d had an erection, but judging by the increasingly tight, clamping sensation he felt running along his shaft, Spike surmised that it had been for quite some time. It was probably why his whole dick felt ridiculously sensitive to the even slightest lick or prod (of which Sunset was doing a lot of to say the least).

She hadn’t really changed the speed of her pace since the beginning, yet… Spike knew he couldn’t possibly hold back for too much longer. In his half-wakened state, there was simply no resisting the urge to cum. The suddenness and intensity of his orgasm, caught Spike off guard. After curling his toes and letting out a throaty grunt, he squirted his seed directly into Sunset’s mouth. He watched her intently as she swallowed every single drop without hesitation or complaint.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to—uh—blow my load without saying anything first. Delmira warned me that some women tend to get really upset when that happens.” Spike admitted with a sheepish grin.

Sunset crawled atop Spike and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. “There’s nothing to be sorry for, Spike. I enjoy making you feel good. It’s as simple as that. So… are you ready for the main event or would you like to take a breather?”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“I mean,” Sunset purred while she stroked Spike’s manhood back to life, “I’ve been thinking about this for a while now, and I’ve decided that there’s no one I’d rather give my virginity to than you, Spike. How’s about it? Will you do me the honor of being my first?”

“If that’s what you really want, then I’m ok with whatever you decide, Sunset.”

“Good. Now, hold still. I wanna be on top so I can ride you like a cowgirl.”

Spike held up his hand. “Hold on a second! Are you sure? That’s not exactly the most—”

“Hush you! I’m absolutely, one hundred percent sure I want to do it this way. Besides, Ember informed me that it was one of your favorite positions. Next to missionary, of course! She said that you love that particular position because you get to watch our expressions. I think that’s about the corniest thing I’ve ever heard, but it’s also really sweet. Don’t worry! I’ll take things nice and easy. I promise I won’t get ahead of myself.”

Spike felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. “She actually… told you that?”

“We had plenty of time to talk about stuff while we were recovering in the hospital. She was sitting in the bed right next to me, after all. I also might have told her that I was interested in you as more than just a friend. Which was totally weird, because she seemed to be okay with it for some reason. Ember’s not an easy girl to figure out, that’s for sure…”

“You’re preaching to the choir, Sunset. I’m not even sure I have her completely figured out at this point either. My relationship with Ember has always been a bit complicated and challenging sometimes, but I love her just the same.”

Sunset repositioned herself to get a bit more comfortable and grasped the base Spike’s erect member. “Are you ready? I know I am.”

Spike swallowed a lump forming in this throat when he felt a warm droplet of Sunset’s arousal drip onto his thigh. “You sure are…”

With that, Sunset carefully lowered herself onto his cock, gasping at the sensation of being filled so thoroughly. She thought she was prepared for it, but by the time she engulfed his length in its entirety, Sunset nearly felt overwhelmed by just how incredibly thick his penis was. It was as though her walls could barely contain the girth stuffed within them. Spike’s reaction was immediate. He gripped her thighs and let out a shuddering breath.

“Sunset… you’re so… tight. It feels… like my dick’s being squeezed by a python.”

Sunset’s face turned beet red. “Yeah, well what exactly did you expect? I’m a virgin and I work out a lot. Ugh! Way to ruin the mood! Do you want me to stop?”

“No… that’s ok. I just have to… get used to it. Keep going.”

With Spike’s permission, the amazon began to move her hips gingerly, placing her hands upon his chest for support and to help maintain her balance. Up and down she went, moaning softly as his cock slid in and out of her depths. While she continued her gyrations, Sunset bent forward, cupped Spike’s cheeks in her hands, and kissed him passionately. Once she pulled away, Sunset kissed her way down his neck all the way to his nipple, which she wrapped her lips around and began sucking it gently.

Spike let out a very unmanly moan, which made Sunset take pause. “Hey, are you alright? If getting your nipples sucked on makes you feel uncomfortable, I can stop.”

“WAIT! You don’t have to! Errm—I mean—it’s just that I’ve never had a woman do that to me before. Not even Delmira, surprisingly enough. I think I might… actually like it.”

Sunset grinned and teased his other nipple in-between her fingers. “That’s a relief. I was afraid that it might have turned you off there for a second and made things weird. Read an article once that said men can be just as sensitive to the touch there as women sometimes.”

“Oh great! Now, you’re starting to sound exactly like my sister! Just what kind of depraved articles were you into reading back during your school days?”

Sunset giggled. “I’ve always been curious about how stuff works. Most of the time I’d read about magic, nature, technology or science… but you know, it’s not like I’d limit myself to purely non-sexual topics. Especially, when they’re so darn fascinating~ Sunset Shimmer: just your average, well-rounded Renaissance Girl.”

“Hmm. If you’re such a ‘Renaissance Girl’, then you won’t mind if I do this!”

“Huh? What are you—”

Sunset squeaked in surprise when she felt Spike tease the outer rim of her pucker. Before she could even ask him to stop, Spike rubbed his fingers along the gap where they were connected, coating them in her arousal. Once he was nice and lubed up, Spike pressed his fingers together and slowly inserted them into her anus. He wiggled them around a bit, mimicking the motions of a penis and made sure to apply just the right amount of pressure towards the side closest to her pussy. Within seconds he heard Sunset grunt and felt her walls clamp tightly around his shaft.

“Spike,” Sunset panted, “Take your fingers out of there. It’s not… clean.”

Instead, he wiggled them even more. “There’s not a single part of you that’s dirty, Sunset. We can always clean up afterwards if you’re really that self-conscious about it. Besides, I didn’t specifically hear you say that you didn’t enjoy what I was doing.”

“That’s not…” Sunset muttered with a heavy blush, “Ok, fine. I’ll admit that I like having my butthole played with. It makes my orgasms more intense. DON’T… ask me how I managed to figure that out. It just does. But please give me a head’s up the next time, ok?”

Spike nodded and removed his fingers, noting that it was a bit more difficult taking them out since she seemed to have a penchant for clenching her anus around them too. For the time being, he gripped Sunset’s butt cheeks, marveling at how delightfully firm they were, and allowed the beautiful woman atop him to continue pumping her hips.

Without saying a word, Sunset increased her pace. By this point, she was so wet that the sounds of their love-making had become noticeably louder than before. If she were being honest with herself, the lewd schlicking noise that Spike’s penis made whenever it slid in and out of her was indescribably gratifying, but somewhat embarrassing at the same time.

Before long, she felt a rush of something incredibly hot fill her belly, followed by a satisfied grunt. Soon after, a powerful orgasm rocked her body, sending waves of electric pleasure from crotch all the way down to her toes. It was unlike any she had experienced before.

Sweaty and exhausted, Sunset lazily dismounted her lover and snuggled up against his side. He, in turn, wrapped his arm around her and planted a soft kiss along her neck. They laid there together for what seemed like hours, basking in the afterglow, and occasionally exploring each other’s bodies when the opportunity arose. Not with the same intensity as before but at a casual, comfortable pace. While they relaxed, Spike’s eyes suddenly shot open wide as something he’d forgotten beforehand popped into the forefront his mind.

“OH SHIT!”

Sunset looked over at him with concern. “Uh… did I miss something?”

“Gods! How could I be so thoughtless!”

“Seriously, what’s wrong?”

Spike bit his lip. “I came inside you. Sunset, you have to understand that I’ve never had to worry about wearing a condom or pulling out the entire time I’ve been with the girls. The thought didn’t even occur to me while we were making love. I-I mean, it’s not like I could have pulled out while we were in that position, but still…”

“I know. It’s really not a big deal.”

Spike began hyperventilating. “Not a big deal?! Sunset, I might’ve gotten you pregnant!”

“Relax,” Sunset soothed while she rubbed her hand along his stomach, “Ember taught me the contraceptive spell. We’re cool. Besides, I always wanted my first time to be bareback anyway.”

“She… did? What am I saying? Of course, she did! You guys obviously must’ve talked about it, considering that you told her how you felt about me. Still, I feel terrible about not taking your well-being into consideration. That’s not how a proper Dragon Lord should act… a proper man should act. I’m so sorry, Sunset.”

Sunset laid her head upon his chest and hugged him tightly. “Last time I checked, we’re both consenting adults. That means we made the choice together. I knew exactly what I was getting myself into… or what was getting into me, would be a more apt description.”

“Sunset, that’s not very funny…”

Sunset laughed. “I’m allowed to make bad jokes from time to time. Anyway, I think it’s very sweet of you to be so concerned about me. I really do appreciate it, Spike. But I have to ask: would you have taken responsibility had I become pregnant?”

“Well, I don’t know if I’m quite ready to become a father yet… but yes, I would have done my best to take care of our child and provide for them. You have my word on that.”

Sunset tilted her head upwards and kissed him on the lips. “I just know that you’re going to be a great Dragon Lord someday. No matter what anyone else says. And a great daddy, too.”

Spike blushed at the unexpected praise but decided not to say anything. Instead, he held Sunset closer to him and took a moment to breath in her scent. Although pleasant (for the most part), he couldn’t help but notice the pungent odor of sweat and sex mixed along with it. Absentmindedly, he sniffed himself and realized that he didn’t smell too much better. He glanced over at the clock mounted on the wall, noting that it wasn’t even seven o’clock yet. Plenty of time to hit the baths and clean up a bit before breakfast.

Spike gently tapped Sunset’s shoulder. “Don’t get me wrong: I love snuggling you, but we kind of stink. We should—uh—probably take a bath before breakfast. The last thing we need is for the entire Castle to notice exactly what we smell like.”

Sunset let out a sheepish chuckle. “Oh, yeah. I totally forgot about that. Hey, uh—I don’t suppose that hanging out in the room and having an all-day sex marathon is an option? We could ask the maids bring us meals and there’s already a bathroom in here. That’s like, all of our basic needs covered. It sure beats the hell outta socializing with people…”

“Although tempting, I don’t think my mom or the rest of the castle staff appreciate it if we did. C’mon, Sunset. I promise that meeting my family won’t be too bad.”

Sunset let out a heavy sigh. “Spike, it’s not easy for a rough and tumble gal like me to just casually strike up a conversation with two of Equestria’s sovereign rulers. I know that you see them merely as your mom and aunt, but to me and just about everyone else, they’re practically goddesses! What if they don’t approve of… us?”

“First of all: you’re anything but rough and tumble. You’re a strong, beautiful, intelligent woman. Don’t ever forget that! Second, they know that I’ve chosen to embrace my Wyvertii heritage and the lifestyle that comes along with it. Sure, they might be a bit surprised to find out that I’ve taken another mate, but I honestly don’t think they’ll be upset about it.”

Sunset scooted over to the edge of the bed, sat up, and watched the sunrise outside the window. “You know I trust you, Spike. So long as you’re by my side, I think I’ll be ok. Alright! Let’s head out to the baths then. I, for one, am feeling all sticky and gross. I’m sure a nice, long soak will both do us some good.”

The royal baths were conveniently located just a short walk down the hall from Twilight’s old room. Since it was still rather early in the morning, the castle staff were more focused on making breakfast and cleaning rather than attending to the Princesses or guests directly. Which meant that there wasn’t a single soul roaming the halls of the residency wing except for Spike and Sunset.

The young couple grabbed a pair of towels and filled a wicker basket with the various toiletries they would need, all contained within miniature bottles and packages. The toiletries were akin to the type you’d expect to find at a hotel, expect the quality was the very best money could buy and had the Equestrian Diarchic Royal Seal emblazoned on the front.

Sunset whistled. “Damn, these sure are fancy. I don’t think even the classiest five-star resorts have shampoo like this. Says here on the bottle that it’s flavored with pure Marecidonian Vanilla. Do you have any idea how expensive that shit is?! Spike, are you absolutely sure they won’t mind us using them? I feel kind of bad taking advantage of all this… opulence.”

“Yeah, I know. My mother and aunt have always been very sensitive about spending taxpayer dollars. They typically don’t like putting a strain on the royal coffers, but hygiene products are just one of those things that the two of them insist on having the best of. I suppose there are worse things. At least this stuff can be put to practical use.”

Sunset sniffed the soap bar, testing its fragrance. “Well, at least we won’t stink anymore.”

“Heh. No kidding. The water in there is constantly refreshed and kept warm, so we shouldn’t have to worry about waiting for it to—hold on a second. Did you hear that?”

Sunset cocked her head. “Hear what?”

“It almost sounded like… moaning. Do you think someone might’ve slipped and accidentally hurt themselves? I swear my mom had special tiles installed not that long ago to prevent that but… you never know. What do you think?”

Sunset shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe. Let’s go check it out before we get cleaned up.”

Spike entered the room first with Sunset following closely behind. As he suspected, the floor tiles were indeed treated with a rubbery, slip-resistant coating to give a little bit of extra grip to any prospective bathers. It felt somewhat strange against the soles of his feet, but Spike found that it wasn’t an altogether unpleasant sensation. Kind of like being massaged by thousands of tiny fingers at the same time.

As they approached the main pool, immediately off to the side, Spike spotted his aunt. In the nine years since her return from the moon, he honestly couldn’t recall ever seeing her completely nude before. He’d seen his mother and Velvet Sparkle (he considered her an honorary mom and affectionately referred to her as such) plenty of times, but that was only because they regularly bathed together up until he was about ten years old.

As for Twilight, he’d been around her for most of his life. When they’d finally moved together from Canterlot to Ponyville, it was pretty much a given that the two siblings would see each other in various states of undress from time to time.

Princess Luna was only slightly shorter than Spike, with a pale complexion and wavy, Prussian blue hair that flowed elegantly down to her shoulders. Of the two monarchs, Luna was the more physically active one, and partook in a rigorous training regimen daily as well as the occasional sparring session with military personnel. Thus, her body was built like that of a warrior princess: powerful, lithe, and well-muscled.

Although her breasts were considerably smaller than Celestia’s, they were much firmer and retained their tear-drop shape even without the aid of a bra. Not that she was at all self-conscious about the size of her bust. Or lack thereof, as some might claim. The pragmatic princess was perfectly content not being weighed down by a pair of what she referred to as “bouncing cow udders”. Amongst friends and family, she often joked that Celestia’s bountiful bosom had grown over the years as the direct result of eating too much cake and sitting around on the royal rump.

Her penchant for military efficiency applied to her grooming habits as well. There wasn’t a trace of body hair to be found on her, save for a thick but expertly maintained inverse triangle of dark blue pubic hair nestled in-between her legs. The Princess of the Night strongly believed that retaining some visible form of pubic hair was important. It was one of the most prominent features of womanhood and, by extension, female sensuality.

During the early days of her return, Luna had experimented with what Rainbow Dash had called a ‘Cloudsdale Wax’. She did so just to give her friend’s suggestion the benefit of the doubt. Luna had found the experience refreshing for a time, but the novelty of it wore off rather quickly. She was of the opinion that removing all traces of one’s pubic hair made her look too much like a pre-pubescent girl, rather than a grown woman. So, despite the hassle of weekly grooming sessions, Luna decided that she looked and felt sexier with pubic hair than without.

Objectively speaking, Spike had to admit that his aunt was an attractive woman. Which is why it was so difficult for him to process what he was witnessing. She was bent over with her hands firmly planted against the wall, her legs spread wide, getting fucked from behind by some blonde-haired guy that Spike didn’t immediately recognize.

And by the looks of it, the two of them were going at it like a couple of frisky rabbits. Both Spike and Sunset blushed profusely when they heard the lewd slapping noises of flesh meeting flesh, and the occasional grunt echo throughout the chamber.

Thinking fast, Sunset grabbed Spike by the arm and pulled him behind one of the decorative fountains. “What are we gonna do?! I never expected that we’d run into Princess Luna... doing that! I know that’s pretty much the pot calling the kettle black considering what we were up to just a little while ago, but still.”

“The hell if I know! Ugh. I think I recognize that guy too.”

“Seriously? What are the odds?”

Spike shook his head in disbelief. “Yeah, that’s Applejack’s cousin alright. I honestly have no idea what he’s doing in here Canterlot or why he’s humping my aunt right in the middle of the main bath chamber of all places!”

“Wow. Look at them go. They’re practically rutting each other at this point. It’s… kind of hot watching them to be honest. Like, REALLY hot.”

Spike groaned. “Don’t remind me! Well, now I know exactly how my mom felt when she caught Ember and I having sex in the throne room. Gods, this is gonna be so awkward…”

Luna moaned passionately as an earth-shattering orgasm wracked her entire body. Not but a few moments later, a moan of equal intensity escaped from Braeburn’s lips. While her mortal lover took a moment to catch his breath, the lunar princess quietly padded over to where Spike and Sunset were hiding and greeted them with a warm, welcoming smile.

“Not to worry, my dearest nephew. We were just finishing up a rousing session of early morning coitus. Come! Let us bathe together and socialize. It has been far too long since I’ve had the opportunity to catch up with you and hear of your latest exploits.”

Spike couldn’t help but notice the thick glob of cum oozing from his aunt’s crotch. “Oh! Hey, Aunt Luna. It’s great to see you again! Umm… not to be rude but you’ve still got a bit of stuff leaking out of your—”

“Aye, as my Brae is wont to do. It still astounds me to this day how he is able to produce such vast quantities of semen. Perhaps it is an inherited trait amongst the progeny of the Apple Clan? I seem to recall that his ancestor, Sir Jonagold Apple, was much the same. If Tia’s account of their sexual encounters is accurate. Let none doubt that they endowed like thoroughbred stallions though!”

Sure enough, as Braeburn slowly shuffled his way over to Luna’s side, Spike got a good look at his manhood and the smooth pair of balls that hung just below it. Braeburn was completely flaccid by this point but it was quite apparent that his penis was thick, veiny, and robust. The curly patch of orangish-blonde pubic hair that covered his crotch did absolutely nothing to disguise its sheer girth. Spike couldn’t even begin to imagine how big that one-eyed behemoth could get at full mast.

He wasn’t even sure how his aunt was able to fit that gigantic meat log inside her comfortably. Granted, she was a woman made of sterner stuff, but still! Sunset must’ve been thinking the same thing, for her cheeks were flushed pink and her legs were clamped tightly together. The young Dragon Lord decided it was probably for the best if he kept his eyes trained on Braeburn’s face for the time being instead.

“Howdy there, Spike. Been a long time since Ah last saw ya.” Braeburn said quietly while extending his hand.

Spike shook his hand willingly but the gesture did little to ease the awkward tension hanging in the room. “I know, right? What’s it been… like three years now? At least, I think that was when the last, big Apple Family get-together was.”

“Eeyup. Sounds ‘bout right. Hey—uhh—Ah know yer tryin’ yer best ta keep things civil between us right now. Frankly though, I’d prefer that we talk like men and address the pink elephant in the room. Iff’n ya don’t mind.”

Yeah, more like Pink Elephant Trunk. The only person I’ve ever seen with a bigger dick is Lord Torch. And that’s really saying something, considering how tall that guy is. “Sounds like a plan to me. But—erm—why don’t we all get together and clean up while we’re at it? You know, killing two birds with one stone and all that.”

“Oh, sure! That’s sounds like a mighty fine idea.”

Luna pumped her fist into the air. “Verily! I shall procure more bathing sundries for us. Brae, go on ahead and make yourself comfortable with Spike and his fetching companion.”

“Will do, darlin’. Don’t take too long, ya hear?”

Luna made sure to put some extra wiggle in her hips while she slowly sauntered towards the common area. “As the old saying goes: ‘Good things come to those who wait’.”

The remaining bathers made their way over to the central pool and slipped into the warm, steaming water. Sunset and Spike squirted some shampoo into their palms and immediately began washing each other’s hair. While they were doing that, Braeburn’s eyes lingered on Luna’s deliciously toned backside, marveling at the way her muscles flexed while she walked. Were he not so utterly spent from the intense bout of love-making earlier, Braeburn was certain that he would’ve been harder than a diamond.

“Lands sakes,” Braeburn muttered, “Ah don’t rightly know what Ah ever did ta the catch the eye of a princess, but she is one hellofa woman. Still doesn’t feel like it’s real sometimes.”

“So, how exactly did the two of you meet? I thought you still lived out in Appleloosa?”

Braeburn leaned back and let out a sad sigh. “Ah did. Up until about eight months ago, that is. As y’all might now, Appleloosa’s comprised mostly of desert scrub and sandy soil. It ain’t naturally fertile like the land ‘round these parts. We keep it irrigated as best we can, but it’s tough ta keep it that way. A big ole’ dust storm swept through the area back then and with the drought that had been goin’ on a few months prior, it pretty much devastated mah farm. Wound up sellin’ it directly ta the crown as a subsidy since Ah couldn’t grow anythin’ anymore.”

“Braeburn, I’m so sorry. I had no idea.”

“Don’t worry about it none,” Braeburn dismissed, “You were busy doin’ your own thing at the time. ‘Sides, my cousins in Ponyville offered to let me stay with ‘em and work their farm until Ah got back on mah feet. Luckily fer me, Princess Luna happened ta drop by one fateful day.”

Sunset arched her eyebrow. “Seriously? Is that normal for her? I don’t recall Princess Celestia doing that when I was still living near Canterlot. She—ah—tended to be a bit more reclusive and too busy for casual visits with the common folk.”

“Eeyup. Ah reckon it is, Miss Sunset. Luna’s special that way. Ah imagine it’s one of the many reasons why we get along like apples an’ caramel.”

Sunset cocked her head to the side. “Hold on a second. How did you know my name? I didn’t introduce myself to you yet.”

The lunar diarch chose that very moment to slip into the bath behind her lover, and draw him into a passionate kiss. Once they pulled away, Braeburn had a goofy smile etched upon his lips when she began washing his hair. They looked so relaxed and comfortable with one another that Spike couldn’t help but feel happy for the both of them. Taking her cue from the princess, Sunset scooched closer towards her own lover and cuddled him as well.

Luna smiled as she gently scrubbed Braeburn’s back. “Fear not, Sunset Shimmer. It is part of Braeburn’s job to know such things. He is my personal assistant, after all.”

“Personal… assistant?”

Luna nodded. “Indeed. Like the rest of Equestria, I too heard of the devastation wrought upon the poor Appleloosaians. However, I only learned that Ser Braeburn was a refugee after I decided to strike up a conversation with him. Twas not difficult for him to catch mine eye. He was bare-chested and glistening with sweat when I arrived. Handsome men hard at work are quite a sight to behold!”

“C’mon, Luna! Ya know Ah ain’t some fancy supermodel or anythin’ like that.”

Luna kissed his neck affectionately. “Nay, my beloved. You are an honest, kind-hearted gentleman of the utmost moral character and noble bearing. For all the centuries that I have lived, I find those traits to be of far greater importance than titles, wealth, or social standing when it comes to choosing a paramour. Would you not agree, nephew?”

“Yeah. Braeburn’s always been a decent guy for as long as I’ve known him.”

Luna grabbed a bath pouf and started scrubbing Braeburn’s shoulders. “Quite so. Ah, but we mustn’t forget his finely muscled physique and the tremendous fleshy sword that dangles betwixt his legs! A mighty weapon with which he has conquered his princess many a times!”

Braeburn’s face turned as red as the apple of his namesake. “Land’s sakes, Luna! Can we PLEASE not discuss mah manhood and what Ah choose ta do with it in—um—private in front of other folks? It’s embarrassin’…”

“Why ever not? Do males of this age not take pride in the size of their members and their ability to pleasure a woman so completely, that she is rendered into little more than a mewling pile of gelatin? If you are worried that this is not the case, rest assured that you have left me quivering in the throes of unending bliss when we, as the modern vernacular would say, ‘bump uglies’. Are you, perchance, feeling insecure of your carnal prowess?”

Braeburn unconsciously cupped his hands over his crotch. “Honestly, none o’ that really matters ta me. I’ve always been content with what the creator gave me. With you, darlin’, all I’ve ever concerned mahself with is makin’ ya happy. That bein’ said: folks don’t really talk about sex and their private parts like that nowadays. Well, present company excluded. No offense, Spike.”

“Eh, none taken. I’ve pretty much gotten used to it at this point.”

Luna at least had the decency to look slightly embarrassed. “My apologies, beloved. Although it has been nearly a decade since my return from the moon, I often find myself behaving in the mindset of days gone by. However, I shall not take back what I have said already. All of it is true!”

“And it ain’t necessarily a bad thing. You’re different from just about every other woman I’ve ever met in mah entire life. That’s part o’ what makes ya special, Luna. Ya don’t have ta change yer personality on mah account. But… all I’m askin’ is that ya try ta be a bit more discreet about our bedroom activities while we’re in public, alright?”

Luna wrapped Braeburn in a gentle hug. “Yes, of course. Technicalities be as they may, we are most decidedly not in public. Tis the royal baths and we are amongst friends and family. To kiss and tell, as it were, is acceptable in this environment. Would you not agree?”

“Ah don’t rightly know, darlin’. ‘Suppose Ah can make an exception in this case.”

Luna sighed contentedly and rested her head against his shoulder. “This is why I love you so much, Braeburn. To think, that after a millennium of isolation, I would find such a fine man to share my body and soul with. Perhaps, I shall even consider marrying you one day. Creator knows that Equestria could use another prince. Other than that wastrel, Blueblood.”

Spike cleared his throat. “Uh… technically, I’m an Equestrian Prince too.”

“Ah, yes. I had nearly forgotten about that. However, I believe that you have truly grown into your position as Dragon Lord. It suits you much better, nephew. I would not yet call you regal, per say, but in time you shall acquire the bearing as mine sister has. Even whilst nude.”

“You wouldn’t consider yourself regal, Aunt Luna?”

The lunar princess snorted. “Nay! I am but a simple woman at heart. The masses may refer to me as such out of respect and admiration, but I have never once considered myself regal at any point in my life. Long as it may be. I… suspect you feel much the same way being Dragon Lord, no?”

“Yeah. In fact, you pretty much hit the nail on the head with that one. How did you know?”

Luna smiled. “Experience, dearest nephew. Fret not. Humility is a trait that your subjects will come to admire you for. After all, a ruler who cannot relate to his or her own people is doomed to become a reviled despot.”

Braeburn leaned over and kissed Luna’s neck, making her giggle. “Ah can personally attest ta that. So long as we’ve been together, I’ve never felt like I’m with a princess but just Luna.”

“And you,” Luna purred, “my most handsome beau, have always strived to treat me like a normal woman. With kindness, love, and respect. Let us not forget that you are quite skilled at triggering the ROYAL ORGASM as well! But in all seriousness, you cannot begin to imagine how much I appreciate all that you have done for me. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.”

“Awwww,” Sunset cooed, “They’re so adorable together! Makes me want to thank my man too~”

Spike barely had a moment to collect his thoughts when he felt Sunset grab his cheeks and pull him into a long, passionate kiss. The young Dragon Lord was thankful that he was spent from all the sex earlier, otherwise he’d probably have gotten a pretty hefty erection right then and there. Despite the fact that he was in front of his own aunt, Spike couldn’t resist reaching over and fondling Sunset’s breast. As he rolled her nipple in-between his fingers, she moaned softly, and started planting butterfly kisses along his neck. After a few moments, she ceased her ministrations, and looked up at Spike with a hungry, but loving expression.

“I would so be up for round two if they weren’t around.” Sunset whispered.

“You see, Braeburn! We could stand to learn a thing or two from the Wyvertii!”

The blonde-haired farmer chuckled awkwardly. “That’s—erm—a level of PDA that Ah don’t think I’m quite ready for, darlin’.”

Luna moved over, sat atop Braeburn’s lap, and ran her fingers along his chest. “Are you absolutely certain, my beloved? Given the current season, I pondered taking a trip to Golden Sands Beach with you in lieu of attending the Summer Sun Celebration alongside my sister. You know, the one just south of Las Pegasus?”

“Well, Ah might have heard a few rumors about it. But Ah can’t say I’ve ever been there before…”

Luna grinned when she saw Braeburn blush like a schoolboy. “Then you are in for a most delightful surprise! Golden Sands is one of Equestria’s only clothing-optional beaches. My sister, ever the paragon of modesty, attempted to discourage nude sunbathing there a little over three decades ago. Fortunately, she was unable to dissuade the locals. They blatantly ignored her and continued the practice until it became a tradition amongst beachgoers.

“I have yearned to visit Golden Sands Beach for quite some time now, but something has always… felt off to me. As if the timing was never right. Now, I finally understand why. I needed a handsome apple farmer to accompany me on my sojourn! Would you do me the honor of accompanying me as the princess consort? I do not wish to hide our relationship any longer!”

Braeburn shifted uncomfortably. “Are ya sure that’s where ya wanna go, darlin’?”

“Of course! I would never jest about such a serious matter! Tell me, Braeburn: what better place is there to showcase our love for one another? We could relax, play, and simply be ourselves in the most literal way possible. Just think of all the hackles we shall raise! Our nude bodies will grace the cover of every tabloid from Canterlot to Baltimare!”

“That’s exactly why I’m worried. Ain’t it gonna tarnish yer reputation? Ya know, bein’ seen in public with a simple fella like me and whatnot. Ah don’t want ya ta get hurt over—”

Luna silenced her lover with a soft kiss to the lips. “Fie! Let the masses see us as we were born! You and I have nothing to be ashamed of. And I could certainly care less what they think of my body or if they happen to witness me sharing it with the man who has stolen my heart. Do you, perhaps, require any further assurances of my resolve?”

Braeburn chuckled and caressed her cheek. “Nah, I’m good. Struttin’ around the beach buck-nekkid ain’t really mah cup o’ coffee but… if it’s with you, darlin’, I don’t think I’ll mind it too much. Consider it a date. Besides, Ah gotta make sure the princess is organized durin’ her summer vacation. Couldn’t rightly call mahself an assistant if ah didn’t do at least that much.”

Satisfied with his answer, Luna turned her attention towards Spike. “Speaking of sojourns: where does the Dragon Lord and his entourage plan on going next?”

“Ponyville for starters. Delmira is staying with Twilight and Ember’s probably still recovering in the hospital. She’s always been a quick healer, but I know how antsy she gets whenever she has to stay in one place for an extended period of time. I just hope that she didn’t cheat and try to use healing magic on herself to speed up the process. I don’t even use it too much myself because it has so many drawbacks.”

Luna nodded somberly. “Indeed. Equestrian healing spells aren’t much better, I’m afraid. When your sister first started learning the craft, I had to intervene on her behalf so that she would not cause irreparable damage to her internal organs. She is very fortunate that I arrived when I did.”

“What?! When did this happen?! And why wasn’t I informed?”

Luna bowed her head in shame. “My apologies, Spike. This was only a few months after my return from the moon. You were still a child at the time and neither of us wanted to cause you any undue stress or panic. I realize now that it was unfair of us to assume that you could not handle the news. Rest assured; I was able to nurse your sister back to health without issue. If nothing else, she learned a valuable lesson in restraint that day…”

Spike was alarmed at the news but offered his aunt a polite smile. “I can only hope so. Twi really worries me sometimes with her tendency to go full OCD with new types of magic. Anyway… to answer your question, I planned on going to Zebrica. Since it’s in the southern hemisphere, it’ll technically be winter when we arrive. And thus, cooler. As good a time as any to visit, I think.”

“Indeed. And I imagine the Zebricans shall not make too much of a fuss regarding your lack of attire. Nudity is quite commonplace within their society. You should have seen the look on my sister’s face when we first traveled to their capital of N’Djamena twelve hundred years ago. King Waru’Tumba came out to the reception area and greeted us, along with four of his wives.

“They wore little more than traditional body paint and a few pieces of strategically placed, gold jewelry to accentuate certain parts of themselves. Twas most amusing! Zebricans are a welcoming, and physically affectionate people, so the jovial king did not hesitate to wrap my sister in a bone-crushing hug. I have never seen Celestia’s face turn so red before or ever since!”

Spike wrapped his arm around Sunset’s waist. “I’ll have to keep that in mind when we get there. It’s funny because Lord Torch was much the same way. He never once hesitated to show me affection or let me know that he cared about me. I know Night Light always tried his best to act like a surrogate father to me… but with Torch I felt more of a connection, ya know?”

“That does not surprise me in the least. From what my sister has told me, Lord Torch is a big man with an even bigger heart. I imagine he dotes on you more than usual out of deference to your biological parents and the fact that you are his daughter’s betrothed.”

Spike blushed. “Oh—umm—yeah, I suppose that makes sense.”

Luna cocked her eyebrow. “Did I, perhaps, speak out of phrase? You do plan on making her your wife, do you not? And I assume the same applies to your other paramours?”

“Ehehehe! Funny you should mention that! I’m not really sure how marriage works with the Wyvertii. I never bothered to ask Torch or anyone else about it. Uhh… based on hearsay, at least, I think Dragon Lords are legally able to have multiple wives. NOT that I would play favorites amongst the girls or anything like that! I’ll just shut up now before I dig my hole any deeper…”

Sunset rubbed Spike’s thigh affectionately. “Relax, big guy. Like I said before: you’ll make a great husband and daddy someday. I just know it! And it’s not like we have rush into the whole marriage thing right away.”

“Verily! You would do well to heed Ms. Shimmer’s advice, nephew. In any case, I shall notify Captain Hook to prepare the Silver Shadow for her voyage to Zebrica. The port of departure will be from Baltimare since that is the best place to refuel her coal bunkers and stock up on provisions. I suspect that it shall take no more than three days to reach N’Djamena, but it never hurts to be prepared. Oh, and, consider her your own personal vessel now. After all, a Dragon Lord needs to be able to travel in style.”

Spike gasped. “Aunt Luna… are you sure?”

“I am, Spike. No offence to the Wyvertii, but I don’t think they would be able to construct a state-of-the-art battle cruiser with their current level of technological development. Besides, you are, officially, an Equestrian Prince. Tis only fitting for you to have your own personal vessel for state visits and transportation. I shall also lend a contingent of the Royal Navy to staff her as well. Consider it my ‘coming of age’ gift to you.”

Braeburn whistled. “So when do Ah get mah own fancy boat, darlin’?”

Luna poked Braeburn’s chest. “And what, pray tell, would a landlubber such as yourself do with a heavily modified battle cruiser? I’d wager half the treasury’s coin that you would get seasick immediately and quite violently. The sea is no place for an apple farmer.”

“Erm… well, Ah can’t argue with that. Ah was just jokin’ with ya anyway.”

Luna giggled as she slipped her hand in-between Braeburn’s legs and played with his pubic hair. “My beloved, ever the jester! I have a much better idea. After our bath, you and I shall retreat to the royal bedchambers and lounge about at our leisure for the remainder of the day. And don’t even think about putting your clothes back on! Snuggling you is much more fun without them~ Sergeant Nocturne can bring us refreshments periodically, should we desire them.”

“Ya mean the tall, pale-skinned gal with black hair and all o’ them scars?”

“The very same. Hmm. A most curious way to describe her physical attributes. Do you desire to bed the good sergeant, my beloved?”

Braeburn waved his hands. “What?! No! Ah mean, she’s real pretty in a tomboyish sort o’ way. But umm… I’ve only got eyes fer you, darlin’. She just seems like the strong, silent type ta me. Ah reckon mah cousin might take a likin’ to her.”

Luna grinned. “Ah, I see. You wish to arrange a blind date between the two of them. A most splendid idea! It just so happens that Sergeant Nocturne is single and due for some well-earned leave this evening. Based on what I have seen from Macintosh’s dreams, I am quite confident that he will be most smitten with her.”

“Do Ah even wanna know?”

Luna snickered. “As my sister always says: ‘There is no wrong way to fantasize’. But nay, Braeburn. You are better off not knowing your cousin’s sexual preferences. Trust me on this.”

“Heh. No kiddin’. Sorry Ah even asked…”

Luna grabbed ahold of Braeburn’s hand and led him over to the towel rack where they began to dry themselves off. “Please enjoy the remainder of your bath with Sunset, nephew. Braeburn and I have much snuggling and other various sundry activities to do over the remainder of the day. It was nice catching up with the both of you!”

As Spike watched the two of them leave, Sunset nudged his ribs. “Hot damn! Talk about a fancy-ass ride! Do you think the staff can serve us those little cocktail weenies they always have at high-end parties in Canterlot? Oh! And does it have a gym on board? ‘Cause I’m gonna need to keep up with my daily training routine.”

Spike laughed as he kissed Sunset’s cheek. “There is a gym, but I’m not sure about the weenies.”

“No biggie if they don’t. Besides, the only weenie that really matters is the one attached to you.”

The young coupled shared a laugh as Sunset climbed atop her mate’s lap and coiled her legs around his waist. The two of them both sighed contentedly as they enjoyed the simple, tactile pleasure of warm water and bare skin pressed up against bare skin. Before resting her head upon Spike’s chest for a quick cat nap, Sunset kissed her mate’s collarbone and breathed in his scent.