Chapter Fourteen: In the Beginning
They both looked over to the door as they heard a soft knock. Cadence poked her head inside and looked around.
"I hope we're not interrupting anything."
"Not at all, you guys can be the first to hear our big news."
"What big news?" asked Scootaloo pushing the door open the rest of the way and walking in.
She ran over to the bed and put her front hooves up on it, flapping her wings expectantly.
Twilight followed Scootaloo shutting the door behind her.
She lifted Scootaloo up on to the bed and sat down.
"I'm with Scootaloo, what's the big news."
"Dustin asked you to be his marefriend didn't he?" asked Cadence.
"Not just me." said Rainbow Dash as she snuggled into Dustin's side.
"Then who else? Nnnooo! Seriously? She didn't agree to it did she?" questioned Cadence as she read their expressions."
"Actually it was her idea." said Dustin.
"Who exactly are we talking about here?" asked Twilight still confused.
"Princess Luna!" blurted Cadence.
"WHAT!"
"Yep! Me, Dustin and the princess are starting a herd"
"I can't believe this was Luna's idea. She's never even shown that kind of interest in anypony."
"This was the reaction I was expecting, but not the one I was hoping for." commented Dustin, a faint hint of disappointment on his face.
"Sorry Dustin, I'm happy for the three of you, I just didn't see it coming. I mean you and Rainbow Dash wasn't a surprise, but Luna too." said Cadence.
"Well what do you thing Scootaloo?"
"This is great! The two most awesome ponies I know are dating. Then you add princess Luna and it gets even awesomer. I can't wait to tell Applebloom and Sweetiebell."
"Just what I'd expect from my favorite filly. So did you have fun with princess Cadence and Twilight today?"
"I sure did. I made a new friend, her name is Ivory. Princess Cadence played tag with us, and then Princess Twilight took us all out for ice cream. It was so much fun. Do you think we could do it again when your all better? I bet it would be even funner with you two there."
"I think we could probably do that. But, you'd have to invite Sweetiebell and Applebloom along. That way you know they'd believe you." replied Dustin.
'GET WELL SOON!" yelled Pinkie Pie as she crashed though the door in a heap of balloons.
"Sorry about that." said Anthony as he and Adrian walked in followed by the rest of the ponies. "I tried to stop her, but you know how she is."
"Its alright."replied Dustin.
Pinkie Pie streaked around the room hanging up balloons and a big banner. She finished it all off by pulling her signature party cannon out of nowhere. She reached over and pulled the chord on the back of the cannon hard. With a bang streamers and confetti started to rain down around the room.
"Wow!" exclaimed Scootaloo as she danced around in the shower of party favors.
"I got you some fresh flowers to brighten up your room." said Fluttershy placing the vase on the window sill. "If you'd like I can open up the window to let a little fresh air in."
"Thanks Fluttershy that would be great."
She pushed one of the windows open halfway letting a gentle breeze into the room.
"The fresh air and the flowers smell great."
"Me next, Me next." yelled Pinkie Pie bounding around the bed.
"I got you a card. I hope you like it."
Dustin took the card and read it out loud.
"Get Well Soon, Hope you have a magical recovery."
He read the notes and signatures his friends had wrote on the inside and smiled. Then he noticed that towards the bottom Celestia, Luna, and Sword Dancer had signed it as well. Luna's signature was encircled by a heart. Adrian and Applejack walked up each handing Dustin a wrapped package
.
Dustin picked up Adrian's first. He tore open the box and pulled out the hat.
"This is great man, I didn't know they made these here."
Rainbow Dash helped him adjust the size and he put it on.
"Lucky for you I showed up before they bought one. They'd have totally gotten it wrong without me." she added.
"I don't feel naked now." he said tilting the brim down a little.
Adrian looked over at Applejack as they shared a smile at the comment.
Next he opened Applejack's, pulling the cards out and looking them over.
"I hope ya like em, Adrian's been tellin me about a game ya'll enjoy playin called spades. I figured we could all learn ta play now."
"Who are the wondercolts?"
Rainbow Dash and Sootaloo's jaws about hit the bed.
"Who are the Wondercolts? Just the greatest fliers in all Equestria. Besides Rainbow Dash." said Scootaloo in disbelief.
'They're really that good huh?" he asked Rainbow Dash.
"Yeah, but Scoots is right, I'm probably still better."
"Skittles from what I've seen you are the best, hands..hooves down."
"Thanks Dustin." she replied leaning over and giving him a quick kiss.
All eyes fell on them as everypony stared.
"What I can't give my coltfriend a kiss.
"Congratulations you two." said Applejack. "I bet ya'll will be happy tagether. I know Adrian and I sure have been."
"You haven't heard the shocking part." said Cadence drawing questioning looks from the group.
"Are you going to tell us darling, or must we simply sit here waiting in suspense?" asked Rarity.
"Go head Skittles, you can do the honors."
"Dustin, Luna and I are starting our own herd. Isn't that awesome?"
The room fell silent at the revelation with everypony looking around at each other.
Pinkie Pie's laughter broke the silence as she walked into the middle of the group.
'That Rainbow Dash, always joking around."
Dustin, Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo glared at her, bringing the laughter to an instant stop.
"Come on guys. Really! Is it that hard to believe?"
"That's wonderful news." said Fluttershy.
"Thank you Fluttershy."
"What do you mean, starting a herd?" asked Adrian
Twilight stepped over to him and Anthony.
"Allow me to explain. Here in Equestria mares greatly outnumber stallions. Because of that it isn't uncommon for one stallion to form relationships with more then one mare at a time. They can even marry more then one mare if they choose."
"Damn Dustin you ain't wasting no time are you." said Adrian giving his friend an encouraging nod. "Couldn't just settle for us commoners, you had to go straight to the top with a princess."
"Shut up you smart ass." he replied with a chuckle.
Anthony walked over and shook his hand.
"I'm all for it, I wish you all happiness and the best of luck. Just remember, don't let it interfere with your new duties."
"You know me better then that Anthony."
"Here." replied Anthony as he placed a bag on the end table. "I grabbed a change of uniform for you. Sorry I forgot to give it to you earlier."
"That would have been nice to have after my bath. Thanks for thinkin about me though."
Everypony offered their congratulations while Dustin opened and shuffled the deck of cards.
"Okay, who's ready to get their flank kicked in a game of spades?"
Everypony gathered around as Adrian explained how to play. They shared stories and jokes, filling the room with happiness and laughter as the evening wore on.
After a few hours nurse Redheart and a pair of guards carried a small bed into the room. They placed it near the bathroom door and left with a salute.
"It's time ta hit the hay." said Applejack with a yawn as she and Adrian stood to leave. "We'll see everypony in the mornin."
"Thanks for everything, all of you."
"Your most welcome darling, and I do believe they are correct. A mare simple must have her beauty sleep." added Rarity.
One by one they said goodnight as they left.
"Alright Scootaloo time for bed."
"Aaawww come on, how about a story?"
Dustin looked over to Rainbow Dash raising an eyebrow.
"I guess I could read you both a few pages of Daring Do, if you wanted me to."
"YEAH." shouted Scootaloo as she ran over and curled up against Dustin's side.
Dustin put his other arm out offering a place for Rainbow Dash to join them. She grabbed the book and settled in making herself comfortable as she started to read. Before long Scootaloo was fast asleep, breathing soft and steady.
"Quite the day. I wake up, get two of the most wonderful ladies a guy could ask for, and find out just how many great friends I have."
"Not to bad if ya ask me." she replied leaning closer.
Dustin tilted Rainbow Dash's head over and kissed her gently. She melted into him as their lips met.
"I don't think I will ever get enough of that feeling." she cooed.
"That's good because I don't think I'll ever get tired of kissing you."
He held her close as they drifted off to sleep.
...
Applejack and Adrian walked into their room.
"I still can't believe Dustin is dating Luna." said Adrian. "It's not like we got the warmest welcome from her or anything."
"Hey sugarcube can I ask ya somethin?" asked Applejack as she fiddled with her hat.
"What's up AJ? You know you can ask me anything."
"If you fell fer another mare, would you wanna start yer own herd?"
Adrian stared at her thinking hard before answering.
"That would depend on you AJ. I don't think I'd be against it, but if you wanted it to be just me and you I'd be fine with that too."
"It's just since Rainbow Dash said she and Luna were startin one with Dustin, I been given it some thought. What would I do if'n you asked me to be part of a herd?"
"And?"
"I think it'd be alright dependin on the other mare or mares of course. Ah just don't see the likes of me and Rarity bein in a herd together ya know.
"For starters that's not something you need to worry about. Rarity is nice and all but she's really not my type. I like a lady that's not afraid to get dirty or put some real physical effort into getting things done."
"I just don't wanna lose what we got, or lose you at all for that matter. Applebloom has sure takin a liking to ya. Big Mac will too once he knows ya ain't gonna do me wrong. I guess sharin ya with another mare or two wouldn't be a problem as long as we still have us.
"AJ your not gonna lose me no matter what. Your all wonderful, I'm happy I was accepted as part of the family. Granny Smith told me that as far as she was concerned I was an honorary Apple until you and I decide to get married. Or I piss you off and ya dump my body in the Everfree."
"Gosh Darnit, I wish she'd quit makin me sound like such a wicked old pony all the time. I may have a hay of a temper but I'd never do somethin like that."
"AJ, she was just jokin with me. She cares a lot about you, so I can't say I blame her. You mean to tell me that once Applebloom starts seeing somepony your not going to threaten him with his life?"
"I s'pose yer right. I might not hurt em but I wouldn't have a problem scarin his hooves off."
"If you don't I think Big Mac and I sure would."
Adrian climbed into bed and patted the mattress next to him. Apple Jack gave him a smile as she hopped up.
"From the look on yer face I think ya got somethin goin on in that head a yours."
"I might have a few things in mind."
He reached over and dimmed the lamp before pulling the blankets around them. He ran his hand up her side letting his fingers trail through her blonde mane. As he reached the back of her head he pulled her forward into a kiss. Their tongues intertwined as she let out a soft moan. Adrian released his hold on her head as he started to kiss across her cheek to her neck.
He enjoyed the feel of her soft coat as he explored her body inch by inch. His hand slid between her back legs to her breasts, twisting and teased her nipples, feeling them harden at his touch. Feeling emboldened by her moans he pushed his hand down further letting a finger slip into her marehood. Applejack's body tensed at the sudden intrusion, but she quickly relaxed as a sensual shock ran throughout her body. Adrian dropped under the blanket and kissed down her chest little by little until he reached her stomach.
"Whoa there partner! Just where do ya think yer goin?" she asked stopping his head with her hoof.
"Do you trust me AJ."
"Of course ah do sugarcube. It's just I ain't never done this before."
"Then relax, I want to do something special for you tonight."
"Okay, I guess I'll give it a try."
Adrian pushed Applejack onto her back and started kissing his way back down. He took her nipple into his mouth and swirled his tongue around it. As he kissed across to her other nipple Applejack ran her hoof through his hair enjoying the new sensations.
"That feels amazin." she moaned as he switched from one breast to the other.
"You haven't felt nothing yet." he said sliding further down between her legs. The smell of sweet apples filled his nose the closer he came to her marehood.
Adrian's tongue worked its way slowly around the edge or her moist enterance as he savored her apple taste. Applejack's eyes shot open then rolled back into her head from the intense pleasure. He reached around her leg and massaged her breasts rolling her nipples between his fingers. His tongue circled over her erect little pearl causing her legs to shake and spasm.
"Wow." she gasped pushing her flank up to meet him.
She grabbed his head with her hooves pulling him into her. Moaning loudly she begged him not to stop. Adrian happily licked up through her folds before driving his tongue deep inside of her. Applejack started thrusting and bucking her hips grinding against his tongue. He licked back up sucking on her pearl and started pushing his finger in and out of her. Her body went rigid as wave after wave of pure ecstasy pulsed through her.
"Oh Adrian." she screamed letting the heat and passion overtake her.
Adrian let his tongue rest on her pearl applying more and more pressure until her first orgasm subsided. As he sat up from under the covers Applejack grabbed him by the neck kissing him passionately. Adrian could feel her rapid heartbeat through her chest. They held each other kissing for awhile, then both collapsed against the waiting pillows.
"Sweet Celestia, that was amazin." panted Applejack as her breathing finally started to slow.
'I'm glad you liked it."
Applejack rested her head on Adrian's chest feeling it rise and fall
"I love you." she said.
"I love you too AJ."
They laid there wrapped around each other enjoying the warmth and comfort before falling asleep.
...
The sun lazily peeked over the horizon. The light glared through the window onto Dustin's face. He sighed as he woke and realized just how early it was. Wanting to go back to sleep he closed his eyes, but the sunlight would not relent. His frustration grew because he held a sleeping pony in each arm. Even if he hadn't, he doubted he could make it to the window to pull the curtain shut. As if hearing his thoughts the rope around the curtain fell to the floor letting the curtain swing into place blocking out the sun.
"Good morning love. Is that better?" asked Luna.
Dustin jerked as he was complete caught off guard by her presents in the room.
"Good morning beautiful. How did you get in here so quietly."
"That is a secret of the night! I looked into your dreams last night and decided not to join because you were already dreaming about me."
"You know I'll take the real thing over a dream anytime."
"I would lay with you but it appears there is not room at the moment." she said looking at the sleeping form of Scootaloo.
Dustin nodded towards the small bed against the wall.
"Do you think you could put Scootaloo there without waking her."
Her horn glowed softly as the sleeping filly raised into the air. Ever so gently Luna placed her on the bed and pulled a blanket over her. Luna crawled onto the bed and snuggled into Dustin.
"I believe I could get use to this." she said resting her head on his shoulder.
"So could I Luna, so could I."
Dustin looked at Luna taking in her gorgeous appearance and smiled.
"Your eyes sparkle like the stars in the darkness, its amazing how beautiful they are."
"They don't call me the princess of the night for nothing my handsome knight."
Staring into those wonderous eyes Dustin leaned his head forward and kissed her. She held his gaze until they felt Rainbow Dash shift her body.
"I must rest my love, I shall see you when we both awaken."
Dustin laid there watching, before long her eyes slowly drifted shut as she fell asleep.
He awoke again to the sound of hooves running down the hall. The door partially opened as Sword Dancer stuck his head in.
"What's a person gotta do to get some sleep around here." he grumbled.
"Pardon the intrusion sir but it is nearly noon. Prince Celestia has found something. She and the others are waiting for you and Rainbow Dash in the throne room."
"Noon!" he said jerking his arm from under Rainbow Dash nearly rolling her off the bed. Pain ran through his shoulder causing him to curse loudly.
"Hey. What gives?" yawned Rainbow Dash rubbing her eyes.
"Are you alright?" asked Luna as she sat up in the bed.
Sword Dancer's eyes grew wide at hearing Luna's voice in the darkness.
"I apologize your Highness I didn't mean to disturb you all so abruptly."
"It is alright Sword Dancer, now what were you saying?"
"Sorry ladies." said Dustin. "Princess Celestia has found something. She wants us to meet in the throne room. Sword Dancer did they figure out a way for me to get around?"
"Yes Sir. Nurse Redheart has prepared a wheelchair for you. Should I bring it in."
"Leave it in here by the door thank you. Could you asked nurse Redheart to come in shortly. I'd like somepony to be here when Scootaloo wakes up.
"I will let her know sir."
He closed the door as Luna and Rainbow Dash got up out of the bed. Rainbow Dash flew over and opened one of the curtains a bit. The sunlight streamed in through the crack adding some light to the room.
"Luna could you help me, I need to use the restroom. Could you bring that bag there as well? It has clean clothes in it.
Luna carried Dustin and the bag into the bathroom shutting the door quietly behind her. When they emerged Dustin was wearing a full fresh uniform. She place him in the wheelchair and stepped into the hallway. Nurse Redheart walked in and looked Dustin over.
"I needed to change your dressings but I guess it can wait until you return. What do you want me to do with the filly when she awakes."
"Take her to get some lunch I'm sure she'll be hungry. Then just play some games or something until we get back okay."
"I'm sure we will manage."
Rainbow Dash grabbed the handles to the wheelchair and started pushing Dustin down the hall. The guards opened the throne room doors as they bowed to the princess.
"Good morning sleepy heads." said Pinkie Pie with her usual smile.
"Cupcake?" she asked holding one up to Dustin's face.
"Don't mind if I do."
"Careful" said Anthony. "Those are made MRE style."
Dustin bit into the confection and the taste of tabasco sauce filled his mouth.
"Wow, you weren't joking! Pinkie Pie, why did you put hot sauce on a cupcake?"
"Because it makes em tasty. Duh!"
"Fair enough I guess."
Celestia walked forward, a grim look on her face. Everypony turned their attention to her.
"I have news but I am afraid none of it seems to be good."
"Oh my." said Fluttershy as she hid behind Adrian and Applejack.
"So what's going on Princess." asked Shining Armor.
"After reading through our father's journal I believe I found the threat we are facing. The majority of humans once occupied a great land across the sea called Avalon. The ruler King Arthur and his adviser Merlin the Wise lead the humans through a time of great peace. During this time friendships and treaties were created between Equestria and Avalon. After several hundred years of peace the minotaurs of the north mountains felt the humans had grown complacent. A warlord by the name of Kirreb Thunderfist was promised control over the humans and all their lands by the Minotaur King. If he could conquer the land of Avalon."
"Thunderfist lead a massive army against the human's boarder crushing its defenses in merely one assault. As the minotaurs pushed deep into Avalon the humans formed a blockade that was able to stop the advance. They fought and held that line through nearly seven years of constant attack. The minotaurs had the humans outclassed in both strength and numbers, but they couldn't break the blockade or the human's spirit. Indigo Storm, a talented human mage and former apprentice of Merlin then betrayed his comrades. He revealed the weaknesses in the blockades defenses and strategies to Kirreb. For his information, Thunderfist promised him a position of power, offering him riches and any women he wanted for his harem. Armed with this information Thunderfist's forces broke the blockade and neared the capital city."
"King Arthur traveled to Equestria and sought an audience with our father. He begged that the ponies of Equestria enter the war as his ally. Our father refused telling King Arthur that Equestria was a land of peace. However, he arranged a meeting between King Arthur and the Minotaur King. He served as an arbitrator at this meeting and a peace treaty was created. Thunderfist was furious when he was ordered to cease the attack. He watched as his chance for his own kingdom slipped through his hooves. When he heard of our father's involvement in the treaty he brought his army across the sea to the crystal mountains. He built a fortress on a mountain top and started his assault across Equestria killing everypony in his path."
"This time our father went to King Arthur for aid. But seven years of war had taken its toll on the human nation. The humans were tired of fighting and turned their attention to rebuilding and defending their own lands. They swore they would never again fall victim to an enemy force. Much to our father's surprise a ship arrived some days later bearing only three human champions. They trained and lead the three pony races against Thunderfist's onslaught driving him and his army back to his fortress. After months of planning and attacks they found the fortress to be impenetrable. Fearing Kirreb would rebuild his army and continue his campaign our father requested the aid of the human mage council. The mage council with the help of several unicorns and our parents encased the fortress in a crystal field."
"The fortress and its occupants were essentially frozen within this crystal prison. But, our father feared that over time the field would weaken. If that happens a small amount of magical force could be used to break the spell. I believe part of the reason you were all chosen is that you are the decedents of those three human champions."
"That's kinda hard to believe. Human mythology speaks of King Arthur and Merlin but humans had inhabited the earth long before that." said Anthony.
"When Kirreb's forces broke through the blockade the journal stated that the mage council used an ancient spell opening a portal stone to another realm. They used this portal to allow innocent humans the opportunity to escape a death at the enemies hooves. This portal stone had been used long ago to banish humans from this realm. Unfortunately the portal stone was destroyed by Kerrib. He feared that an army could have been brought back through."
"So humans could use magic after all." stated Twilight excitedly.
"But from the sound of it this war between the humans and the minotaurs is what changed humans. We went from peace loving to a race of distrust and anger. Even now a humans natural instinct is to protect his own above everything. Even if that requires us to attack first." remarked Adrian ending Twilight's excitement.
"Celestia could that be why the oracle sent the humans from this realm." asked Dustin.
"Yes, I believe that is correct."
"If that's the case why didn't it send the minotaurs to earth before the war started?" he asked with a hint of anger in his voice.
"The oracle acted on the concerns of our father. He saw what the humans were becoming. Their hatred and distrust for the other creatures of this world grew. Ties between the two nations crumbled as Avalon closed its borders to only allow humans within. He watched as their military strength grew and they became a threat to our entire realm. That is why they were banished."
"Banished!" yelled Dustin. "So three humans save Equestria and as a thanks we were banished to earth. So maybe that explains the stories of humanity being cast from Eden."
"Easy Dustin." said Shining Armor. "You can't blame them for their father's actions."
"That is something our own history has taught us." said Anthony in agreement.
"Well maybe if he'd done something sooner our history would be a little different."
Dustin grabbed the wheels to his chair turning himself around. When he tried to push himself forward the wheel slipped on the tile floor and he fell out of the chair. Rainbow Dash and Luna ran to his side.
"Just back off alright!"
He grabbed the chair and pulled it close. His face contorted with pain as he cussed lifting himself back into it. Adrian grabbed the handles and wheeled him towards the door.
"Just give us a little bit.' he said to everybody as the guards allowed them to leave.
Through the commotion one of the guards slipped out of a side door unnoticed by anypony in the room. The lone guard made his way through the narrow corridors until he finally arrived outside. Green flames erupted around him as he took flight southward, to find his queen.
"Come on man, don't take your frustration out on them. Especially Luna and Rainbow Dash. After what you all committed to yesterday you were pretty harsh back there." said Adrian as he pushed Dustin down the hall. "I saw the looks on their faces when you fell. They both care about you and all they wanted to do was help."
"I know!"
"So whats your issue. We know our history on earth, who's to say we wouldn't have ended up that way here even without the war. Imagine what it would be like if humans had stayed. Do you really think Equestria would be like it is now. And if things were different would you have met and fallen in love with those two. Human nature is conflict within ourselves and with those around us. It might have taken a thousand years but I think humanity would have still turned out the same way. We have to accept that these things happened and no matter what they can never be changed."
"Since when did you become the voice of reason Adrian? I thought you were suppose to be the asshole of the group. Right now it feels like I've taken on that roll."
'Weird isn't it. Just remember we swore to protect this land and these ponies. As Knights we are not going back on our word."
"Your right, how the hell did that happen? We have a duty here and I'm damn sure not going to let anything happen to Luna and Rainbow Dash. Take me back"
Adrian wheeled Dustin back into the throne room. Luna and Rainbow Dash met them half way across the room.
"Are you alright?" asked Luna
"I'm sorry, I just lost my head there for a minute." replied Dustin.
"Next time try not to be such a jerk about it." added Rainbow Dash with a smirk.
"So Celestia does the journal say exactly where this fortress is? If we knew that we could find and protect it." said Anthony.
"I could lead a group of soldiers from the Crystal Empire to find and secure it." claimed Shining Armor.
"No!" said Candence immediately. "We need you at the castle. If you leave who would see to the safety of the Empire?"
"That is correct Cadence. All the journal says is that the fortress is now one of the peaks of the crystal mountains. This vast expanse of mountains are partially covered in snow so it will be difficult to find. Furthermore it would take an army to protect it. There is also the risk that our seeking it out is what would free Kirreb in the first place. I feel our best course of action is to prepare for the battle we know is coming."
"We aren't even certain this is the threat we are facing. The similarities are there, but that could be coincidence. Perhaps there was suppose to be more of us brought here. We lost two full squads of soldiers that night. What if we all were suppose to be brought here but your oracle lacked the magic to do so?" pointed out Anthony.
"No Anthony, the oracle clearly stated three champions. Also this is the book StarSwirl led us to. I still have much to read, but this would be as good a place as any to start." replied Celestia.
"I suggest we have your knighting ceremony at weeks end. The doctor believes Dustin should be able to get around comfortably by then. Once that is complete the three of you can start your new roles and begin preparing our kingdom for war." said Luna walking to her sisters side.
"Just where do you want us to start?" asked Adrian
Celestia looked the three humans and their pony companions over carefully.
"I believe I have an idea regarding that matter. Adrian, you shall be responsible for recruiting and training the earth ponies within our ranks. You have showed an ability and prowess for physical strength. Who better to lead the charge of our ground forces. Anthony you are wise and calculating, a tactician if you will. I feel you are best suited to lead the unicorns and their use of magical ability. Finally there is you Dustin. You can read the field of battle and are not afraid to take fast direct action to complete your objective. You shall be the leader of our pegasi. The bond you share with one another will allow you to predict the others moves and reactions. This cooperation you have shown will bring our forces together as one. It shall lead us to victory against any force that may raise against us."
"One problem with that." stated Dustin bluntly. "How in the hell am I suppose to train pegasi or lead them when I can't fly."
Luna walked over and placed a hoof on Dustin's shoulder.
"Our magic can allow you to walk on the clouds with the pegasi, and Twilight has access to an air balloon to get you there. We shall figure out the rest when the time comes."
"Alright then. It sounds like we have the start of a plan. Do we have anybody that could search for the fortress. If we could at least know its location it would allow us to keep an eye on it." said Anthony.
"I may have just the stallion for the job." said Shining Armor with a grin.
"I will continue reading through the book to see what other information I can find." added Celestia.
With several nods from around the room everybody headed out.
"Dustin I wish to accompany you to your room so I can get your measurements for the knighting ceremony. I can use my boutique here in Canterlot to put something together."
"Lets go then. I need to get back to bed, that little fall from earlier is catching up with me."
Luna started pushing Dustin towards the door with Rainbow Dash at her side. Rarity said goodbye to her friends and rushed to catch up. Once they were in his room Luna raised Dustin out of the chair. She helped him disrobe allowing Rarity to get her measurements.
"Alright darling that will do it. I'll get working on your outfit straight away."
Rarity happily trotted out the door, humming as she went. Luna put Dustin into his bed and pulled the blankets up over his waist. The door opened as nurse Redheart and Scootaloo walked in.
"Dustin, Rainbow Dash your back." shouted Scootaloo running to the bed.
Princess Luna picked her up and placed her on the bed next to Dustin.
"Thanks Princess Luna. Do you think you could go to the park with all of us sometime? Ivory would think it was super cool to get to meet you. You are her favorite princess after all."
Luna perked and eyebrow towards the filly.
"It's true, she said she loves looking up at the ivory moon and the stars. She says they are really pretty."
"We shall see. That is an activity I may find enjoyable."
"You didn't give nurse Redheart a hard time did you?" asked Dustin.
"Nope, she took me out to eat lunch when I woke up. I'm glad she was here, when I sat up and saw you were both gone I got scared."
"She wasn't a bother. I learned all about the cutie mark crusaders over lunch. Quite the interesting group if you ask me." said Redheart wheeling the familiar cart to the side of the bed.
Dustin sat up allowing her to start changing out his dressings. When she finished she handed Dustin and Rainbow Dash a plate of food.
"I figured you would want something to eat since you both slept so late. Princess Luna if you wish I will fetch something for you to eat as well."
"Thank you, but I am fine. I will have something prepared later."
"The doctor will be here in awhile to check on you again." she said bowing as she left the room.
Rainbow Dash flew onto the bed and and nudged Scootaloo's shoulder.
"Hey little buddy wanna hear something awesome?"
"What?" she asked excitedly.
"Dustin is gonna become the leader of the pegasi."
"Whoa, that's awesome."
A worried look showed on Scootaloo's face as she started shifting her feet around on the bed.
"What's wrong?" asked Dustin
"Do I have to start calling you sir or something?"
"Of coarse not Scootaloo."
Scootaloo smiled broadly as she hugged him again.
"If you all don't mind I'm going to eat. I'm starving." said Dustin picking the sandwich up from his plate.
"By all means go right ahead both of you." replied Luna.
Dustin devoured the sandwich and jello in record time. Luna handed him a glass of water to wash it down.
"It appears your body is recovering well." said the Doctor from the doorway. "At least your appetite anyway."
He walked up to Dustin and his horn started to glow. Dustin could feel an odd sensation as the doctors spell worked its way through his body.
"Yes, Yes very good. It would appear the majority of your injuries have healed. There is still some internal bruising which will cause pain if you over exert yourself. Your ribs have a little further to go as well. We can most likely start on some physical therapy tomorrow. You need to start working all those muscles again."
The doctor made some notes in his chart and headed back out the door.
That evening over supper everypony discussed heading back to Ponyville in the morning. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo informed them that they were staying in Canterlot for another day or two. Luna had sent a message to Cloudsdale to ensure that Ponyville's weather was properly managed. After visiting with Dustin for awhile they all turned in for the night.