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I have been spending the past week preparing for my trip to Capricorn Island. Checking in with my bosses at work and making sure to pack enough clothes and trying to make sure that Fluttershy will get all the help she needs with Gladesong. Although everyone I asked about Capricorn Island had the exact same response. It apparently does not get brought up very often in Ponyville. I resolved to ask Celestia herself once I met up with her in Canterlot.

Although before that got started, Fluttershy and I received an unexpected visitor just a little before noon. I was in the process of checking my luggage when I heard a knock at the door. Fluttershy was in the kitchen while feeding Gladesong, Scootaloo was at school, and Smolder was out scavenging for wild berries, so I went to the door to answer it. But upon doing so, I was greeted by a very unexpected face. "Good afternoon, Mr. James. Is this a bad time?"

I cannot recall his name, but the unicorn stallion before me was one of the doctors from the local hospital. Clad in a white coat with a pair of spectacles upon his nose, he smiled up at me in greeting. Answering his question, I looked over at the kitchen. "Lemme check, doc. Hey, Fluttershy? Were we expecting any house calls? The doctor is here."

"He is? Oh my, I hope nothing's wrong. I didn't receive any notifications in the mail." Fluttershy replied before bringing a satisfied Gladesong into the living room on her back. "Oh, hello there, doctor. Is something wrong?"

"Oh, nothing is wrong at all, Fluttershy. I'm not here to bring any bad news. I'm just here to extend an offer from our fertility program." The doctor explained as I allowed him into the house.

"An offer from... Wait... Fertility program? What's this about exactly?" I asked in confusion as I took a seat on the sofa with Gladesong in my arms. She was a little groggy after a filling meal and I was gently stroking her head to lull her into a nap.

"Yes, we have one of those. Recent circumstances, particularly regarding your child there, has resulted in some brainstorming among our experts. And to that end..." The doctor said before going silent. I think he could tell that Fluttershy and I were no interested in exactly what he wanted to request from us and quickly changed topics. "Well, to make a long story short, we were hoping you wouldn't mind being a sperm donor, Mr. James. Mainly for the sake of research."

"I..... I beg your pardon?" I asked as my thoughts derailed in response to such a question. Even Fluttershy did not seem sure of how to respond to that request, her eyes open wide with a crooked grimace on her lips as she glanced at me.

The doctor could not help letting out a laugh at our responses, "Yes, I know. It's not every day a man gets requested of such a thing out of the blue. Allow me to explain. You and Fluttershy are of vastly different species, correct? And Gladesong was not conceived on your first attempt, right?"

Trying to stay professional on the topic, Fluttershy replied as matter-of-factly as she could manage. "No... It took three attempts for it to happen. Why?"

"Well, as of now, the compatibility rates of crossbreeding between every civilized race in Equestria has been extensively researched and documented. With only a few exceptions." The doctor replied as he proceeded to explain the nature of his visit. "However, the compatibility of humans with nonhuman species has never been touched upon. We would like to request your cooperation in our efforts to identify the compatibility rates of humans with other races and to potentially find ways to increase compatibility rates if the odds are low."

I looked down at Gladesong as I contemplated his words. Such research would certainly prove useful to Equestria in the long run. I may be the first human to live in Equestria in generations, but I know I will most certainly not be the last. And the fact that it took three attempts for Fluttershy and I to successfully conceive a foal together definitely hints at the possibility of compatibility issues. Humans and ponies are vastly different on a genetic level. I then dragged my finger through Gladesong's little mane as I said, "I see where you're coming from, doc..."

"You will be financially compensated, of course. And we will inform you of our findings and developments if they concern you." The doctor replied, sweetening the offer with something beneficial in return for my cooperation.

I glanced at Fluttershy while she looked back at me. I know she wants another foal someday, so this could certainly benefit us in that regard. I did not take much longer to come to a decision, but knew that Fluttershy would have to agree too. "Well, I think it's a good idea. But what about you, dear?"

Fluttershy's gaze wandered as she thought her response over. Eventually, she too came to a conclusion. "All right. I agree. If it'll help us and others in Equestria, we should probably do it. However, I'll only agree on one condition."

"And that would be...?" The doctor asked with a perplexed stare set into his face. I doubt he is used to clients setting up these sudden conditions. Especially not from those with reputations like that of Fluttershy.

I raised my eyebrows as I noticed my wife give me a slight smirk. "I'll only agree...if I'm the one who gets to extract it."

I cringed while I broke down into snickering. The doctor too got a laugh out of Fluttershy's boldness as he said, "Oh my, no one gets to touch your husband but you, hm? Well, that will be quite all right. Now, when can you two stop on by? We after a timeslot available in an hour, if that's OK with you."

"That sounds fine. We can get that out of the way before I head up to Canterlot this evening." I replied as I noticed that Gladesong had finally dozed off into peaceful slumber. Seeing that sleeping face of hers made me feel even luckier after this discussion. For all we knew, her birth had been a true miracle in the face of daunting odds. Who knows how poor the compatibility rate is for humans and ponies?

"All right then. We can handle the paperwork when you get there. If you have no questions, I'll be on my way." The doctor said before we saw him out the door. After that, Fluttershy made some sandwiches for the two of us before we set Gladesong in her crib for a nap before entrusting her to Angel, Angela, and the many dutiful little critters who reside around our home. Once Gladesong was under the watchful eyes of our little friends, Fluttershy and I set off for the hospital.

I really do not think I need to go into much detail about how that visit went. All I can say is that Fluttershy did everything she could to draw out the results once we were left in a room together to try and get as much out of me as she could. While enjoyable, I have to confess that it felt a bit awkward to see my sperm being gathered into a container. Nowhere near as satisfying as it would have been had I properly made love to my dear wife. Regardless, we were pleased by the compensation we were set to receive. More than 300 bits to our bank account. A strange way to really start my day, but I am convinced good things will come of this. I trust whatever research they undergo will benefit Equestria for a long time to come.

After 3 PM, I finally had my supplies packed up in a fairly hefty suitcase. Good thing it had wheels. Fluttershy was quick to check the time while Smolder was playing with Gladesong on the floor in the living room. Our little dragon friend was using her tail spade like a toy while Gladesong pawed at it like a kitten. Fluttershy then came into the living room while I made one last check with my belongings. "You'll have to catch the next train, right?"

"Yeah, I don't want them to delay their departure for me. I understand its official business on Celestia's part, so it wouldn't reflect well on her to stall for an extra guest." I explained while checking my pockets for everything I needed. I would not be happy with myself if I forgot anything after making it halfway across town. I already said my goodbyes to Scootaloo that morning just in case she was not back from school in time.

"Hanging with the royals, huh? Sounds like a sweet time. Where you going?" Smolder asked, having almost never been in the house when I discussed the upcoming trip. Even I was not entirely sure of where our destination was since I had never went looking for a map.

"Some place called Capricorn Island. And that's about all I know. Celestia didn't really say what's going on there or why she wanted me to come. She just really wanted me to accompany her this time." I replied after doing a last quick check on my luggage. Maybe it was just me being complacent, but I suppose I really was taking Celestia's word for it. I have never had reason to doubt her before and I know she would never intentionally inconvenience me.

I soon reached down and picked up Gladesong in my hands before looking my little girl in the eyes. "Hey there, sweetheart. Daddy has to go somewhere for a while, so he won't be home for several days. You be good for your mom and sister, all right?"

Gladesong giggled as I brought her closer and bumped noses together. Such a happy little thing. As Smolder rose to her feet, she suddenly reached out to her in excitement. "Dra dra! Dra dra!"

A goofy smile spread across my face while Smolder snickered loudly. "Yes, and you be good for the cuddly dragon too."

Smolder then reached up and took Gladesong into her arms. "Oh, I know how to give good cuddles, don't I? I'll try to stick around more often for Gladesong while you're gone. She really likes me."

"She sure does. You take care of yourself. I'll try to bring souvenirs." I said while gently petting Smolder on the head with my fingers stroking her fibrous crest before doing the same to Gladesong's mane. I then kneeled by Fluttershy and gave her a quick kiss. "Love you, baby. You have a good one."

"You too, dear. We'll miss you." Fluttershy said softly as she gave me another kiss on the cheek. I then set off for town and the train station at the far end at a brisk pace. I did not want to keep Celestia waiting.

My trip through town was fairly uneventful and I reached my destination right on time. The next train to Canterlot had already pulled in and had another ten minutes to go until departure. Since the weather was fair, I stayed out on the train platform a little longer after showing the conductor my pass.

About three minutes before departure, I decided to head on in. But as I did so, I felt something suddenly reach out and grab my hand from behind. Mildly startled, I turned around to see who it was. I suppose I should have known who it was on principle. Only one person has the means to physically hold my hand. "Smolder...?"

My little friend was looking up at me with such a conflicted gaze. I knew better than to dismiss such a stare and turned to face her before getting down on a knee. She said softly, "We haven't been apart like this in a while... You'll be back, right?"

"Smolder... I was the one worried sick over where you were for weeks on end. I won't put you through the same thing." I said quietly before pulling her into an embrace. "I promise this is just a short trip. And I'll be in good company. They won't let anything bad happen to me. All right?"

I felt the little dragon girl tightly hug my body against her. It had been less than ten days since she finally came home to stay and she did not want us to part ways too soon. The poor thing had been through a lot and did not want such a good thing to end. With a sigh, she turned her gaze up to meet mine. "All right... I... I know you won't go away forever... But...could I see you off?"

"Sure... Oh, better get on board. That's the last call." I replied as I heard the conductor call out. I rose to a standing position and set a hand on Smolder's head. "I'm trusting you to be there for Fluttershy and Gladesong while I'm gone. And be nice to Scootaloo."

"You got it. And have a good time out there, all right?" Smolder said back to me with a more relaxed smile. Having said our goodbyes, I stepped into the train car and took a seat by a window with Smolder standing on just the other side. We never looked away from each other even as she placed her hand on the window as if to reach out to me. I did the same, placing my hand on the window over hers as I began to wish I could bring her with me.

I became more concerned as the train began to roll out of the station. Smolder kept her hand on the window even as she walked along the train to keep up. She soon broke into a run as the train gained speed. She thankfully had enough awareness to not run right off the platform and fell behind once she reached the edge. A twinge of disappointment in my heart, I looked away from the window and got comfortable in my seat. I did not get to relax for even twenty seconds before I noticed something at the edge of my vision. I turned to look out the window and looked in surprise to see Smolder flying alongside the train.

She really did not want to see me leave. I tried to find a way to slide the window open, but it did not seem to be designed to do that. All I could do was place my hand upon the window to reach out to her. I saw a heartfelt smile spread across Smolder's lips as she did the same, keeping her hand pressed against the window pane against mine for maybe ten seconds. Her point having been made, she pulled away from the train before bringing her hand to her lips and blowing me a kiss before veering away from the train and back to town. I felt myself blush as I turned my gaze ahead to nothing in particular. Even now, my feelings regarding her are muddled and confused. All I could do was hope that nothing awful would come of them.

After a scenic ride up the mountain, I arrived in Canterlot without anything worth noting occurring. But upon disembarking from the train, I was greeted by Shining Armor decked out in his uniform. "Hey, James! Over here!"

I was not expecting to find the captain of the guard himself waiting for me and headed his way with my luggage rolling along behind me. "What's up, Armor? You here to escort me?"

"Yeah, Princess Celestia leaves within the hour, so she wanted to make sure you got to where you need to go without distractions. That, and I doubt you've been to where you need to go yet." Shining Armor explained as he led me through the streets at a brisk pace while at full trot.

"I've been in and of Canterlot quite a few times. I've seen a lot of the city by now." I replied while convinced that we would have to take a train out to a seaside town and then take a ferry to Capricorn Island. I had no idea just how wrong I was.

"Well, I doubt you've seen where we happen to be going. I won't spoil the surprise though. You're in for a treat." Shining Armor retorted with a smirk. Having no idea what to expect, I just followed along.

With how we were starting to loop around the mountain summit, I thought we were going to be visiting the Wonderbolts race track near the eastern side of the mountain. This was not the case as we ended up stopping short when I saw the three royal sisters engaged in conversation with a number of ponies dressed up in what I could only have called sailor uniforms with all that white on them. I then muttered under my breath, "You're a long way from the ocean, mates..."

"Here he is, your highnesses!" Shining Armor called out as we approached. I was quite happy to see my three dear friends and patiently waited for them to provide a greeting.

Nightmare Moon was the first to turn our way and extended a wing to me for an inviting embrace. "So he is. Very good to see you again, my friend."

"Likewise, m'lady." I retorted before reaching out with my spare arm as she and I cuddled quietly. It felt so good to be held in her sable wing again. It was almost regrettable that she would not be accompanying me on the trip.

Luna was quick to use her levitation magic to lift my rolling suitcase away from me and passed it to one of the sailors, who then used his own unicorn magic to take hold of it. "Please add our friend's luggage to the rest before we depart."

The sailor dutifully trotted off with my luggage and into the building that seemed to be set into the side of the mountain itself. Most of Canterlot's architecture are built on the mountain, but not into it. Regardless, Celestia then relieved Shining Armor of his current objective. "Thank you or escorting our friend, captain. You are dismissed."

"Thank you, your highness." Armor said with a brief bow of his head. He then turned to me and said with a smile, "Well, guess I'll be seeing you when you get back, James. I haven't been there myself, but I hear Capricorn Island is one of the happiest places in the entire world. You're in for a good time."

"I'm sure I am. Have a good one, Armor." I replied in parting as Shining Armor trotted off to resume his duties. I then turned to Celestia and asked, "So, uh... We heading out soon? And how're we getting there? We'll have to take a ferry at the seaside, right?"

The three royal sisters just stared at me in perplexing silence. After maybe five seconds, the three huddled together while making no attempt to hide their faces. Luna spoke first as she whispered, "He truly does not know?"

"That seems to be the case. And he has been here for two years now. It's a miracle he has not seen one yet." Nightmare Moon then added at the first opportunity.

"Then that means we can surprise him." Celestia then muttered with a smirk on her lips. They then turned to face me as Celestia once more spoke. "Well, to answer your question, no. You and I will not be traveling my sea. Instead... Come this way."

"Um... Sure?" I replied before I began to follow the three royal sisters into the building behind them. The interior definitely brought to mind some sort of transit center. Similar to the inside of train station, and yet...not quite. It seemed more like that of an airport terminal, but I knew that could not be the case. I had never seen aircraft roaring high overhead. Although I have on rare occasion seen objects drifting through the air in the far distance in the evening. Hot air balloons, I was always sure.

As we walked down some halls furnished with polished wood furnishings and potted plants here and there for decor, Luna spoke to Celestia. "So, sister... Does Novo know you are coming?"

"Of course. You know she would never turn down a request for a visit. She always looks forward to my arrival, even when most of them are for diplomatic purposes." Celestia replied happily. That was the first time I had ever heard of that name. Who was this Novo?

Nightmare Moon too did not sound familiar with that name either. "I have scarcely heard of this Novo myself, now that you mention it... Does she ever visit Canterlot?"

"It's been decades since her last visit, sadly. She hasn't been the same since she lost her king. I truly hope that she can learn to live a little someday soon." Celestia said with a more somber tone to her voice.

Not thinking much on that last line, I finally decided to speak up. "Um... Novo? I don't think you've ever brought her up before. She run the place we're going to?"

My royal friend slowed down so I could walk beside them. Celestia was more than happy to fill me in. "Novo? Oh, she is the queen of Capricorn Island. We go back a long way. We've been good friends for centuries. I've been meaning to introduce you to her for some time, but just couldn't decide on when."

Something about that line caught my attention. I then cracked a bit of a smirk as I asked, "Queen? Wait, doesn't that mean she technically outranks you?"

Luna and Nightmare Moon burst into hearty laughter while Celestia showed a crooked smile as she was momentarily left unsure of how to respond. "Well, if you want to get specific. But we are still her superiors. All of Equestria's world leaders swear fealty to the royal family. If I had to find a means that you would understand...I would say they are to us what your homeland's governors are to your president."

That explanation was really not necessary for me, but I understand why she felt the need to clarify. "Yeah, I was just messing with you. I understand how this world works. You're the only ones with the experience and wisdom to properly guide this world in the long run and everyone knows it."

As we continued down the hall, I started to notice a faint smell in the air. Something metallic. And there was something else. Grease, perhaps? It was like the smell I would expect out of an automobile garage back on Earth. And I soon found out why the smell was so familiar when we stepped through another door and into a vast chamber. I immediately stopped in my tracks as my eyes went wide. "Whoa..."

From what I could tell, the entire room before me was carved right out of the mountain itself. And lining both sides of the chamber while leaving a very sizeable gap between the two ends were floating devices that immediately brought an unexpected word to my lips that I thought I would never say. "You have airships in Equestria?!"

There really was no other way I could describe them. While the outward designs of each airship varied greatly, they all had the same general look to them. The ship itself below secured by sturdy metal cables to a large balloon device of sorts above. They all had multiple propeller devices mounted on the back of the stern for propulsion. The ships themselves looked like they could even float in water if necessary. For the longest time, I thought such a thing only existed in fantasy. And yet, there they were. Maybe a dozen airships floating in the docks as various noises filled the vast airship docks as crewmen went to work.

"I knew you would be thrilled by this." Nightmare Moon said with a knowing smirk. She stepped up beside me as I beheld these wonders of engineering. "You have never seen these before, yes? I suppose that's not a surprise since the entrance faces away from Ponyville to the east and there are only so many that can fit in here. But yes, air travel does exist in Equestria and these are how we sail the skies."

"And here I thought these kinds of airships only existed in fantasy... They don't look that fast, but speed isn't everything." I said while approaching the edge of the dock to get a closer look at one. It seemed to be a cargo ship with nothing particularly flashy about its design with it appearing to be meant solely for efficiency in its simple role.

"Oh, you would be surprised by the speeds these can reach. Not as swift as a steam locomotive, but significantly faster than ocean vessels." Luna added as she walked by me. "But enough gawking. Surely you would prefer to see one from the deck, yes?"

"Huh? You mean..." I paused as I suddenly realized how we would be reaching Capricorn Island. We would not be sailing on an ocean liner. We would be flying there on an airship! "Oh yeah, please! Which one we taking?!"

"Right this way." Luna said with an amused chuckle before I followed along at a brisk pace with Nightmare Moon following behind me. Before long, Luna approached a member of the royal guard standing near a gangplank. "Is she ready?"

The guard quickly saluted the princess as he said, "Yes, your highness. The RAS Olympia is ready for departure."

"Olympia?" I muttered before turning to examine the airship before us. It was impressively large, though by no means the largest airship docked there. Its wooden hull was a polished mahogany hue with what seemed to be four cannon ports just below the deck that could probably be sealed if necessary should the airship need to land in water. The tip of the ship's forward deck ended in a long golden bowsprit with a similar point of just slightly shorter length being situated at the from of the airship's gasbag, though it looked too rigid to be a balloon and was probably not meant to deflate when empty. The gasbag was of a light purple hue and was of a distinct egg shape. A few stabilizing fins were affixed to the rear. I could not see much of what adorned the upper half of the gasbag, but it was likely ornately decorated as an indicator of its purpose as a royal transport. In all, I was impressed. The Olympia was truly a sight to behold for someone who was seeing airships for the first time. Even so, I turned to Celestia and asked, "How'd it get that name? The Olympia?"

The Princess of the Dawn happily replied, "It is a genus of butterfly. And... Well, you can't see it from here, but there's a butterfly-shaped emblem of sorts on the front of the gasbag. Just seemed like a fitting name for a royal vessel, right?"

"Yeah, it is. When do we depart?" I then asked while sincerely excited at the thought of traveling aboard a flying vessel with an open deck.

"I would say in less than ten minutes. Although... Luna, did you have his armor placed in my chambers as requested?" Celestia said before turning to her sister.

The Princess of the Night nodded as she replied, "Yes, I was certain to make sure it would not be left behind. You will find it upon your bed."

The mention of my enchanted armor caught my attention. Why would I need that for what sounded like a simple diplomatic visit? "Um... Is my armor really necessary for this trip? We're not going to run into any trouble, are we?"

Nightmare Moon just chuckled at my concerns as she explained, "Oh, do not fear. It's just your armor and nothing else. Your helmet and weapons will not be needed. It's simply proper protocol that only pegasi are allowed up on deck during flight due to the risk of sudden strong winds causing them to fall overboard. You will need to wear your armor if you wish to go out on the deck at any time."

"Oh... I guess that makes sense." I mumbled as I realized that while I am sure there must have been something in place to weaken the wind blowing over the deck during flight. I could barely make out the airship's helm out on the deck of the bow, so there would need to be safety measures in place to protect the pilot. Still, better to be safe than sorry. I did not even want to ask how many crewmen may have lost their lives falling to their dooms due to an untimely crosswind.

Celestia then leaned a little closer to me as she added, "And besides, we want you looking your best when you meet Novo. She has an appreciation for beauty much like you do and will surely appreciate how you look when suited up. And on top of that, you'll have a much easier time getting around on Capricorn Island if you can fly. It's mostly a mountain after all and all of its inhabitants mostly get around with flight themselves."

It was only then I realized just how little I knew about our destination and the people living there. I thought it was going to be something closer to a tropical island, not a mountain out in the ocean. "They do? And...it's just a mountain out on a little island? And... Hang on, exactly what are the people of Capricorn Island? Pegasi? Griffins?"

The three sisters smirked at each other as if amused by my ignorance or knowing that the response would get an unusual reaction out of me. Needless to say, Luna then provided an answer I did not ever anticipate. "Hippogriffs."

I went silent as that word registered with me. It was not a word I had heard during all my time in Equestria. "Hippogriffs? As in...an island full of bird horses?"

My rather blunt description got a laugh out of my royal friends. Celestia was quick to explain, "Well, if you want to get technical! Yes, Capricorn Island is the home of the hippogriffs. They get quite tall too, about as tall as me. Very friendly people. I promise you will love it there."

Already having a good idea in my head of what the average hippogriff looks like, I was not put off at all. "Huh... I kinda like the idea of being surrounded by friendly birds. Sign me up."

As if to answer that, I heard one of the crewmen call down from the deck to signal that the time of departure was near. Celestia then looked to her sisters and said, "Well, it seems we must be off. I trust you two will hold down the fort while we're gone?"

"As always. Give my best regards to Novo." Luna retorted before she and Nightmare Moon shared a gentle hug with their big sister before doing the same with me.

"Happy travels, my friend." Nightmare Moon whispered to me before nuzzling my cheek. Celestia and I then hurried up the gangplank before it was pulled away. Luna and Nightmare Moon watched from the sidelines as the Olympia was pushed to the empty middle of the docks. The doors to the docks were wide open, giving us a clear means to exit. I watched the pilot, a pegasus stallion in a white hat and coat that looked more like he belonged on an ocean vessel, moving the helm's wheel while minding some gauges that too looked like they belonged on an older sailing ship.

And then I felt it. The ship lurched under me as the buzz of the propellers behind the stern reached my ears. I took hold of one of the support cables near the sides for safety as the airship began to drift forward. The speed was low at first, but the moment we cleared the gates, the airship's speed gradually picked up until we were flying along at a much higher speed. At least I assumed we were. I was not feeling that much wind from the front of the ship, almost as if the bowsprit was diverting the wind. And the slow panning of the landscape below us did not give me much of an indicator of our speed. But we were flying faster than I was expecting, that much I was sure of. And it was mesmerizing to be out in the open air like that while just floating along to our destination. I was having a good time already.

Having allowed me to indulge in beholding the experience of flight in a completely new way, Celestia used her levitation magic to pull me away from the edge. "Having fun already?"

I was unsure of what to say at first. It was almost surreal for me. "This... This is completely unlike flying in an airplane. This might be my favorite form of air travel yet."

Even though she was smiling, Celestia still spoke to me fairly sternly. "As much as I am glad you are enjoying yourself, make certain that you are clad in your armor at all times when up on deck. I don't want to suddenly find out that you've fallen overboard and I don't want to be the one to tell your friends and family that you won't be coming home."

Grim as such a thing it was to say, I understood Celestia just wanted nothing bad to happen to me on this trip. "Right, I get it. So... We going in?"

Her point made, Celestia gave me a much more sincere smile as she guided me to the door leading into the airship at the stern. "Yes, let me show you around."

Do not let the status of the Olympia's use as a royal airship fool you, the interior did not have the kind of accommodations you might expect. I did not see an indoor swimming pool or a private tennis court. I suppose there was only so much room to spare. Overall, I found the interior to be reminiscent of luxury ocean liner of a hundred years ago in terms of aesthetics. I truly felt I had taken a step back in time to an era of transportation I once had a powerful fascination with. Lots of polished wood with ornate sconces illuminating the halls with a plush carpet going down the middle of the floor. I loved the smell in the air from all that wood.

Not that many personnel were aboard the Olympia. Only twenty crewmen with six of them being members of the royal guard. All were pegasi aside from the four unicorns among the royal guardsmen. I quickly deduced that the four unicorns were tasked with arming the cannons lining the outside of the ship's hull. Their levitation magic would be much more helpful in handling the cannonballs than their bare hooves. Speaking of which, Celestia gave me full permission to go wherever I pleased and the crewmen could not say otherwise. I used this as an opportunity to explore after Celestia showed me to the galley since she seemed to understand I would have more fun exploring on my own and at my own pace.

One of the first places I checked out was where the cannons were kept. They were contained in the outer rim of the upper deck and the space was quite narrow and only allowed as much space to maneuver as it could afford. Thank goodness the airship's proportions were designed with Celestia in mind, or I would have been bumping my head all the time. There were rows of cannonballs piled up, but were smaller than I expected. Even the cannons were smaller than I was anticipating, being even smaller than I was. I guess they just were not needed to be much bigger. Then again, I am sure airships are more fragile than ocean liners and cannot endure direct hits as well as a sea vessel. The kind of cannons that were used on sailing ships two hundred years ago would probably tear something like the Olympia apart with little effort while a sturdy ship sitting in the rolling sea would probably take the impacts a little better.

Something caught my eye. As well as my nose. I recognized the sulfur-like scent of black powder, but also saw that the cannons were in remarkably good shape. Almost as if they had never been fired. I suppose Equestria really is just that peaceful, but hey would have to take precautions out of sheer protocol. One of Equestria's true sovereigns was onboard and the world would suffer if she perished. Still, the presence of that explosive powder made me uncomfortable when I took into consideration where I was. With new questions in my head, I left cannon deck and went to find Celestia.

I did not search for long. I found her on the upper deck near the guest quarters inside the study. I suppose it was installed as a means for passengers to pass the time since there was a hefty number of books lining the walls. It was quiet too. Almost as if the walls had extra padding to keep out unwanted noise. I peeked inside and saw Celestia relaxing upon a cushy sofa with a book on her hoof. The only source of light in the chamber was from a single lamp on a nearby desk. I was almost afraid to interrupt, but I still spoke up with a loud whisper. "Celestia? Do you have a moment?"

The Princess of the Dawn looked up from her book and beckoned me to enter with her wing. "Of course, my sunshine. You can ask me anything you want."

Her use of that endearing pet name was all it took to confirm that I was not making a mistake. I closed the door behind me and took a seat upon a stool while Celestia set her book aside. "I saw the cannons... Looks like they've never been used. I guess that's a good sign, right?"

Celestia smiled brightly at me as if she too shared my relief. "I can't remember the last time we've had to fire those. I only had them installed out of recommendation."

Definitely good news. Although I then brought myself to ask the question I had in the back of my mind. "Yeah... Although judging by the powder they use... Is Equestria developing weapons that utilize black powder?"

Her expression darkened as the tone in the room grew grimmer. Thankfully, Celestia shook her head and smiled in a comforting manner. "I know what you are wondering and I can tell you this. The development of devices that uses black powder is extremely limited and is strictly regulated for the uses you saw here as well as for noncombative purposes. I have seen what the proliferation of firearms has done to your world and I will not allow Equestria to go down a similar path."

This response took a load off my shoulders. My mood immediately brightened as I felt a relieved smile creep across my face. "That's...really good news. Sorry to bother you, but seeing those things just got me thinking. I'm gonna get back to looking around, all right?"

"It was no trouble at all, my sunshine." Celestia replied before curling one of her wing's longest feathers to call me over. I approached Celestia in curiosity only to receive a kiss on my cheek for my troubles. "I'll be right when you've had enough wandering for now. See you soon."

I almost laughed at this sudden display of tender affection. Her choice of words and actions really were something that she would only do if she was absolutely certain no one would overhear or see us. Eager to return her affection, I gave Celestia a parting kiss upon her nose and headed out the door. I was curious of what was to be seen on the lower deck below us.

After descending some stairs near the galley, I came out into what seemed to be a break room for crewmen. A couple of the guards were seated at a table with bottles of cider and a deck of cards set out. It looked like they were playing a game of poker to pass the time. Behind me past the stairs was the cargo hold. It was not very big, but it did not need to be. The Olympia is merely a royal transport, not a pleasure cruiser or cargo ship. All it really needed was enough supplies to last a week. The crew did not have anything significant to bring along with them. They were merely doing their jobs and likely had their own quarters to keep their stuff in. All of the luggage was kept at back of the stern behind the stairs on the upper deck.

I was delighted by what I found the next room over. An arcade had been installed with four separate cabinets. Among them was an Equestrian Heroes cabinet. I guess even the royal family knows the enjoyment that comes from video games. However, I did see a sign on the door leading in stating that the cabinets would be shut off between 9 PM and 10 AM. Probably to insure that the noise from game cabinets in use would not keep anyone awake. I could have sat down for a quick game, but my curiosity and slight excitement of exploring an actual airship drove me onward.

The only place left to check that I felt comfortable exploring was the room beyond the arcade. The engine room. I did not feel comfortable entering, so I only looked in through the doorway. Large brass containers and pipes went every which way, but I did not see or smell anything like coal to power a steam engine. I suspect that airships are fueled by sophisticated magic-based power sources. Not wanting to get in the way of anyone in the most important location on the ship, I backed out and made my way back up to the study to check in with Celestia.

Celestia must have known I had looked everywhere I could since she immediately set aside the book she was reading when I returned to her. "So, how was your little adventure? Your curiosity satisfied for now?"

I nodded with a big smile on my face. "Yep. I've never really been able to travel like this. Airships are so cool."

"Yes, they do have quite a unique allure to them, don't they?" She asked while she climbed off the sofa. "But now that you're done, let me show you where you will be staying. This way, please."

I followed the Princess of the Dawn out into the hall as we passed a number of doors. "You didn't look in any of these, right? Well, you're right that these are where the sleeping chambers are. The private rooms of the guests are all on the upper deck and it wouldn't do to have you intrude on anyone."

"Yeah, I was getting that feeling. But...is there anyone else here besides the crew?" I asked in return as I wondered who else was aboard the Olympia.

Celestia shook her head and said, "No, it's just you and I. This room? It'd be best to leave it be since that is the crew's quarter. But this..." She then led me to a door and opened it. "This is your room for the trip."

I took a look inside and was quick to spot my luggage on the bed. The bed was a bit smaller than I am used to, but I could manage. I adored the wooden decor and ornate wallpaper near the ceiling. While the chamber was a bit cramped to conserve space, I did not mind at all. This was truly the height of luxury travel. "Man, I could never afford to travel like this back home..."

"Well, being friends with royalty does carry benefits, doesn't it?" Celestia said with a wink at me. She then added, "And since I know your muse will be whispering to you in time, I have granted you access to the communications office to use the typewriter in there. It's where the morse code device is located. It's just down the hall to the left of the galley."

"Thanks, I will want to write about this day." I replied before going in and checking my luggage. Everything was accounted for, so I just reclined on the bed to relax for a bit. It had already been a long day and I was tempted to take a nap. I knew I should not since it was already evening and I would not want to end up being sleep deprived the following day. I then looked ahead at Celestia and asked, "Where can I find you?"

"Oh, I'll be just next door in my private chambers. Don't be afraid to intrude, you can come see me anytime. And..." She retorted before falling silent with a look of unease on her face while maintaining that smile. "If you would prefer some company tonight...I would be happy to let you share my chambers."

Celestia and I shared a silent gaze for a moment as I comprehended her words. While unexpected, her offer was not unsurprising. Nor would it be the first time she and I would have shared a bed. "I'll... Well... If I get lonely, I'll...come knocking."

The Princess of the Dawn walked in and placed a kiss upon my forehead before beaming quietly at me. "I'm looking forward to it, my sunshine."

The rest of the evening went by relatively smoothly. I was very surprised what they were serving for dinner in the galley. Curry thick with vegetables. Not something I would expect being served aboard a vessel from Canterlot. I have been using some of my time to write this journal piece by piece as the day has gone by and even enjoyed a round of Equestrian Heroes with Celestia and a couple of the crewmen. She plays a mean mage. And once the sun began to set over the horizon, I retrieved my armor from Celestia's chambers and went up to watch the sunset from the deck. Only by then, the Olympia was sailing over the ocean. It was only the second time I had seen the sea and watching the sun setting over the mirror that was the ocean's surface was a truly beautiful sight to behold.

"You don't get to see sights like this on the mainland, do you?" Celestia said as she walked up alongside me as we watched the setting sun from the bow. "It's something many love about air travel. Just being able to enjoy the sights only fliers can enjoy."

"I can see why. Watching from the deck of a ship at sea is one thing, but being able to see for miles up here is even better." I replied while watching the glittering reflection of the sun's rays shimmering along the water far below. Although a question soon came to mind. "Say... Now that I think about it... You say Capricorn Island is the home of the hippogriffs, right? Why haven't I seen or heard of any until now? I know I don't get out of Ponyville very often, but I think I've seen griffins more often than them."

"It's certainly not because they fear the outside world, I can tell you that much." Celestia said while giving me an aside glance before turning her gaze back towards her very own setting sun. "They just don't have much of a reason to. They are very much at home where they are and have everything they really need, so there's not much in the way of motivation for them to leave. I'm sure there are some who develop a case of wanderlust and travel, but for the most part, the hippogriffs prefer to stay close to home."

"Must be a very nice place indeed." I said without much thought. I have always thought Ponyville was just about the best place to live in Equestria, but it was easy for me to forget just how big of a world Equestria really is. For all I know, the hippogriffs may have it even better than us.

Celestia inched closer to me before giving my cheek a gentle nuzzle. "Oh, it is. That's why I wanted you to come along. I know you'll love it there even more than I do. And I always have a good time when I visit."

Only when the sun was on the verge of disappearing beneath the ocean over the horizon did Celestia start to head back inside the ship. "I'm going to prepare us some tea and a light snack. Do you enjoy scones?"

"Yes, please. I'll be down before long." I said before looking back to the setting sun. With only the buzz of the propellers behind the ship breaking the silence and a weak gust blowing through my hair, I gazed out at the vast ocean ahead as I took a moment to appreciate the surreal sense of freedom and solitude I could only experience while sailing the skies upon a vessel that was both archaic and modern in its concept. Almost reluctantly, I finally went down below deck only when the stars had come out and returned my armor to its portable vault.

My delay had given the tea Celestia had brewed for us enough time to cool and I suspect she anticipated that I would stick around as long as I did. Celestia had provided for us chamomile tea laced with mint and wild berry scones while we sat at a desk in the study. The airship had gone all but silent with everyone onboard starting to settle in for the night with only the heavily muffled buzz of the ship's propellers reaching our ears.

The topics we discussed were quiet and simple. Ranging from my relationship with Fluttershy to how Gladesong has been. Celestia was quite surprised when I brought up Smolder and expressed an interest in meeting her someday. Although as the topics started to run dry and silence began to fill the air as our words faded away, I soon found Celestia's hoof upon my hand.

We shared a long quiet gaze as we looked into each other's eyes. And as we did so, we smiled. I missed her. It had been a while since we last had a moment together alone in such a way. I felt that kindred sensation again. The feeling that I only felt from her. Longingly, I turned my hand over to hold her hoof in my palm. A memory came to mind. One that made me feel slightly giddy yet uneasy. "It's too bad we're not alone on a tropical moonlit beach right now."

Celestia huffed as she managed to barely avoid letting out a quiet laugh. Her eyes looked elsewhere, but I could see that the blush in her cheeks told me she too remembered that night we shared together in the realm of dreams. "Oh, my sunshine... That was a good night for us..."

I gently removed her golden shoe from her hoof and rubbed my other hand over it and up to her wrist. I looked up at her without moving my head, my face directed at the hoof I was holding. Celestia smiled at me in silence, her eyes showing a tender want just under the surface. She then whispered quietly, "Luna has told me of the very special relationship you have between dear Fluttershy and your beloved Rarity... How happy the three of you were when your dreaming minds were brought together..."

The subtle movements of my hand stopped. I was worried that she had been made aware of something that was better left hidden. She must have sensed my apprehension since Celestia then placed a kiss upon my forehead. "Shhh, there's no need to be afraid, my sunshine. How could I ever frown upon a love so sincere between you three? They love you as you love them and love each other as well. No conflict. No jealousy. Nothing but unwavering trust. Such love is rare, even in the world of Equestria. You truly have a gift, my love. A patient heart with boundless love to share."

I closed my eyes and bowed my head, still trying to come to terms with how my own heart works while slowing growing to understand it by the day. An unorthodox relationship that would get some dirty looks from some, both here and back where I come from. Taking her other hoof, Celestia tilted my chin up until our eyes met while she smiled most tenderly at me. "If fate would have it, I too would wish to be yours with them as well."

Such a sacred declaration. A princess... One of the true sovereigns of this world, as my mare? In a family of commoners? My hand went to her shoulder as I asked, "Is that...actually feasible? You...and them?"

As sweet as such a desire was, I could see that Celestia's souring expression confirmed that she understood the reality of the situation. "I... I wish it was, but... I can only imagine the fallout of such a scandal when it inevitably is discovered by the public... And I do not wish to bring that sort of attention upon you and your family."

"I see..." I muttered in acknowledgement. Even I knew in my heart all along the disaster such a relationship would turn into over time. Even if it would not dethrone her, I would rather not think of the consequences of the Princess of the Dawn being discovered to be an a very unorthodox relationship that many might impulsively view as hedonistic. Regardless, my hand cupped her cheek as I whispered, "That doesn't change anything though. You know I love you..."

"As do I, my sunshine. And nothing will change that." The lovely princess whispered as she closed her eyes while tilting her head into my hand. She soon then whispered, "I do hope there is a future for us together... Someday... Somehow..."

"Only time will tell... And I hope it's an answer we'll both be happy with." I said quietly as my hand caressed her jaw. As much as I wanted to stay there with her, we soon had to part ways. It was almost time for us to turn in for the night. Most reluctantly, we bid each other good night before we returned to our private chambers.

I took a pleasant warm shower in the little bathroom at the side of my room, a little bit of turbulence causing the airship to rock just noticeably enough for me to feel the floor shift under me. It was kind of fun and reminded me of exactly where I was even when I had no means of seeing outside from inside the shower stall. I wonder if the passengers of dirigibles decades ago experienced similar stimuli. It was refreshing enough and that warm chamomile tea from a short while earlier would help soothe me into sleep. But once I was out of the shower and clad in a clean pair of boxers, I sat on the bed with a towel wrapped around my waist. I could not sleep. Not alone. Not when my heart was pining for the beautiful princess on the other side of the wall.

For once, I did not want to sleep alone. I wanted to be with her. To hold her against me. With some caution, I peeked out the door and into the hall. There was no sign or sound of anyone out there. Aside from the crewmen working the graveyard shift at their posts, everyone else had turned in for the night. I quietly stepped over to the next door and reached for the handle. But as I did, I paused when it suddenly became coated in a billowing golden aura before tilting down as the door was pulled open. A familiar tender voice spoke from ahead of me, "Welcome, my love. Please enter."

Celestia must have known I was coming. I quickly stepped inside out of fear that someone may have heard only for the door to quietly close behind me. My eyes scanned my surroundings now that I was properly in the private chamber of the royal family itself. It was more spacious than the room I had been assigned to while still only containing enough furniture that would be necessary. Her bed was quite impressive, being a canopy bed with a queen sized mattress. And resting upon the bed while gazing invitingly at me was the Princess of the Dawn herself faintly illuminated by an oil lamp nearby, her golden regalia gone and leaving her gorgeous body bare. "I was hoping you'd come..."

The inflections in her voice filled me with a hint of unease. What if one of the crew came knocking and I was found in their ruler's bed with her? As my eyes darted around the chamber as if trying to distract myself from the royal beauty before me, Celestia spoke softly to me. "Do not fear. We will not be disturbed unless and emergency arises or until morning when breakfast is ready to be served. No one will know. Now please... Come to me, my sunshine. I've missed you."

Celestia is usually not so formal in her dialogue, so I took this as a sign that she was trying to sound as sincere as possible. A royal ruler's words are always meant to be taken seriously and perhaps she was attempting to invoke that sort of feeling. With some hesitation, I did approach and sit upon her bed. She must have sensed my caution since her smile faded slightly as she asked, "What's wrong, my love? I've gotten so used to you seeing the mare behind the crown. Why so cautious?"

"I know, I know... It's just... It's not so much about how I see you as much as it is about how the others see you. We're not exactly alone up here." I said quietly while afraid my voice might be heard if I spoke too loudly.

Celestia's look of concern was promptly replaced by a sly smirk. "That's all? Let me fix that."

I saw her golden magic aura coat her horn for just a brief moment. A glittering curtain of sorts rolled over the walls, floor, and ceiling before it faded. Nothing seemed to have changed, but Celestia was quick to explain what she had done. "There. No sound will leave this room. You could make me scream and nopony would come running."

A sound buffer spell, huh? The things you can only do with magic. I gave Celestia a bit of a smirk myself as I asked, "Is there anything magic can't do?"

"Well, it can't make us fall in love." Celestia said with a knowing chuckle before her magical grasp yanked the towel from my waist, leaving me in just my boxers. I watched Celestia recline on her side as she smiled most lovingly at me. "But enough delays. Come to me, my love. I miss your touch."

Her sweet honeyed words touched my heart. Wasting no time, I rolled over to her and put my arms around the beautiful Princess of the Dawn. We smiled at each other before our lips finally touched. It had indeed been too long. Our lips missed each other's caress. Our tongues missed the sensations of their sensual waltz. I felt her wing drape across me in an embrace of our own. I had forgotten just how much I missed Celestia until I was finally in her embrace. How much I loved her. And how happy I was to be with her in ways no other man had ever been.

Our long tender kiss eventually ended as we gazed longingly into each other's eyes. With my hands caressing her back and through her smooth silky white coat, I tried to shower her with more of my love. My lips found their way to her neck, placing many soft kisses along it as I felt her skin tingle with delight through her thin coat. She tilted her head back as a haggard gasp hissed in her throat. "Oooooh, my sunshine... Do what you will with me... I am yours..."

I was too enraptured with my royal beloved to heed any risks we may have been taken. I wanted her to feel as loved as she wanted me to feel. My kisses went down her neck to her shoulder and chest before going right back up. My hand slid down her slender frame and to the base of her tail. She cooed at my fingers caressing even the most minute details of her regal form. And finally, my hand slid over the unparalleled contours of her flank. Those luscious feminine mare hips only the most royal of mares possess.

I heard Celestia groan in delight through clenched teeth as she bit her lip. No man had ever touched her in touch a way outside the realm of dreams. I felt honored to be the first to do so. Honored to be the man she had chosen to allow her heart to love. My fingers rubbed over her royal flank, rubbing and pressing into the thinly coated flesh. Firm, yet soft as well. My hand soon grasped her rump, squeezing her full womanly hip as Celestia arched her back in delight.

As I continued to explore and pleasure my beautiful royal lover, I began to notice something in the air. A scent I am intimately familiar with. Heady and strong. The scent of a very needy mare. Half of me was worried that I was going too far, but the other half wanted to continue. It would not be the first time Celestia and I had engaged in mutual sexual pleasures. But as my hand continued to bring her pleasure with attention on her full equine hip, Celestia whispered to me. "James... Mount me..."

"Uh... Wha...?" I mumbled, her words too unexpected for me to immediately process. To voice her desires further, her wing curled over me in an embrace as her hind leg too draped itself over me and held me against her. "Ce...lestia?"

"Please..." She whispered eagerly to me, her beautiful amethyst eyes gazing at me in love and powerful need. "Mount me... Make me your queen..."

Before I could even object, her lips were upon mine. Celestia closed her eyes and rolled me over, pinning me on my back with her body atop mine as she kissed me most lovingly. Her body also voiced its desire as she slid back and forth, grinding herself against me as her powerful feminine musk filled the air.

I could not resist her affections. I closed my eyes as my hands rubbed over her shoulders while I returned her kiss with one of my own. Our tongues danced in a passionate tango, Celestia's wings spread wide in a blatant display of her desire for me. And her slow grinding against me was not ineffective. A painfully firm bulge formed in my boxers and rubbed lustfully against my lover's belly.

Even so, I could not ignore the taboo of what was on the verge of transpiring. Doing such a thing in the realm of dreams, a place detached from the laws of reality, carried no consequence. Not so in the real world. With great reluctance, I broke the kiss and gazed up at the beautiful princess above me. "We... We really shouldn't... Not now..."

Celestia looked pained by my words, but she did not object. Her movements ceased as she averted her gaze in momentary silence. "I... I know... Even though I want you... Need you... I know that...the public, especially the tabloids, would not take well to this if word ever got out..."

"I...want you too, dear..." I said softly while caressing her cheek. Despite the sudden shift in the mood, my erection remained firmly pressed against her lower belly. Celestia soon noticed this and looked back only to look down at me again with a rather...peculiar gleam in her eyes. "Um... What's with that look?"

Celestia lifted herself from my body and began to back up with a type of crawl. "You are right. It would be reckless for us to do such a thing. But even so..."

I froze as I saw what she was doing. Her horn alit with her golden magic aura, I watched as she pulled my boxers down to reveal my eager manhood. Her eyes gazed hungrily at me as she whispered, "At least allow me to do this for you, my love."

Before I could even object, the Princess of the Dawn took my length into her maw and slowly yet skillfully began to bob her head up and down. I almost gasped at how strong a start she had. "Oooh... You... How're you this good at that?"

Celestia did not miss a beat, speaking to me through her magic as her voice echoed in my mind. "I have dreamed of us together many times, my love. No small part to Luna knowing how much I love you. A queen must know how to make her king happy."

I sensed no irony in her choice of words. That term she addressed me with... I could swear I sensed a hint of pride in her calling me her king. It tickled my heart. Such a powerful choice of words. Perhaps she would love it if I returned the favor. I set my head down, closing my eyes as she continued to pleasure my stiff shaft. "Mm... You... Mmmmm, my queen..."

"Again, my love... Again... Let me hear you say that again..." Celestia whispered in my mind as I felt her tongue sliding all around my shaft, her head pulling back just enough to suck on my tip before taking the whole thing back into her mouth.

I could not resist. Especially when I felt her magic beginning to cradle and fondle my sack at the base of my shaft. Aiding it as it began to produce a sticky white syrup for her to savor. "Oh god, my queen... You're...so good at this... I..."

I could feel my climax rising fast. A very brief session, but that was to be expected. And yet, Celestia continued to perform with admirable gusto as her bobbing sped up. She could sense that I was getting near. And so she called to me in my mind, that beautiful voice egging me on. "Yes, only the best for my king... Please... Give it to me, my love. Give your queen your gift! She hungers for you!"

Gritting my teeth and gasping out her name, I pushed my hips higher as I felt my orgasm hit me. Torrents of sticky white seed flooded into Celestia's waiting maw as she eagerly gulped it all down. Delightful and invigorating as it was, it was over all too soon. I relaxed and panted lightly in the afterglow. I directed my eyes ahead of me, seeing Celestia lift her head from my shriveling shaft as she too breathed deeply while gazing as me with such love in her eyes. She licked her lips and spoke with succulent sweetness in her voice, "Delicious, my love."

"Man, you were good at that..." I said with a huff as I set my head back down. I gazed at the ceiling over the bed as Celestia's magic closed the curtains with only the glow of her lamp fainting shining through the sheer fabric. I felt her starting to crawl up beside me before she began to slow my face with a steady supply of soft kisses. Her musk still hung in the air. I knew what I had to do. As her beloved, it would not do to leave her unsatisfied. "My queen... Let me...help you with that."

"Help me? What do... Ooooh..." Celestia cooed as I reached out and began to place many soft kisses upon her neck. She crooned it with her chin lifted high, allowing me to tend to her needy body. As my lips tended to her neck, my teeth occasionally nibbling gently through her thin coat, my hand rubbed over her royal hips while caressing her radiant and sensitive cutie mark. My aim was true, Celestia gasping in shrill delight. "Ooh! Yes, there! Ooooh, James..."

"Only the best for my queen." I said as I parroted the same words she told me. It felt wonderful to call her that. Not just lovers, but as king and queen. I knew it was not true, but it was an enticing fantasy to imagine. For that moment, I was her king. And she was my queen. And I wanted to please her as she pleased me.

"Ooh, yes dear... My king...knows what his queen loves..." Celestia hissed lovingly as my fingers squeezed and groped her feminine flank while continuing to apply pressure to her cutie mark. But I then got more daring while nibbling down to her shoulder as my hand slid down over her belly and then further down between her hind legs. I felt them. Her soft teats. And as my hand began to caress and knead them in its grasp, Celestia whimpered adorably as she whispered, "Mmm... Don't be shy, my love... They are yours to do as you please with them..."

"Then... Allow me to..." I said before trailing off as I scoot myself down further. Celestia responded in kind as she raised a leg to give me full access to her lower belly. They looked so full, yet not too full as to be a burden to a mare. I suppose on top of being blessed with ethereal beauty, the royal family are also quite well endowed across the board. Her teats looked full enough for her to have once born a foal. I quickly found this assumption to be false as I closed my lips over her teat and began to suckle. No milk came, but the results were what I wanted. Celestia gasped shrilly in response to me tending to a spot I doubt even she ever really caressed much in her life. "Oh my... I... Is this...supposed to feel this lovely?"

To add to the pleasure I was giving my royal beloved, my hand slid over Celestia's flank and made its way between her hips. Her moist royal lips winked constantly, begging for my touch. My fingers slid over her dark lips, sliding into her needy depths even while I continued to suck greedily upon her glorious royal teats. Celestia had no words to offer as I continued to please her in ways I never had before in the real world. All I heard from her were delightful moans with that beautiful voice of hers, telling me all I needed to hear without any coherent words. Thank goodness she had the foresight to put up that sound barrier. She was getting to be quite loud with her moaning to the point where probably everyone in the entire airship would have been able to hear her so long as they were below deck.

The intervals between every audible sound Celestia made began to grow increasingly brief. She was getting close. And so I doubled my efforts. My fingers rubbed around her inner passage with increasing speed. My lips sucked even harder on her teats while my tongue teased her puffy nipples. Seconds later, it happened. Celestia tensed up as she all but shrieked in climax as gushes of fluids washed over my hand. And as quickly as her body became stiff in bliss, she became as lax as a bag of sand while wheezing loudly before me. But as I pushed myself up to see her, I was greeted by an odd sight. Her mane and tail, usually billowing like an aurora in the arctic sky, had lost their motion as if gravity had suddenly taken hold and pulled them down. They were still, resembling normal hair. And yet...this only served to make look even more enticing. Celestia glanced at me out of the corner of her eye, smiling weakly as she gasped, "My love... My... My king..."

I knew that her hair becomes still when asleep, so I started to wonder if it happened because she got a little too relaxed due to sexual stimulation. Regardless, I had to speak my mind. "You look...especially sexy with your hair like that."

That prompted quite a giggle from the satisfied Princess of the Dawn. Her composure soon returned before she used her levitation magic to raise us into the air as the covers on the bed were pulled down. We were then neatly set beside each other as the covers were pulled up to our necks as Celestia whispered sweetly to me, "Heh... I never was one to use such flowery royal talk...but you...really know how to bring the queen out of me, my love."

"The feeling's mutual, Celestia." I whispered back as we shared a brief kiss upon our lips. "You...really know how to make me feel like a king too... I mean I'd never be cut out for it, but... It's a really nice thought..."

"You'd be surprised, my dear James." She whispered back to me as her arms pulled me into her embrace. "You love this world so much... My people would love you too. That would be enough for them."

"Celestia... I..." I was unsure of what to even say to that. I could not see myself in a position of authority. Let alone a ruler of a nation.

After a brief pause, Celestia brought her lips to my ear. "James... Let me speak my heart to you this once..."

Her tone was somber and sincere. I knew better than to deny her. And so she began to whisper such sweet words to me. Words that tugged at my heartstrings. "If only things were different between us... I so dearly would crown you as my king... Watching over Equestria beside you. A world you and I love oh so much." I felt a kiss upon my ear, her words containing such a powerful tone of longing. "I would proudly bear you a darling prince, my king... A son of humanity to see the return of his father's people..."

This got to me. I do not know where it came from, but...I felt a tear trickle down my cheek as I buried my face in the crook of her neck. I whispered with a wheezing breath, "That...sounds so beautiful..."

"Shhhh, no tears, my love. I did not mean to make you cry. I just...wanted you to know how I truly feel for you, my love. I...so dearly hope that someday...somehow...we will have a future together." Celestia whispered before tilting my face up so she could kiss me all over again. I made no attempt to deny her. Her loving succulent kisses did wonders for my weeping heart. She then looked me in the eye and whispered in a hushed tone, "Let us rest now, my dear. We've had a long night. And we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

"Yeah, we do... Goodnight, love." I whispered back as I prompted a very tired smile from the princess in my embrace. We fell asleep while facing each other, drifting lazily across the night sky high above the sea.

I cannot recall what I dreamed about, but I was awakened by a most lovely sensation. A kiss upon the lips. I almost thought it was Fluttershy at first. At least until I opened my eyes and remembered where I was. The beautiful Princess of the Dawn was gazing back at me, her mane still a stationary yet alluring mess. "Sleep well, dear?"

"Very... And I really enjoyed last night." I mumbled before sitting up and dragging my fingers through her beautiful mane. Of course, a slight sense of alarm came over me as my memories of the night before surfaced in my mind. "No one will know about this, right?"

"Of course not. Not unless you tell someone." Celestia retorted while giving me a cheeky wink. "Anyway, I think we should wash up before we step outside. Our...scents are kind of sticking to us after last night."

"Ooh... Yeah, I see what you mean." I muttered while noticing quite a strong odor sticking to my fingers. Regardless, Celestia then gave me a quick kiss before using her magic to teleport me back into my own room. I recognized my surroundings right away before hurrying into the bathroom to wash up. I knew that we would be arriving at our destination around noon and I wanted to be ready for it.

I was in for a surprise when I went to the galley for breakfast. Celestia insisted on cooking my breakfast myself. While the rest of the crew dined on a typical continental breakfast of omelets and fresh greens, Celestia served me up an impressive stack of pancakes surrounded by a ring berries. Even more surprising when she brought it over to me in her magical grasp, she turned it on its side to reveal a crude happy face with raspberries for a smile, blueberries for eyes, strawberries for what seemed to be little pony ears, and big dollop of whipped cream for a tuft of hair at the edge. This was so adorable and unexpected that I just had to laugh. She really was going out of her way to make the start of my day something special. Of course, there was no way I could have eaten all four pancakes on my own with each getting bigger towards the bottom, so I happily shared my meal with Celestia. But as we did, I saw her use the levitation spell to silently spell out a message on the second pancake. First an 'I', then a heart shape, and then a 'U'. I turned to her and smiled while a pale pink hue shone through her silky white coat over her cheeks. Quietly, I whispered my response. "I love you too."

I have been adding to it bit by bit when I have had time while making sure none of the crew members have been peeking over my shoulder. I better keep this entry hidden from all prying eyes. Maybe stashing it under all my clothes in my luggage. This trip is off to a really good start and it is providing me with plenty of quality time to spend with my dear Celestia. I do love that wonderful princess... In ways I never thought I would when I first met that day two years ago.

Anyway, better hurry and wrap this up now. Sounds like Capricorn Island will be coming into view in less than an hour and I would like to be up on deck when we start our final approach. I better go ask Celestia to let me into her chambers to fetch my armor.

Capricorn Island. Home of the hippogriffs. Half horse and half bird. Sounds like fun. And I will be finding out for certain soon enough.