A Warm Welcome Home

Author's Notes:

I'm getting rid of the day systems here. Trying to figure out all the different days and such is tough. This might be just one after another going day by day or so depending on wherever it goes. Max days a chapter might have would probably be one or two.

Well... I'd say its good to be back in my own house but I'm not sure. It's been a week since the surgery for my wing replacement and honestly its great. Works well but i just have to get used to laying on it. Today Scootaloo is out of the house with Celestia and Soarin surprisingly in Cloudsdale. I met with Soarin one on one and thanked him for staying by my sisters side and helping out with her. Even got his number to hang out with him sometime but he said he'll call me. Said i can text at any time just as long as it doesnt ask a favor unless its about Scootaloo. He's gotten so attached its like he's the brother I've never had. But enough about that. Right now I just woke up drenched in sweat from a nightmare. I dont remember much but... but I did remember a punch to the face that woke me up. Now I find myself in my bathroom splashing my face with water. I was wearing sweat pants and a tank top. The light behind me was bright and it kinda hurt my eyes with the brightness. After a few splashes of water I looked at my face in the mirror. Even extended my wings to get a look at them and stretch them out a bit. My left wing was just a metal wing that worked pretty well. It was metal and bendable just made comfortable enough for me to lie on it and not notice. But where it connected to my body was a little uncomfortable but the doctor said it would pass. Anyways I sighed. "...C'mon Ry... Just go back to bed... everything will be fine...." I said to myself. "...Just... I dont know... text Gilda... dont bother AJ.... talk with Luna... just... get yourself to go to sleep somehow...." I shut the water off and walked myself to my room where I just plopped into my bed staring at the ceiling. I had to reach for my phone before grabbing it only to be blinded by the light of it and it was on the lowest setting.

I just stared at the lock screen on my phone for a second. It was AJ lifting her skirt up a bit giving me a naughty face. I got her to take that for me when I went to see her the other day after I got surgery. She helped me since I was loopy from the anesthetic and she just teased me the whole time.... It was worth it though. I unlocked it and went to my texts. Applejack texted me a couple hours ago giving me another teased picture but this one was something I wished for while I was out and that I actually had Big Mac help with.... surprised she did it... Cutest sailor outfit on a diapered apple mare... Dash texted me yesterday telling me that she was glad I was back... and that was after I back handed her a few times for the shit she pulled while I was away but.. she was glad to take it. Before I could look at the other texts someone called me. Wasnt expecting it but Gilda called me. Surprised AJ allowed this but Gilda was in Applejack's bra and panties and she even lied on her bed striking a sexy pose... For her contact photo nonetheless. I smiled hitting the answer button and putting it up to my ear. "Hey dwee-.... Hey Ryder..." She said. "...I cant sleep over here... I'm sorry if I woke you up but... I've just got things on my mind..." I sighed.

"...Perfect timing... I got stuff on my mind too....Actually was just about to text you. What's got you beat? Normally I'm the one calling you." Gilda sighed a bit.

"....I dunno.... Just... I'm contemplating whether or not to move to Ponyville permanently and leave everything behind in Griffonstone... I've just got a little bad blood in Griffonstone.... All because I accidentally gave food poisoning to a few of my so called friends and an elder... They ruled it as an accident because the flour was bad even though it was packaged and it said it was good till next year. Always froze it... I lost my shop there but I still had a bit of income thanks to the friend i didnt poison giving me a few bits for every sale she made but it hasnt been enough to pay my rent... me coming out here was good but... I've just been bunking with Dash and I dont even have my bike... I had it flown in but to the wrong city and I even called the company to complain. They said they'd get my bike and fly it out but that hasnt happened in a month... Can you help me make my decision here?" I huffed.

"...Well... Fluttershy and Pinkie are still untrustworthy but... maybe we can fix that.... Dash would love it if you stayed because that means if 'Shy has another split with Dash you and Dash can actually go for it and AJ and Rarity? I dont think they really have any feelings one way or the other. So... Just do what ever you feel is alright and if you need a garage to store your things until you find a place here my garage is always open to you." I heard her sigh a sigh of relief.

"...Thanks... makes me feel a lot better here... I guess I can try and spend time with Fluttershy and show her I really wanna say I'm sorry for the things I did... She's not one to hold grudges right?"

"Not really. But Pinkie is another story. She'll go and shrug you off until she knows you're sorry enough. That means you'd probably have to endure a few party cannon surprises until you pretty much piss yourself...." Yeah... Pinkie hit me with TWO party cannon blasts the other day. First because I didnt say goodbye to her and second time because I scared everypony even my sister. That second one scared me out of a dead sleep and I wet myself while sleeping over at her place. I was too scared to even be at home by myself. And AJ was actually busy with something and didnt want me to stay over.

"Well... alright... What's on your mind?" I sighed.

"...It's kinda worrying to sleep alone here... I know murders happened in this house and I've been away for a good while but.... something is just keeping me from sleeping... and I know it isnt anything there.... It just.... I feel like there's just.... just something here.... its making me highly uncomfortable.... something in my mind saying dont sleep at all...."

"Awww poor baby.... you probably dont wanna sleep because of all that military stuff you dealt with. Twilight actually told me you had to shoot a guy just to keep him from spreading any intel. That true?" I huffed.

"...Just tell me how to fucking get to sleep.... I'm too tired to deal with this shit...."

"Alright alright dweeb jeez! Lighten up will ya? I just asked you a question!"

"Sorry I just.... please help...." Gilda huffed. She knew I didnt like being hurt and just wanted me to get to sleep so she could. Otherwise my problems will bother her.

"...My head tells me for you to just drink some warm milk and lie somewhere other than your bed. just... make sure you dont want to end up sleeping outside or something...." I sighed getting up out of bed again phone in hand and grabbing my charger and walked out of my room and down stairs.

"Alright... I'll try that but... I dont like sleeping on the couch at all... It'll have to do though.... I'll just keep my phone handy and just.... see if i can sleep.... maybe you'd be able to come visit tomorrow? Or uh... later considering time?"

"Well what does that marefriend of yours say to a little threesome?" I walked downstairs using my phone as a light after putting it on speaker.

"Well.... Not sure but she has been with both Dash and Fluttershy at the same time... I guess it'll depend on her mood." Gilda just huffed and yawned a bit.

"Well.. I'll drop by sometime tomorrow. Who knows? Might just give you a little time to toy with yourself after i tease the fuck out of you. For now.... I'm just gonna get to bed... Night dweeb...."

"Night Gil... Hopefully we can at least go for a bite to eat...." She was the one to hang up there but I sighed. "...missed you...." I did end up doing what she said. Even plugged my phone charger in the wall and my phone as well but... I didnt sleep for long. I woke up to a pop just above my head and the smell of smoke. I even heard the smoke alarm go off. When I opened my eyes I just saw a glowing light just a few feet from where my head was laying. I took a peek at it and right there coming out of the socket and destroying my phone charger was a fire. I quickly unplugged my phone and grabbed what was left of my now lukewarm glass of milk that i left on the table near me. And yes... like the idiot i was I threw the milk at the flame expecting to extinguish it but NOBODY TAUGHT ME THAT WATER MAKES ELECTRICAL FIRES WORSE! It sparked and the flame grew more. I had to bail off the couch and rush upstairs to grab a back pack, stuff some clothes inside- pants, socks, underwear and shirts because essentials- and even went for a box that had all my C-sphere stuff in it. Console, games, wires and controllers. Why was this in a box you ask? Big Mac decided to freak me out the day I came back to this place making me think it got stolen after the earthquake Scootaloo told me about. I actually had to close my door and smash out a window to get myself out. I didnt bother getting anything from Scootaloo's room because she's got a bunch of clothes with her. In order for me to jump out and not get cut by any broken glass at the bottom i flew out a bit carrying the box and my clothes before landing street side. Just as I hit the ground I looked around at my house. I saw the flames in the windows and smoke billowing from the broken window in my room. Next thing you know the wire on the outside of the house sparks and lights the roof, then my room. All I could do was watch as my house went up in flames.

I fell to my knees just as a neighbor ran across the street. She was a unicorn mare. A bit older than what my mother would've been but probably nicer than my mother. She was wearing a dark red bathrobe, matching pajama pants and what looked to be a white tank top underneath. Her coat was a light orange and her mane was a redish orange. My neighbor- I called her Miss Hawk- came over to me and stood me up. "Ryder! Ryder are you alright?" She asked. I whimpered a bit hearing sirens in the distance. "I called the guard when you broke your window. Hopefully they see the smoke and get the fire fighters."

"...M-My house... My stuff...." Miss Hawk lifted me off my knees and hugged me.

"Hey... its okay... you made it out okay.... Is your sister okay?" I gave her a nod.

"...She's.... She's with... a caretaker until I'm ready to have her back..." I watched as Guard trucks pulled up blocking off the street and letting one firetruck on the way through. Miss Hawk and I broke the hug and I gathered my things.

"Here." She bent over and picked up my phone which I had no idea fell from my pocket and she just handed it to me. "Come over to my place and call someone to pick you up here.... I'll gladly stay with you but I dont think I'd be able to put up a wounded guard and his sister after what happened in and to that house." Yeah... She helped me and Scootaloo along between me starting out as a guard and going off to war. Apparently she gave us a few movies to help us ignore the fact that the murders happened and at the time we were almost all over it. Almost. Scootaloo had one or two nightmares any time she fell asleep on the couch. It was cute until she wet herself... thank goodness for the diapers I had but... I used the last of them for her and didnt have time to get more because of work. She even caught me after I pissed myself on a school run. Didnt make fun of me for it but kinda sympathized with me.

Anyways she grabbed my box of stuff and let me grab my bag before we started off to her place just across the street. A guard stopped us. "General? What happened here?" He asked. I didnt give him any acknowledgement. Not even a pissed snap. I just pushed past looking at the contacts in my phone trying to figure out who to call. I wanted to call anyone and everyone... Princess Twilight wouldnt help me much, Rarity would just help Scootaloo but... Other than them the only one I could even call was Big Mac.

When I called I just heard nothing but the buzzing for what felt like hours. It wasnt though. It went on for a couple minutes before he answered. "...Ry...? What the hell man.... I was just getting comfy..." He said. I choked up a bit. I couldnt say anything. Not even make a sound. I just seriously wanted to hold everything back and try not to cry. "Ry? C'mon man I know you're there! I can hear your TV going! You watchin' an action movie or something?" I looked back at my house as it was sprayed down with water from the fire engine. But... that's when I broke. I just started crying.

I couldnt find a calm window to say anything but... I just yelled something. "BIG MAAAAAAC!" I cried. There I just collapsed on the grass clutching my bag after dropping my phone.

Miss Hawk set my C-Sphere box down before grabbing my phone and putting it to her ear. "Hello? Is this one of Ryder's friends?" She asked. "...Ah yeah he's just.... Can you come and get him? Something in his house caught fire and its burning down as we speak.... He got out with his games and what I think is a bag of clothes but.... Yeah his sister is with a caretaker.... Does she have clothes?" She looked to me. I nodded. "Yeah she's got clothes... A suitcase full? I dont know but... must make sense if he just got back from the war.... Look can you just come get him? I dont know how much longer he can be around this place... Oh okay... Hurry please.... I'll try and get him to calm down... Honk when you're out front okay?" I guess Big Mac already hung up because she swore under her breath and handed my phone back to me forcing me to stand back up. I didnt want to get up but she called another guard over and they dragged me into her place- quite literally I might add- and she just carried my C-sphere.

They had to cuff me and lie me down because they were afraid of anything I'd do because of what I've been through lately and... Honestly after losing my house and nearly dying in a plane crash I dont know what I'd do either... As I lied there for maybe... oh i dont know ten to twenty minutes Miss Hawk had me watching her TV while she shushed me, stroking my mane. I did calm down from my crying but.... I didnt cry as much now. She honestly felt bad for me but... I felt worse than how she thought. I didnt know what I was going to tell Scootaloo but.... I knew either I'd have to tell her or someone else.... But I dont know who would've other than guards.... and Celestia... Right now I bet the ones who saw me radioed in to have Celestia notified and to have her notify Scootaloo and then she'll freak out.... When Big Mac got there I heard him pounding on the door scared. Well... And yelling... "RY! RY YOU IN THERE YOU BETTER BE IN THERE!" He yelled. Miss Hawk got up and hurried to the door opening it. Big Mac rushed in with a guard behind him and just knelt down at my side. Big Mac wore nothing but a bathrobe and his boxers and slippers. Hell even though I didnt wanna see his crotch it was good to see him. "Ry! There you are! I told AJ to wait up for us. Even texted her to call up you-know-who that has Scoot and tell her to deliver her to the orchard...." I whimpered and scooted over a bit. He just held me in place while the guard started to unlock my handcuffs. "...Hold still this'll be a lot faster if you dont move.... You're cryin', you're tired... ya need to rest..." I felt the cuffs just pop off but i didnt move until I felt both metal bands slip away and when they did I hugged Big Mac. He took my bag and tossed it over his shoulder before Picking me up.

I didnt hear much other than Big Mac telling Miss Hawk to take my games to his truck but I did just black out for the entirety of the ride. I only woke up to Applejack and Big Mac standing over me in AJ's bed. Applejack had a sad look on her face. She was wearing my favorite set of underwear. The red one with the frills. She knelt down just stroking my cheek. My eyes hurt from the combo of my tears and my fatigue. She sighed. "....Sugarcube..." She said. "....dont speak... you just listen...." She sounded a bit hurt. "...Alright.... Here's what's gonna happen... We're getting granny's old room set up for Scoot.... you can stay in my bed with me but... please sugarcube just.... just try and be strong..." She kissed me on my cheek before just climbing into bed with me. Big Mac just stared at us for a bit, sighed and walked out shutting off what ever light was on. And then I just passed out again.

When I woke up I felt kinda rested but something in my stomach just... It didnt want to agree with me. I actually had to get up and rush to the bathroom just a few doors down. I just lost nothing but bile and milk that I drank last night. I just couldnt help but just lean against the wall next to the toilet after I was done. I felt as if this is how I should be. Huddled near a toilet and possibly drunk out of my mind. But... I actually changed my mind seeing Applejack dressed in denim short shorts and a white tank top just walk in and knelt down. I crawled over and hugged her. She hugged back. "...Wh-why does this fucking shit happen to me....?" I asked. "...Does the world hate me for what I did in the war....? Does it hate me because I had my wing chopped off....?" She sighed sitting with me.

"...Shit just hits the fan the wrong way and no one ever moves the fan once its hit.... Remember Winona...? Once Big Mac rolled over her that truck had so much trouble.... Not to mention I did... I loved that dog... First day after when we went to where we buried her I tripped twisting my ankle and was bed ridden all day.... A week later I found myself sleep walking just a few trees over from her grave but... it just went away a month later."

"...You dont think anymore bad stuff is gonna happen to me do you...?"

"...Just think positive... dont let that crap sit in your mind..." She stood up with me and took my hand. "C'mon. Let's getcha dressed and get downstairs.... Got breakfast all ready for ya... We already ate because we wanted to let you sleep... now I guess its just seen that you have a little food in ya... Scoot should be coming soon.... We're ready... We're gonna be here for you... and that lil sister of yours...." I gave a little smile even though inside i just felt insanely hurt... I walked out with my marefriend hand in hand. It honestly felt good that I got to see her again after what happened. She was actually afraid to touch me when she saw me the first time after the crash. Thought she would hurt me but in all honestly I didnt give a fuck. If she hurt me I'd take it.

As we descended the steps I saw my backpack sitting next to the coffee table with some clothes laid out for me on his arm chair. A Gems n Tulips tee and a pair of jeans. Big Mac was setting down a glass of juice on the coffee table as well as a plate of waffles. Big Mac was wearing his jeans and his cut off Metallicolt shirt. He gave a smile just as he got a fork ready. "There ya are!" He said. "You alright there? Sleep okay with that special somepony of yours?" I nodded slightly.

"Big Mac dont go teasin' him now. If he wants to cuddle me that's his business! I aint gonna tease you about that damned stuffed toy you've been cuddlin' with now am I?" Big Mac blushed and rubbed his neck nervously which kinda made me snicker. "Now why dont you just go and wait out front for the princess? I'll stay in here with him... I just gotta talk with him anyways...." Big Mac said nothing as I sat down with my breakfast. But all I could do is stare at him as he walked over to the door and slipped out. Applejack sighed and I looked to her.

I just grabbed my juice for a sec but i didnt pick it up. I just moved my hand over to Applejack's lap. "...You alright?" I asked. She whimpered slightly and nodded. "....C'mon... there's something wrong.. just say it...." She suddenly hugged me tackling me down onto the couch kissing me. It lasted for a minute before she just looked me in the eye. I just saw a tear ready to break away.

"....I... I needed ya sugarcube.... I... It's been so long without ya.... I couldnt help but think about you all day every day.... even those days when I was having accidents...." She sobbed slightly. "....The days that passed... the clothes i've had to wash.... the sleepless nights... I just.... I... I..." I couldnt help but kiss her again and hold her close. I knew how she felt.

"...AJ... when you said i could sleep with anyone I wanted while I was out.... I couldnt bring myself to do it... I was thinking it was a trick... if I did and I said anything you'd leave me.... I just... I dont wanna lose you as much as I dont wanna lose Scootaloo..." I shushed her just looking to the door. "...Uh... can you maybe just.... get up some so if Big Mac comes in we dont have to readjust to not look like we're about to fuck...." I looked around. "...We can do that later.... Just... please calm down AJ... I dont wanna have Big Mac coming in with Scootaloo just to see you getting sick... And trust me.... If I lose my appetite I'm probably not gonna be okay for the rest of the day..." That's kinda true. One day I ate nothing because someone shat all over the toilet seat in a mall and when I was about to get someone to clean it I puked in another stall that was actually worse. Not saying how but.... They had to close the bathroom all together and get hazmat suits to clean it. Couldnt eat for the rest of the day and breakfast the next morning.... Worst thing I could've done... Ended up passing out mid way through lunch.

Applejack sat up a bit and just let me eat a few of my waffles. I didnt eat it all because of how my stomach was but I ended up cuddling with her for a while. She did grab at me a bit but... I didnt wanna let her but.... It just felt nice to feel her touch after a while. I just pulled her hand away and just lied back down with her, setting her on top of me. Just as we got comfortable I heard the door open. "...Alright... Right in here..." I heard Big Mac say. "Ry... Got someone here to see ya..." Applejack looked behind her and just got off of me. I looked to the door and I saw Soarin carrying Scootaloo who just looked a bit scared. Soarin wore a Gems and Tulips tee that looked from the recent concert and a pair of camo shorts along with some canvas sneakers. Scootaloo was wearing the blue and white floral dress I had her in when I first shipped off.

Soarin set Scootaloo down as they approached the couch. He knelt down as she hugged him. "Hey.... its okay... Just go to him...." He said. "He needs you right now.... maybe I can stay here for a bit and follow you home make sure you get there alright and maybe say our last goodbyes...."

Applejack sighed and walked over to Scootaloo picking her up. "...Well... Got some news for ya then...." She said. She set Scootaloo down on top of me. I didnt even move much. Just wrapped my arms around her waist. She looked back at Soarin as she sat down on the coffee table. "...You might wanna sit down... it's gonna get a bit heavy here...." Soarin nodded and sat down on the arm of the couch. I couldnt help but stare out at Celestia and Big Mac as they spoke with a few guards around. Celestia was just wearing a nice jean jacket and a pink teeshirt and bellbottom jeans and boots. I couldnt tell what they were saying but.... Celestia just had a worried and sort of shocked look on her face. I looked back to AJ. She was just staring at me and Scootaloo. Just had a hard time collecting her thoughts.

I sighed. "...You just want me to do it AJ...?" I asked. She nodded before grabbing Scootaloo from me allowing me to sit up giving her a spot next to me. I looked to Scootaloo. "...Uh... Scoot.... we.... may have to stay here for a while...."

My sister looked to me confused. "...Why?" She asked. I swallowed.

"...Well... I just... Last night after I went to bed I had a nightmare.... Couldnt get back to sleep... Went to the living room, drank a little warm milk and passed out... I just woke up seeing a fire and it just... It grew too rapidly for me to even react... I had to run upstairs and grab clothes for myself before hopping out of my window... when I came here.... our house... was just gone... too much fire...."

"...So.... all our stuff....?"

"...Gone... I.... I'm sorry...." She started to tear up but... I couldnt bring myself to cry. Why? I dont know. I held her close and she started to sob. Soarin couldnt help but rest his hand on her leg. ".....I-its alright Scoot... you got your big brother here... remember... what ever happens.... as long as we have each other we're fine.... We're gonna stay here until we can get everything back... you'll still have your own room and you get to see Applebloom everyday... we're all here to help you through this Scoot... Everyone here's gonna help us.... AJ, Big Mac, Applebloom... heck even Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy and Dash... Twilight too..."

Soarin sighed. "...I'll help as much as I can too...." He said. "...Maybe not give you a new house but.... Anything you need but.... only within reason okay?" He looked to me seeing as I could be the only one to answer. I gave a nod shushing my sister.

I focused on her for a second until Applejack took her from me. "...Here... Big Mac needs ya to head outside and speak with Celestia...." She said. "...I'll go put her in her new room... maybe we can at least try an' make it like her old one...."

I huffed getting up. "...No... at least not yet... I just dont wanna do anything causing her to cry more than she already is..." I said. She nodded and swapped places with me. I even gave my marefriend and my little sister a kiss before just walking out of the door. The dust at my feet kicked up each step I took. Then I remembered I didnt grab any shoes. As I approached them I saw a weak smile on Celestia's face. Big Mac just walked toward me and passed me giving me a little pat on the shoulder. Celestia didnt give me time to bow in respect to her before she hugged me. "....Princess Celestia... I..."

Celestia shushed me. "It's alright..." She said. "...I was told what happened by Big Mac... Even had guards at the scene to confirm it after I woke up.... I am so sorry that happened... I should've had that house checked for structure problems as well as electrical and plumbing when that earthquake hit but... my mind was on other things..." I sighed.

"...It's okay.... It was the thought that counted. Just know this doesnt put me outta business for the guard..." I looked up to her. "...I... I still am a guard right...? I'm not out because of the wing injury?" She shook her head.

"Of course not. Let that wound be a reminder that you are strong no matter what. Is there anything I can actually do for you while I'm here? Anything at all I can do." I hesitated. I looked down at myself, I looked back at the house and my friend in the doorway talking with Soarin, my marefriend behind them and my little sister in her arms.

As I looked back a guard yelled out. "PRINCESS! MOTORCYCLE COMING DOWN THE ROAD! TWO RIDERS!" The guard yelled. I looked past Princess Celestia and saw a familiar bike barreling towards us.

I huffed as the guards around started to form a barrier. "Stand down! That's my cousins bike!" I snapped. They quickly dodged out of the way allowing Dash's bike ride all the way around before stopping almost on a dime near a guard truck. I got a good look at the second rider just as soon as her helmet was off. Gilda looking a bit scared and tired. Dash shook her mane out as Gilda just threw her helmet down and rushed me. She nearly tackled me crying. Dash wore her blue running shoes as well as skinny jeans and her dark blue, wonderbolts style motorbike jacket. Gilda was wearing a hoodie and a pair of sweat pants and a pair of Dash's older white running shoes. I hugged Gilda shushing her as she sobbed onto my shoulder. "....there there... i'm alright here..."

Dash growled as she approached me. You know what she did? She pried Gilda off me and just grabbed me by the shoulders before pinning me against a guard truck almost as if she were going to arrest me. "DAMMIT DONT YOU EVER FUCKING SCARE US LIKE THAT AGAIN! TELL US SOMETHING NEXT TIME SOMETHING LIKE THAT HAPPENS!" She yelled. I opened my metal wing that came close to her face. All I had to do was flap and she'd get slapped. And possibly cut. She immediately released me and I went to Gilda again.

"Well I'm sorry I was forced out of my own fucking house in the wee hours of the morning, tired out of my fucking mind only to be dragged here! So excuse me if i didnt tell you where I was!" I hugged Gilda tight leaning against the truck. "...Just go inside and fucking help Scootaloo... and not the way you helped her while I was away!" I knew I got her because she just went and picked up both helmets, setting them on her bike before going inside. I looked to Celestia. "Is it alright if we just go on a drive to the nearest mall or something? I need new clothes and new shoes... Hope you got Scootaloo's clothes in here...." I glanced at the truck a bit.

Celestia snapped her fingers and a guard opened the back of the truck pulling out a few suitcases. "I have everything here." She said. "I've had to go and buy her a few outfits while she was with me. Just know Twilight still has all your special gifts sitting in her castle if you want to get them. Though there is one you'd have to call Luna about."

"Would that be about my car?" She shook her head. "Well... that car better be done soon.... I want to at least see it again even if it does look different."

"You'll get that back soon enough. Now... do you wanna hop in alone or should we bring her along?" I looked to Gilda. I sighed.

"...Lets just bring her in with us... I scared her too much..." I pried Gilda off me and handed her over to Celestia. "Here... I gotta tell AJ where I'm going at least... I'll be right back okay?" Celestia nodded consoling Gilda. I rushed over to the house feeling a few rocks hit my fucking feet as i stomped the ground a bit. I said goodbye to AJ and told Scootaloo I'd be right back.... I also told Big Mac to backhand Dash when she's not looking. Hope he does it or else someone's getting a flat tire due to a 'nail in the road'. I actually didnt even take the clothes they even had lied out for me. Yet they respected my decision.

When I was back in the truck I sat next to Gilda who was sipping on a drink from a hidden cooler in the truck. It was just sticking out of the floor looking three to four feet deep. I grabbed a Soda out of it as soon as I closed the door and sat down. Gilda leaned on me and sighed. "....I... I seriously thought something bad happened to you..." She said. "...you seriously need to text me... when stuff like that happens..."

Celestia huffed. "It isnt his fault he scared so many of us..." She said. She looked to me as we started to pull off. "Sorry if I'm being a little abraisive... it's actuallly hard for me to leave your sister after she's been with me all this time..."

I sighed. "It's fine..." I said. "....I've seen how much you've cared for her while I was bedridden. She told me all the fun things you guys did and even the things that happened while I was out.... I still cant believe someone had the audacity to try and hurt my sister like that...."

"He's gone at least... didnt have to deal with him... otherwise you probably would've wrung his neck harder than anything. Maybe would've ended up looking like that Alley Brawlers game with those death sequences..." I could tell she was disgusted with those games. Probably because Luna played them and she had to watch or something... Thank you Luna for possibly almost getting my favorite game taken off the shelves.

"....I just... why do these things happen...? First I get shipped off... then I get shot.... then I get into a plane crash that ends up getting my wing chopped off and now this stupid fire...." I felt my hearing deafen a bit as well as my vision blur. I was getting too close to having something bad happen but I know that voice is still gonna fuck with me until I do everything it says... It quickly went away. Celestia sighed.

"Those are all my fathers doings. He's been punishing both you and I because of your sister.... Taking advantage of my position he said but... It's all a lie from what he says. I did all those things for her to keep her happy. She's a little filly who's just gotten the worst end of a beating stick... From walking in on her dead parents to almost losing her only brother in a crash and a fire... She needs someone out there to know she'll be cared for even if something ever were to happen to you..."

Gilda coughed a bit after sipping her drink again. "...I... I cant believe your house burnt down..." She said. "...I'd hate to imagine if your sister was there..." Okay you see... that was something I didnt worry about there. Because I wouldnt leave my room if my sister were there. But if she were oh you dont know how fast I'd've grabbed her clothes, my clothes and my C-sphere. Someone would end up in the hospital from either smoke inhalation, burns, leg injuries from the jump and getting glass out of someone's foot. As I said my window sucks. Exactly why i busted it.

I sighed pinning my drink in between my legs. "....Well... I'm glad she wasnt... " I said. "...the way I had to get out was a bit dangerous on its own and her getting hurt compared to me... That wasnt gonna happen.... For her I'd take a fall, a bullet and even a few smacks to the face, the jewels and anything else.... Anything happens to me I'd just hand her off to someone i trusted.... who? I dont know.... But... to someone who wants her to stay here.... I refuse to let her go into foster care even after I'm dead...." Gilda looked to me.

"....The way you're saying these things... it sounds like you think you're gonna die..." Well... The way my mind was i thought I was dead already.... So much shit going on I dont know what to believe. "....I swear if you're doing what I think you're doing I'm gonna just knock you the fuck out..... Over and over until you lose that thought...." I sighed.

"....Look... I'm sorry I'm saying these things... I just... I'm just not in a good mood." I looked out the window just shifting into spooning position with Gilda. "...Can we just put on some music so I can feel better at least....?"

Celestia sighed. "Sorry Ryder. Radio in here's busted thanks to Luna's obsession with gaming music...." She said. "I was gonna pay to fix it but Luna decides she isnt gonna play her music in here anymore because someone smashed the radio." In short: She paid someone to do something so it would scare Luna. I sighed just going along with it.

"Yeah.... I gotcha.... I just need something to show me I still have something out here for me to do...." Celestia rested her hand on my shoulder.

"Look... when you're ready to come back to work I wont stop you... But to even let you back I'm gonna have to ask you to wait about a week because of your home.... Even let you get settled in to your uh... new home....?" Well she wasnt wrong. I'd have to get used to sleeping in a farm house with my marefriend, her brother and both our little sisters. "Do you think that's enough time to settle in?" I sighed.

"....More or less but... I'll take it... Maybe I can vent to Luna later... I need something to occupy my mind while i sleep or else I'm not going to stay asleep...."

"I'll talk with her later about this but know my sister isnt always going to be available to you. She's got other fillies and colts to deal with. Got it?" I nodded and just stared at everything passing us as Gilda cuddled me from behind. We past everything from Rarity's Carousel boutique and Sugarcube Corner and... even my old apartment that I shared with that bitch. Oh if the current tennants knew what the hell went on in there... They'd probably want to power wash everything with acid. Hell I wished I could do that to my own body after the murder. I'm actually glad i didnt have a kid with that psycho. But anyways we came over to a local skate shop, I picked out two pairs of sneakers, a pair of boots for work, six pairs of jeans, a few hoodies and a good choice of shirts, both button up and tee and I even got some plain shirts. And... Okay maybe I hit a shop to get something cute for Applejack. Celestia might've bought it but I said I'd pay her back... after I got access to my bank account again and my ID.... She said she'd buy my ID at a later day but I'd have to pay that back too.

Anyways what I got for AJ was a bra and panty set. It was something plain but when I gave it to her she actually liked it. Even though she had to bring a set of drawers for my clothes. We ended up putting it right next to one of the nightstands in her room. Though... we had to do it carefully and quietly. Probably because while I was out AJ called Rarity and had her bring Applebloom and Sweetie Belle over for Scootaloo who I saw cuddled up in Big Mac's room with Dash. They both sleep like rocks anyways so nothing higher than our voices could wake em. It took no more than an hour to get the dresser in place but it took a few more hours because of that. We had to actually put Gilda on the couch to rest because she passed out on the drive back. Anyways after we were done it was getting dark. Maybe around six ish or so. Me and AJ went outside just as Big Mac left to pick up a few pizzas for us for dinner. AJ actually changed into her skinny jeans and a black long sleeve with her cutie mark on the chest. I changed into a new Gems n Tulips tee and an old pair of my pants and a new pair of sneakers. The black canvas that i bought. She didnt wanna wear shoes but... hell who am i to judge? She sighed sitting with me against the wall of the house, each with a bottle of cider in our hands. We looked up at the night sky, stars glistening. "...So uh.... Sorry about your house n all.... you gonna miss that place at all?" She asked me.

I huffed looking to the sky. "...Yes and no... Yes because its where I grew up and no because of the bad memories that place brought..." I said. "...and... yeah I lost a lot of stuff, like my clothes and... my furniture and... photos of my family but...the memories... those god forsaken memories..."

"...You were just tortured by it huh...?" I nodded. "..Well... I guess I'm still afraid of what happened here too.... I still cant believe my big brother just watched you shoot someone with his gun... Even he couldnt shoot someone on our property... Even if they was tryin' to pilfer our apples.... I can actually say if you and him didnt have bad blood between ya and he had that gun he still wouldnt've used it.... Least now we dont gotta worry about someone using it since its in guard evidence lockers.... Got your prints, my brothers and probably you know who's blood on it..."

"Yeah.... Hope she enjoys where she is... I'm not ever forgiving her even if she is dead...." I shivered a bit. It wasnt really cold out but... something just... it felt weird.

"Somethin' wrong sugarcube?" She asked. I looked to her.

"...I just got a chill through my spine.... You believe in that paranormal stuff?" She shook her head. "Well... You know I do.... Y'know that chill was probably someone either hugging me, slapping me or something....."

"Eh... I love you sugarcube but that crap stays somewhere it cant get to me... kinda like your hate for spiders." She was right in a sense. I just got up a bit frightened dusting my self off lightly. "I cant say we can feel them spirits but... I know they're around. I always think when I do somethin' good for the family, momma and daddy hug me.... Same with granny for when I pray or just make zap apple jam... Probably almost time to get it done soon but... it just honestly isnt the same without her... She knew what time to go and do it, she knew what to do and when to do it..." I heard her get a little weak in her voice. I helped her up and hugged her. "...She... she even had fun helpin' us pack it all up..." She sniffled. I shushed her.

"Hey... It's alright... dont cry sweetie... I know you're missing your family but... just... please dont cry.... " She smiled and sniffled kissing me on the cheek.

".....it's alright... I'm fine sugarcube.... I cant say I've missed granny so much but... hey...it's just life tellin' us that there's more a'comin...." I smiled a bit knowing she felt good. But I wasnt one hundred percent. "...I... I dont ask this often but.... Y'think after dinner we can just say a quick prayer to my family and yours...? I'm sure they'd love to at least see ya doin' that...." I sighed.

"...I'm not one to do that stuff at all but.... you can count on me doing a little prayer with you... maybe we get Big Mac, Applebloom and Scootaloo in on it...?"

"All up to you sugarcube... just somethin' we like to do here and there..." I thought for a moment. I mean... I'm not one to pray even in a dire situation but I do pray just because I feel its at a right time and tonight it did...

"I'll do it but... I'm not gonna make Scootaloo do it if she doesnt want to do it." I looked around a bit. "But... maybe you wanna go a bit deeper into the orchard? I just..." Applejack kissed me on the lips and I just fell into bliss. She broke it only to chug what was left of her cider and letting me get mine.

"For you... just a quickie cuz I dont wanna have Big Mac ask us where we were when dinner comes." Oh boy did i feel so lucky about this. First time after a good while.... Since day two after i left I didnt feel willing to just go for myself. I stayed well away from it even though I was tempted in the showers a few times. And... yea a stallion in communications did ask to blow me but I declined but... a part of me still wanted to. We just set our empty cider bottles near the door and just booked it for the tree's just ready. Once we were covered by the trees and couldnt see the house anymore AJ just... ooh... She drops to her knees, gets my 'big apple' ready and just starts to bleed me dry. She couldnt even help but start to touch herself. She undid her pants and didnt even hesitate when I started to throat fuck her. I was going so hard I had to cushion her head with my hands against the tree. Feeling her warm maw giving my cock a good rub... ooh I wish I could've kept going. She put her hand up and pushed me away so she could breathe. She coughed slightly but licked her lips rubbing my stallionhood. She looked up at me. "Y'want the goods or the back door? I need to feel ya inside me here...."

I just turned her around and pulled her pants down just kissing her ass. One of the only ones worth kissing. Next thing you know I bent her over, spread her cheeks and dive on in. She yelped slightly but it was moans the rest of the way. I leaned over her and started squeezing her breasts. So soft and plump. She just let me squeeze them while she got drilled in the ass and fingered herself. I felt myself just near to my climax. Once I felt my cock throb it was just all over. I grabbed her hips thrusting more and more until I knew I was empty. She had to push just to make my cock slump out just to pull her pants back up. She helped me with mine because I could barely stand up after that. She kissed me on the lips and... seriously I probably should've taken the cheek but... hey I love the girl... When we went back inside she sat my on Big Mac's recliner. As she walked upstairs Gilda was just waking up. We had to actually put a blanket on her because she started shivering during when we had to move the dresser. She yawned sitting up and looking around still looking a bit tired eyed. "...The hell....?" She said. She looked to me as I grabbed the TV remote. "Hey dweeb? How long was I out?"

I hummed a bit flipping through the channels. "I'd say maybe a few hours." I said. "....You sleep well?" I looked over at her just feeling drained but still full of energy down there. Actually shifted slightly for that reason. I saw her get up a and hobble over to me. She knelt down just stretching her wings and fixing the violet feathers on her head. "You alright?" She nodded.

"Yeah... I'm fine... I actually still couldnt get to sleep last night after I called you...I was afraid I'd dream about everyone finding me and get me arrested for a crime I didnt commit... I've done a lot of theft back there when I was younger but... after I lost Dash as a friend I went back there with my head hung. It sucked getting off the plane because nobody was there to meet me....I almost wanted to jump into the chasm there.... But I didnt because my grandfather passed on and needed me to care for his shop... I did so until I accidentally poisoned someone.... They survived but... hell were they pissed... I almost went to jail but... they ruled it as an accident and I was forced to close the shop down. I still have the recipe for my pastries but I havent made em for a while..." I huffed.

"Look its alright... you're gonna be fine if you move here. Anything happens I'll look into it and vouch for you. Besides.... Celestia told me she pardoned all of what you did because you bought my little sister a birthday present because I wasnt there...." Gilda smiled and climbed into the recliner with me and just cuddled up to me. I blushed a bit feeling nervous that AJ would say something but... She knows Gilda and I actually mean something to each other. I remember one day she actually tried to hang herself but... I talked her out of a hotel room she rented here and convinced her to keep going. She was only doing that because she had a bad break up. Not with Dash. With some griffon who allegedly hit her a few times when she was doing something he thought was wrong. I just went and said for her to stay here for a bit and anonymously call about the guy. Had his name, address and even what kinda car he drove. He was arrested for domestic violence within two days and she went back in a week.

Anyways I heard a door open upstairs and I jumped pushing Gilda right off. She understood what I meant. She rushed over to the couch and we both looked to the top of the steps. And just in time too. There was Applejack sauntering down the stairs. She smiled at Gilda who just waved at her. "Well g'mornin' there sleepy head." She said. "Y'feelin' alright there Gil?" Gilda nodded hesitantly. I reached for AJ who came right over and helped me up before helping me over to the couch. She set me on one side of Gilda while she sat on the other. "Now I know dishonesty when I see it. Now c'mon fess up." She sighed.

"Well... I just... Two things... First off I'm afraid to go home... second I just kinda wanna stay here in Ponyville... I've got ponies here I know and that care for me.... there I'm looked on as a griffon who poisoned almost everyone there...." She leaned on me. "...Just... I was gonna have my stuff flown in, find a place of my own but... I'd have to have somewhere to stay and store my things while I wait...." AJ sighed.

"Well I'm sure we could convince Twilight to letcha store your things in her castle. Maybe you can stay with Dash until you can get your own place. Hell we'd be able to set ya up with a job or two 'round here. Alright?" Gilda nodded hesitantly. "Well alright then. After dinner I'm gonna call up Twilight and tell her what's going on. Who knows she might wanna help ya out." AJ looked to me. "You wanna go wake everyone for dinner?" I nodded. I got up hesitantly and steadied myself before hobbling over to Big Mac's room. I opened the door and just saw Dash inside curled up on the bed cuddling a pillow. We actually had to change her out of her clothes and into some of AJ's just so she'd be comfortable. She was changed into a pair of sweat pants and a tank top. I walked over to the bed and sat down just shaking her.

All Dash did was swat at my hand a bit. I shook her again and she just shot up and nailed me in the face. Back hand, to the cheek. I was almost thrown out of bed but ooh she was lucky. I did feel a bit dizzy from that hit but I still held my own. She rubbed her eyes and looked to me as I held my face. She gasped. "Oh shit! Sorry! I thought you were Big Mac!" She said. "He took Scootaloo out of the room and when he came back for a blanket he slapped me for no reason!" She looked out the door and saw AJ looking in at us snickering a bit. "Is he here? I really need to slap him harder than I did you!"

I shook my head. Both to say no and to regain my composure. "He's off getting dinner. Should be back soon." I said. "Just c'mon and visit with us for a while..." She gave me a confused look as I rubbed my cheek.

"...So... you arent gonna hit me?" I shook my head but... She'll see.

"Nah... But uh... can you help me get Scoot and her friends?" She nodded. Okay... maybe my mind is on other things but while Gilda and I were off with Celestia Rarity brought Scootaloo's friends over and Big Mac had em all take a nap upstairs. She did end up helping me upstairs. We went into Scootaloo's new room just a few doors down from Applebloom's and a room down from mine and AJ's. When Dash and I went in we saw Scootaloo cuddling a stuffed wolf toy Celestia got her. She now wore a cute pajama set Luna gave to her before she left. I remember seeing this while I was laid up and I have to say it was nice of them to do such things for my sister. I owe them... A LOT. The pajamas she got were almost like a full military uniform. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were just in their plain clothes. Sweetie Belle in a cute violet dress and Applebloom in overalls and a yellow tee. Dash leaned me against the wall while she just nudged all three fillies. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle woke right up. Dash just whispered in their ears and had them leave the room and get ready for dinner. Though... Dash came back and helped me over to the bed and sat me with Scootaloo and whispered into my ear.

"....While you were gone she cried a lot... she thought you left because you didnt love her anymore... basically thought you were away for so long you lost all touch with her..." I looked onto my own cousin in disbelief. She nodded looking a bit ashamed of herself. "...I told her that you did love her but... she didnt listen... even went on to say you burnt the house down yourself because of the memories...." I sighed.

"...can you just... can you leave me and Scootaloo alone for a bit...? I'll call for you when I'm ready..." Dash nodded and hugged me before she got up and walked out shutting the door most of the way. I looked back to my little sister. I wanted to believe this was all a nightmare... that my house didnt burn down and that my sister didnt say those things....

I nudged her and she did the same thing Dash did. Just swat at my hand. She didnt slap me the next time around but... she did wake up. I nudged her more and she jumped a bit. She sat up a bit, rubbed her eyes and looked around before looking to me and just looking away. "...Oh... you're back.... here to tell me you put me up for adoption.....?" She asked. I forced myself to bring my legs up onto the bed to sit crisscross facing her.

"...Scoot... Why are you saying these things....?" I asked. "...Why do you think I burnt down our house...? Why do you think I'd put you up for adoption...?" No answer. Just hugged her wolf toy. "...Scoot... please just... just tell me what's wrong... I want to help you here...." She just stayed silent. That's when I grabbed onto her arms, trying to not be rough with her. "PLEASE SCOOTALOO JUST TELL ME WHAT'S WRONG!" She stared at me for a few seconds. In that time I teared up and let a sob escape. "....this is killing me Scoot... It's just like... Like..."

"...Like that plane crash...?" I looked at her with tears streaming down my face. I kinda nodded. Kinda meaning it was mostly there but I held back.

"...Now... please tell me why you've been saying those things..." She sniffled tearing up a bit. She shrugged my hands off her arms and just climbed into my lap.

"....While you were away Luna and Celestia tried their hardest to make sure I knew you were gonna be okay... but... the day you came back Luna was about to tell me you were dead.... I know because that night she had a TV on in her room... even had me sleep there so you wouldnt keep me up with your pain.... and Celestia thought it was a good idea because if I woke up crying or something she'd put me back to sleep with her magic.... I saw that plane wreck and... If i hadnt seen you I would've thought you were dead... but... here you are..." She whimpered a bit wiping her eyes away. "...And.. and... you just had only one wing... I just... I thought you were mad and burnt the house because of everything that went wrong there.... and... i-i-I thought you were p-putting me up for adoption because... because you cant teach me to fly anymore....." I sighed as she just started to cry a bit. Even shushed her.

"...Hey hey... I'm not mad at anything but myself.... I took way too long to come see you and I couldnt call or text Celestia in any way to let her know... nor could I even talk with Luna or something.... I was supposed to surprise you at school but... you saw me at least... not in a good condition but you saw me... and my wing? Please... I'd teach you to fly if i was shoved into a wheel chair without my legs. And I wouldnt put you up for adoption... not after what we've been through... not after what we saw, what I did or what you did.... Not even if what we had was gone... and... not even if you werent even my little sister... if you and i werent blood... you'd be sticking by my side no matter what... I dont care if you were a pegasus and i were an earth pony or vice versa... I'd love you no matter what... I'd even love you if I was trapped on the other side of Equestria..." We couldnt help but just start crying with each other. I could swear it was just a few seconds before I was helped out of the room by Dash and Applejack. I was just lied on the couch to cuddle my little sister and... I basically just spent time with her the rest of the night. Through dinner, a bit of desert and even a little walk outside before bed... That prayer kinda went off without a hitch. Kinda... my eyes blurred and I heard that voice again... It just said 'soon' and nothing else. I've got my eyes open...

The Path Forced to Follow

It's been a few days since I've moved to the orchard. I'm not one to complain, even about my marefriends home but... It's hard getting used to waking up here.... Right now its about six in the morning and I'm tired off my ass and cant get back to sleep. I'm wearing jeans and a long sleeve tee shirt because its cold and going back to sleep isnt an option... Last night I woke up to Scootaloo crying because she had an accident... lucky for her Celestia included half the diapers that were bought for her and even included some for me just in case.... I still felt hurt after what Scootaloo said the first night. Said that I didnt love her and wanted to put her up for adoption. I wouldnt forgive myself if I even hinted at even doing such a thing. I would ask Celestia to hit me as hard as she could. But I got Scootaloo to apologize for what she said. Even if it was her emotions saying that... Anyways I was sitting in the living room just trying to have a little time to myself. I took a beer from the fridge and just sipped a bit from it. It tasted weird because I havent had it in a while but... hey it felt good going down. I sighed just looking at my phone that sat on the table. "...Nopony is awake, I dont have anyone to bother...." I said to myself. "...But what can I do while everyone is asleep...? Big Mac's probably gonna wake everyone for school or work soon and.... what would I have to do? I'd just take too much room in his truck.

As I sat there I just thought about that voice and those paw prints... they've plagued my mind since the crash... I wasnt scared but.... curious as to why they did what they did... Problem is i cant tell anyone anything. Otherwise I'd get just completely messed up. In what ways? I dont know. Worst I've gotten is just weakened and passed out. But as I sat there the voices started up. Vision blurred. "...Outside... now...." It said. Even though my vision blurred I picked my phone up and just started to text AJ telling her I was going for a walk. Even heard the notification sound she had. Cute little puppy barks. When I went outside there I saw the paws leading into the trees. "Follow...." I huffed and just started to follow the paws. It was still pretty dark out but it was still light enough to see where I was going without a flashlight. Luna's moon was bright enough as it is and it felt really nice to have lighting my way. The paws went through the trees in such a way it was like I was chasing a guard dog. I've done that during the war. Had a little exercise regiment and we had a few dogs training on the base. I actually got to follow one of the dogs through the training course we had. It was actually a quick escape drill we all had to do and I was no where near the top. Top guy... shot right in the face. I knew it was too good to be true with him but I did what I needed to.

As soon about where the paws stopped I saw a small grave. It was big enough for me to see it but... small enough to know it wasnt a pony.... at least i hoped it wasnt a pony. Suddenly my phone rang. I pulled it from my pocket and looked at the screen and saw it was AJ. I answered it. "...Sugarcube? Why the hell're you out for a walk at this hour....?" She asked. "...I get it you got stuff to think about but... just c'mon back to bed.... it's freezing out..."

I sighed. "...It's alright with temperature but I just cant sleep." I said kneeling down at the grave. "...But... I have a question while I have you on the line..."

"Sure just... make it quick... I'm kinda cold and this blanket aint doing jack to help me warm up..." I huffed.

".....Okay so... I just stopped to enjoy the night sky and.... I found a grave here... Why is there a grave out here...?" I heard her sigh.

"...Y'must've found Winona's grave.... Now... C'mon back here... I dont wanna talk this over the phone with Big Mac wakin' up soon.... Best to just speak to each other quietly.... Now please come back?" I sighed just looking at a little dog tag on it. 'Winona' it said.

"....Okay but... only because I kinda need a hug now...." She didnt even answer me there. Just hung up. I stood up putting my phone in my pocket again. I honestly was made depressed by this... I dont like seeing little animals die... Not kidding when I went over to Fluttershy's house before all the shit that happened to me (being Berrie and the murders) she said she had a few animals sick. One of them was just a little baby fox. The others were just wolf and bear cubs. Now this fox was so adorable. It had a white tail and used it as a blanket while laying down. That fox tried to get up and I did everything Fluttershy had asked to try and get that fox to feel better but late at night when I stayed there Fluttershy woke me up and told me we needed to hit the vet. Needless to say I found out that baby fox had to be put down and... I just basically turned into a pussy here... I had to hold the fox in my arms as it shook and whined in pain. I couldnt even keep it together. All I could do is say that the fox pup would've been alright but I cried as i did.... After that fox pup was put down I just.... Fluttershy and I couldnt even take it anymore and went back to my place. She couldnt even go back to her place after that. Well... until the next morning when Dash called me. Anyways enough there. When I went back to AJ's room I found her just sitting in the bed with her phone in hand. She was just in her fluffy green camo pajama pants and a black tank top. I went and sat on the bed next to her just looking at her phone. It was pictures of Applebloom, Big Mac and her all of them with her dog. She was a brown sheltie dog with white patches all over her body. Each picture she looked happy. I didnt say anything fearing I'd say something idiotic.

"....just wonderin' about her aint ya?" I kinda nodded. She huffed. "...Well... she was the best and only dog we've ever had... had her since Applebloom was a foal.... always followed me throughout the orchard and even protected Applebloom when Big Mac was messin' with her... I've even had her sleepin' at the foot of my bed for as long as I can remember....The night after she died thanks to Big Mac runnin' her over accidentally Applebloom and I cried right where you're sittin.... Big Mac just slept on the couch because he felt so bad but... it aint his fault.... dog saw his truck comin' and didnt run... But... we gave her a proper funeral... Even buried her in a home made casket... Same kind my mama was buried in..." I heard her voice get a bit higher pitch. I hugged her and she sniffled. "....Almost every time I see that grave I can hear her yelp before the tire rolled over her... I try my hardest to stay away from it and all that I can get is Big Mac to go near it and even he doesnt get the tree.... What he does is just believes Winona is sleepin' and he doesnt wanna wake her..." I just held AJ close.

"...Here... Just... go back to sleep sweetie.... I'll get undressed and join you in a bit here....." She nodded and kissed me on the cheek before just lying down sniffling. I just quickly stripped down to my boxers and shut the door before going back to my marefriends side under the covers. She just started to spoon with me. Put my hand on her crotch and the other on her chest. I blushed but... I just went along with it. You're probably thinking I should tease her and just go for it but when we go, we go hard and loud. And would we want our sisters- who are just down the hall- to hear such things? No. No we do not.

We slept for maybe another hour or so and we ended up being woken up by my phone. I actually fell out of bed, almost taking AJ with me but she stopped just before the edge. Not sure how we ended up near my edge of the bed but I nearly hit my head. Thank goodness my metal wing can support my weight up to a certain point.... didnt know.... Anyways I scrambled for my pants which were on the other side of the room and grabbed at my phone. When I pulled it I saw it was Shining Armor. I answered. "Hello? Ryder?" I heard Shining say.

"Yeah? What's going on here calling this early?" Yeah I'm not one to talk there. Shut up. I heard him huff a bit.

"Sorry but.... I'm here in Ponyville and I need to see you down at the castle. It's important. And no before you ask there wont be any news crews to ask about that crash. Celestia is going to handle that-" I heard him get slapped as clear as the daylight that was now peaking through the window.

Then I hear the phone kinda rumble a bit on the other end. "Ryder?" I hear a familiar voice say.

"Yes princess?" Yeah... it was Princess Luna. She sounded a tad tired but still pretty much awake.

"I apologize for that rude interuption but Shining doesnt control what happens with the media about that plane crash. But we really do need you to come to the castle in Ponyville. There is a surprise for you that's long overdue. You're welcome to come pick it up at any time but we want to see you soon!" Okay I didnt know if it were a trap set by Shining to get me to speak to the press about the war and the crash or if it were a ploy to get me to get my stuff from the castle. Yeah... like I know where to put that stuff here... Attic or something probably but I havent seen it yet.

"Alright I'll try and get there soon. Just let me get dressed and I'll be there." I looked to Applejack who was just getting out of her PJ's. "Hopefully we can get a little food there..."

"I'll ask Twilight if we can make Shining make us a meal once you get here. Let's hope that smack didnt do anything to his motorskills...." She laughed a bit. I couldnt help but have a chuckle as well. "Anyways I'll see you soon Ryder." She just hung up on me not giving me time to answer.

Applejack looked to me as she tossed a Metallicolt semi longsleeve to me. It was a black and red one with their logo on it. I put it on just as Applejack put her jeans on. "Well I guess we know we got somewhere to be and somethin' to do." She said. She looked to me as I got my pants up. "Y'think everyone else knows about your house other than Dash and Rarity? I know neither of us told em.... maybe they were told after they tried visitin' or somethin'...."

I sighed as I walked over to the window. Just saw dust kicked up on the road outside. "Well... we might as well get ready fast and get walking." I said. "Big Mac just left I think... and you know that four wheeler wont hold both of us." Tried it before. Rode around the orchard for just a few minutes and I end up getting clotheslined by a tree getting the wind knocked out of me at the worst. That was just way before the war and just a couple weeks after the murders. She huffed.

"Walking is probably best anyways. If anyone is still sleeping at this time it's best not to wake him. I aint kididn' when I say Dash wanted to slap me because Celestia called her phone in the middle of the night. She was pissed beyond belief. I almost wanted to climb on top of her face and drown her in my own brand of 'cider'." I huffed.

"I'm surprised you two slept in the same bed knowing she pisses her bed still." She laughed a bit grabbing her boots from under the bed.

"Had somethin' to help protect me there. Told her if she did wet my bed I'd go and tie her up out in the orchard in a diaper and make her sit there the whole day until work was done and all she'd get is water out of a rabbits water bottle." I honestly didnt wanna laugh but I did as I went for my shoes.

"Probably should've anyways. I'd've loved to have something to have to blackmail her when I got home... But hey.... I've got a few other means I guess..." She looked to me as I started tying my shoes.

"Well let's save them. Otherwise we dont have anythin' to use against her if she pisses us off. Now hurry. Aint gonna be good if we're more late than we're gonna be." I nodded and just tied my shoes the best I could. After that we had a good walk out of the orchard. We both picked an apple off the trees that were juicy and ripe. I bit into mine and jeez it was like I bit into a water balloon of sweetness. Even had a few drips go down my chin. Actually by the time we got to the end of the road I finished my apple and tossed the core back into the trees. AJ say's its good for seeds to spread and grow. Anyways we walked on for a good while... Well... until we reached around my street which was about twenty minutes after we left. I started to see the paws again but... my vision was normal for some reason. No voice either. We were just at the other side of the street just looking up at the castle which still was quite a ways away. The paw prints were being burned into the concrete going towards my street. I looked to AJ.

"Hey uh... AJ?" I said. She looked at me. I was slightly nervous. I didnt wanna just walk away on her and I just couldnt tell her what was going on with the paws at all.

"Yeah sugarcube?" She asked. I glanced at my street a bit. She sighed. "Alright... just go on... I'll meetya on the other side... you dont come within five minutes I'm calling Twilight and havin' some guards come down here and get us.... Might have to put you in cuffs if you're cryin'..." She just pushed me a bit towards the street. "Just go. I'll do what I do when the time comes!" I smiled and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before just rushing across the street. Not even a car anywhere near. Not even parked. Anyways I followed the paw prints across the street and down the sidewalk before my house came into view. My heart sunk seeing it burnt out and taped off. I was surprised they didnt take it down yet to rebuild. I kept following the paws to the door just walking as if nothing were wrong. Just as if I wanted to see the house one last time before just moving. The door was shut but broken open in a few places. I looked around behind me just feeling as if someone were watching me. I couldnt help but rush to the side of the house and fly into my busted out window. I landed in front of my bed which lied in ashes. Things still smelt of soot. My TV was melted and destroyed totally, my drawers were mostly burnt. Even opened them to try and find salvagable clothes. Nothing. Not even my favorite Gems n Tulips shirt. That thing was cut in half by the flames that ate it. I walked over to my closet and opened it. The doors fell off and fell towards me. I kept them from hitting the ground too hard. My entire closet was also torched. But... I saw an ember near a safe. It was a gun safe that I got before I ran off just to make sure Big Mac didnt find my gun and take it because his got sent to evidence about the night of the murders. I crouched down and just yanked it out a foot or two. I even turned the dial.

"...Huh... still works....I wonder...." I started to input the combination humming along to the opening of Sweet Foal Of Mine. 4. 22. 26. I always hum a tune if I need to remember a password or something. It's worked a bit. Anyways I turned the little handle and it opened right up. "Huh... weatherproof and fireproof I guess...Wonder if it's still here...." I opened the door wide and reached inside. There I pulled my holstered pistol still looking good as ever. I even pulled it out and cocked it. No ammo in it though. I always stopped off at the castle to get it because I was afraid I'd go and hurt myself sleepwalking. Anyways I shoved the gun back in its holster and saw the paws again out of the corner of my eye. This time they went outside my door. I carefully opened my door and walked out. My heart sank even more seeing the entire bottom floor gone. Couch was a pile of ash, TV was melted to the partial media center and all the movies were just plastic on the floor. But the paws just went down the hall to Scootaloo's room. I walked over there and nudged the door open. It creaked open and I started to tear up. Things in my sisters room were just hard to look at... I tried not thinking about it but.... I couldnt help it this time. Scootaloo's bed was destroyed as mine was, her dresser was falling apart. Didnt see a spot of clothing anywhere for her. Her room was damaged all to hell and I know I didnt do anything to save one thing.... My mind went onto what would've happened if I had Scootaloo at home. One of us would probably get hurt because I would've flew out, set my games down, flew back in and ran out with Scootaloo. One of us would've either gotten a few burns or sent to the hospital because of smoke inhalation. The paws lead to a little drawing that was mostly in tact. It was one she made for me before I left for the war and never took. It was burnt along the edges but I saw the picture still. It was me and her sitting on a cloud with the rainbow falls in the background. Even said 'I love you big brother' on it.

I grabbed it and folded it up carefully before putting it in my pocket. I looked around seeing if the paws were around. I didnt see any. Even when I looked up and down the hall. I sniffled trying to keep it together as I walked down the stairs carefully. Each step creaked telling me if anymore weight was added. I hit the ground floor and just looked at everything. I saw the most damage around the window and the couch. All the electrical items were either melted or destroyed only left with a skeleton of what it was. The couch was burnt to where you could see the old springs inside. TV was melted and in half. Dunno what halved it but... it still hurt to see it. Everything just hurt me to an extent. I just looked at the gun at my side. Wondered if things would still go this way if I didnt become a guard. But where would I have been? I wouldnt have worked in Sugar Cube Corner or at Sweet Apple Acres with AJ and Big Mac. I mean... they would've taken me regardless but... what would've happened then? Would Scootaloo get hurt trying to climb a tree? If she didnt show me she knew how to fly I probably would've had to take her to and from cloudsdale just to keep her safe. Now I can see that we can just go see the weather institute and the wonderbolts perform up close too. But... Enough about that. That's when I just opened the door just to have it fall off the hinge. The 'Do Not Enter' tape was broken and strewn across the floor. I just walked out and sat down on the front step starting to cry. I cried for a little bit before I had a truck drive up to the curb. I just looked up at it and saw Big Mac's truck with AJ standing in the back looking a bit worried. Big Mac got out and hurried over to me just helping me up. "...Here we are... Lucky you my sister didnt call Luna...." He said just taking my hand starting to walk to the truck. "We wantcha to forget about this place.... we wanna see ya happy and not hurt like this.... I was glad to catch AJ walkin' this way.... told me ya came this way to see the house but... we might have to tell ya to stay away from this place... we dont wanna have you get hurt by what ever's inside and we dont wanna have ya hurt emotionally... got me?" He opened the door and sat me in the truck.

"...H-how can I not be emotionally hurt...? I cant forget about this place... I know I cant come back here but... why cant I just come by and see it?" He huffed just starting to buckle me in.

"Because we're afraid you're gonna go and do something stupid.... I aint willin' to lose my best friend here.... AJ aint losin' a boyfriend and Celestia aint even lettin' her general go easy neither... Just sit back and just keep calm. No point in wakin' up and going down for a nap immedately afterwards...." Which I've done before. I was so tired one day I basically went to my living room and passed out. Again. The night before I think I was on a movie binge. Watched a series of time travel movies that were just AWESOME. Is it bad I wanna time travel one day? Anyways I just sat there and took it as he strapped me into the front seat. Applejack reached through the little window in the back window and rested her hand on my shoulder. I just kinda nuzzled her hand. Couldnt do much else than that.

Once Big Mac got back in the truck he turned on the radio. It was one of the power ballads that Gems did. I dont remember the name but it was one of their firsts. I do however remember Gash standing in the rain playing his guitar just slamming out a solo. It was just about half way when it came on and when it ended it just went into something by Tumbling Rocks. This was hippie era stuff I was also into. Shine it White i think the name of the song was. Anyways i just stared out the windows as we drove. Passed by a lot of stuff that just made me wanna keep bawling but... I just kept it in after the first song. Each landmark i saw just got me more down. All but the school where i knew my sister was, happy as can be with her friends... On the way I saw the treebrary ruins being cleared out, sugarcube corner and even a park i used to play as a kid... It felt like hours before we arrived at the castle. There were guard trucks everywhere. Five guards at the door even. We were waved into the garage by Shining Armor in full uniform. Golden armor and helmet but the rest was casual. I looked over at Big Mac who even slowed down for Shining to hop in the back. Applejack even helped him from what i saw out of the corner of my eye. She came to the back window. "Hey sugarcube.... You feelin' alright now?" She asked. I almost didnt answer. Just an unsure nod. "Well... if ya need to I'm right beside ya the whole way..."

Big Mac unhooked me and got out. I opened the door being a bit mindful of the guard truck next to us. As much as I wanted to destroy something to see if it would make me feel better I couldnt do anything with what was around. Not any guard trucks, not anything of my best friends and sure as hell nothing of the castle. Shining hopped out of the back taking his helmet off and holding it at his side giving me a little worried smile. "Hey there bud... you alright here?" He asked. I shrugged. He hugged me. "Dont worry... I've got ya.... anything you need Cadence and I are a phone call away." He pulled me into the open putting an arm over my shoulder. "How's about we take a little walk deeper into the lot? Got something to show you." I just kinda pushed away from him and walked towards a wall leaning against it. He approached as I hung my head taking my gun off my side. "...I see that thing's still good.... You uh... you want me to hold onto it for you?"

I looked to him and just handed it over without hesitating. I sniffled a bit. Applejack and Big Mac just looked on at us. I waved them away and they just went back and sat in the bed of the truck. That's when I looked to Shining. "...why is it when I do something good the consequences come and bite me in the ass....?" I asked. "....First it was move back home and try to make it nice with my parents only to have them killed and now its me coming home after surviving a plane crash as a war hero only to be forced out of my own house by a fire..." Shining huffed.

"You catch a break sometimes but... this stuff is only the worst of it. It cant get anywhere as worse as the fire. I promise you if something else happens that's bad I'll.... I'll...." He looked around. "I'll have Celestia, Luna and Cadence and even my own sister take turns on punching me in the stomach multiple times! I wont even hesitate if you want to kick me where the sun doesnt shine!" I whimpered hugging myself.

"....Let's face it... I'm a magnet for bad luck..." I looked away. "....I dont know whats next but... I just wanna be happy.... I dont wanna have to worry about my sister... I dont wanna see her in anymore pain from losing things she loves.... if I'm next... what's gonna stop it from happening? Nothing..." Shining hummed and just wiped a few tears away.

"...I think I see what's going on here...." I looked at him confused.

"...You do?" He nodded.

"Yeah... that plane crash has you scared you're gonna die... that and the fire.... is that it....?" I thought for a moment and looked at my prosthetic wing. Honestly I still felt the pain when they had to cut it off... when I MADE them cut it off... I can honestly say while I was laid up in Canterlot I screamed waking up because of a nightmare... I was lucky Luna was just right down the hall... she shut me right up and just sat there until I calmed down... that nightmare was about the plane crash but... we just didnt make it... I remember part of it though... waking up and seeing everything on me but my head cut off.... my friends burning around me and the last thing I saw before waking up was an engine falling on top of me. "....You're afraid to die and leave your sister with nothing left.... you've seen her go through so much and now that your house is gone you're afraid youre going to go next.... Am I right or wrong here...." I nodded. Tears started to pour from my eyes. I sobbed slightly before hugging him. He hugged me back. "...There we go.... hit the tap right and here come the water works.... You want Applejack or Big Mac over here...?" I didnt answer. He just waved them both over.

Applejack hurried over and replaced Shining on hugging me. She shushed me as Big Mac and Shining went around the corner. "....Aww sugarcube.... C'mon just let it all out..." She said. "....After this we are gettin' you a drink.... I dont wanna have you do this but.. you're hurtin' and maybe a few drinks is enough to forget everythin...."

I sniffled pushing away before just falling to my hands and knees. "...N-no.... I'm not gonna drink... not with my job or Scootaloo at risk..." I said. I crawled for a few feet before Big Mac and Shining stood me up and dusted me off.

Big Mac huffed. "I swear this better not be another 'apocalypse scare' thing...." He said. "...Last time I helped ya through that you nearly bit through my favorite shirt trying to get back to your 'safe zone'...." Yeah this happened. Apparently between the time i became a guard and went off to war Celestia pulled THE worst prank I've encountered. She fooled me into thinking she was gonna end the world and I ended up shitting my pants, twice, and I barricaded myself in my room for three days. When I got out of my room Celestia apologized, had me power washed and I had to go through a bit of mental therapy with Luna. Surprisingly she made my mind better and even took me to see a Gems n Tulips concert. It made me feel better but... eh... may have wet my bed after that for a few days. I did end up being diapered every time I went to sleep after that until I was dry. Anywho I hugged Shining.

AJ walked over to us. "What's that supposed ta mean Big Mac?" She asked. "Someone scare him with that again?"

Shining shook his head as he consoled me. "Nah... But it's somewhat like that...." He said. "...Think about what he's been through thus far... Counting everything from the murder to his house burning down there were multiple chances he could've died.... his attempt at the shooting range, the shot that crippled him during the war and even the plane crash coming home.... Dont you see that he's scared he might die?" I heard Applejack gasp. Big Mac just stayed silent. "Yeah... I havent seen him cry since his parents were murdered... I didnt even wanna hear that he was shot or that he was in a plane crash... I actually thought he was dead when Luna screamed it in my face but... to see him beaten and wingless in a hospital bed alive... I just didnt wanna believe it..." I could hear the weakness in his voice. "....After this... is it... is it alright if I just... hang out with Ryder? Alone? I just need some time with him..." Applejack sighed.

"...Yeah I guess.... He and I can always do what ever at any time...." She sounded a bit hesitant. But... truthful. I could feel AJ rest her hand on my back brushing the feathers of my still good wing. It felt nice but... I still cried a bit.

Maybe after a few minutes I was still a bit teary eyed. I was holding hands with AJ and had Shining having an arm over my shoulder. Big Mac just walked ahead of us deeper into the garage. It was only about three floors down before we met with Princess Luna, Cadence and Twilight. We all bowed in respect to them. Luna wore jeans, an old Tumbling Rocks teeshirt and some canvas sneakers. Cadence wore a pink and white dress and high heels. Twilight was wearing something formal at least but still lax. She wore a long sleeve deep purple button up with dark blue jeans and high heels. Each princess had their wings spread beautifully. Luna used her magic and stood me up and nudging me forward. She stepped forward and hugged me. "There's the hero!" She said. I smiled and hugged back. She looked me in the face and wiped a tear from my eye. "Hast thou been crying?" I nodded a bit. "Well what ever pains thee I know thy shall be okay.... You're gonna be okay...."

Twilight came over and just extended my prosthetic wing a bit. "Jeez... this thing looks uncomfortable... But at least you're still flying... I think..." She said. She spun me around and looked me in the eye. "You can still fly cant you?"

Applejack got between me and Twilight pushing me back into Luna's arms. "Twi! Exnay on the ly-flay?" She said.

I huffed. "AJ you know I can still fly! I dont mind answering that question!" I said. I looked back to Luna. "You and I can talk later about me crying... Now uh... why did you call me here?"

Luna smiled and nudged me back a few feet. "Well... Two things." She said. "First off... we want to thank you for your services as a guard and serving for Equestria. You've fought for safety here at home and you've fought for our rights and others rights in a war we were afraid we'd lose you in." She glanced over at Cadence.

Cadence smiled. "Look at you. You're back and ready for anything." She said. "Your efforts are greatly rewarded by our subjects and us alike."

Twilight blushed a bit and looked to me. "We might've gone as far as getting you gifts to express our gratitude for your work for the royal and UFG both. When we call you're always there to help. Adult and filly alike we express our thanks in different ways but it always comes out the same." Each princess took a hand of the other. Luna grabbed Cadence's and mine and Twilight the same.

They all looked at me and brought me in for a hug. "Thank you Ryder for all you've done!" They all said in unison. I felt a warm sensation between us all. A heart warming sensation. Nothing wet. At least I hoped not.

I smiled hugging all of them. "Thank you but all this isnt necessary!" I said. "I aim to fix problems, lives and knicknacks of all shapes and sizes even if i have to sacrifice something to make it happen... even if it is my duty to do so or not." The princesses broke the hug and backed away. Each had a smile on her face.

Luna took my hand. "Well would you at least accept your gifts from us? I know one gift you'd love to see!" She said. "I checked on it every day since it was requested and even had to test it a few times just to make sure it wasnt tampered with! I just wanted you to see it in prime condition!" She lead me over to a blocked off spot with nothing sitting on either side of the spot. She left me a few yards away as she went up to the blocked off spot. It was just with a large curtain suspended by little birds. Fluttershy must've trained them. Anyways she looked to me just being weary of the birds above her. "Alright... Are you ready General Ryder?" I gave a nod getting a bit excited. She looked to the birds. "Alright now lovelies! Part the curtain and lets see what's behind it!" I watched as the birds just dropped the curtain and flew off. Shining and the others actually had to duck out of the way just in case some 'bombs' dropped. I looked back only to see MY 'Dominator' as one of THE most badass cars in all of the games I had. My car was just all out awesome. It was pitch black, red metal flaking giving off an evil glow in the light, Not only that it had the logo of the side I usually take in the game on the side. The logo was just a red and black tribal bird thing. It was the logo of the Clan of the Blood Crow. I loved it. I got a closer look at my car and the inside was just a blood red interior. Red leather seating, chain steering wheel and black leather on the dash board.

"...This is... I just..." I looked to Luna and almost tackled her hugging her. She laughed a bit as Big Mac and AJ came over to take a look at the car.

"I can tell you're speechless! Did I do well?" I nodded just laughing my ass off at this awesome sight. I was laughing more than Dash at her own jokes. She laughed and nudged me away. "Alright alright simmer down! You've got a few more things to go! You can come back to this car in a little while!"

Twilight pulled me away. "Come on Ryder." She said taking my hand as Cadence and Shining pulled Applejack and Big Mac away from my car. "I've got Spike upstairs making us pancakes! And you havent eaten yet I know!" We all just started walking to the nearest elevator. I took a few deep breaths and just started to calm down. But as we neared the elevator the paws appeared again. This time going outside. I couldnt pull away at all. My vision blurred as we entered the elevator and when the doors closed my hearing went. I braced myself against Shining before we started going up. He looked to me trying to say something but I couldnt hear. Everyone looked to me as I grew weaker and weaker before ultimately passing out.

As I sat in the darkness I heard his voice. "...you're supposed to follow the paws... no matter what...." The voice said. I knew it was him though... I knew it was Celestia and Luna's father. "...As I said I'm trying to help in a way... follow and things will be better... Let this be a warning...." I couldnt answer. If I could I'd chew him up and spit him out.... If I knew how to get to him besides through Celestia and killing myself in some ritual I'd rip his fucking head off.

Anyways when I awoke I found myself in a hospital robe inside Princess Twilight's medbay. The curtains I had were Wonderbolts themed. I couldnt help but think this either had something to do with Dash or some kid she had to give a bed to for some sort of treatment. I looked down at myself and just saw me with no pants. Just boxers and my shirt. I looked around and saw my pants, shoes and socks all sitting on a chair with a note taped to the back. I slowly got up feeling kinda weak. I was thirsty as all hell. When I hobbled over to the note I took it as I swatted my shoes off my pants and onto the ground. I looked at it in my right as I grabbed my pants with my left.

'Sugarcube...

I hope you wake up and see this... Sorry we couldnt be there after ya passed out. Twilight just told us to go home and eat

breakfast while ya rested... Now I aint sayin' its your fault this was ruined but... it just put a damper on today... I'd've letcha have a

day with Shining and Big Mac just to let me spend some time with Twilight and the other princesses.... Just... please call me once ya

get up n see this. Either that or just find Shinin' and have him tell us.... whichever ya want is alright as long as I know in the end

you're alright... Soon to be back in your arms and with all the love I can give ya...

AJ

P.S.: I might've found somethin' that just made me almost cry whilst makin' ya comfortable on the bed... I see now why ya went back to your place... trying to... old memories...'

That last part had a lot of scribble marks. I think she made random refferences to the fire somehow... rekindle, fire up, and junk like that... I crumpled the note up and shoved it into my pocket before I slipped my pants on and just sat in the chair. I stared at the curtain where it parted. I didnt wanna get up because I was scared. I didnt even know if there were any paws anywhere and I didnt wanna move. I felt for my pockets and found my phone sitting very awkwardly in my pocket. I grabbed it and just swiped through my apps. Three pages of games I dont play much. I tapped on my contacts app when I found it. Applejack was the first one. I tapped her name and hit a little chat bubble icon next to it. Took me to a text chat between her and I. I just texted her that I'm up. Nothing more. Right as I put my phone away I hear a set of heels walking towards me. When the curtains opened I saw Princess Cadence looking a it worried but then when she saw me she gave a sigh of relief. "You're awake... you scared us when you went down..." She said. She came over and just hugged me. "Shining and Big Mac had to carry you here. I wanted to keep Applejack from worrying so I had Twilight send her home. You saw the note right?" I nodded.

I sighed. "...Is Luna still here?" I asked. She nodded into my shoulder before breaking the hug. "You mind bringing her here or at least take me somewhere I can meet her alone?" She nodded.

"Get your shoes on and follow me. I'll text her and tell her to meet us in one of the bedrooms. I'll leave you two so you can talk about what ever. You trust each other that way dont you?" I nodded. "Alright now... hurry please." I nodded and grabbed my shoes as she just turned about and walked out of the curtain. Put my shoes on and just got out of there. After a while we came to Twilight's bedroom. Shining was standing out front checking his phone. He looked to me and smiled but just as he was about to say something Cadence just stopped him and whispered into his ear. Shining huffed and nodded. He walked off and Cadence looked to me. "Alright... You'll be okay right? It's just going to be a little talk?" I nodded.

"Do i seem extremely pissed off to you?" She shook her head. "If I were I'd've told you to just leave me alone. Now uh... thanks for leading me here.... I just dont wanna be rude here."

"Oh its fine Ryder. I know how you are. Shining has experienced too much from you its all he talks about. Other than work of course..." She huffed. "Well... dont keep Luna waiting. I actually still need to get your gift from the dining hall when I get a chance. Contact Shining when you're done okay?" I nodded and went to the door. I knocked on the door and opened it slightly poking my head in.

"Princess Luna? Are you here?" The room echoed slightly.

I heard a door open inside and shut. "Ah Ryder! You're awake!" I heard her say. "Come in! Let's chat!" I slipped inside closing the door. Princess Twilight's room was dimly lit with the curtains shut. There were three shelves on either side of the window all loaded with books of all sorts. How she could move to this after her home was destroyed? I dont know. But at least I know how she feels. Moving somewhere new after your previous home with all of your memories in it was destroyed before your very eyes. Twilight's bed sat against the wall right next to the bathroom and a few nightstands. Luna was just at the side of the bed sitting down. This time she looked a tad tired and she wore a violet night gown but all around happy to see me.

"Oh... I see you're just about to get to sleep here soon... Do you want me to talk with you later?" She shook her head.

"Oh no no come and talk with me!" She patted the bed next to her. "Come and sit down! I dont think I've gotten a chance to sit with you or even hug you since you got back!" I walked over smiling and just sat down on the foot of the bed. She just scooted over and hugged me tight. "I swear you gave me a heart attack when the plane crashed... I thought you were dead... I screamed at mother, I screamed at father and even Shining Armor... I almost told Scootaloo before you showed up... Mother knows how she would've reacted...." I sighed leaning onto her.

"...She cried knowing the house burnt down... but.... I'm not here to talk about that stuff here...." I broke the hug and stood up. "...I... I want to pull a favor...After this I owe you what ever you want... A preordered game or a new console or what ever you need...." She stood up and turned me back around looking me in the eye.

"What is thy favor General? Just say it and get it over with... I can tell thou are pained by what ever it is." I averted my gaze.

"...I... I want to speak with your father.... alone...." She looked to me scared and confused.

"...What ever for? Surely you must need me at your side at least! Is this about Berrie again? There is no need to worry about her any more!" I tried holding back as much as I could. But I broke. Hard.

"DAMMIT JUST TAKE ME TO HIM!" The good thing here is I didnt push her. I just startled her and had her back up.

"O-okay Ryder just calm down! I want to help you here and I shall! But know I will come in with you to see him... I'll just go off to another room or wait outside until you return but I better see you return without a curse or something!" With her knowledge I wasnt cursed but to mine? I was as cursed as an ancient tome written by her father himself. I sighed and just averted my gaze.

"...sorry i just... I'm pissed off and your father is someone I need to yell at..." She looked at me confused.

"Why do you need to yell at him?" I looked to her. She didnt need me to say more. "R-right right. To the underworld we go but... please... dont yell again..." I hugged her.

"...If i yell it's only gonna be at someone who deserves it... you dont deserve it... I'm sorry..." She pushed me away.

"Apology accepted... Now stand back and cover your eyes." I nodded and turned away covering my eyes with my arm. I heard the magical sounds of Luna when she drew out a door. I only found it when I opened my eyes. It glowed slightly but it died down. Looked regal as it was dark. She looked to me and reached for my hand. I took it and gripped it tight. She huffed. "You sure you dont need me there with you?" I huffed.

"...Well... yes and no here... yes because... I'm kinda afraid your father is gonna hurt me in some way and no because... what I need to say is secret..." She huffed.

"What ever it is my father has you under his foot.... and if passing out is any indication of what's to come he's going to hear it from me!" She didnt even knock before just opening the door.

When we entered it was just the same ol' dark castle. We were now walking down a torch lit hallway. Oh the torches were a nice touch... even though I wanted to grab one and stick it up the ass of the owner of this place. But I wanted to be nice for Luna's sake... and for my own life I guess... Anyways we walked all the way until we saw him in the throne room. He shot us a smile as we bowed in respect to him reluctantly. He stood up revealing he was in full armor. Looking ready for a fight or something. "Ah... if it isnt my little Luna and her General..." He said. His voice echoed but i could still hear it in his voice. It being a smug 'I'm not hiding anything' voice. "Tell me... what brings you two here?" Luna stepped forth.

"Father my general would wish to speak with you about things that are happening... I'm willing to believe they're your fault from what he's been through... He is pretty steamed from what he's said... Care to explain?" He laughed a bit.

"Explain what? The fact that I'm using him like a pawn? He owes me... a lot and this is how I give it up for him..."

I growled and flew up to him getting in his face. "HOW THE FUCK DO I OWE YOU?!" I yelled. "MY GOD DAMN HOUSE IS IN ASHES, I ALMOST DIED IN A PLANE CRASH AND I'M FOLLOWING SOME FUCKING GHOST DOG TO FIND THINGS IN DANGEROUS PLACES! DONT TELL ME I FUCKING OWE YOU!" He grabbed me by the neck and threw me to the floor. Luna caught me just an inch before i hit with her magic.

"You owe me because your sister is more favored by the mother of the heavens.... Gifts, chances to see your parents, the multiple times she has seen a celebrity and spent time with them! If I cant affect her with you being away I might as well lower her spirits with you getting everything I can throw at you... just be lucky I havent thrown anything extremely deadly at you..."

"So what was the fucking plane crash? HUH?!" He huffed and pinched my lips shut with his magic.

"That crash could've been worse... I could've caused the doors to malfunction... I could've had terrorists hide amongst your ranks and suicide bomb it into the ground. Instead I only took two lives. The pilots. Your death was narrowly missed... if anything your path would've been obstructed or upon landing i could've had debris fall right on top of you."

Luna growled. "Father! Release him now!" She snapped. He did just that and released my lips. Felt weird. "I demand this tomfoolery stop at once! You've done enough to him!" He huffed stepping down to our level. He even knelt down getting in our faces.

"Fine... Since this little rat disobeyed the 'no telling anyone about the paws' dealy he can tell EVERYONE he wants about them.... Everyone who knows wont have anything happen to them... You might have something mild happen... but you will have a chance that something extremely bad will happen... its small but it will happen whether you want it or not... A taste of what is to happen...." He stood me up with his magic and just kicked me back down. Foot to chest and I definitely flew a few feet. I landed and heard my metal wing scratch the ground.

"FATHER!" Luna snapped as she rushed to my side. I growled as she stood me back up.

I limped towards him. My whole body was sore. The wind actually left my body but I regained it quickly. "...You... Oh if I come down here when I die I'm putting up the biggest fight anyone ever seen down here... I will break my restraints and beat your ass into restraints!" I snapped. "And just know...." I reeled back and decked him in the face with a good punch. "...That is for EVERYTHING you did wrong to my little sister... I heard about the earth quake and the attack... those were your doing... and dont deny it." Luna grabbed my hand and pulled me away.

"Come on... lets go.... we need to get away from assholes and get you doing something relaxing and serene.." She looked back at her father. "AND LETS HOPE SOMEONE LEARNS SOME MANNERS TOWARDS WAR HEROES!" She just helped me out of the underworld and closed the door up before we sat down on the bed. She whimpered a bit hugging me. "...How could he be so vile...? He just... How has he hurt you?" I huffed.

"He does all the bad things that happen doesnt he...?" Luna nodded. "Well.. think of everything bad that's happened to me.... He's done al of it... The worst was when I was away..."

".... He's been at it for a while with you I take it.... Why does he take interest in you?" I sighed getting up.

"...I dont know... Let me just take a walk around the castle.... think about this.... I'll let you know where those paws take me... And I hope your father got the message I dont like being messed with...."

Luna nodded and sighed scooting back into the bed and lying down. She was obviously extremely tired. I was just gonna let her sleep. But when I left the room... I just regretted hitting him... what the hell have I done?

A 'Little' Time to Apologize

Alright... Today? Offically the weirdest. I've calmed down from the other day. Got to drive my car back to Sweet Apple Acres and it sounds just AMAZING. Still takes the same gas, still drives about the same. Only difference other than the look is sound. It roars when I rev the engine and honestly I have thought of fucking this car... but I cant. I drive this car with my sister in it. Not to mention i dont wanna hurt myself. Or have my sister, my marefriends sister OR brother finding anything gross... Anyways why this day was weird isnt anything having to do with the gifts. By the by Cadence got me a few games Shining has because she's tired of him complaining about there being nobody to play with and Twilight? She got me a scale model replica of a time machine car from a movie that was released last year. It was pretty good. Remake of all things but it was still pretty good. Anyways.... I was out having a nice run just keeping myself fit. Dash actually was out with me but she was miles ahead. I wore a tank top and some basketball shorts along with some new running shoes I bought. I was out for maybe.... I dont know an hour? I was out by Sugar Cube Corner stopping to get a drink. I actually stopped just in front sitting down on the curb. Even looked at my phone to stop my music. I sighed wiping sweat from my forehead. "....Sweet Celestia.... Dunno how much I can keep this up..." I said. I looked around, seeing if I could find Dash. Nope. She just was gone. I looked back at the sweets shop behind me. Even got up and went to the door. Inside I saw Mr. Cake just wiping down the counter. It was quiet and pretty baron in here.

Mr. Cake looked to me. "Well hey there Ryder! Been a while hasnt it?" He asked. I nodded.

"Yeah... honestly gotta say I missed being in here a bit... Pinkie told you I came back from the war not too long ago right?" He nodded. "Well... lets just leave it at that. I'm honestly surprised Pinkie hasnt actually thrown me a party yet." He laughed a bit as he went for a fridge and grabbed a cold water bottle. Even set it on the counter.

"Here. On the house. And I'm actually surprised about that too. Probably setting something up as we speak and probably having it somewhere big." I cracked the water open and even put a few bits on the counter. Sure he said it was free but I didnt feel like I should take it. I sighed after one of the first sips.

"...Yeah... Just hope she hasnt gotten sick of parties... And there is the inevitable toll of my ears ringing again from a party cannon...." He gave a chuckle.

"Ah no worries. Pinkie is kinda grounded from her party canons at the moment. She blew one a little too close to nap time for the twins and they cried for at least an hour before they finally went to sleep. Dont expect it anytime soon. And if she was here and heard that she wouldnt be able to do anything but yell at you." I looked at him questionably.

"She isnt here? Where is she?" I walked over to a table and sat down.

"She's off with Mrs. Cake and the kids. Apparently one of their little friends is having a birthday party and Pinkie is throwing it at their friends house. So... I'm stuck here. Not even sure if I should stay open. Been here all morning and nobody came in. Saw Dash run by but she didnt even come in for a water like you." I laughed a bit.

"She's a bit of a 'pull through and keep running' type of mare. Dangerous but she does it. The only time she hasnt done it well was when she was hospitalized for overexertion. She did end up going home but with an IV in her arm. The next day...." I averted my gaze. But uh... things didnt exactly go as planned here. I sat there for about a few minutes before Mr Cake slipped into the back leaving me to watch over the storefront. Nobody came in... well... except Dash.

When I saw Dash she looked a bit ticked and sweatier than Big Mac after a day of lifting nothing but apple buckets. Trust me he can carry two over his shoulders at a time. I can barely get one, half filled off the ground. Dash was wearing her Wonderbolt Blue track pants and a wonderbolts theme basketball jersey. Even had her mane tied in a ponytail. She huffed walking over to me wiping her forehead. "Damn I knew I'd lose ya back there. What happened?" She asked. I huffed.

"Well unlike you I wanna keep hydrated even when I might not need it. You just go for a dry mouth, like you've been eating nothing but salt and sand for the whole day and when that day is done you could pass out or realize your own idiocy!" She snatched my water from me and took a drink.

"Well it isnt my fault it was insanely hot that day I went into the ER!" I facepalmed.

"...Yeah... it is..." Her weather directory for that day SPECIFICALLY read partly cloudy through out the day. She read the one for NEXT WEEK and didnt expect it to burn up. She was fined a bit for creating a heatwave in Ponyville but nothing too bad. I went and took my water back just to chug the rest so she couldnt have any more. Lucky I even let her have any.

"Okay it was one mess up! Big woop! Now are you coming or not?" I sighed going for the recycling bin behind the counter to toss my bottle in.

"Fine just give me a second." She nodded. I went into the back and looked up stairs. "Mr. Cake? I gotta get going here! You gonna be long here?"

I heard a toilet flush and a door open upstairs. "Not really!" I heard him call out. "You have fun! The wife wants me to close up shop since there isnt much business!"

After that we just left. I ran behind Dash for a couple blocks but I slowed down after the third. Bladder started tightening up. Really bad. I mean filling a water balloon with a high powered washer. Except the balloon was made with reinforced rubber. Very unlikely to pop no matter how hard it hits. Big Mac and I actually went to the Crystal Empire one day with Shining for a little friends day before the war. Left Scootaloo with AJ and Rarity. Believe it or not Shining had cleared out a spot below a balcony for us to drop an old kickball full of water. That thing flattened out a bit when water shot out of the hole we filled it with. Guards below said it was actually cool to see but not to do it again because of the risk. Shining agreed as well as Cadence. Anyways before i get off track I stopped and checked my phone map for any place around me that was close that could've had a bathroom. None anywhere. When I did find a place it was one.... that... I just dont know how to put this. Right when i got out of the maps app Dash called me on my phone. I answered leaning on a mailbox with one hand between my legs. "Ryder? Did I lose you again?" She asked. "Come on I'm just at the corner of Maple and Tremor."

I gasped a bit feeling a bit of bladder pain. "Yea well... Meet me at Alister way at a shop called 'Paddy Cake's'.... I think its a new bakery in town but I dont know... I really just gotta take a piss and that's the only place for a while.... I'm just right around the corner from it." She sighed.

"Alright I'll meet you there.... But uh... Can I at least tell you something first?" Yeah I just hung up there and shoved my phone back in my pocket before bolting across the street.Each step was agony. I swear I nearly pissed myself hitting the curb.

I hurried around the corner and followed the block around until I found it. Must've opened recently since it had a big old plastic banner. Orange letters over a leaf clover. Wasnt really appealing to the eye but it definitely stood out. When I went inside I just froze. Not only because I was about to piss myself but because I realized this wasnt a bakery at all. All I saw were foal care supplies. Diapers, bottles, pacifiers and even clothing. I looked around and saw a blue unicorn mare with a dark blue horn all clad in a cutesy pink dress. She smiled at me. "Welcome ta me shop!" She said. Her accent was noticable but didnt gargle up in speech like most ponies i've met with. "Can I help ya find anythin'?"

I groaned slightly. "...P-please tell me you have a bathroom here.... I cant run anymore...." I said. She kinda gasped a bit and took my hand. Very firm grip for a mare. Muzzle was just a little different from the other mares but i didnt wanna bring any notice to it. Anyways she lead me into the back of her shop through a door but only showed me to a changing room. Almost foal like but everything was a lot bigger. Changing table was my size, there was a huge crib back there and even a large diaper bin with shelves upon shelves of diapers looking not anywhere near a foals size.

"Can't promise plumbin' but I can promise ya a quick relief if that's what yer after! Just grab one of me personal paddin's and use it! I dont mind sharin'!" She let go of my hand and just walked to the door pulling a curtain aside. "Some privacy if ya dont want anyone seein' ya. I'll check on ya if ya need me to." Ohh I just couldnt believe what I got myself into. I had no other choice here. I walked over to a shelf, grabbed a white diaper and opened it shoving it into my pants just to go and wet myself. Oh it felt so good but I just wanted to cry because it hurt so bad. Didnt tab it up or anything. Just went into it. It did kinda splash a bit and stain my pants slightly. It just felt so wrong but... so right.... I may or may not have popped a boner. When I did finish there I blushed and took the diaper out of my pants after waddling over to the diaper bin. Yeesh it stunk when I opened it but at least i know it isnt for display only.... Anyways I just sat down in a folding chair right by the door. Just started thinking about what I just did and... why it just turned me on like that. I know I had AJ model one for me and I've had to wear some for a little bedwetting problem but... it didnt do anything like this to me. I sat there for a few minutes and just had my boner fade off.

I leaned back and heard the door open again. "Uh.... Excuse me?" A familiar voice said. "Did a stallion with a metal wing run in here? Told me to meet him here." I heard the mare laugh a bit.

"Yea he's here. Just in the back on the brink of wettin' himself. I was actually just about to see if he isnt cryin' softly in a puddle. I'm not willin' to clean up a mess unless its made by yours truly. Even then its kinda hard not to clean it." I heard footsteps and made sure everything on me was straight and not showing anything. When the curtains were drawn back the mare walked back in with Dash on her heels. Dash gave a bit of a sigh as she helped me up from the chair.

"Well it's good to see you're still dry.... mostly... I can see you nearly pissed your pants..."

I blushed as I looked to the mare. "Well... I can thank this lovely young lady for helping me..." I said.

The mare blushed a bit. "Well... I thank ya for learnin' your terminology but I still would like to be called a stallion even if I'm in drag." She... HE.... He said. I took a double take. Dash did too. "Well it aint every day I can run a shop and not be judged for what I like doin' here. Names Paddy Cake by the by. And yours might be?" I blushed even harder now knowing this supposed 'mare' was a stallion.

"...Uh... Names Ryder. And uh... this is my cousin Rainbow Dash." Paddy smiled brightly.

"Well it's nice to meet ya both. First off I wanna apologize that I had ya wet yourself in one of me diapers but ya look like ya needed it. Got a bathroom upstairs but you look like you werent gonna make it even half way up there."

Dash looked at me and snickered. "You? Wet yourself... in a diaper WILLINGLY?!" She said. She started to laugh at me making me blush more.

I looked to Paddy. "Well if it wasnt for miss 'bed wetter' here taking me on a run I wouldnt've ran in here." Dash shut right up as I gave a snicker. Paddy gave a laugh as well. "While we're here why dont you set her up with some bed wetting pads if you have any. She's gonna need it sooner or later." I looked to Dash. She was red in the face and you actually could see it through all the blue. She just grabbed my arm and hugged it as if she were about to either surprise me and hit me or just cry it out. I just sighed and hugged her. "Yeah I'm sorry here... You need something from here though? Maybe a ride back home?" Dash broke off of me and just looked to the crossdressing stallion.

"...D-do you have any bed wetting pads at all? I just... I'm tired of staining my sheets..."

Paddy smiled. "I got just whatcha need here." He said taking her hand. "Even give em to ya for half price after I laughed atcha." I watched as she walked with him out into the sales area. I followed and... I just felt at home for some reason. I had to get a package of diapers for myself. Cost about twenty bits for fourteen. Expensive but worth it for some Funny Foal instead of Silly Filly crap... That's where AJ got her diaper. But I'm not gonna go all the way to Canterlot for that stuff

Anyways I had to call Gilda just to get Dash home. She didnt wanna run anymore and I'm damn sure she didnt wanna run with a thing of bed wetting pads. I actually had Paddy hold mine in the shop because I wanted to chat with him. Anyways as I loaded Dash into the car- a 1987 Mythic and a beautiful muscle car at that- and looked to Gilda who wore a tank top and some sweat pants. Had to wake her up from a nap but she didnt mind. I sighed. "There... All strapped in and ready to rest." I said as I clicked Dash's belt buckle in. "You just head out. I'll be around here for a while. Kinda wanna keep going for my run. If I need you again I'll call you okay?"

Gilda gave me a smile as Dash leaned the seat back to lie on her side. "Hey no problem! I can meet you back here after I drop her off." She said. "I kinda needed to talk with you when I get a chance." I smiled and nodded.

"Well... that's a good idea... just text me if I'm not outside. I'll be out if you're patient. Okay?" She nodded. "Alright good. Well... I'll see you later Gil. Keep Dash calm and if she does spark up please make sure she punches something that isnt living okay?" She nodded again and I closed the door. I watched as they drove off and just took a little breather before turning back to the shop.

When I entered back into the shop I saw Paddy just fixing his shirt on a new outfit. He wore jeans and a long sleeve with a kids TV show print on it. But surprisingly still wore dress shoes and a diaper. The pants werent doing much to cover but he was trying. He looked to me. "There y'are." He said. "Thought you'd gone and leave without your paddin'. Lucky you I can actually ask around and get em to ya. Ever heard of a mare named Pinkie Pie?" I nodded. "She comes to this shop sometimes and tells me about what her friends are doin' and I gotta say she's a mare who loves her diapers. Always buys some in advanced so she can pick em up an' hide em when she has a chance. Guess'n she has somepony at her home that she doesnt wanna find her stash." I huffed as I sat against the wall next to Paddy. He sat with me.

"...Yeah... just wants to feel as young as her 'birthday foals' or what have you. But... I just..." I blushed averting my gaze. "....I'm just confused on something..." Paddy took my hand.

"Anythin' I can shed some light on?" I hesitantly nodded. "Well what's that shadow in your mind?" I glanced at the door a bit. "Ah i see... somethin' that needs to be private... Just give me a sec here...." He got up and hurried to the door locking it right up. Still felt weird to have a barely displayed foal store. He came back and helped me up. "There we are. Now for a little added privacy..." He lead me to the back where all the large foal stuff was and sat me on the big crib. "Now then... whenever you're ready...." I took a deep breath and sighed just looking at the diapers again.

"...Well... I feel like I was enjoying that diaper a little too much.... after i went I just tossed the diaper and... I was just enjoying like i was seeing my marefriend nude...." I looked to him blushing hard. "....Why did that happen...? And please dont give me that 'when a stallion loves a mare' shtick... I've gotten it way too many times..." Paddy smiled and gave a little laugh.

"Well your just finding somethin' ya enjoy about yourself. You seem to be gettin' a kick outta these diapers. Wearin' and wettin' em when you're a fully potty trained colt. I can say it's given me a little stiffy every now and again but ya learn to just suppress it." He shifted and stood up. "I gotta ask ya somethin here..." He walked over to the diapers and took a few out. "...When was the last time ya went and had yourself an accident? I aint sayin' nothin' like what ya just did or you just didnt wanna get up during a movie. I'm talkin' when you were scared, when you were sleepin' or even when you were frozen and in some sort of pain that just pushed somethin' out." I sighed.

"Last time....? Hard to remember.... I think it was when I was on some heavy painkillers and laid up with a gun shot wound..." Paddy gasped.

"Y'were shot?!" He said looking to me shocked. I nodded. "'The hell happened for that?"

"Okay I'm a guard... General in fact and I just got home from the war not too long ago.... While I was there some idiot from my own regiment shot me when I was exercising my wings. I actually blacked out from the pain from the time I landed to the time I was bandaged up. While I was asleep one night I went and pissed myself from a twinge of pain but after that I woke up wet and the medic realized they gave me too strong of meds that should've killed me but took it easy on me... Guess who ever was keeping their eyes on me kept me from OD'ing.... Even if it did cost me from being sanitary..." He gave a sigh.

"Lordy I thought you were on the other side of crime and y'just have that sensitive side. Either would be fine with me but the other wouldnt get too far. Y'can count on that." He went over to a large drawer set and opened the middle drawer on the right side. "Say... what size shirt are ya? I might have somethin' here that can fit you...."

"I'm an extra large in shirts.... Trying to say I'm fat?" Paddy gasped a bit and pulled a few large onsies out. These were pretty big. Looking just about my size too. One blue, one with little cars on it and the last one was jungle camo.

"No no Ryder! I jus' want ya to have a few things here. Seem like ya need a little step into 'littlehood'." I got up and looked to Paddy confused.

"Littlehood? What the hell is that?"

"How do i put this without callin' ya a baby...." Paddy looked to me as he started loading a paper bag with the package of diapers I bought and the stuff he pulled from the dresser and the shelves. "Well... ya enjoy bein' cared for and get somewhat of a sexual kick off of it. Any chance ya got someone to help ya through this? Like for changin' and feedin?" I sighed.

"Well... my marefriend doesnt know about this and I didnt even know until now... I mean... I like to see my marefriend in diapers but... I dont know about this...." Paddy handed me my things and just patted my back.

"Well have a talk with her. If ya need to take your time I can understand. Even better I'll give ya my number before ya leave. I can answer any questions over the phone. If ya need to be discrete just go on and send me a text. I can handle it." After he gave me his number he sent me on my way. Even gave me half the money I paid back but... as I sat outside waiting for Gilda I just thought of all the embarrassment I'd get hit with just knowing Dash could text everyone she knows that will spread shit around town and just out my secrets to them. Like no joke when I say everyone in school knew i shit my pants one day when she made me watch a scary movie... Even joked about my teacher wanting to put me in diapers in front of the whole class.... Well... Until Aunt Misty punished her after the teachers quote 'caught her spreading rumors that targeted me for bullying' Oooh I had fun with her after that. Every time she embarrassed me I did her too. She and I ended up suspended for a few days because we got into a fight after I threatened to tell everyone she wet her bed and has to wear training pants to bed and sometimes school. We fight like siblings but hey what are ya gonna do?

Maybe after a half hour Gilda was there again to get me. I had everything in the bag i had my diapers in and just tossed it in the trunk before I hopped in the front seat. She had some metal music playing on the radio. Didnt really know who I was listening to but.... I was willing to listen to something other than my thoughts. "You alright Dweeb?" She asked.

I glanced at her and shrugged. "...Dunno... Things just.... confusing...." I replied. She huffed as she blew around a few corners. Something I'd get her for but I allowed it anyways.

"Look.... You know I dont say this often but.... I'm willing to help you out if you need it. I've got a few bits to lend and maybe someone to spend time with if you need it... And hell if you get caught somewhere and cant get to your guard buddies I'd come to your rescue if you wanna look the other way on a little non lethal vigilante justice...." I huffed.

"Well... We'll see about the vigilante justice thing. I can handle my own. But.... Maybe right now I need a trusted voice to calm the argument in my head...."

"Any chance you wanna talk about it over some food? I can swing by McHoovians if you want." I didnt know what to answer. My stomach was basically having an argument as well as my mind. I sighed.

"...do what ever.... I just wanna go back to what I'm pretty much forced to call home...." Gilda sighed and just drove. She did go through McHoovians and got me a hayburger with jalapenos and fries and drink but... I just kept the warm bag in my lap as we drove back to Sweet Apple Acres. Weirdly enough nobody was here. She parked off to the side near my car. This post-apocalyptic dominator.... Holy shit this was still blowing my mind.... Anyways after she parked we both got out of the car. I let her run to the door and open it with the key AJ gave me and she let me get my shit out from the trunk of her car. I just hurried with it back to the door fearing that A- Dash would be somewhere ready to take a pic and spread it online, B- AJ and company would drive up to see me with the bag or me just tripping, spilling these things all over the place and me just pissing my pants scared trying to pick it all up. Anywho Gilda went on to the toilet upstairs. I didnt see it but for some reason the bathroom upstairs makes some sounds echo so sex in the shower is a bad idea. I hurried into my room... and AJ's I guess... Still not used to this... I kinda looked around the room just wondering where I could stash this stuff. Closet? Not even. I tried putting something up there at the top and it ended up falling onto Big Mac when he went to get AJ some clothes while she was in the shower. Under the bed? Not even there either. I dont want AJ going for something under there to find one. Those were the best hiding places but the worst as well. I just thought of everywhere I could hide but then I thought of ways AJ or somepony could find em. The worst being out in the open and me being unable to explain myself. But all of that was interrupted when someone put their hands on my shoulder making me throw everything up into the air before falling back. I heard a bit of a feminine grunt as I felt whoever tighten their body keeping me from hitting the floor. I looked up and low and behold it was Gilda looking a bit worried.

"You okay there dweeb?" I huffed just getting my legs under me to stand again.

"Please... Dont ever do that again...." I said taking a deep breath. Gilda smiled nervously.

"Oh uh... sorry dweeb.... You do obviously have something going on in your head... Cant pay attention to your surroundings and...." She looked past me at the mess I left all over the floor now. The loose diapers, the onesies and the package of diapers with a now ripped and tattered paper bag lying next to it. I blushed hard as she looked back at me. My face felt just hot. I swear I was going to melt from this. Gilda looked back to me.

"...Is this what has you silent and confused?" I nodded hesitantly before covering my face. I whimpered a bit feeling her brush by me and just hear the crinkle of the plastic packaging.

"...Gilda... I-i didnt... I never..." I grunted a bit just giving up on an explanation. I collapsed to my knees and just feeling like I was just gonna puke, scared of what she could do. Who she could tell. How bad she'd make it to embarrass the hell out of me and make me hide away. I heard the papery or plasticky crinkle of a diaper and the springs on the bed creak.

"Ry calm down! it's fine!" I dropped to my hands just looking on everything with my tearful eyes. "Alright dude... deep breaths... stand up... and turn around..." I stared at the floor having my tears drop down staining the wood. I stood as I was told and breathed as deep as I could before turning around. From what I saw I just couldnt breathe. Just blushed harder than I was when I dropped the diapers. There on the bed I saw Gilda with her pants pulled to her knees and she was just sitting with the diaper between her legs. She was giving me a nervous smile. "...It's okay that you like this stuff... hell... While you and Dash were out I peed my pants in her shower and... well... this is the kinda stuff that I wish I could wear all the time, potty training or no potty training...." Her cheeks grew more rosier as she smiled more. Is it wrong to just tongue kiss a griffon in your current marefriends bed? I guess if she allowed it but... fuck this was hot. And... it honestly compelled me to do this the way she said she wouldnt judge me... Gilda nudged me off and giggled a bit. "C'mon.... just tape me up and lets get to cuddling dweeb!" As much as I wanted to cuddle I had a better idea. I just started to tease her while I lifted her shirt just getting a good look at her firm tits. Nice and plump. I started to bite on her nipples and she just held my head there. I'd say I was hungry but this was a completely different kind of hunger. She released my head but I just kept going. I felt her tug at my pants a bit before just dropping them letting my cock breathe. I couldnt help but climb on top of her and start teasing her. She grasped my cock as I started to kiss her and guided it while I was blinded by lust. She gasped as I just slipped in. Oh she was so warm.... As I slowly thrusted she wrapped her arms around me.

"....I... I want you.... so bad right now...." She just started to nibble on my ear and there I just started to hump her. She honestly makes the cutest noises when fucked. Ooh I couldnt help but just listen to her moans as I pounded her. Her tits just bounced with each thrust. I looked into her amber eyes as I just fell into bliss. She moaned almost screaming and I just felt her cunt tighten around my cock. I started to thrust faster and faster just making her go cross eyed falling into her own sort of bliss. Suddenly I felt a warm splash hit my crotch.

"....F-fuck... I... I pissed myself..... I'm pissing all over you..... I.... I-I'm breaking...." I looked down and sure enough she was just wetting herself which turned me on even more. I started to thrust faster and faster before I grunted going balls deep just melting with in her. I came hard just making her cry out. I couldnt help but just give her a sloppy wet kiss before collapsing onto her. "...Y-yeah.... now THAT.... was awesome.... didnt know you had it in ya dweeb... dweeb.... dweeb..." Her voice started to echo a bit and I honestly started to nod off. when I did just completely black out I heard her clearer. "Dweeb? C'mon dweeb! Get up!" I opened my eyes and found myself in my room at Sweet Apple Acres.... yes. Same room as AJ again... not gonna get used to it. I was stripped of my shirt and put into basket ball shorts. I looked around and saw Gilda sitting at the side of the bed. She looked a bit worried yet slightly relieved. "Damn... thought you'd never wake up...." I wiped my forehead feeling sweaty. And just to move my mane out of my eyes.

"....What... what happened....?" She got up on the bed and hugged me.

"You fainted after your diapers went everywhere.... Guess all the blood rushed to your face and you just went down..." I blushed hard.

"....So we... didnt fuck....?" She shook her head.

"Nope... You've been out for about an hour and half of that time you spent it with a stiffy.... be glad I actually covered you before you ended up creaming yourself." I curled up slightly. She shushed me. "Hey... its alright.... my mouth is shut about that. You might be a dweeb but you're still my friend here."

"....Jeez.... I feel like Big Mac when AJ found that stuffed toy in his bed..." I moved a bit feeling a squishy sensation under me. I pushed Gilda off of me and looked down at myself. "....Great.... just pissed myself while I was asleep too...." I looked back to Gilda. "As if I couldnt embarrass myself enough...." Gilda huffed.

"Well... at least you werent in public when you wet yourself dweeb. Dash told me while you were out running you nearly wet your pants and ended up wetting yourself in a diaper at that shop back there. Gotta say that's better than walking around with a stain running between your legs." I huffed.

"Yeah... even better that you were the only one to know about these diapers other than Dash...." Gilda blushed and averted her gaze.

"About that...." I grunted a bit and just hid my face. "....Big Mac came home early and saw me padding you up.... But dont worry! I told him it was a diaper I got for Dash as a prank but I didnt know when you went to the toilet last and he just said it was fine but I was gonna be the one to change you if you did do something like that... You uh... you need a fresh one....?" I got up and shook my head.

"No... I just... I just wanna change outta this real quick...." I looked to her as I went for my drawers. "Did you hide the others somewhere?" Gilda nodded coming over to me and dropping my shorts. Just a soaked diaper.

"Got em in a new paper bag I found with a bunch of others under the sink downstairs. I hid your little onsies with your other shirts and the bag of diapers is under the bed. I got the plastic packaging in my pocket and I'll toss it when I get out of here. Okay?" I nodded as she just took my diaper off. "Jeez Mr. Soggybutt! Next time you gotta take a nap like that try and just make sure you use the toilet before that." I honestly blushed hard and felt a big weight get lifted off me quite literally. I huffed kicking my shorts aside grabbing a pair of boxer shorts.

"Just... go toss that and I'll meet you downstairs." She gave me a kiss on the cheek and nodded. I just blushed as she went for the door. All I heard was it opening and closing.

Anyways just as I was trying to decide what shirt to grab after putting on some jungle camo shorts a knock came to the door. "Ry?" I heard Big Mac call out. "Ry you alright in there?" I huffed picking out a plain black shirt.

"Just get in here.... I know you wanna laugh just get it over with." I heard the door open as I put my shirt on. Metallicolt. Loved this shirt. Actually one of the ones I've saved from the fire. I looked back only to see Big Mac in jeans and an off white tank top.

"Have fun on your run with Dash?" I walked over to the bed and shrugged. Not sure how to answer. "Huh... and I recall you sayin' before ya left this mornin' that ya didnt wanna sit around the house all day? Seemed happy to even get out of the house! What happened with your mood? You didnt pass by that burnt carcass now did ya?" I shook my head sighing.

"....Big Mac...You ever feel you did something completely wrong even if it felt so right....?" I looked to him as he sat on the bed next to me.

"Depends on what that thing was... You didnt ditch Dash somewhere did you? If ya did and she's pissed hell I'd like to know your reasonin' on that." I huffed.

"Kinda... I did ditch her but... I just almost made her cry and it takes a lot to make her cry from me...." He looked to me confused.

"The hell did you do there?"

"...Okay so... she made fun of me because I stopped somewhere to use the bathroom but the guy there knew I wasnt gonna make it to his toilet and just gave me a diaper to use and.... at the time i didnt care because I had to piss so bad... but yeah she made fun of me for using a diaper and i retaliated by blabbing about her bed wetting.... Normally she'd hit me or yell at me or something but... she just clammed up and hugged me.... Like she forgave me but without saying it.... Kinda stayed like that while we waited for Gilda but.... Why do I feel bad all of a sudden?" He got up and picked me up off the bed.

"Well... Look at it this way. AJ and I start fightin' about something and we start tellin' ponies secrets about each other but it only goes on until someone stops and cries about what was said. Not kidding when I say AJ told Pinkie one of my secrets and I had myself some alone time to where I cried. Come to find out Pinkie had a similar problem to mine and we both gave AJ a bit of business because of what she did. Maybe what you did just hit right on the head and maybe you're kickin' yourself because somethin' inside ya has been sayin' 'hey she's wettin' the bed and you've gone and done that yourself'. Maybe it werent that recent or maybe it was but I aint gonna pry on that. You just call up Dash and maybe invite her over here and maybe start spending a little time together. And dont quote me on this but... have you actually sat down with Dash since you got back? Hang out and get to know what the hay went on while you were fightin' your own battles?" I actually gave it a bit of thought. When was the last time I sat with Dash and spoke with her one on one? I huffed just walking over to the window.

"...Maybe you wanna go downstairs and tell Gilda I might need to head out again....this time to Dash's place...." I looked to Big Mac. "...Tell AJ and Scoots I'm not gonna be home tonight.... And I really wanted to cuddle with AJ tonight...." Big Mac came over to me and hugged me.

"It's alright... She'll understand.... Scoot? Hell.... I'd say take her with ya but.... I dont think she'd wanna hear everything that's happened to her after she experienced it...." He broke the hug and just patted my shoulder. "If Scoot does start to complain I'll give her a little time to stop it before I call you and have you do the talkin'. Okay?" I nodded walking him to the door.

"Oh uh... think I can borrow one of your packs? Mine is.... somewhere but taking time to find it isnt gonna be a good idea...." He nodded and left the room.

Not long later I was back in Gilda's car heading down the road just tapping away at my phone. I had my stuff sitting on my lap. Packed pretty much everything. New socks, a few shirts, pants and.... Yes I did this... I packed a few diapers away and a onsie.... I only packed it because I want Dash to feel better about herself. Anyways Gilda looked to me. "So.... did you like waking up in a wet diaper?" She asked me. I shrugged a bit. "Well... Guess if you already dont know I've got a little kink myself for giving a little 'gold' every now and then...." I looked to her confused.

"What?" I saw her blush a bit.

"Okay... maybe I wet myself when nobody is around sometimes.... It just feels so good... Hell back in my old apartment when I lived alone I nearly pissed myself every day! The only time I didnt piss my pants was when I had company over or if I was running low on clothes to wear." She glanced over at me. "And hell seeing you piss a diaper? Made me wanna stand you up and get under you every time you slept like that!" I blushed hard as I put my phone away.

"....Gil... As much as I'd love to give you a golden shower AJ might have to be asked to do something like that.... Dont mean to sound like a downer here but.... I really dont want to do something that'd piss AJ off.... I mean... she might allow me to watch you strip down but.... I dont know about giving someone a golden shower.... You'd really have to convince her that it was your idea and that you'd want it too. I dont want to make it seem like I'm taking advantage of you but hell you like being forced to do stuff like that right?" She sighed.

"Within reason I guess." She stopped at a light and looked around. Few cars on the road but nothing higher than our car. "Hey Ry... I wanna know.... Would you wanna have a little fun before you get to your cousins? It'll be one sided but I might have to pull off to get ready for it." I sighed just thinking about it. Didnt really think this was gonna be such a good idea but... it was something.

"Okay just a question here.... does this have anything to do with us possibly getting in trouble?" Gilda huffed as the light turned green.

"Fine we wont have any fun before we get there but the option is still open to you anytime we're together." I sighed.

"...Sorry Gil... being a guard comes first.... if I get caught doing something bad there goes my fucking job.... I might as well just turn in my badge even if I didnt do anything bad.... I'm just..." I grunted and just hid my face tearing up.

"And... why do you think that? Why should you turn in your badge?" I sniffled.

"....I'm not fit for guard work right now.... I'm injured, I woke up freaking out the past few nights after that fucking plane crash..... Watch me fire off a gun in the range and just freak out again like when this shit started with me being General of the guard...." Gilda sighed as she pulled over to the side of the road.

"Alright you're being such a dweeb right now! Celestia looks at you and sees someone who got injured and got back up. Dash just ran with someone who had his mind set on not pissing himself in public. If you were wheelchair bound yeah you probably would've wet yourself but do you think about Scootaloo from time to time after the accident?" I nodded. I constantly thought about Scootaloo after the plane crash. After I got back to the castle and into hospital care I kinda was freaking out thinking I'd never be able to teach her to fly. I might've had a little accident or two waiting for the surgery to take place. I thought they'd just mess up trying to install the new wing and cripple my legs or something. Not only did I get scared thinking about not being able to walk any more or fly, I did get kinda worried that I wouldnt be able to return to my duty as General or anything. I'd be back to square one except not at home.

"...Yeah... I do think about her a lot...."

"And what does she see when she looks at you?" I stayed silent. "You wanna know what I think she sees? I think she sees someone who she looks up to. She sees someone who doesnt back down to any challenge. Not even if it is from being a responsible big brother who just so happened to escape from a fire that started in his own home after he had been involved in a plane crash. I'm not saying this as some fucking thief or speedster. I'm saying this as someone who cares about your well-being as well as you care about mine. I'm sure your superior- whether that's a princess or someone else entirely- wouldnt even let you give up your badge. They know you're strong even with a few weaknesses behind the scenes. And even when those weaknesses are revealed you still manage to stay strong no matter what. Now just shut up and let that sink in. We have somewhere we need to be. Okay?"

I didnt answer. I just sat there staring out the window and listening to the radio. Nothing notable but just some punk songs I had no clue what to feel about. By the time we got to Dash's place I was just a mess. Sobbing because I felt bad for what I did earlier, felt bad for what I was thinking and just.... what I've been through. It all just integrated in my mind making me just one horrid mess. Gilda had to lift me out of the car with my bags and drag me to my cousins doorstep. She had to bang on the door for a few minutes just to get Dash to open it. Once she did Gilda dragged me inside and tossed me onto the couch where I just curled up. I saw Dash hugging Gilda. She was dressed in a tank top and basketball shorts with the waistband of a diaper poking up over the waist of the shorts. She looked kind of defeated. Gilda couldnt help but push Dash off onto me closing the door. Dash looked to me with tears in her eyes. Just as I was about to say something she raised her knee and it landed with everything she had right on my leg. It hurt so much but I'm glad it didnt hit my stomach or my crotch but I just pretended it hit my crotch to make her feel better. "DONT YOU EVER EVER DO THAT AGAIN YOU ASSHOLE!" She yelled in my face as I cringed hard holding myself. "That isnt the first time you've done something like that but it will be the last!" She broke down crying hugging me.

I groaned a bit sitting up. "....I-I'm sorry.... you just piss me off too much..." I said. "....I-If you didnt do that... maybe we'd be on b-better terms...." I held her close as she cried into my shoulder. "....I'm sorry if I blabbed again about your bed wetting.... we really shouldnt fight like this or.... we might end up like our parents..." She sniffled as Gilda closed the door and set my bags down.

"....Y-you're right.... I dont want us to end up like our parents.... not talking and yelling at each other when we did.... I just.... I missed this... I missed you... I didnt like seeing Scootaloo without her big brother... I just..." I shushed her.

"It's fine... I'm back now..." I looked to Gilda. "....You mind getting the stuff out of my bag and change her? I think she leaked a bit...." Gilda huffed and nodded. We both knew she wasnt in any shape to change herself. I looked back to Dash. "....Dash.... I just feel so bad you had to see Scootaloo like that.... away from me.... sure she was heavily guarded but... those guards were able to hurt her.... I remember getting a letter from Celestia saying she lost Scoot in a mall... She did find her but... after that she had to talk with Scootaloo and she told me Scootaloo gave her a good punch to the jaw.... I did warn her she would do that though... But when she did hit her a guard basically assaulted her... pinned her by her neck... But he was unstable anyways...." I got up and lied her down on the couch. I sat back down on the floor as Gilda got a few diapers ready as well as a few wipes. "....I read his file and it says he has had past reports of abuse against everyone. Why he was given a chance for a guards position I dont know but... Celestia was the best caretaker at the time.... AJ was pissed at me, you were in the hospital injured.... And you remember what Twilight said after my mom and dad were murdered? She made Scoot scream and cry four times. I know I had Rarity and one of our other friends to ask but... Pinkie would give her too much sweets and Fluttershy has so many animals it only takes one bite and she could have rabies or something!" Dash sniffled as her friend dropped her pants and started to change her.

"...Fluttershy checks all her animals and that only happened once.... And.... Honestly.... I did over react after you left.... when i heard you were drafted I just started to freak out in that hospital bed. Nurses had to strap me down so I wouldnt get up and that was when.... T-twilight had me brought into her castle... It was... Fluttershy who told me you got drafted but.... I didnt wanna believe it... I wanted to get up, go to your place and see you sitting in your room with your fucking smug grin.... but no... All I heard from everyone I asked was you were drafted.... I tried to fool myself by thinking that the whole time but it.... it went some other way which made me... kidnap Scootaloo..... I just...." I shushed her and kissed her forehead just letting Gilda finish up. I got up and took one of the diapers for myself before grabbing one of the onsies Paddy gave me. It was the camo one. I hid it where Dash couldnt see while I just ran to her bathroom to change.

When I came out I had my clothes folded up in my arms. I felt so weird being diapered and in my onsie but.... it just felt right. I went to the guest room and looked inside only to see all of Gilda's stuff all over the bed. This was a three bedroom house but the other rooms are Dash's room and her exercise room. I actually just set them down right next to the door on the inside before walking out. I saw Gilda hugging Dash on the couch. Neither of them noticed me until I was about half way down the stairs. Gilda was facing towards the stairs and her jaw dropped. "...Oh my god....." She said. She turned Dash around as I averted my gaze and blushed. All I could hear after that was Dash snickering a bit before outright busting up. Gilda couldnt help but laugh as she got up and came over to me just hugging me. I guess she felt bad for me but hey I wanted to do this. "Jeez dweeb! I thought you wanted to apologize! Not outright humiliate yourself! Where'd you get this thing anyways?"

I sighed as she walked me back over to Dash. "Remember that shop you picked us up from?" I asked. She nodded. "Yeah... there.... shop owner kinda wanted to help me humiliate myself since i blabbed about her bed wetting to him.... She's lucky he doesnt mind hearing about that kinda stuff and is willing to help with that sorta stuff... Gave me a few things like this...." She snickered a bit as she sat me down with Dash. She hugged me as well nearly tackling me down off the couch.

"I wouldnt hold it against ya. I've been getting a little tired hearing her cry about how she pissed herself in her sleep again and again for the past few months. Not only before you were away, while you were away. Hell I can even say she's had a few nightmares about you biting it. And when I say she was scared I had to go from where I was staying in the princesses castle and rush over here to change and wash her sheets and talk her back to sleep. Some took a while others were she was asleep before I even got there but after she was healed by Luna I decided to just move my stuff here. But I guess it hasnt really stopped. Maybe just died down a bit but not stopping." I looked to Dash.

"Now maybe she'll try to potty train herself during the night. I know for a fact that neither of us like pissing our pants for any reason whether its just being unable to get to a bathroom in time or dreaming about it.... You know I worry about you Dash.... Same with Scoot... I'm sure you'd even wanna ride your bike comfortable and maybe get into a Wonderbolts jump suit without cringing with every step. Right?" She nodded on my shoulder still kinda laughing at my outfit. "Well.... it might help to get that to stop... I'll help you if you want okay?" She nodded again and sighed.

Dash broke the hug and looked at me face to face. "...I forgive you but seriously... Ever do that again and I'll have Celestia or Shining diaper you in front of every other guard in Canterlot castle!" She said. I blushed and sighed glancing at Gilda who went over to my stuff starting to root around. I didnt mind. All I had in there were other shirts, some extra diapers and a pack of wipes. But this onsie was going to be my pajamas diaper or no diaper. But in this case diaper.... I'm actually worried I might wet the bed like Dash.... Well... at least I apologized but I dont think this is gonna help me with calming down... Time will tell...

Flightless-ons

Well this is.... This just sucks. Today I had the honor of accompanying Scootaloo to the Wonderbolts Training Facility. This has been just a week after I had visited that store and meeting Paddy. In that time I've sat down, read an entire Daring Do collection signed by A.K. Yearling herself and... I got a picture with it and this picture? I have to have it hidden somewhere where Scootaloo wont see. Not even saying what it is. But yeah last night I stayed with Scootaloo inside of Canterlot and spent the day with her, Soarin and Spitfire. They thanked me for my service and just ADORED Scootaloo while she was with Celestia. Soarin even told me I could call him if he'd wanna foal sit her for a bit while I did what ever but Scoot knows I'd do anything she wanted. Even if I didnt have time at that moment I'd make time somewhere. But that's not about that. This is about what happened today. Me, Soarin, Scootaloo, Celestia and Spitfire were all being flown in Celestia's chopper. I wore a guard uniform I didnt think I'd ever wear again. The new 'vest' that was made from the jacket I had when the plane crashed. Rarity fixed it up to make it more presentable but even added something I saw in a dream. Remember when I had Luna take me to a dream world where she was never Nightmare Moon? Yeah. The Marked Markless. I wore that and some jeans. Soarin and Spitfire wore their wonderbolts uniforms, Scootaloo had her wonderbolts jumpsuit on and I have to say she is so lucky and adorable. Celestia just wore a Wonderbolts teeshirt and some jeans. I had to sit in the front seat while Scootaloo and the rest sat in the back. I couldnt help but look out over Equestria as we flew towards Cloudsdale. Even thought of visiting Aunt Misty and Uncle Red. I heard Celestia sigh over the headset. "To be honest this feels so great to spend time with Scootaloo Ryder." She said. "Ever since she was in my care I've grown to learn about her and reconnect with the commonfolk as I've done years ago. I lost touch and she made me realize it... as well as Twilight and company."

I gave a sigh looking back as best I could. Couldnt see much. Only saw Soarin out of the corner of my eye and the pegasus guard flying us around. "Well that's nice of you to say Princess." I replied. "Scoot has that effect on ponies. She was raised right by..." I trailed off knowing my sister was on the channel.

I heard Scootaloo groan a bit. "Ryder just say it! Stop being such a big baby about them please?" She said. I honestly jumped a bit and blushed hearing a few cackles come through my headphones. I huffed.

"Alright alright..." I took a deep breath and sighed. "... She was raised right by mom and dad... They taught her to be nice to every pony she meets. And even if they're mean to them just try and keep it together long enough before snapping back. And if I know my sister she's got quite the hook to her. Isnt that right princess?"

I heard my sister giggle a bit and sigh a bit. Celestia sighed with her as I looked out at Canterlot just glistening in the morning sunshine. "Yeah she's got quite an arm on her." She said. "I still apologize for that day.... Maybe you-know-who needs to be paid a visit soon. I might even look the other way if you wish to do something out of conduct General. He deserves it still." I sighed.

"That comes later... He's getting what he deserves right now." I looked to the chopper pilot. "How far out from the training facility are we?"

The guard at my side hummed a bit. "ETA is about ten minutes give or take." He said. "By the way General I wanted to ask you a few questions."

"Are they about when I got back or is it something completely different?" The guard was silent. "If it is wait till we land. I might need something to drink before we talk about it okay?" I heard nothing from the guard. He didnt even give a nod.

Anyways I just sat there in silence just listening to some chatter over the headsets between Celestia and the others. Soarin was basically talking with Scootaloo about what they'd be doing when they got to the facility. Celestia had gone off to another channel with Spitfire. I heard them switch over mid conversation. I managed to actually go over to their channel too. "...I'm just worried about him." I heard Princess Celestia say. "He got in a plane crash and I've noticed changes in his behavior and his sleeping habits since he came back."

Spitfire sighed. I just moved my mic away from my mouth slowly. "He's going to be fine." She said. "If I gotta help him like I helped his sister I will. He was lucky to survive even with his injuries. Do you know what injuries he has had? I mean... Other than his wing?" Celestia huffed.

"Spitfire. I'm going to ask you once to cease the questions. Nothing will be released about his injuries or the crash. But trust me he's fine." I flipped back to the other channel just hearing Scootaloo laughing at something Soarin said. But I still just stayed silent.

Somehow I managed to stay quiet all the way to the training facility but my mind was racing. I honestly wanted to forget about the crash and the injuries but my mind just didnt let me forget. After we landed I immediately went with Spitfire to take a tour of the facility. Scootaloo went with Soarin and Celestia. I dont think I've ever seen her this calm or happy around The Wonderbolts before. Well... Calm... before I dropped her with Celestia every time she heard the wonderbolts were having a show on TV she would get so excited and sometimes scream asking me to go see them. I think the only time I said we couldnt was when I was scheduled to accompany Twilight after a terrorist attack attempt in Manehattan. It was only attempted because they caught the guy as he was trying to set a timer on a car bomb. They did manage to arrest him and disarm the bomb. Only problem was he was connected to a group way out where I was stationed. That's how the war got started. And when I told Scoot I'd be back in a few months? I only said that to make her feel better. I didnt realize it would be that fast. But anyways the tour of the facility was fast. Few buildings, the training course they flew- I flew it as well just because I wanted to. It felt awesome. But after that Spitfire and I sat down inside their barracks. We just sat on a bunk next to each other. I huffed. "...That was an amazing tour Miss Spitfire." I said. "It's really an honor just to be here with you guys. I've been a fan since I was maybe a little younger than my sister." She laughed slightly.

"Well I guess we're both honored. We're glad to host you and your sister while you're here. We'll give you two the full wonderbolts experience and even let you stay here in the barracks. No worries about taking anyones spot or sleeping on the floor. Fleetfoot and Thunderlane were basically called off to the Manehattan Mane-iac Convention. We always agree whoever goes to the convention in Cloudsdale and who handles the others. Me and Fleetfoot got the Cloudsdale convention, Soarin and Thunderlane got Fillydelphia and now it's Cloudchaser and Thunderlane this time since Soarin got foalsitting duty with Celestia while you were gone. I havent seen him bond with anypony like he did with Scootaloo." I lied back on the bunk.

"Yeah she's got that effect on everyone. Even me...." I huffed and looked towards another bunk. "....Back before our parents died I was going through a rough time with an ex of mine and losing my apartment.... Every time I would come home and go into my room I'd just cry feeling like shit.... Most of that time she'd come into my room, hug me, have me draw pictures with her.... it just really help me out...." I teared up a bit. "....There was one time she was in my bed when I came home... she was sick that day but I couldnt help but just sit with her and make sure she had everything she needed.... Even after what happened she and I did so many things together.... We aided each other whether it was physical or emotional help...." Spitfire sat me up and hugged me. It felt so warm... so motherly infact.

"C'mon hero boy n more tears.... You're back home in Equestria with your little sister.... Need me to get you a drink?" I nodded into her shoulder just trying to keep my shit together. She broke the hug and just picked me up off the bed. She brought me over to a little sitting area with a flat screen TV. She turned the TV on for me and put the controller in my hand. "Here. Find something to watch. I'll head to the messhall real quick. Anything particular you want or do you need a beer?" My heart said to take the beer since I hadnt had one in forever. But my brain said no. It said no to a beer because Scoot is around.

"....Just.... Just get me.... I-i dont know... a chocolate milk if you got it... if not just.... a water please...."

Spitfire nodded and just left me alone inside the barracks. I scrolled through the channels and I couldnt find anything. i just shut the TV off and hobbled my way outside. I even felt the cool underside of my metal wing. I couldnt help but think of the crash and where Scootaloo would be without me... I was scared of the results. I wandered out towards the training course where Scootaloo and Soarin were but I never left the tarmac. I looked out at them and saw Scootaloo and Soarin flying over a big cloud. It was only for my sisters safety considering she was barely able to keep herself in the air when I came back. I glanced over a bit and saw Celestia sitting on a cloud with the other guard. I saw Soarin look to my sister and flag Celestia and the guard over. They flew over to Scootaloo's cloud as she flew right over it. I loved seeing it but it hurt me more making me wanna cry still. Soarin started to fly down to me. I quickly wiped my eyes and steadied my breathing as if i werent about to just bawl. "Hey Ryder! Your sister is doing great on flying!" He said. "You come out here to watch?" I nodded a bit. "Great. Say where's Spitfire? She was with you when we broke off right?"

"...Y-yeah... She just went off to get a few drinks from the messhall. I kinda needed a water but... fresh air is good too!" I smiled nervously acting like I just didnt ditch her at all. I didnt really ditch her but... I moved locations hopefully to where she could easily find me. He huffed.

"Wonder if she could maybe get a cooler together. Kinda warm out here and I dont think the princess would wanna go all the way to the messhall to get a drink." He looked up at her, the guard and Scootaloo. Celestia had Scoot on her shoulders and they looked so happy just looking out at everything. Even Cloudsdale. "I mean look at her. She enjoys seeing your little sister fly." He looked back at me. "Isnt it awesome to see her fly after so many flightless years?" I sighed just sitting down. I didnt even meet Soarin's gaze just seeing Scoot take off from Celestia's shoulders and fly around her almost like Winona running around AJ when ever she went out on the orchard to work a good while ago.

"Yeah.... She's grounded a lot of the time.... Only time when we ever got her off the ground was when either me, our mother or even our cousin would hold her and fly her up on to a cloud. That's probably about as best we could get with her... I think there was one time I took her up to a cloud and a gust of wind we had no idea was coming hit us and she pissed herself. I had to bring her back home immediately because she started crying... Celestia must've gotten her over her fear of heights... After that she wouldnt wanna go in the air no matter what we tried. No harness, no blindfold and... Well you get the point." He nodded just sitting with me.

"...She's doing pretty good for a first timer." He glanced at me. "Are you sure she hasnt been pulling your leg this whole time? I mean... she's flying almost like she's been flying for years."

"Yeah I'm sure of it. I'd sometimes catch her trying to fly over her bed after lights out.... Last time she did that she woke me up out of a dead sleep. Fell off her bed but wasnt hurt. Just a little rug burn...." I sighed again. This time just heavily. I was thinking about the house and all the memories that were destroyed with all our stuff.... Not even a few days ago I had Big Mac drive me by the house. It was being demolished. Bull dozer and everything. He just took me into a restaraunt and bought me a desert to make me feel better. Friends like him help. But as I sat there staring up at the cloud where Scoot was still circling Celestia. This was where shit hit the fan and the past came back to haunt us. A gust of wind came out of nowhere causing Scootaloo to falter and get blown away from where she could land on the cloud.

Soarin and I both jumped up and ran for the edge but I just stopped looking over at the ground far below. All I could hear then was Pepper yelling my name moments before the plane crash. I looked up only to see Scootaloo glowing in Celestia's magic as Soarin flew down to help her. The guard was just looking to me waiting for what I'd do or what his orders were. I couldnt give him or myself any orders. I just saw Soarin hug Scootaloo and bring her up to Celestia. She just jumped from him back to her holding on to her tight and I just started to hyperventilate. And just like that when Celestia started to fly towards me I fainted. When I came to I woke up like it was from a nightmare. I actually found myself in the Wonderbolts Barracks again. I had a cold compress on my forehead and a blanket over me.... yet I was stripped down to just my boxers. Only two ponies could've done this. Celestia or AJ and one of them isnt here. "General! Finally you're awake!" I heard Celestia say. I looked behind me as I sat up and saw the princess standing up from a nearby seat. I groaned just swinging my feet over the edge of the bed.

"...What the hell happened...? How long was I out?" She sighed and knelt down at my side bringing my clothes from the bunk above.

"About an hour and a half.... You saw Scootaloo fall but dont worry... she's fine... she had a little accident... I hope it's alright but Spitfire washed her up and took her and Soarin to a few shops in Cloudsdale to get her some new clothes.... got her a few things from the lost and found to wear while my guard washes her little uniform... But... Are you okay? My guard says you were hesitating on even trying to save your sister.... What happened?"

"...I... I dont know... I froze.... I was talking with Soarin about what happened to make Scootaloo afraid of heights and... history just came back to bite us in the flank...." Celestia huffed.

"Ryder.... Get dressed and come with me.... We're visiting my father here shortly and words might not help in a situation like this...." I sighed taking my clothes.

"...Do we really have to?" I asked as I started to put my pants on. She nodded.

"Yes. He's messing with you a lot and when it effects Scootaloo I feel I need to get involved with things. That filly did nothing wrong and neither did you." She stood up turning to the door. "Now hurry. We leave in a few minutes and I want you to be ready.... Otherwise I'm dragging you to the underworld in your underwear. Understand General?" I sighed and nodded before pulling my shirt over my head. I just managed to put my shoes on before wondering if i should even take my 'new vest' to hell to yell at some fucking demonic prick who's basically ruining my life. Do I wanna be a nice guy or give him a reminder on who he's messing with. Hell why not both I thought just tossing my vest down on the cot.

I hurreid to where Celestia was and she had a door at the ready. She looked to me and I nodded. We both were pretty much pissed. She opened up the door and we both walked in. The heat from inside hit me hard but it was comfortable. Nothing too bad. We walked on for a few minutes until we came to a throne room. Hellfire sat in his throne sipping on a glass of wine kicked back like there was nothing wrong. He smiled a bit as we just reluctantly bowed in respect to him. "Ah Celestia. You've come to visit with your General here!" He said. "What brings you two to my domain?" As much as I wanted to curse him out and beat him Celestia held me back.

"Father we wish to speak to you about what you've been doing to my General here and his sister.... Ryder is a forgiving stallion but-"

I growled and cut her off. "STOP FUCKING WITH ME AND MY GOD DAMN FAMILY YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!" I yelled charging him. He tried moving from his throne but I pinned him. "You mess with me? That's one thing, mess with my mind? That's another. But messing around with my sister and nearly having her die is a step too far! You've taken our home, you've taken my wing, and almost my life! I'm not losing anything more!"

Celestia used her magic and pulled me away from her father's throne. She sat me on my ass and held me there, hands behind my back. Hellfire laughed as he rose from his throne. "Thank you Celestia but there was no need for that...." He said. "...Yes I've been messing around with your family and I apologize for that. I thought creating a slight gust would just knock her onto the cloud but I cant predict anyone's movements. If I could either you wouldnt be here or you would and your face would've been planted where my ass is."

I was about to yell but Celestia actually gagged me with her magic. Lucky me I can breathe through magic. "Father.... I had no recollection of anything about messing with my General's mind." She said. "Care to explain what you've done? Does Luna need to go into his mind and erase some memories?" Hellfire sighed as he sipped his wine. I was surprised he didnt drop it. Then again he is a demonic alicorn who probably could've killed me before I got within two feet of him.

"Celestia.... I guess I can hide it no longer." He faced away from us. "There's nothing wrong mentally but... I've been sending my hounds to lead him to things that helped his survival. A medical cache in the mountains when he crashed, a gun in his burnt home... he hasnt used it yet but he will but not on himself..." The princess released my muzzle and looked to me.

"Tell me Ryder... Is what my father saying true?"

I nodded. "Yeah.... That medical cache was really a poachers lockbox but it helped me avoid the intense pain after my wing got chopped off...." I said. "The gun I found when I was walking with AJ somewhere.... Dont rightfully remember where but she had to call Big Mac to get me because I just relived hell in there...." I teared up a bit. "He just... he even threatened me with causing my body to shut down if I told anyone else..."

Hellfire looked to Celestia. "Before you say anything my ray of sunshine... I admit that was wrong of me...." He said. "...threatening a war hero and a close friend of my favorite daughter.... He deserves to get a little pay back on me but no firearms or explosive devices."

A beating. Something I could get behind. Celestia released me knowing I had so much rage to exert. I stood up and approached him. I took his wine, splashed it in his face, smashed the glass on his head and did that one nutshot move I did when I first became a guard. He cringed hard but I wasnt done with him. Just to drain what was left of my rage I punched him over and over and over again in the gut making him double over before I upper cutted him. Celestia pulled me away just as I broke down and rushed to her fathers side. "Father are you alright?" She asked. He coughed hard and tossed a shard of glass away as a little blood ran down his face.

"Yeah.... I'll be fine.... Wounds should heal up right about...." He snapped his fingers and all the glass that was shattered flew together and just like I hadnt smashed it, formed the wine glass again and refilled. The blood on his face even receded. He looked to me. "...Talk about temper tantrums. Might I suggest a little work out with my daughter to relieve your anger?" Celestia looked at me as well.

"I agree father. Even though you deserved that I must say my General probably shouldnt return here.... Though any time he encounters something bad and it seems supernatural I shall give him my contact information and he'll tell me what went wrong. If he's mad about it I'll have him brought out to Canterlot or have Twilight help him out with a spa day with his marefriend." She looked to Hellfire. "Dont go messing with her either or I could 'accidentally' forget to close up a door during our annual family dinner. Understand?" He nodded. She looked to me. "By the way Ryder I may have forgotten to mention both you and Applejack are invited to that dinner and are welcome to bring your siblings. Make it a fun experience for all ages and no tomfoolery." She glanced at her father. "Right?" He nodded. I knew he meant it but something felt entirely off. "Good.... Now we must leave. His sister went out after you caused her to wet herself... I hope you're happy..."

Hellfire said nothing as his daughter helped him back into his chair before coming to my side picking me up off the floor. I sighed and hung my head as we walked towards the exit door. As we left I whimpered feeling as if I've disrespected Princess Luna and Celestia. The way Celestia actually shoved me onto a bunk made me feel even worse. Almost as if I were a kid again and about to be grounded by my mother.... She looked at me a bit ticked. "....I deserve what ever punishment you wish to give me here Princess..." I said. "I deserve it..." She sighed.

"No. No punishments here Ryder...." She knelt down taking my hands. "This is my fault... I should never have brought on help of my mother or father... but you needed it and now look at you.... From when we first crossed paths you came from a suicidal prisoner to my faithful General.... If Luna or I had not intervened in your development after the murders Scootaloo would probably be shoved in Dash's care with you six feet under... I'm sorry for everything that has happened to you since the murders.... Even the murders themselves...." I just hugged her. I still felt like shit even after her apology. I still cried a bit but it subsided within a few minutes. Celestia just gave me that motherly hug that I needed. I guess since she's taken care of Scootaloo she's gained a motherly aura to her...

After that she had me shower a bit before getting dressed again in my vest and everything only to meet her, her guard, Spitfire, Soarin and Scootaloo most of which they were wearing different outfits. Spitfire wore a short sleeve red shirt, jeans and red high tops. Scootaloo wore new running shoes, black skinny jeans and a red tee shirt with 'Manehattan Maulers' on the chest. Baseball team. Soarin wore a cut off Metallicolt shirt for the Fly While Fighting album. Blood red hand print on the wall of a bathroom stall with graffiti all over it. He also wore faded black or grey jeans and black canvas shoes. Something like I would wear. Scootaloo ran to me as I came closer to her and the two Wonderbolts she adored. Soarin rushed over as we hugged each other tight not even saying a word to each other. "There we are... No injuries on either side...." He said. "I'm so sorry she almost fell like that man... I should've been there by her side and talked with you afterwards... You alright? Havent seen someone faint like that since... well me when I had my busted wing meet a train wall."

I sighed picking Scootaloo up and putting her on my back. "Nah... No blame anywhere." I said. "We pegasai might control the weather but no telling where anyone is gonna be. It was an accident that was diverted from something worse...." I glanced back and Scootaloo who was still holding me tight. Soarin sighed.

"Hey uh... General-"

"Ryder. Call me Ryder." He smiled.

"Ryder... If it's too much to ask... Do you think maybe Spitfire and I could come back with you guys to the castle and spend the night there?" He looked to Celestia who was just feet away with her guard. "I-If it is okay with you too Princess! We just wanna make sure everything is alright with everyone involved."

I looked to Princess Celestia who smiled brightly. "I would be glad to host everyone at the castle." She said. "But maybe we should at least go somewhere for a meal after that ordeal." I looked to Scootaloo, Spitfire and Soarin. They looked to each other and either shrugged or nodded. I took Scootaloo off my back and set her on the ground before taking her hands. She looked to me worried but about what I dont know.

It wasnt anything about the helicopter because when we got on she didnt fight, scream or cry. I sat back in the front seat and ended up nodding off a bit. Didnt even bring my phone or anything because... Well I wanted to see my sister fly. I did for a moment only to have it ripped away by a damn gust of wind. But as I napped a bit I heard something that gave me chills. Him. "...You've messed with me for the last time General...." He said. "...I will agree to leave you alone for now.... But there will be a time I shall have my revenge for what you have done.... Tell only my daughters... but do not be afraid about me taking your loved ones.... They shall stay where they are.... What is in store is something that I cant reveal.... Now..... I shall leave you with little memory of this convorsation.... Now wake."

I did end up waking up just before we touched down on the castle. I was on my own channel sleeping away so if I was talking in my sleep or something nobody would hear me. Or wake me for that matter. I felt panicked yet my heart rate was normal. Same with my breathing. Not off at all. Why did I feel panicked but calm? I was confused but as the chopper landed we had to wait for the blades to slow. Apparently Scootaloo hates the loud sound. But before they did I switched channels to hear everyone laughing at something. "Celestia. A word in a bit if you will." I said just before switching channels again and taking my headset off. I hopped out of the chopper with the blades still spinning a bit. Nothing too bad considering I dealt with helicopters coming and going at almost every hour of the day in the warzone. I looked back and saw Celestia looking at me a bit worried through the window of the chopper. Scootaloo was still talking with Soarin and Spitfire looking excited. I just started walking towards the castle.

Once inside I told a few guards by the door to tell Celestia I'll be in the media room and to leave Scootaloo with Soarin and Spitfire.. Even had one lead me to the media room. He asked if he should stay and I just told him no and to not let anyone else but Celestia there. And Luna but... waking her wouldnt be a good idea. After about ten minutes after I got into the media room, game consoles all over the walls and the big screen TV on the wall Celestia came in alone. She looked to me worried as I made the hidden cooler pop up. "Ryder... May I ask why you have guards posted twenty yards from each side of the door?" She asked. I sighed taking a drink out of the cooler.

"Your father... He's planning something. I dont know what it is but.... He means business..." She came over to me as I sat down in one of the chairs.

"If there's anything specific about it just... let me know... Please...." I sipped my drink.

"I'm the only target he's after.... He doesnt want Scootaloo, AJ or anyone else... just me.... but that's all I know..." She knelt down and felt my pulse. Wasnt even close to panicked still. She was actually shocked.

"...No form of adrenaline... You probably arent even the least bit surprised at this.... Either that or your adrenaline spiked so much when Scootaloo fell it just completely left your system... Father is a sadistic stallion who wont let things go lightly.... Working with him would've been the better idea but you had to go and smack him around a bit.... I'll think of something to put a stop to this.... please just dont dwell on it... If at all you start to panic like its the apocalypse do not hesitate to contact Luna or I. And talk with-" I looked to her.

"I cant talk with anyone but you or Luna. I'm not sure what he'll do if I say anything to Applejack, Dash or even Twilight.... I might as well just go toe to toe with that freak Tirek. He's basically a creation of your father correct?" She nodded.

"Yes he is.... He was supposed to be a warrior in my fathers army back before we were even born.... My father and Mother controlled the sun and moon.... We grew up with Tirek almost like he were a brother but... when I was around ten or so he snapped and started attacking innocent ponies taking their cutie mark magic. He only found he could do that when my father wrote it down in a journal that Tirek couldnt even get to... Father left it out and after that stuff happened he was drained of all power and sent to Tarterus..." She went off on a little tangent about Tirek and how he was basically me but.... EXTREMELY Evil.

Anyways that talk lasted about forty five minutes before we ate. Nothing special happened after that but later that night I couldnt sleep. I was given a room near Celestia's. Scootaloo actually got to stay in her bed in there. I saw the way it was set up in her room while I was away. Even told me she climbed into her bed to cuddle. She gave me the same liberty but if I got grabby she'd put me on the floor. I wasnt even going to do that. She did get me a nice pajama set. Soft and warm but nothing too warm. Even some nice slippers. I told her I didnt deserve them but she just held my mouth shut. Literally. She went and held my mouth shut with her magic as she bought them for me. I walked all the way to the media room again. There I found Luna just watching end credits to a game she just finished. She was wearing her pajamas still. Still early in the night for her but late enough for me to wanna go to bed but I just couldnt sleep. I was thinking why I hesitated. Anyways Luna wore black sweat pants and her classic game controller shirt just sitting in one of the chairs in here. I sighed as I sat down in a chair next to her but still a bit far away. She looked to me as she lowered the orchestal sounds of the end credits. "Ryder?" She said confused. "What ist thou doing up at this hour? Cant you sleep?"

I shook my head. "...No... No I cant..." I said.

"Well I can say I already know of your little problem with someone close to us but... Is that why you're here? You wish to vent to me about it?" I shook my head again. "Then what is bothering you?"

"...Well... After I got the tour of the Wonderbolts facility earlier I went to watch Scootaloo practice flying.... I guess I distracted Soarin because he was teaching her.... He stepped away to chat with me but while we chatted your idiot of a father decided to bring a mentioned part of my history to life once more... He caused a gust of wind that caused Scoot to falter and nearly fall down and hurt herself... badly..." She gasped.

"And why was I not told about this?!" She asked shocked. I shushed her.

"...I'm not done yet princess...." She turned off the screen and what ever console was on by holding one of the buttons on her controller and flicking a joy stick a few times.

"My apologies. Continue." I sighed. As much as I didnt wanna say I had to.

"Well... That gust knocked Scoot out of the air away from the cloud. Celestia's guard dove after her, Soarin went in for the rescue and Celestia caught her with her magic...."

"But what did you do?" I looked to her as we both got up.

"...Nothing.... I didnt do a damn thing... I stopped at the edge of the area and froze up.... I got scared...." I looked back at my wings. "I've done it before... I've flown around during the war and sure I was shot but.... that didnt stop me from wanting to keep flying.... Why did I hesitate?!" I huffed as we started out into the hall again passing by a few of her night guards. Creepy as they look, they're normal. Not sure how but what of it? Who am I to question Luna's logic with guards... and how she managed to acquire them.

"...Sounds to me like you've gotten a fear of heights.... Bad it seems too..." She replied. "....My guess is something in between you getting shot and you coming home triggered something for that to happen.... Did you vomit at all or wet yourself?" I blushed shaking my head. "Ah well... there's that. No spike in adrenaline to cause that.... But if you fainted that's another story. Probably could've bypassed the vomiting and the pants wetting and went and blacked out...." I whimpered and averted my gaze. She looked to me. "That is what happened isnt it?" I nodded. "Hm... Maybe while you sleep I'll poke around in your mind and try and find something that scared you out of flying.... I know you love your sister... Why else would you have pushed yourself so hard after you've sustained injuries?" I sighed. I had no idea the princesses thought I was dead... Not until Shining was sleeping in my hospital room and started freaking out about thinking I was dead. I had to throw something at him to wake him up and jeez did I feel bad for him. He woke up almost crying and told me Luna yelled in his face that I was dead before Celestia and Cadence pulled her off.

"...if I can get to sleep you are welcome to root around in there.... I just dont wanna be bothered while you're in there...." She hummed a bit.

"Well you wont even notice but just so you know this trick is something I've done when a child or someone who has experienced something insanely scarring... It's ranged from everything from trying to forget a rape or molestation, know someone committed suicide and saw them do so, those sorts of things. Sometimes I even help the guards find something that a victim cant even describe because they were so messed up. The things I've seen dont compare to anything else..." She took my hand as we turned a corner. "But I need to mention it will relax you to the point of where you will relieve yourself.... You'll almost be in a medically induced coma but you'll still sleep normally. But what ever is I may need to help you to fly again. I will only tell you of what it is. Will that be okay?" I didnt know what to answer. My mind was still full of fuck. She just sighed as we neared her room. "I'll make that decision for you Ryder.... I want you to be alright.... I care for your mental state and your physical health and after what happened... I'd hate for anything to happen to you...." We stopped and she hugged me tight. I hugged back just hating that same thing.... It even caused me to cry a bit. She led me into her room and made sure her spiders tank I guess you would say was closed up tight. Luna and I hung out pre-war and.... Oh holy fuck I took a nap in her room not realizing these were here and I woke up with one on my chest. I was frozen. Couldnt even scream I'm so scared of them.

Anyways she lied me down and covered me up. Her blankets were so warm and soft I just passed out. As I slept I fell into a dream. It wasnt just a normal dream though. Luna connected my mind to somepony elses. I was walking through an empty Ponyville. Void of all life. No breeze, no distant cars and not even any yelling ponies. I started through the streets just wandering aimlessly. I wasnt panicked still. Maybe a little weird considering nothing signifying this is outside... Well... Nothing except a sunset looking quite beautiful. As I walked I noticed arrows on the road. Not like on what ways you can go. Those are painted on. These were made with reflecting things. I followed the around, going in and out of alleys and hopping fences. Seemed interesting for a path. Where it led was just probably expected for most but really unexpected for me. Sugarcube Corner. And who do I see in front? Applejack. We jogged to each other meeting right in the middle of the street. "Oh sugarcube!" She said before kissing me on the cheek. I blushed. "Luna told me what happened at the Wonderbolts thing you and Scoot went to. She alright?" I nodded into her shoulder. She looked to me. "I'd call to talk with her but... Ya left your phone here when you left this morning. Found it after Big Mac tried calling to make sure you had everythin' you needed."

I broke the hug with her taking her hand as we walked back to sugarcube corner. I noticed the windows were all boarded up but it didnt look abandoned on the outside. When we opened the door and walked in we somehow transported to just outside the house at Sweet Apple Acres. I walked over to a tree and sat down under it after breaking away from her. I sighed as she walked over to me and knelt down worried. "...AJ... Have you ever had history come and bite you in the ass?" I asked. "Not like karma. But... say when Big Mac and I were younger he slapped me one after I said something bad about him and he goes and does it again years later after I said the exact same thing...." I felt something kinda burn my arm slightly. Nothing like fire or a heating blanket. Just a war spot like someone was holding it.

"Not sure whatcha mean by that but.... What happened...?"

"Soarin and I were talking about Scootaloo flying like she was... I told him something that scared her out of the skies when she was younger but... Right after I said that it happens like immediate dejavu... I hope she doesnt get scared out of the skies again.... I'm really wanting to see her fly after all this time... I'm even sure Soarin and Spitfire would like to see her as well... They've gotten attached to her since the murders..." Applejack huffed a bit and hugged me once more.

"Well... I think somethin' like that's happened to me now that I think about it.... That Senor Salt shit ya drink so much? Drank it when I was a little filly just younger than Scoot. Hot day and such I needed somethin' to wet my whistle. Drank a sip and felt my throat closin' up. Momma and daddy had to rush me to the hospital and I guess couple years later after AB was born it happened again and it completely slipped my mind as well as everypony elses. Thinkin' that was the only time we had the bits to get me somethin' that can save my flank before I get to the hospital." She looked me in the eye. "If I were you... I'd see if Scoot wants to try again but maybe closer to the ground this time... Maybe help yourself too... Luna told me ya blacked out after Scoot almost b-"

"I swear to Celestia if you say 'bit the dust' I'm going to make sure Big Mac knows what I do stays secret." She stayed silent. Shocked a bit. She just slumped down and cuddled up to me. I sighed hugging her tightly again. "...Sorry AJ... I've just... I've still got a lot on my mind... Where I'm gonna go if the orchard doesnt work out, if I'm ever going to get back into Royal Guard work and..... Just a lot of other stuff I cant even say around you...." She looked to me.

"Ry.... You can say anythin' around me... I wouldnt be offended either way.... Nothin' you say is gonna get me to change my mind about you or what ever else you do." She kissed me on my cheek. "....Is this about your parents or somethin' else comin' up? A certain somepony's birthday perhaps...?" I shrugged. I didnt know whether it was my mom and dad or if it was about someone's birthday. I know Scoot's already passed while I was at war. Mine is next week and AJ's is a day after mine. I didnt know what to think unless they were combined somehow. But I didnt even know if that were even the case. She sighed. "...Fine if ya dont wanna say I aint gonna make ya... Just dont be expectin' any cider when you get home. You aint in trouble or anythin'... Big Mac just drank the last bottle." I huffed.

"... I wasnt thinking about grabbing a cider.... The way my life is going I just wanna grab a few beers and kill the pain..." She sighed.

"Well I aint lettin' that good streak go either. You've been clean for Scoot for a while and her seein' ya stumblin' around pissin' your pants possibly aint gonna look good in her eyes and who knows what else you could do when you're drunk? Big Mac told me you smacked him one when ya first started and if you do end up going for your liver rottin' drinkin' you could hurt me or the lil fillies.... Do ya wanna hurt me at all sug'?" I shook my head just holding her tight. "....Good.... Just try and keep it together... if ya feel like you're gonna break just tell me and I'll getcha all prepped with your little stash I found in the closet!" I gasped and a few of the trees around us fell over smashing apples all over the place. I could feel my face flare up embarrassed. How she found out? I dont know. But it kinda scared me. She laughed a bit. "Next time sugarcube, make sure ya got somethin' weighing it back. And make sure your cousin aint one to tell someone what ya got. By now I think Rarity, Pinkie and Twilight know. Maybe Fluttershy but I dont think anyone beyond us.... Maybe Spike but ya better watch around him.... Might tell Shinin' and ya may end up being joked about around the guard...." I blushed hard hiding my face. "Hey dont worry. Anyone asks just tell em they're for your baby sister." I looked to her.

"....just... dont judge me when I say I've got onsies and I'm planning on getting some pacifiers soon.... It'll help me calm down when I need it... Shop owners words. Not mine." I heard a little whistle. AJ and I looked up to see a few birds flying over. She sighed.

"...Eeyup.... that's the sign we gotta wake up now.... Luna let me know this was the sign before you came 'n showed up." She stood up and helped me to my feet. "...I'll see ya later sugarcube... Maybe we can have Rarity watch our sisters and you can show me that shop you're talkin' about. Wouldnt mind seein' your flank in one of those onsies I found in your drawers." If I were holding wooden toys or something they'd be burning with my body heat. Anyways she got up and helped me up kissing me. She broke off and just faded away as everything around me faded as well.

When I woke up I felt soaked in my shorts. The air in here felt damp but I felt I had a relaxing sleep. I heard a sigh. "There.... Should be any moment now....." I heard a familiar voice say. "...Wouldnt hurt for a change now either.... Wonder if I can just....." I felt a blanket be torn away from me just having cool air hit me all at once. I jumped a bit and opened my eyes to see me stripped down of all my clothes and in one soggy diaper. Luna stood over me with a fresh diaper and some powder and wipes in her magic. She blushed a bit giving me a nervous smile. "Ah there we are General! Finally awake!"

I groaned a bit and sat up. "....Had to take me out of there just at the best time I guess..." I said. "Did I look flushed at all while I slept?" She nodded just handing me the diaper and other stuff. "...Well... Seems AJ found something that I was trying to hide but... I guess my cousin had to get back at me for something I said." Yeah having Princess Luna come to Dash in a dream to help with her bed wetting is going to be good because I cant make fun of her for it and bad because I let a Princess know she pissed the bed. She sighed and turned away as I just took my soaked diaper off and started wiping myself down.

"You should've learned by now not to mess with Rainbow Dash. If I've learned anything Dash is only nice when you are and you really must've done something to piss her off if she blabbed about something you were hiding.... Either that or she wanted to have a little fun with you. Lets hope it isnt the first one...." Yeah.... I know about that all too well... Maybe I should stop messing with her, I say as I maliciously find other ways to fuck with her. I huffed.

"Well I'll figure that out when I get back home.... For now I'm curious as to what you found while you were tinkering around in my mind. Anything that I seemed to have overlooked while not overlooking a three hundred foot drop?" She huffed as I powdered myself and tabbed the fresh one on to me.

"Well... It was just as I feared... Apparently that plane crash scared more out of you than you thought. I guess in the combination of the fall you had, your wings being burnt and one being cut off you've feared flight above a certain height explaining why you could fly out of your window after your house burnt..." She grasped my arm as I got out of her bed. Either she knew I was about to get dizzy like when I started walking after the anesthetics after the surgery or just as emotional support. Most likely that first thing because she did say I was going to be in a coma-like-state while asleep. "....I do apologize for all these occurrences happening in so close of proximity to each other.... Is there any way I can make it up to you...?" I shook my head as I gained my balance again.

"No... I'm fine where i am Princess.... Besides nothing can be done about the memories I've lost... the stuff that I've been through in that house alone... the things that I've lost within weeks and months of my life... nothing could replace that at all...." She hugged me and sighed. I didnt tear up at all... Just really pissed.

"...I understand general... memories are the hardest to leave behind even when something that holds those memories is destroyed..." She released me and handed me my clothes. I went and put my boxers on over my diaper.... I know I'm not gonna do well with just being in a coma like state. Not kidding when I say I pissed myself twice after the surgery. So if this is somewhat of the same predicament then this should help.

"Nothing against you princess... but... I'd rather handle things on my own from now on.... No supernatural stuff... I even think I can say i'd rather visit our parents at their graves than in the afterlife.... seeing things from where they are just makes it hurt more.... makes me think they're still alive... I know Scootaloo enjoys it but... its gotta hurt them too... seeing us when they know they cant do anything to help us.... it's just gotta hurt them...." Luna hung her head.

"...Honestly I've thought about these things but seeing you two afterwards.... I thought you were happy with it.... Scootaloo more so.... But... I do see your logic in all of this..." She helped me with my shoes and socks and looked up at me. "Shall I inform Scootaloo of your word.....?" I shook my head after putting my shirt on.

"No... Just...." I had to think about my words carefully. "...Well... maybe you could tell her but... make it from your mother... talk with your mother about this and make sure it's alight to do this.... I dont wanna hurt anyone.... you know that." She huffed.

"I'll have a word with my sister. We'll both have a word with mother away from your parents and sister... For now lets just get you out of here. Just try and keep it together... I'll pull Soarin or Spitfire aside during the morning meal to have a little chat with them about your flight problems. Consider this something to help you without interfering with your morality.... is that alright?"

"...Maybe I'll talk with Soarin or something.... I've got his number...." I stood up helping her to her feet. "If you can tell him to call or text me in a couple hours after we leave I'll handle it alright...? I dont mean this against you Princess... But... I like doing things on my own from time to time and this is kinda one of those times... I'm a General... not a recruit...." I averted my gaze. "...Though I do feel like I should still be a recruit but... lets not change that please... I enjoy this very much so..." She smiled as we started for the door and out into the hall.

"Neither me or my sister are deranking you back to that hell of a day for you... If anything we'll tell you directly that we're thinking about deranking you and we'll give you a chance to change our minds. But you've done such great things it's going to be hard to even think about deranking you." Well that's a relief.... now to think when I'm getting back to work...

About fifteen minutes later I sat with Spitfire, who was just in a white tee shirt and skinny jeans, Princess Celestia in a glorious white dress, and Scootaloo who was still in her cute wonderbolts pajama's (that I guess Celestia had custom made from Rarity with Spitfire's permission for the branding). Celestia looked to me as I just poked at a bowl of cereal. My mind and my stomach werent one. I was hungry but my brain said just dont eat. You're better off. "Ryder? Everything alright?" She asked. "You've barely touched your food... Is something wrong? Does the milk taste spoiled?" I sighed...

Scotaloo just looked to me. She was just eating a hayburger with curly fries. Something she has had for breakfast at times while staying here... I didnt feel like taking advantage of it. Though she did give me the option. "Are you okay Ryder?" She asked. "You arent sick are you? You always eat your breakfast!"

I looked to Celestia and Scootaloo. "Sorry... Just kinda worrying about AJ since I left my phone at home. No contact with her just kinda has me a bit sad..." I said. "Guess I'm used to eating breakfast that she made...."

Celestia hummed a bit. "Aw well why don't we reorder that for you? That cereal must be mush by now!" She said. "What does Applejack make? We might be able to remake it so you feel at home for a little to cheer up." I huffed knowing I wasnt gonna get out of this easily.

"She usually makes pancakes with a little butter between each layer and a little whipped cream on top... But that's only when I'm having one of those days. On any other day this is what I pretty much have." I just stirred my food a bit and picked up a spoonful of cereal and poured it back into the bowl. She smiled a bit.

"But something gives me the feeling that this is one of those days... Lets change this day right around now!" She clapped her hands and a unicorn waiter appeared. White and gold suit, burgundy mane, and light red (not pink at all) coat. She looked to him after he knelt for a moment. "Bring the General a stack of three pancakes with butter in between layers, maple syrup and some whipped cream to top."

The stallion glanced over at me. "Will that be all?" He asked. Celestia hummed.

"Sprinkle some chocolate chips on it for him as well. Give it a little plus for him." The stallion nodded and just flashed away. Celestia looked back to me. "Well General? How does that sound for breakfast?"

I smiled a bit pushing my cereal away. "Well... Yeah that sounds a lot better... Thank you princess." I said. She smiled brightly as Scootaloo climbed into my lap after finishing off her burger.

"Anything for you General. You're always welcome here and welcome to anything you wish while you are here." I smiled brightly. I know I didnt deserve it but... How could I deny Celestia...? She was the one who cared for the filly who was now sitting in my lap but... still this didnt help me at all.

After we ate- and I gotta say I didnt wanna stop once i tasted those pancakes- I was pulled aside by Soarin. He came late into the meal telling us he needed to use the bathroom... Odd but fitting story for when Luna was talking with him. He was dressed in something I'd be dressed in on a normal day. Gems n Tulips tee, black jeans, black skate shoes. Anyways he pulled me to the side outside of Celestia's room as we waited for Scootaloo and Celestia to get changed. "Okay so... Here's what Luna told me.." He whispered. "Luna told me that crash you were in when you came home scared you from even wanting to fly real high just like your sister when she flew in one of the Princesses choppers. Guess Luna's gonna give me some bits to go out to Ponyville to visit with both you and your sister and start a little flight training closer to the ground. And.... Just for you guys I'm paying for some custom made Wonderbolts uniforms for you guys. Nothing we use. something special just for you two. Tough material, easy to move in and washable for when... something like what happened to your sister goes on... Her's actually got destroyed in the wash but Spitfire's gonna get her a new one because she feels bad."

I huffed just shoving my hands in my pockets and hanging my head. "...Well... I guess if I have to..." I said. "...Better than going back to flight school...." He put a hand on my shoulder.

"Could be worse. I've trained kids before and some of them havent left the ground since they were inside their mother. Dont know how many hands I've had to hold and uniforms to replace. Hand holding is good sometimes but cant do it all the time otherwise you get caught on some of the obstacles that they go through. Not to mention you might not get that hand back if they're extremely scared." Don't I know that? After the murder? Scoot stayed in my bed almost every time she got scared. Only times she didnt stay in my bed was when I stayed on the floor in her room.

"...Or splattered all over the ground like a rotten apple falling off a tree... Seen that plenty back home...." He hummed.

"You dont really strike me as an apple farmer... I know most soldiers are stereotypical farmers but... Didnt think you'd be one of them."

"I'm not really but I will help out if I need to... It's my marefriend and her family that are. I got into it accidentally since my house got burnt down.... I had to be driven there in the dead of night crying my eyes out and restrained if I'm remembering that right.... That night went from calm to crazy in less than a second.... I dont remember much other than the fire, me diving out of a window, getting restrained and driven out ...."

"....Gotta say that sucks..." He sighed. "How about every time I come over to help you to fly we do something fun to get you in a good mood? Not saying you're going to be in a bad mood when I'm there but I can tell maybe you might be a bit hard to get high up in the air at first.... We'll set a height goal every time I'm there. If you can get to it, we'll set a new one next time. If not we'll keep trying. Even give ya a little motivation of a dinner or something. Gifts might be involved but... may be kept to a minimum. Sounds good?"

I nodded before Celestia's door opened up. Celestia was now dressed in jeans, a pair of red canvas sneakers, and a wonderbolts themed football jersey. Scootaloo wore a similar outfit but with Wonderbolts themed sneakers, a wonderbolts themed baseball jersey that she got for her birthday while I was gone (That Rarity made) and I guess she left here on accident and blue jeans. She ran straight to me and hugged me. I hugged her back quickly. "There we are!" Celestia said. "Glad she had clothes left over here.... Laundry kinda does take a while to go through and.... Well... Sometimes we find things that we lose in there. If I find anything Scootaloo related I'll send it your way."

I looked up at her as Scootaloo took Soarin's hand. "Thank you princess. Just make sure any unmentionables are held until you and I cross paths again." I said. She nodded. "Well... I suppose you should get going soon... As much as I would like to keep both of you longer you are needed elsewhere..." She came to us and knelt down a bit to Scootaloo's level... Kinda.... Even looked her in the eye. "Farewell Scootaloo... Until next time my sweet little filly."

Scootaloo broke off of me and Soarin for a moment hugging Celestia. "Until next time Princess..." She said. She broke off from her and I swear I could see Celestia tear up a bit. "...Hopefully it'll be soon.... I'll count the days until we can do this again.... Maybe even closer to home?"

I sighed taking Scootaloo's hand but looked to Celestia as I helped her to her feet a bit. "Princess... Any time you want to do something with Scootaloo I wont stop you." I said. "Just... Make sure you call in advance. I dont want guard trucks rolling up like recruitment day." She smiled and nodded wiping her tears away. I let Soarin take Scootaloo's hand and start walking down the hall. They'd knew I'd catch up. I watched them as they walked but looked to the Princess again as they were way out of earshot. She knelt down slightly after i beckoned her. "Call me later and maybe we can set up a sleep over during one of the weekends if you're free. I know you have official duties but if we can get it moved from here to that new place you got built- and yea Scootaloo showed me it one day- and I might just even let you take her to school if I'm a bit on the tired side. Sound like a deal?" She gave a nod and hugged me. I hugged back feeling that it really meant something to her. I'm going to stop before I drone on and on about this stuff. Catch ya later.

Something Strange Brewing

Talk about strange.... Princess Twilight had me accompanying her and Fluttershy as we drove through Everfree. Why Everfree? Of all places? Well.... We needed to go see one of the princesses friends. I was back in my guard attire which felt good. Though I had to wear a different form because of my metal wing. I was given a cap kinda belonging to classic UFG classics. Black cap, kevlar vest that blocked my wings but I did have a binder holding my wings down. Kept them from being more uncomfortable than I already was. The good thing about this binder is Princess Twilight enchanted it to where it hides anything bumpy. So if AJ used it on her chest I wouldnt see the funbags drenched in sweat after she bucks for hours and hours. Anyways Twilight wore sweat pants and a tank top as well as some sneakers. Fluttershy wore a green dress and some sneakers as well. Rarity would cringe at her outfit but unless you're Dash or Daring Do... Or Applejack or... A crossdressing stallion.... Boots dont look good with dresses. We drove in my car because nobody wants to mess with an apocalyptic warmachine. I drove, Twilight sat in the back and Fluttershy in the front passenger. "Princess Luna really must've been glad to do this for you while you were away Ryder." Fluttershy said. "This car is a bit intimidating but.... A nice stallion like you drives it."

I sighed a bit trying to keep my eyes on the dark forest ahead. I've honestly never been in here before. "Well... I had this done for Applejack..." I said. "She had my car while I was away and she didnt like the way it sat outside her house.... Kinda reminded her the night I got arrested for punching a guard in the face trying to save my sister from being put in an orphanage...."

Twilight sighed. "...I almost couldnt keep it together when Dash brought her to the castle...." She said. "I almost wanted to take her on but.... I didnt have any clue on filly care... Especially when she endured some mental and emotional trauma like what she did.... I'd have to read anything and everything having to do with that type of trauma and my cutie mark isnt in psychological studies." I glanced in the mirror for a moment as we took a few more turns in the forest.

"Thank you for at least thinking that Princess... But a question perhaps?"

"Ask away Ryder."

"...What are we doing out here in the first place? Isnt this place dangerous?"

"If you were on foot like me and my friends were during the Tirek attack or when we first found the castle of the two sisters- Which we might need to stop by after we're done with Zecora. Got permission to try and find some mostly intact tapestry that Rarity and a few other ponies are going to help restore it. Either that or find a few paintings we can have authenticated."

"....Doesnt really answer my question but... Cant we at least try and do that another time? Maybe with... I dont know the rest of your friends princess? I'm all for escorts but.... I dont know if I want to go through an old castle without at least a little emotional support...."

"I told you we could bring Applejack but you wanted to keep her at home because you were afraid she'd get hurt out here by some Timberwolves. But I guess we will save it for another day. Maybe even get a few other guards in to help us. I know you wont be much help alone if we get cornered."

Fluttershy hummed. "...We have to be getting close to Zecora's right Twilight?" She asked. Twilight leaned up a bit looking around.

"Yeah but... Just be on a look out for those Joke plants! That's how you know we're getting close." And Poison Joke... Holy shit I've seen the effects of this plant. Apparently it made Pinkie's tongue numb and spotty. Sometimes she talks too much but... that's just mean.

Anyways we drove on for maybe ten minutes more and ended up pulling out in front of some sort of tribal house made from a hollow tree. Masks, bottles of... who knows what and voodoo dolls hung from the branches. I know Twilight did say something about this mare not even tampering with Voodoo things but... why the dolls in the trees? This kinda freaks me out even more... Even though Applebloom knows the mare.... Guess she's nice. Anyways I parked my car and checked my phone. Weirdly it had only been about an hour since I left the house. I looked to Twilight as she climbed out of Fluttershy's door. "I'll be with you in a sec." I said. "Gonna try and see if I can make plans with AJ... Kinda need a little time with her."

Twilight nodded before her and Fluttershy started walking towards the door of the hollowed out tree. I looked back to my phone and went to the contacts and went to Aj's. I tapped the call button and put it on speaker. I listened to it ring a bit and just hoped she would answer. Why hope? Because Applejack kicked me out last night after Applebloom took AJ's last cider and I swear she told me AJ let her have it but I guess Applebloom blamed it on me. The phone clicked but it went to voice mail. "Hey y'all, Applejack here. Cant talk right now. Buckin' up a storm right now. Either that or just restin' up after and dont feel like answerin. Sorry if that's the case but try again later but leave a message anyways!" I heard her voice say before a beep sounded.

"....Hey AJ its... It's me... Just... wondering what you're doing right now... hoping I can see you today... I miss you... Call me back if you can but... I'm with Twilight and Fluttershy at the moment and I'm on the job here... I'll even accept texts.... Even have Mac text me please! I just... I just wanna come home...." I started tearing up a bit. "...I-I gotta go..." I tapped at the key pad a few times before hanging up before hiding my face.

I sat there for a few minutes just trying not to cry. Even trying to hide myself well enough to keep Fluttershy or Twilight from sending me home and sending another guard out here. Once I was calmed down I wiped my eyes and blew my nose with a napkin from the glovebox (Trips to McHoovians really help a lot sometimes. Munchies and sniffles.) and just shoved it in my pocket. I got out and took a deep breath before walking to the door. I knocked and waited for a moment. "Who's at my door when I have guests?" I heard a mares voice say. "Surely this isnt some little foals jest!" The door opened and there stood Zecora. A zebra potion maker. She wore golden rings on her arm, around her neck and even a few little ones piercing her ear and.... I want to say alchemists clothing but I wasnt too sure. Black short tank top, black skirt and a belt of olive green ingredient bags as well as a shawl or something of that nature covering her shoulders. "Who are you and why are you at my house? I have guests here, some who are quiet as a mouse!" I saw Twilight and Fluttershy looking at some of the different potion bottles sitting on shelves. There was a black couldron sitting dead center of the room. I sighed and looked back to Zecora.

"General Ryder ma'am. I'm here with Princess Twilight." She smiled a bit and stepped off to the side.

"Ah well you can come in! Would you like anything to eat? You look quite thin!" I swear if that didnt sound like a witch trying to fatten me up I wouldnt know. But seriously I've never met her in person so... yeah.

I entered smiling a bit before joining Twilight and Fluttershy. Twilight glanced at me. "Everything alright General?" She asked. "You took a little longer than expected. Get any answer from Applejack?" I shook my head. "Probably a bucking day then. Gotta prep for selling and its gotta be a big one since you and Scootaloo moved in."

I sighed a bit. "Probably but you're kinda making it seem like I'm a burden to them..." I said. "...I mean... I really hope I'm not a burden to them...."

"You arent. Just relax. Talk with Fluttershy if you need to. Okay?" I nodded. "Good." She turned around as Fluttershy and I kept looking at some of the potion bottles. Pink, blue and green bottles everywhere. "Alright Zecora. Still not sure why you called us out here but we're here now. What did you need from us?"

The yellow pegasus mare and I turned around facing Zecora as she started looking through a book marked 'potion recipes'. "I do have a question for you!" She said. "Are any of you lovers? Because this potion I want to make only works for two!"

Nobody had to say anything. I sighed and stepped forth. "...Lucky for you I'm the only one here who has a relationship.... " I said. "Does this potion do anything particular?" She hummed.

"What it does it doesnt say.... The ingredients are similar of any random love potion any day..." She lied the book down on the counter beckoning Twilight over. "As you can see, I missing ingredients three. Should you find them bring them back fast."

Twilight took the book and looked at the ingredients closely. "Okay so... there's Purple petals from a Pungent Pokey plant, ground ginger root and.... Oh sweet Celestia......." She looked to me blushing.

I looked to her confused. "....What? What does it say?" I asked. Probably not the best thing to ask. She huffed.

"...Lover's milk..... And dont ask why i've read on this but... apparently you and Applejack have to fuck like rabbits and considering your stamina after that someone has to go in and extract it from her...." Fluttershy blushed and yelped a bit. I blushed harder than I ever have before.

I looked to Zecora. "I'd say this is wrong but I can not." She said. "But this is something that cant be bought. But by the looks of his face he has a lovers quarrel. He probably hasnt been touched by her and might squirt from here to Barborrel." So in other words its obvious I have blueballs. Thanks a lot Applejack... Didnt even wanna jack off. And how I know its a blueballs comment... She said i'd basically shoot it from inside Everfree five hundred miles away to a small town in the country of... I actually dont know because I've never looked it up.

I averted my gaze as Fluttershy looked to me. "...Lovers quarrel? Did you and Applejack get into a fight?" She asked. I hesitantly nodded. She gave an aw and hugged me.

Zecora huffed. "If I've learned anything from needing milk of lovers true is needing two lovers who are willing to do." She said. "If he and his mare can not embrace in bed then this potion may not even be any shade of red."

Twilight looked to Zecora setting the book down. "Does it have to be true love to get that lovers milk?" She asked. "As much I really dont want to ruin Ryder's relationship with Applejack I'd volunteer to get it or maybe even ask Fluttershy but if he cant do anything with AJ at the moment how are we going to do anything to the potion?"

I sighed a bit. I now this was probably going to be a bad thing to say but.... I needed to say it. "What about your b-" I said not even getting through the last few words before Twilight held my mouth shut.

"We are not bringing my brother down here so I can extract his.... Yknow..." I gave her a look just silently telling her I didnt even say that at all. Wasnt even going to either. "Besides he isnt going to come all the way down here to help with this. He and Cadence are supposed to be hosting the diplomats from St. Bleetersburg to discuss aid efforts for all refugees displaced by the war... I'll explain more about that later but we need to help Zecora with the potion." She released my muzzle.

"Anyways... Didnt get an answer from Zecora about having it be true love for the Lovers Milk."

Zecora huffed. "I was rudely interupted correct, but it has to be with a stallion who is able to get erect. Love does not matter in this case as long as a mare is there for our friend here to embrace!" She said. "With your minds at ease I must ask you please, get these ingredients or else this potion will be such a tease!"

Twilight set the book back down and pulled out her phone only to take a picture of the ingredients needed. "Alright we'll be back within a few hours." She said. "l'll see what I can do with the Lovers milk but it might be a bit... I'll come back if we cant get the Lovers milk today but we will get it one way or another." ...Yeah that doesnt sound good. I didnt even ask. Anyways Zecora nodded and let us go back to my car. I let everyone crowd in as I went and checked my phone. Nothing still. I sighed as I climbed into the drivers seat. Twilight rested her hand on my shoulder. "...You going to be alright General?"

I turned the car on and huffed. "....Can either of you please get a hold of Applejack please...?" I asked. "She's not gonna answer me... doubt she's even gonna do anything with me even if requested...." Twilight hummed as I pulled away from Zecora's home.

"I mean... we can try but there isnt anything to promise. For now I'm going to have to keep you at the castle for a bit. Hope that's alright."

I didnt even answer before we went all the way back to the castle. Fluttershy just turned my radio on and we just drove back. I didnt hear anything I liked but apparently Twilight and I heard Fluttershy sing to one of the calm Gems n Tulips songs. Gotta say it wanst the worst song but it wasnt what I liked either. Might listen to it again. Anyways after we stopped at the castle Twilight led me to a room Celestia stayed in after the attack. I felt the sad and still kinda frightened aura to this place. I sat there scrolling through Applejack's messages. Last one she sent was midday yesterday. 'Be home fast sugarcube. Somethin' special's waiting for ya.' It said.

I sighed and just locked my phone up. Why is Applejack so pissed off at me for being framed? By now she should've caught on it was Applebloom. I lied there in silence for maybe about thirty minutes before getting a knock at my door. I sat up and looked to the door. It opened and there I saw Big Mac looking a bit ticked but he had a bag full of my stuff. He dropped it by the door before coming over to me pinning me on the bed. He wore his jeans, work boots and a white tee. I didnt even fight back as he just held me there. "What the HELL did you do to AJ to make her so pissed off?!" He snapped.

I huffed. "Applebloom blamed me for stealing one of AJ's ciders and she didnt own up to it!" I said averting my gaze. "Applebloom even said she said it was okay for her to have it!" He kinda slammed me against the bed a bit.

"I dont mean that! AB already confessed and AJ didnt even punish her! I'm askin' about why you forgot your fucking one year anniversary with her!!" One year anniversary? I honestly had to think about this. How long has it been since we first started. Now that came to be. It's been exactly one year since then. Even worse it's been about a year since they were murdered.... I just pushed him off onto the floor and just curled up on the bed. He huffed getting back up. "AJ told me to tell you she's gonna meet with you tomorrow down at Sugarcube corner. She's gonna be there from the morning to the evening and if you dont show up she's hanging up my hammock and she's making you sleep outside!" I didnt even answer as he just stormed out of the room. He stopped just outside the door and looked back in. "...You're lucky Fluttershy came and got your clothes... Otherwise you'd be left with what you're wearin' and no change of clothes to change out of after Aj goes and busts your nose..."

I sat there for a moment just waiting for Big Mac to be out of earshot before starting to sob slightly. I just grabbed one of my pillows and just held it close before pulling out my phone. I went and pulled out my phone and scrolled all the way down to Pinkie Pie. Why I took her picture while she was sleeping cuddling a stuffed toy I have no clue but... She actually didnt mind. Anyways I pulled up a text log between us and texted her. 'Do me this favor.... I want you to try and convince the Cakes to close up shop tomorrow...' I said. '...I have a big job for you and this is something I need to do to have this happen... Dont as what... dont ask why... Just meet me at Twilight's castle and come alone.... Nopony other than yourself please....'

I sent that text off fast and within minutes I got a reply. 'Lucky for you The Cakes are out of town. I'll just tell them a little party emergency is happening tomorrow!' She said. 'I'll come to the castle tonight! Hope that's okay but I hope you know Applejack is supposed to be back at Sugarcube Corner tomorrow!'

'No! That's actually the reason I wanna have you close up shop.... Just please hurry over here and... Bring your party van... I'll explain later...'

After that I didnt get any texts from her. I ended up wiping away my tears, going for my bag and digging into it. I found a note from Fluttershy in it. It said: 'Ryder, I'm sorry Applejack kicked you out. She let me pack your bags but she was pretty mad.... I hope you're okay over there but Big Mac should give this stuff to you. I packed a few diapers for you from what I had after I stopped at home. Hope this helps you. And... By the way I'm here for you when you need me. Call me at any time if you need somewhere to stay and someone to cuddle!'

"At least Fluttershy cares...." I said sighing as I pulled out two diapers... with Princess Cadence' cutie mark on the butt. Dug in there more and pulled a shirt out only to have another note fall out.

This one was Big Mac's hand writing. 'If you're finding this I'm sorry about what ever I did. Just 'dont' find this note and if Applejack asks I scared the apple juice out of you. You come back after fixing things, Rarity is going to watch our sisters and we have a couple drinks. If you want somethin' strong just... Please limit yourself. I aint wanting a remake of when I tried fighting Shining.... See ya soon.' I huffed giving a slight smile as I tossed my shirt on the bed. I took what I had left of my guard gear off and slipping into something more comfortable. Comfortable meaning, sweat pants, a fresh diaper, and that shirt. Just the track pants I wore when I was running with Dash, the shirt just being one of Big Mac's shirts that shrunk when I did the laundry... Long story short its too small for him and I'm leaving the laundry to him. This was just a black shirt that he pretty much never wore. He had multiple shirts like this, some he cut the sleeves off and others he left alone.

I walked out of the room closing my door and started walking down the hall. To be honest I lost all care in the world just hearing my flank crinkle. Not sure if guards who I passed noticed but if they did they're good at keeping their mouths shut around me. Soon I came up on the dining area. The smell of food lingered in the air but I couldnt put my finger on what it was. When I entered I saw Twilight sitting down at the table just texting away wearing the same outfit as earlier. Guess different princesses have different style. Spike was over in the kitchen just stirring around sizzling veggies in a pan. He wore a black undershirt, Lunar Republic camo shorts and.... A pink apron. Why the pink apron i dont have a clue but I pulled out a chair and sat across from Twilight. She looked to me as I pulled my phone from my pocket and just lied it on the table. "....You alright Ryder?" She asked. I shrugged. "Well... Dont hold it against AJ or yourself.... You forgot it was your anniversary and I think she forgot it's been a year since.... yeah..."

I sighed. "...You can say it Princess.... Scootaloo isnt around..." I said.

"...You sure? I mean... it's still kind of a touchy subject in my mind..." I nodded. "...Well... if you're sure.... She doesnt really remember about the murders... It was kind of a harsh time for her as well as you... She almost got shot and you ended up getting arrested!" I sighed.

"I hope she realizes it before tomorrow... Tomorrow I'm having Pinkie close Sugarcube Corner for a day and come here to help me make it up to AJ.... I just wanna make her happy."

"I know that you do... I just want you to at least ask before using my castle as a little 'sorry for forgetting our anniversary' party... I'll let it slide this one time but you're on your own after this. Alright?" I nodded and avert my gaze to my phone.

"Apologies princess.... But... maybe one more thing....?" She sighed.

"What now General?"

"...Do you think Rarity has maybe a suit my size I'd be able to rent or something...? I just... I need it to look right and what ever I wear that isnt nice is gonna feel like I dont mean it...." She looked to her phone as it rang giving a piano chime.

"Well... speak of the devil and she shall appear... One sec." She slid her thumb across the screen and put it up to her ear. "Hey Rarity perfect timing! ...Oh I'm alright. Just getting some lunch ready. Apparently Pinkie's coming over soon... Oh uh.... Yeah its gotta do with that..... Yeah... yeah..." She glanced to me. I just gave her a puppy dog face. I can almost never get away with it. "He's giving me puppy dog eyes right now. He just needs to ask a favor from you and if it costs anything I'll pay.... He's just gotta pay me back with his work...." I rolled my eyes and nodded feeling my heart just pound. "Alright... at least he agrees to that... Well the favor he needs is a suit tailored to his size but one that he can rent from another client that bailed on paying for it... Do you have one of those?... Yeah I'll hold." She looked to me covering the microphone. "Alright... She said she might but she's gonna have to check. Might be a sec... For now just find something in my fridge. Spike is making stirfry with soy sauce and I know you arent much of a fan of that." I nodded and got up.

As I walked over to the fridge I couldnt help but glance at Spike. He smiled at me before I went for the fridge. When I looked inside I heard him kinda chuckle. I fixed my shirt a bit blushing. "Good to have you back General! Havent seen you for a while!" He said. "That's kind of a cool new wing!"

I sighed as I chose a left over couple of hayburgers. I held it up just looking to Twilight. She gave me a thumbs up on it without me having to say a word. "Thanks I guess Spike..." I said going to the microwave. "This basically is still kind of uncomfortable but I'm getting used to the fact that its there.... If you want later I can tell you how I got it... And if Twilight will let you hear about it. It's a little... eh..."

"C'mon I dont need to ask Twilight! I read all these super hero comics and most of them have the bad guys getting bloody noses and stuff!" I set the time on the microwave for a minute and sighed.

"Still gotta ask her Spike. I dont wanna tell it to you and have her get pissed off at me because you got sick or scared. Understood?" He nodded as he brought his frying pan off the burner and onto an empty one. "Good. Now get that plated for Twilight if its ready. Not being mean but i dont want it overcooked." He nodded and grabbed the nearest plate he could before just scraping what he cooked onto it.

I huffed just going back to my food. Took a minute before I could get it back but I actually had to think about if I wanted to even tell Spike and relive the hell I went through. Maybe about half way through this hay burger a guard came in. "Princess, General. Pinkie Pie and Rarity are here." I didnt look back. Just focused on my food.

Twilight swallowed what she had. "Put their things in their rooms and send them in here." She said. "I gotta talk with them along with the general here." She looked to Spike as i heard boots just start walking away. "Spike I need you to go help the guard with their things. And i told every guard around here to keep an eye on you around Rarity. Not having another birthday catastrophe!" Long story short there Spike went full on greedy dragon mode on his birthday and kidnapped Rarity after taking everything he wanted. The baby dragon gave an aw and just got up from the table, head hung. Not even a minute after I hear the sound of high heels and sneakers hitting the floor. I set what I had left of my food down and looked back at the door only to see Rarity and Pinkie walk through. Rarity wore a pure white and purple pantsuit with black high heels. Pinkie wore jean short shorts and a white tank top and pink canvas sneakers. They both looked at me as they went to either side of the table. Rarity to my left and Pinkie to the right. I hung my head a bit as I turned back to my food. Twilight huffed. "Okay look I know what we're all thinking. We're all pissed at Ryder for pissing AJ off. But it's honestly not on either ones fault. Around this time they both had a horrific moment that they wanted to block out. I'm sure you both remember what happened?"

Rarity sighed heavily. "As much as I hate to say it she is right..." She said propping her head up on her hand. "...I still cant believe Scootaloo walked in on her parents like that... I knew something was wrong when I saw the door slightly open but I couldnt stop her in time...."

Pinkie scooted her chair closer to me. "When I saw that news report I was just wishing it wasnt Ryder with his parents...." She said resting her hand on my leg. "...Glad it wasnt him but it still kind of sucks that Mr. Cake overheard from Applejack the next day when she called me crying.... I swear when he heard that you got arrested he flipped out at me for even getting you on payroll in the first place! He did apologize to me after but still told me you weren't allowed to work there.... I'm glad you came in before the robbery.... I think everyones lemonade would've been spilled...." Oh right... forgot she pissed her pants after that....

I sighed just hugging her. "....Well I'm glad to comeback to you guys..." I said. I looked to Rarity. "...Rarity I dont know what you did after I got arrested but... If I worried you at all I'm sorry I didnt come to you first...."

Rarity sighed as looked to her phone. "Not being mean here but I knew you were going to be alright... my emotions were more towards Scootaloo..." She said. "...That poor little filly.... If Applejack hadnt taken her I'd have hurried over and take her to my home with Sweetie Belle.... Not sure if you'd be out to watch her grow up but... I'd take care of her the best I could.... Maybe even see if she was okay enough for a visit for you..."

"Nice of you to say but... this isnt why we're here is it...? To think about the past?" Each mare shook their head. "...Good... It's all because I fucked up and forgot a major date in my relationship with Applejack and I need your help for me to fix it... otherwise I'm just gonna be more of a wreck than the plane that crashed after I jumped out of it... that night without her was hell for me.... If I didnt get arrested I would've had her holding me while I held Scootaloo...." I whimpered a bit holding Pinkie a bit tighter than even I had wanted. "....I just.... I dont wanna lose AJ...."

Twilight sighed. "Okay I guess this is something we dont want...." She said getting up from the table. "....I dont want Applejack mad at him or scoffing at the mention of him and I dont think me and the other princesses need a sniveling General any time she's with us.... So its either that or we deal with the hand we're dealt with his request. Probably an easy choice here."

Rarity glanced at me for a moment. "I think he deserves to be left well alone." She said. "Forgetful stallions should learn their place by losing what they have forgotten..." At that moment I just couldnt help but just hunker down and start crying hard.

Pinkie climbed into my lap and buried my head into her shoulder. "RARITY! Apologize to Ryder!" She snapped. "Dont you see he needs AJ in his life?" I heard Rarity sigh.

"Come on you cant honestly believe that! I was jok-"

"THAT IS NOT A JOKE! JOKES ARE SUPPOSED TO BE FUNNY!" I felt Pinkie kinda whip her head around. "Twilight I need your spells for this! Tie Rarity up and let me spank her with a magic paddle!"

Twilight huffed as I felt a calming sensation over me. "I'm not doing anything to hurt anyone." She said. "Rarity I want you to apologize to Ryder, Pinkie apologize to Rarity and both of you apologize to me for causing a scene not even ten minutes in this kitchen!" After that all I heard were my softened sobs. Then I guess all at once I felt a pat on my back while also hearing Rarity and Pinkie say sorry to each other, Twilight and I included. Now everyone just gave a sigh. "There... Now Pinkie I think you should take Ryder and maybe get him to nap. He seemed a bit tired when he came to work this morning..."

Pinkie got up off of me and helped me to my feet taking my hand. I opened my eyes long enough just to see Rarity kinda looking pissed at herself and Twilight just facepalming. I looked to Pinkie as she pulled me out of the room, warm smile included. "...Sorry that happened Ry..." She said. "After you lost your job and your... ex... I saw how miserable you were even while living at home with your parents.... I mean... that night your mom had me stay over to make sure you were okay.... you kinda cried during your sleep...." I dont know if its her brain or mine shutting down from what just happened but.... It's kinda possible that happened.

I sniffled a it. "....She just.... she's just the world to me...." I said. "...I fucked up yeah but... she has to know I've had other things on my mind since I was away.... I almost died multiple times while I was there but to some degree.... Explosives, gun shot wounds and almost died in a plane crash... How does she not realize that all that just messes with me.....?"

"Sounds a lot like Fluttershy with scary movies.... except a lot worse...." We turned into my room with everything just spilled from my pack onto the floor. She sat down on my bed with me and just nuzzled me. I couldnt help but just kinda relax and wet myself. I just calmed down a bit but blushed hard as I did that. Pinkie couldnt help but blush a bit and giggle. "I know that face anywhere! That's the same face Pound makes when he wets his diaper in his sleep! Do you need a change widdwe Wywy?" I kinda giggled a bit blushing hard shaking my head. "Are ya sure? If you want I can bring my bag over here and give you a nice change which gives you a little time to do some stinkies if you want. Dont worry I can handle it!" Really? Did she just ask me if I needed to take a shit? In my own diaper? Yeah... yeah she did but I'm not doing it. I sighed.

"....Just change me please.... I wanna go to sleep dry thank you very much...." I pointed to my bag. "I should have some wipes and a few freshies in there... Thank Fluttershy for those.... They feel like I'm sitting on a cloud when they're dry..." I gave a yawn just being lied down by Pinkie.

"Here just get ahead of me. I'll change you while you're asleep and come join you after I'm done! Okay?"

And before I could say anything I was just OUT! But almost immediately I was thrown into a nightmare. How did I know? Because it started raining. I even felt a strange sense of Dejavu. I was on my street where my old house was.... well... the house that burnt down was... It was my house technically but it was still my parents. Everything was in their name still. I had gone off and lived rent free after they died... same with Scoot... Anyways I was walking down the road going towards my house. I was in a UFG rain coat, jeans and my combat boots. Even had my gun with me but... this wasnt my pistol. It was a shotgun. Pump action, and sawn off barrel. This was one of the guns I used at the range during the war to blow off steam. Oh the shards of targets the troublemakers had to clean... but anyways I approached the door to the house and kicked it in. Not sure why I did that but it happened. I looked around at everything. Old and decayed. Dusty too. "Hello? Who's there?" I heard a familiar voice say. A fillies with a slight southern drawl.

I looked around. "Applebloom? Where are you?" I asked. My voice almost echoed off the mostly destroyed house. I heard a door upstairs creak open.

"I'm upstairs! Hurry please!" I carefully made my way upstairs past my room and made my way to Scootaloo's. I ducked inside and the door shut behind me and there i saw Applebloom looking scared. She wore a yellow apple shirt and her overalls and a dirty pair of sneakers. I set my gun down as she hugged me.

"What are you doing here? You know its not safe to go out during a storm like this!" She whimpered as I sat her on the bed. It creaked and cracked a bit under her weight.

"....B-big Mac took me over here.... He's just hiding me away from AJ... She's so mad she's been hitting Big Mac.... He just doesnt want me to get caught in the wrong place when she gets mad...." I huffed.

"...You're serious about this? AJ doesnt hit anyone she loves. Not even if its for a punishment...." I was going to add on to that but next thing you know I hear the loud sound of tires screeching before the house shook as I hear glass, wood and stone fly everywhere downstairs.

"No! Not now!" Applebloom said backing up towards the wall. "Y-you gotta hide Ry! That's gotta be AJ! She sees you and that gun she's gonna gut you thinkin' you're tryin to hurt me!" I picked up my gun and just looked to the door.

"No... I'm not gonna let you get hit by her! As much as I dont want to I need to protect you from her!" Honestly something didnt sit right in my stomach there. "Now get under the bed... dont come out unless I tell you to..." She hesitated. "Now!" Scared she nodded and just went right under the bed.

Just as I was about to go out of the room the door was kicked in throwing me back into the wall and breaking through it going back outside. Somehow landed right out in the orchard at Sweet Apple Acres. I looked around dazed and confused wondering where my gun was. I knew where it was within a few seconds after someone landed on me putting a boot to my neck. Applejack had it pointed in my face. She was wearing some sort of old western bounty hunter's outfit. Eye patch, black trench coat, denim shirt and skinny jeans with her bucking boots. "....You really think I didnt see you go into that fuckin' house?" She asked. "Big Mac had balls to stop me but you aint got the balls to even do jack about our fuckin' anniversary.... I'd call ya sugarcube but... you lost that right... Do you even have anythin' to say to get me to stop me from shootin' ya right now?" I would've said something but I was almost frozen by fear. Almost meaning I just started to struggle kinda spouting gibberish.

Next thing you know I woke up giving a scream. I was stripped down to just a diaper. Pinkie was startled a bit falling out of bed.... also just in a diaper... Awkward but kinda expected. I teared up as I felt a warm sensation start to engulf my diaper. Pinkie got to her feet and sat back down in the bed hugging me. "Ryder? Are you okay? Did you have an accident?" She asked. I nodded just starting to sob. "Aww.... what made you scream like that...? Was it AJ trying to hurt you...?" I nodded again. I dont know how but she is scary good at guessing games. "Hey dont worry.... She's not gonna hurt you... you'll be alright.... Now finish up and lets get you cleaned and changed again.... seems like we've been out for a couple hours now..." She handed my phone to me as she lied me back down. I looked at my notifications and saw I had a text from Big Mac.

The text read: 'you better have something good planned. AJ just saw sugarcube corner closed and nopony inside. She is PISSED!' I huffed and texted him back.

I said: '....Text or call me if she goes off on you in any way... I just had a nightmare that scared the piss outta me.... she started to hit you and Applebloom.... and for Celestias sake please make sure Scootaloo doesnt get the harsh end of anything..... Please?' I averted my gaze just because how weird i felt as Pinkie was changing me. You'd think I'd be used to it right now but with how things were going and who I was with just felt so weird.

After we were done changing we went to find Twilight. Didnt know where she went. I now wore jeans, a band tee that Fluttershy had packed, and my sneakers again. Pinkie wore jeans, a tank top and her sneakers as well. As we walked I just glanced around at guards that patrolled the halls. I wanted to ask them where she was but I hesitated. I know most of them would keep their mouths shut but I feel like one of them would blab about the diaper I had on. That shirt fit me but apparently didnt fit me very well. I felt them looking earlier. We just kept walking to where we felt Twilight was. TV room. When we got there we saw both Rarity and Twilight sitting in their seats as they watched the news. Something about gang activity in Manehattan... Something says I'm not going back to that kinda stuff for a while. Anyways I yawned a bit going to a seat just on the other side of Rarity. Both Twilight and Rarity looked to me as Pinkie sat behind me. "Hey Ry.... You alright there?" Twilight asked.

I shrugged just hitting my seats arm. A small cooler popped up right in front of me. I grabbed a soda out of it and popped it open. Rarity huffed. "Sorry we were a bit harsh on you earlier..." She said. "...It's just we dont like it when someone hurts our friends feelings..."

I huffed. "....I know... I hurt AJ's feelings by fucking forgetting something majorly important..." I looked over at them both. "...I do forgive you for that though.... Now about what we're gonna do for tomorrow....?"

Twilight gave me a smile. "I've got it already planned out. Nothing too glitzy but it's something that looks like you thought it up." She said. "I'll even give you your check early so you can take her out on the town with a little added bonus for what ever you want. How's that sound?"I gave a thumbs up as I sipped from my soda. Felt good knowing I was just about to get something done that makes my beautiful marefriend forgive me for the stupid shit that I did. How long it would take? That's the thing I had to think about. I hummed.

Rarity looked to me. "Something wrong darling?" She asked.

I hesitantly nodded. "...What if we dont finish what we need to in time?" I asked. "I mean... Pinkie is fast setting it up but I know she gets cranky without some sleep... That's gonna leave me and Twilight to finish it since you need your beauty rest and pass out on random orders that take all night and half a day.... It should just take a while but we need some time to work on it and one night isnt gonna be enough and we arent gonna go two nights... we gotta work our asses off tonight, rest and get to it in the morning but we have to stall Applejack somehow...."

Twilight hummed floating her phone over to me just to read a list she had. "I've got something here that might help us." She said. "I was going to do this for Cadence and Shining on their anniversary but Shining said no and well... Perfect time as any right? Just gotta change a few things on a file i have on my lap top.I'll call Big Mac, make sure its alright for him to get out and disguise it as a delivery. I'll even give some guards some clues to wait for AJ at certain places and give her the clues while others i will hide but with a guard watching over it. Sound better?"

"Scavenger hunt? Nice one. Wouldnt have thought of that myself." ...Yeah I wouldnt have. Just would've had Pinkie run around pissing AJ off until she came here. Not much of an idea but it was one to fail hard. Anyways I better stop here... Nothing interesting happens past here... Well... For the rest of the day.

A Run for Love. (AJ's POV)

I know my sugarcube aint been right since the war but this is ridiculous. He had the apples to forget our anniversary! I swear when I kicked him out yesterday I wanted to rope him back in just do rip em off and throw em back on the tree. But I didnt. I just watched his car just rush right down the road away from my pissed off ass. Didnt like it but he tried to apologize I give ya that much. Anyways I went to bed pissed off. Yelled at Big Mac before dinner. Lucky us Celestia dropped by to pick Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle up for a sleep over at the summer mansion. Glad she did. Scootaloo gave a huff when her brother ran off. Glad I know when to bite my tongue when its got to do with a filly. Learned that mistake when Applebloom was a baby. Granny swore one day and next thing you know my sisters first word was a colorful one. Why do I do that? Cuz ya never know what someone's gonna say even if it is someone younger than you. Anyways I went to bed last night mad outta my gourd. Actually had Big Mac pad me up and cuff me to the bed just in case I started swinging in my sleep. I got a habit of doing that. He slept in my bed just to keep me company but not only did he cuff me he wrapped me like a habanero corn horn. Think of it like a hay taco or burrito except its twisted to a horn shape. This was the part that just made me wanna scream. I woke up still wrapped up and sweating. I could barely move and Big Mac was nowhere to be found. "BIG MAC YOU BETTER NOT BE SLEEPIN' IN YOUR BED NOW!" I yelled. No answer. "BIG MAC ANSWER ME!" Oh was I lucky I was wearing a diaper and a tank top. The diaper only because A: I feel like this is gonna help me calm my ass down and B: Sometimes I gotta get up in the middle of the night and use the can so I dont wake up in a puddle like my idiot colfriend did after he was made a guard....I forgave him for that but any other accidents are totally on him.

I struggled a bit and fell outta bed rolling around with the blanket. Unrolled myself just fine but my cuffs got caught on the sheets and gave me a bit of traction. Fell out and hit hard. Damn near knocked the wind outta myself. Lucky me I got up and started grabbing for where I thought the cuff key was. Nope. Not on the damn nightstand or the other one, or my dresser. Not even the damn windowsill but I did see a sight at the window sill. Big Mac walking inside wearing sweat pants and a hoodie to keep himself warm while we slept. We did use my blanket afterall. On the road i did see a guard truck driving away. Wasnt Ryder. He'd stay and try and talk to me. This one drove off. I just sat back on the bed and looked at the door for a moment hearing my brothers heavy feet thump up the stairs. When he opened the door he froze just having an envelope in his hand. He smiled nervously. "Oh.... Hey sis.... You uh... you sleep well?" He asked.

"I dont know. How do you think I slept?" I showed him the cuffs and glared at him. He sighed and flicked the envelope towards me. It landed almost on my lap.

"Just hang on a sec and let me get the key. Hid it in your nightstand just in case you wiggled out during a nightmare and went to find him for something he did in a dream." I sighed as he went to his side of the bed and dug into the nightstand pulling out the key. He knelt down on the bed as I glanced at the envelope. Not even marked. No sticker, stamp or anything.

"The fuck is that?" He sighed as he kinda struggled with my cuffs slightly.

"Somethin' a guard gave me. Didnt say shit when he did and I asked everything I could to get him to tell me what it is! Knocked on our door, handed it to me and fucked right off. I was expecting to have him say something about those flimflam brothers are tryin' to sue us for our cider makin'." And yeah they've tried doin' that a few times. Failed each time and I thought the last time was gonna be the last time. Hopefully it is or else I gotta send my own type of form back with a guard to deliver... Anywho Big Mac unlocked one of my cuffs. I felt I was free there and grabbed for the letter.

"Well... somethin' aint sitting right with me about this... A guard just comes up, hands this to you and leaves? He aint gonna say what it is?" Big Mac shrugged as he undid my other cuff. Good lord my wrists were a bit on the sore side but hey its somethin. I sighed as I lied back... Guess I realized then I did have an accident while I slept. Might've gone while trying to struggle and look for the key.... These things are so absorbent and I guess if Ryder needs to really relax he needs it to be absorbent otherwise there's another puddle. Did I already say somethin' about that? Eh.... Dunno... Anyways I glanced at my brother blushing a bit. "Y'wanna change me real quick? I kinda wanna just dig into this and see what all this is about."

As much as he didnt wanna he had to. He huffed as I opened the envelope. Honestly i was scared kinda expecting to see either a subpoena to appear in a court or something about a death in the family.... yet the guard would've said something about it unless this was a newbie recruit. Otherwise it's delivered by the mail mare... Hell Babs sent me a package and I still havent gotten it... Should invite her for a stay here soon but now aint the time to say that. I opened up the envelope and pulled out a sheet of paper marked with my cutie mark. I unfolded it to see a letter typed up. Something short but it had me a bit curious. 'Applejack. This should be the start of a fun trip. Go to the place where youd get aid if you broke your hip.' Really? An easy riddle like this?

Big Mac huffed as he finished up and walked over to a corner facing it like he was Applebloom in time out. "Alright i'm finished. Now get some damn clothes on." He said. "I know I did it with Applebloom but you're a full grown mare and times have changed since then."

I huffed getting up and heading over to my drawers right quick. Grabbed a pair of panties, jeans and a flannel shirt. "Well sorry about that Big Mac. You wanted me to calm down thats what Ry does to calm down!" I said. "Besides you just could've said no and I would've just called you to help me to the bathroom. Would you rather me take a shit and have you wipe my ass after?" My brother shook his head as I got my panties on. "Good because its better that than me screaming my head off telling you i'm either about to piss myself or shit in the bed! Now real question here is do ya wanna accompany me today? I mean... Tomorrow is a buckin' day and today is just a rest day after processin'." He looked back at me hesitantly making sure I was covered.

"Where the hell ya think youre even gonna go? Got nowhere to go since Sugar Cube Corner is closed!" I pointed to the note on the bed.

"Read that. Maybe it'll help see what we're doin' here." He walked over to the bed and grabbed the note looking at it like the print were smaller than the hairs on a shaved cat.

"Really? Who ever gave this to us wants us to go to the hospital? I swear if who ever this is thinks we're family to em, we aint givin them anythin'." I sighed getting my pants on.

"Big Mac... Sometimes I think Ryder is smarter than you... Doesnt this seem at all familiar to ya?" He shook his head. "Remember when it was your birthday a couple years before granny passed? She helped me and AB put together a scavenger hunt?" I swear he looked to me like I was spouting nonsense. I huffed. "It was the same day you ended up faintin' and hittin' your head on the ground after we lead you all around Ponyville and ran you outta juice at Ryder's apartment?" He gave a nod and huffed realizing that. Doctor did say it'd affect his memory some. He hummed.

"Well.... I guess I could go... otherwise I'd be doing something with that stallion you booted." He set the note back on my bed and went for the door. "Just meet me downstairs in a bit. Pretty sure you got a few things to do yourself like make sure Celestia knows we're gonna be busy today so she dont try and drop AB off thinkin' we're home. Wanna make that call? Or you want me to?" I sighed buttoning my pants up and walked over to my side of the bed grabbing my phone off the charger before tossing it to him. "Alright no words for this..." I kinda smiled as he left my room letting me get dressed in peace. To be honest it aint the first time we've gone and seen each others stuff. Accidentally walked in on him giving himself a hand. Glad it wasnt AB. Hell I used to strut about the house naked to spite him.

Anyways not long later I was sitting in the passenger seat of the family truck. Big Mac was now wearing his jeans, work boots and a white tee shirt and his jean jacket. He didnt have the radio on because apparently the antenna is fucked up by the storm we had after the attack with Celestia and she had to run out here to stay with Twilight. That storm took a lot from us in profit but we made up for it. Wondering why we havent asked Ryder to fix the antenna to it yet. Anywho as we drove down the road I pulled out my phone and looked to my texts. I did have a few notifications from my voicemail about Ryder. Nothing I'd wanna listen to. But there was something in me that wanted to call him up and see if he'd answer... I went and tapped on my 'missed calls' notification and it brought up calls from Ryder and Dash and a few unknown ones. I tapped on one of Ryder's and it started to call him back. I put it on speaker shushing Big Mac. It went straight to voicemail after one buzz. "Hey you've got Ryder. Cant answer right now but you leave a message and I'll get back to you later." I heard his voice say. It followed a beep but I couldnt even say anything. Big Mac huffed.

"Hey Ry its Mac. Forgot to charge my phone during the night and we're on our way out. AJ still aint wanting to talk to you but I'm willin. If you want text or call AJ's phone. I'll be hanging onto it" I huffed and rolled my eyes as he said that. "Hopefully we'll get to see ya soon. Talk to ya later." I tapped at my phone a bit and sent the message off before stuffing my phone back in my pocket. Big Mac glanced at me before I looked out the window towards Canterlot. "Somethin' tells me you regret kickin' him out huh? I mean why else would you call him and not say anything?"

I sighed. "Big Mac shut up before I put your ass outside tonight." I said. "I dont feel sorry for booting him after forgetting our one year anniversary. Do you know how important that is to us? Me especially?" He sighed.

"Yeah I do know. But do-"

"Well you know how mad I am with him! Think of how pissed you were with the truck knowing he destroyed it! That's how I felt. And what I'm still feelin'!"

"But do you remember I slowly started to forgive him because he was honest with us? Hell you forgave him right away and why was that?" I sighed.

"Because he was honest but he got booted from his apartment and was thrown into his parents house." He looked at me like I needed to do something there but I had no idea what he wanted. "Just shut up and get us to that damn hospital before you're going to be the one in it." He huffed and just drove the rest of the way.

When we got to the hospital I hopped out of the truck and ran in to the hospital. Cars and trucks were just traversing the parking lot making it almost impossible for us to find a spot. Might as well just get out at the entrance to the hospital. Not the ER part. Got in trouble for that when we had to take Applebloom in for a check up and accidentally got taken to the wrong entrance. When I got inside I looked around trying to find where another clue was. Only thing that stood out to me was a unicorn guard leaning against the wall clad in his golden uniform. He gave a little smile as I approached. "Perfect timing." He said. "You must be the Generals marefriend." I smiled a bit.

"Well that I am. The big baby got ya doin' this for him?" He gave a little chuckle.

"Yeah but if you're going to ask where he is I'm not at liberty to say. Why? That's a secret." I sighed.

"Fine. I'll let him just disappear among the ponyfolk until this thing is over... It does have an end right?" He nodded. "Alright then so what's your clue?" He held up a finger before making a piece of paper appear out of thin air. He unfolded it and hummed reading it.

"Go find my cousin to who has the next clue for something in town that requires two. Dont expect this to be easy and fun. She's been thinking about taking you on a run." I huffed shaking my head.

"Dammit... and I thought this was gonna be something easy... Not a run with Dash..." I looked to the guard. "Does it at least say where she is?" He looked at the letter again.

"Well... Kind of... It doesnt specifically say where but it does give a hint if its needed. The hint is 'old trees new adventures'... Not sure what that means but you can get it from here cant you?" He handed me the note and I looked at it thinking. I gave him a hesitant nod before going back outside where Big Mac had the truck waiting.

I hopped in and showed him the note. He looked to me. "You arent gonna get that next clue so easy. This is Dash we're talkin' about. Not Fluttershy or Pinkie so she's got something planned." He said. "Do you wanna call Dash up to find where she's at? Or you just wanna go by the clue?"

I looked at the clue and kinda shook my head. "I swear he thinks I'm stupid...." I said. "Old trees and new adventures? I swear he's making it too easy for me. Not to mention I can handle any challenge Dash has. She's just a hot head who gets over confident about what she can do. And the hint? Just hit the old library Twilight used to live in. It was an old tree and thats where a new adventure started for some of us." I swear when Tirek came and kidnapped everyone we were scared. I still remember being trapped in a cage seeing Fluttershy and Dash holding each other close thinking they were about to die. Pinkie was curled up in a corner scared, Rarity and I were uh.... Lets say we were trying to keep our sanity without being noticed by anyone else. Kinda sad that we just accepted that fact. Anyways Big Mac huffed.

"Well its your scavenger hunt. I'm just along for the ride." He glanced over at me as we started off. "...You'll chip in for gas right? This aint gonna be good if the truck dies half way between point A and point B." I sighed.

"O'course. I aint that much of an idiot to let our only form of transportation run outta gas. Ry took his car and I wish we could've taken his keys and have Twilgiht send a guard to pick him up... Too late for that now...." I looked at my phone. "For now lets just hurry. Longer this takes the more I can yell at Ryder and I dont really feel like yelling if he's got this all set up for me... Wish he had numbered this shit so I dont have to wonder how many of these there are..."

My big brother didnt say anything after that. Now on our way all we could do was be alone with our thoughts. I had a few thoughts. Some about Ryder and others about a few other friends... Like Pinkie... Wondering how she managed to get away with closing up early yesterday. I went there thinking she'd let me sleep over but guess she had other plans. Exactly why I needed Big Mac in bed with me. A to keep me from wetting myself, B to keep from hurting myself or him and C.... Well just so I knew someone was there with me. Anyways it didnt take long to get to the ruins of the old Treebrary. Surprised they didnt come through and clear it out like they did to Ryder's old place... Still kinda scary that he woke up just as everything was catching fire... And you'd think he would have a fire extinguisher around being a guard and all... Dont they gotta abide by some safety thing? Well... Hopefully nothing sparks around the orchard... again.... When we arrived at the ruins there I saw Dash just sitting on a low lying cloud she plucked from the sky. The burnt marks of the now rotting landmark of town made me shutter. Dash hopped off the cloud and landed in front of me. She was wearing red running shorts and a white tee shirt as well as her running shoes. She smiled a bit. "Took ya long enough AJ!" She said. "I've been waiting forever for you! Where were you?" I huffed.

"Dash I've only been up for an hour and I havent even eaten breakfast yet. What the hell are you doing out here dressed like that? Aint you even cold?" She shook her head.

"Hell no! The cold keeps me going as fast as ever! You ready for your challenge for the clue?"

"And the challenge is?" She took a minute to think about it. Her stomach growled a bit and she blushed. "Well?"

"Uh.... Maybe get me a protein drink from the shop before I do my run? Cant really go on without breakfast now can we?" I gave a smirk and shook my head.

"Nope! That we cant really do. If I get you this can I bypass the physical stuff considerin' I'll probably overheat within two minutes of the run?" She gave a nod. "Alright... Brand and size?"

To be honest this part was kinda boring which I really shouldnt explain. Otherwise someone here'd be falling asleep. She ended up giving me the clue anyways without any challenge. Kinda glad because I just wasnt feeling up to taking anyones shit today. I sat in the truck just looking at the clue. Big Mac glanced at me as we ate the donuts I bought because I had a feeling Sugarcube corner was still closed. He swallowed a bit. "What's the clue say sis?" He asked before tipping a bottle of milk to his mouth. To be honest I was so hungry I didnt even wanna answer. Had a full donut stuck in my mouth.I did have a bottle of juice to help washing it down but when I did I gave a slight cough giving it to him. He looked at it as I tried catching my breath a bit. He hummed. "A party of one isnt much fun. Go to the place where it houses the sun!" He looked back to me setting the note on my lap. "....Are we seriously heading out to Canterlot?" I shook my head getting another drink in.

"Not there. Celestia had a safe house built after she was attacked at Canterlot. She had it made just outside of Ponyville just in case Scootaloo needed a little time with friends or if we needed to come get her if Ryder uh...." I stopped myself. Didnt wanna think about it even though he is home. My brother rested a hand on my shoulder.

"Well that aint gonna be any time soon sis. Nopony we know is gonna go any time soon...." I dont know why but that just gave me a chill. I took a deep breath.

"...Y-yea.... you're right... Just start heading out to the edge of town.. I'll direct ya if you get lost..." I took my phone up and looked to it just to see a text from Celestia.

The text read: 'Just got a text from Dash telling me you've got her clue. Mine will be.... Fun but kinda hard at the same time. I just hope you're in for a few games. Perhaps we can have a little something more to eat other than donuts. Yes Dash told me about that and I want you to be properly nourished before your challenge here. See you soon.' I got a little smile from that.

Honestly just knowing I was about to see my little sister and her friends and Princess Celestia herself. I know i had this option when Scoot was with her but.... I almost never did because I feel like I'd be taking advantage. Wouldnt feel good. When we got to the mini mansion we were brought inside the gate and parked along side a few guard trucks. How weird it felt to be in a place like this. There were guards at the door who opened them up when me and Big Mac got close. When we entered there we saw Princess Celestia standing alone in the middle of the foyer. She was wearing jeans that would put my ass to shame and a short sleeve Manehattan shirt. Just showed the Manehattan skyline with a large half an Apple on one of the sky scrapers. Marked where my Uncle's business was. Got family all over the place dealing with a lot of Apples and some oranges from my uncles side but we seem to sell a lot. Enough on that. We knelt down bowing in respect to her. As we rose we smiled to her. "Welcome Applejack. Big MacIntosh." She said. "Welcome to my Summer Home. Your sister is with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle in the entertainment room. They've already eaten and we will join them in a moment. For now why dont we go into the dining hall and get you something to eat? I've taken the liberty of asking your sister what you'd like to eat for breakfast and she just told me pancakes. Is that alright?" Big Mac and I nodded before following the princess to the dining hall. I stopped at the door right behind my brother. I looked to the small-ish table and looked to the princess. She glanced at me. "Is everything okay Applejack?"

I huffed. "...May I speak with ya princess?" I asked averting my gaze. "....Something aint sitting right and.... It's kinda buggin' me...."

Big Mac looked up at me. "You wanna talk with me sis?" He asked. I shook my head as the princess came to my side.

I ended up walking out with her having a hand on my shoulder. "Come AJ. Let's head to my quarters so we dont have any prying ears..." She said. "...I feel this is something that needs privacy." I gave a nod as her hand moved from my shoulder to my hand. She held it all the way up the stairs and when we were at her door. There was a guard standing there in between the doors. She looked to him. "Go and watch the steps. Nopony is to come upstairs. If the fillies try coming up stop them gently. I dont want anyone being knocked down the stairs again." She looked to me as the guard hurried off to the stairs. "No worries. Another guard just got startled when another dropped something upstairs. Before he got to the top he tumbled back down. No injuries but he was dazed and a bit startled by it. Lucky that armor they wear is sturdy. Now maybe we get inside and have a chat?" I nodded and she opened the door nudging me in. She followed me in and closed the door behind us. I just went over to the bed and hopped up on the side. She came over and sat next to me. "Alright now Applejack... what's going on...?"

I sighed a little. "....You think Ryder still loves me....?" I asked. "....He just.... He doesnt normally forget things like this but.... I cant even think of a reason why he'd forget..." Celestia sighed.

"Of course he does AJ. Why else would he do this for you?" I shrugged.

"...Dunno... maybe its so he can fuck someone else behind my back...? Distract me for long enough to get laid by a different mare....? Hell I know he's done it with Gilda but he uses her for stress.... He does stuff to her that he'd hate to do to me.... I let him get away with it only to have him come back to me stress free and full of cuddles...." I looked towards a door at the side of the room. "....Do ya... do ya think he left me for Gilda and didnt say nothin...?"

"Applejack... Dont think like this. Besides... Just as a hint for the next clue Gilda is the next one you have to visit. The location is in the clue I have and I cant give it to you now otherwise Ryder would be a bit disappointed in me and you for not even having that much fun a long the way.... I know this is something you wouldnt wish to hear but... After his plane crash he had his squad chop his wing off not caring how much pain he was in from his hard landing.... Not only did he risk bleeding out, he risked freezing to death on top of a mountain just to get back to you and Scootaloo.... If he didnt love you why else would he do something like that?" I had to think for a moment. Why else would he have that metal wing? All I know is he was in a plane crash... Never told me he was the one who lopped off his wing... Lord when I saw him in that hospital bed I thought I saw a ghost but... it felt good to hold him close... I looked to Celestia.

"...I guess you're right.... I just kinda feel bad that I kicked him out.... I cant even get a hold of him with my phone.... Even Big Mac cant even get him to answer." She sighed standing up.

"I'd let you use my phone but he gave me specific instructions not to let anyone contact him. Twilight might have him on duty, his phone may have died or he might just be working hard on something that he needs his total focus on. I never asked what it is but I will give him that privacy. I suggest you do the same AJ..." I sighed hanging my head and wiping my eyes a bit. Kinda teared up.

"Well... Alright... But this aint gonna be good if i have to at least tell him someone wasnt at their post or I failed what ever challenge y'all had...."

"Speaking of the challenge why dont we downgrade it hm?" I looked to her curious as to what she meant. She took my hand and got me off the bed walking to the door. "Well we were going to have you try and beat Scootaloo's Bass Villain high score on the hardest difficulty but why dont we just make it a game of hide and seek? He did say i could change the challenge or let you have the clue if it was too hard."

"...Sounds good I guess.... Now can we get somethin' to eat princess? My stomach aint gonna be workin' with me if I'm gonna be runnin' around trying to find a few fillies.... Trust me when I say working the orchard on an empty stomach is my enemy." Yeah sure I had donuts but... it aint much... Those things were almost hollow chocolate shell. That's how light those things were. Celestia nodded and opened up the door just giving me a little heart warming hug. Skipping the meal because... well nothing much to talk about. Just gave both me and Mac a bowl of cereal to eat. Nothing much but it was something filling. After breakfast Celestia brought me and Big Mac to the entertainment room where we saw Scootaloo -wearing her Gems n Tulips gear from after her little private concert-, Applebloom -who was wearing her overalls and her white teeshirt and boots- and Sweetie Belle -wearing a white dress and black regal shoes (typical Rarity dressin' her like that....)- playing their game. Applebloom on the drums, Scoot on the bass and Sweetie Belle on guitar. They were playin' some Gems n Tulips song. Dunno what but I find Ryder whistlin' it every now and then. We just let them finish off their song before Celestia turned the console off.

"Alright now you three we've got a job to do here but we do have a little change here."

Scootaloo came and hugged me as well as Applebloom. Scoot squeezed kinda tight but its a bit expected. "What's gonna change princess?" Sweetie asked. Big Mac took Applebloom and sat in a chair with her on his lap. I just stood there with Scoot.

"Well first off we arent going to have Applejack try and beat Scootaloo's high score. And on the hardest difficulty? She doesnt know how to even play that game!" She looked to me. "Do you?" I shook my head a bit. I only like being around it listinin' to what ever Big Mac is playing. Ryder plays but he hasnt touched it for a while. Too busy I think. Celestia looked back to the fillies. "Instead of that I have a bit of a better idea. Just so she doesnt have to work her fingers to the bone trying to figure out what button to push at what time we're going to play a quick game of hide and seek. I know its something a bit odd but.... Well... a tad childish but its as much as we can do to keep progression on her quest for clues. Is that alright with you?"

I glanced at each of the fillies. They all looked to each other. "Well..." Applebloom started. "...No offense sis but... I dont think you'dve gotten five seconds into the song she chose for you to play..."

Scootaloo sighed a bit. "Yeah.... Paradise Island is kind of a hard song in the beginning..." She said. "My score wasnt even breaking the nine thousand mark..." She kinda pushed away from me but still stayed close. "But Hide and seek sounds fun! And... Think I can get a word with Applejack alone princess....?"

Celestia gave a nod and I looked to my brother. He got up with Applebloom and went to the door with her waiting for Sweetie Belle. Celestia looked to me. "I'll make sure they hide before you're done but I'd give Scootaloo a minute to hide before you go looking... And just so you dont cheat I'm going to take a walk with Big Mac and inform the guards to not give away any location to where they are and not aide them in hiding so we dont have any cloaking spells or little non flying fillies getting to high places.... They bring em up high you have my permission to sue them for endangering them. Even Rarity does but I wont say anything to her unless it does happen."

"Princess..." Celestia looked down at Scootaloo who kinda gave her a sad face. Celestia gave a bit of a hesitant smile and nodded before just leaving the room with everypony else.

I went and sat down with her right near the screen. "...Alright Scoot what's gotcha down?" I asked. The filly sat in my lap kinda cuddling up with me.

"...Well... it just... it kinda hurt me when you kicked Ryder out the other night.... I had to climb into bed with Applebloom to help me sleep but.... that's only because I needed him that night...." I sighed...

"It's alright that you climbed in bed with her... I guess I might've scared ya both when I was yellin... Should've just came in and apologized but... You know that he made me very mad by forgetting our anniversary... you might know how your parents anniversary was to them... I even bet if your dad ever forgot your mom probably woulda chewed him out.... and yknow... I'm actually glad you came to talk with me about this.... It's kind of giving me a bit of a smile after the mornin' I've had.... Just be sure to come to me at any time if you need to... Besides dont you have a cellphone you can use to call me or Ry?" She sighed giving a bit of a smile.

"Yeah but... Ryder told me that his phone was going to be off the whole morning so nopony would bother him. Kinda sounded a bit tired... must want a long nap or something." I sighed.

"Yeah probably... Now why dont you get to hiding? I aint getting anywhere until I find you three... Got me?" She nodded. "Alright now get to it. I'm sure we'll let you stay with Princess Celestia tonight but I'll send Big Mac to pick you up in the morning." I watched as my coltfriends sister ran off. To be honest since the incident I've felt she's kinda my lil sister as well but... Its kinda awkward to say it considerin' I'm sleepin' with her brother. Anyways she ran off leaving me to sit there. I waited three or four minutes letting them all get settled.

I got up and huffed stepping out the door. Almost immediately I was stopped by a pegasus guard. Red mane, orange coat. He saluted me. "My name is Private Firebird. Celestia asked me to tell you that the fillies are all in place. Two are outside and one is inside." He said. "If you need anything while you're looking just come find me and just so you know-" I sighed.

"Sorry there sir but... I got a feelin' I know what you're gonna say.... No telling where them fillies are and the next clue..." He thought for a moment.

"Yeah pretty much. Good luck on finding everypony. I'll be at the bottom of the steps if you need me." I gave a nod and thought for a moment about where to look. Should I start with the outside or inside? I decided on the outside first. Stood outside the door and looked around.

"Alright... Now where are ya hidin'..." I asked myself. I looked where we parked around a guard hut and the guard trucks. "Nah... No filly would go there... too many guards to intimidate and possibly give away their location... not to mention the guard hut is kinda restricted area. Guards cant be distracted now I know this from Ry. Distracted guards dont do their work and mess shit up. I kept looking around. Saw nothing at the other side across from the hut or parking. More guard trucks with guards watching em. I dont even think the Princess would even allow one of the fillies to hide in one. If they did it might be a bit of trouble if a few of them get called out. Dont wanna accidentally kidnap a filly now do they? Anywho i walked around the corner to my left and looked towards the back. Saw a pagoda with Big Mac and Celestia sitting having a little chat. Looked kinda good seein' them just having a nice chat. My big brother smilin' away as Celestia was telling him what ever it was that was making him smile.

As I approached I caught his eye. He glanced over at me. Celestia did as well. "And thus the game starts!" The princess said. "Was Scootaloo okay? What did she say to you? Was it anything about me and what I said or something?" I sighed going and sitting on the bench with my brother.

"Nah. She didnt say anything about you so dont worry. She just told me she kinda needed her brother right after i kicked him out.... Kinda guilt trippin' me into trying to bring him back earlier. I would but he aint gonna answer any call. Not even from his own sister I bet." Celestia gave a little aw.

"I'm sorry you even had to do that... You were mad and he didnt say anything or give any gifts to your anniversary. Big Mac and I were just talking about that." She used her magic a bit. I noticed but I didnt see anything float around or glow. "But I must say you're in for a bit of a surprise later. Wont be spoiling it but you will see when the time comes. But as for now as a little 'sorry' gift, though i must say sorry in advanced." She closed her eyes a bit and took a deep breath before I hear a familiar soundin' little gasp. I looked over at one of the poles holding this thing up... not much of a pole as it is a stone column holding up a tiled shade from the sun. I got up and walked over to almost the very corner of the compound and just hiding behind one of the poles i see my lil sister Applebloom just hiding away holding her mouth shut and looking the complete opposite direction rubbing the back of her head.

I went and tapped her shoulder before she just turns around jumping scared. She sighs and stomps her foot. "That aint fair someone pulled my hair!" She said. "I want a redo on hidin'!"

I huffed and tried my damned hardest not to laugh. "Now Applebloom I caught you fair and square! That means no hiding again!" I snapped. "Now sit down with your brother while I find your friends." I leaned in a bit. "Give ya an extra five bits in your allowance this week if ya give me a hint where one of em is!" She shook her head.

"After that I aint tellin' you a thing! Not for five bits, not even for ten or twenty neither!" Stubborn little.... Well I am proud she stood her own ground there and didnt break.

"Alright now just get with your brother. I'll find em on my own." I nudged her along and she begrudgingly sat down by Princess Celestia just a bit ticked but showing she forgave her because I assume she overheard the conversation we had. I looked to the trucks again before looking over to the other corner... which had a maze....

Celestia gave a little chuckle. "Are you admiring the new maze I had installed not too long ago?" She asked. "I'd becareful if I were you. It's a magical maze and I gave a hand drawn map to a filly I guarantee is hiding in there. Yes I spoiled her hiding spot but without the map it might be a bit harsh." I huffed.

"Shouldnt be that hard. Our cousins made a corn maze that I had to spend the night in because I couldnt find my way out on Nightmare night."

Big Mac huffed. "You passed out while panicking while you were drunk. Found you near the entrance!" He said. He looked to Applebloom. "I swear if you ever drink a sip of beer your butt's gonna be as red as mine!" I shook my head as i started walking towards the maze.

"Big Mac dont you go scarin' her! Now shut up and let me get on with this." I didnt hear anything from him after that. I hurried over to the maze and took a look at the entrance compared to the wall behind it. Twenty, thirty feet from here. I huffed. "This cant be that bad." I walked in and immediately came to a fork in the path. Left or right? I looked both way and saw just walls covered in leaves on either side. There was just a wall just about the size of each openin' give or take a few inches. I went to the opening on the left and when I saw an openin' to my right I went that way but.... I was confused as hell because I swear I was lookin' back at Celestia and Big Mac.

I saw Celestia shake her head and get up. Just braced myself knowing she was just gonna teleport over here. Sure enough she did and right in front of me almost throwing me off balance she was snickering a bit. "Having fun AJ?" She asked. "My magical maze must already have you confused. I have it to where everyone shorter than the walls cant tell where they're going. Its a safety mechanism just in case someone breaks in to here and they try to run. That's only if they can bypass my guards and the organic force field around the top. I did make a map just in case I was out here and I needed to hide. You arent even able to get through without a map. So it's going to be trial and error until you find Sweetie Belle." I huffed.

"....You have got to be kidding me..... This aint fair!" I snapped. "I swear we agreed on no magic and this right here is some magic! It's either you tell that filly in there to go hide inside somewhere or I can give this up telling Ryder he can go fuck himself!" She held my mouth shut with her magic.

"Considering I gave you a freebie with your little sister I deem this fair.... And I'd watch your mouth around these fillies... I dont think my general or Rarity would like it if their sisters were swearing or if you gave up on this entirely.... Now its either you play or I send you home and inform Twilight that 'the trail went cold' because you were being an unfair sport. Do you understand Aj?" I silently growled but gave a thumbs up considerin' I couldnt nod for shit. She released me and I didnt say another word. "I'll give you a hint on the first few turns. THATS IT! I am just about done with you even though you've only just started!"

"Princess.... I appreciate you changing this challenge for me but I got half a mind to just leave outta here! I know you mean well but magic is somethin' too far! That's like Twilight turnin' me into an inanimate object and askin' me to move my ass to the other side of a baseball field! Now please .... Just give me the clue or have whoever in there move before I do leave." She gave me a pissed off look. I gave one right back. I could tell she was lookin' at me long and hard, thinkin' about whether or not to give me the clue or let me walk. She huffed.

"Just get out if you're going to ruin this. I've given you enough of a clue with Gilda." She huffed turning away. "SWEETIE BELLE! Come on out! Game's over!" I huffed. I didnt like it that i did this but I wasnt going to go through a magic maze that brings me back to the start each wrong turn.

I turned around and there was Sweetie Belle coming out looking a bit hurt by me. She glared at me and just kept walkin'. I started walking to Big Mac as he got up letting Sweetie Belle and Applebloom join Princess Celestia. As I approached him he held his arms out. Not like he was gonna give me a hug. "What gives Sis? Why'd the princess just tell me to just get out and find Gilda?" He asked. "You have some serious explainin' to do and if it dont make any sense you're on your own!"

I rolled my eyes and dragged him back to the maze. "Go to the right and see if you can find your way to the center." I said. He looked at me weird. I knew this was the right way to go for the first turn but I wanted to see how long it was before he came right back out to my ass. "Just get in there and try and make it before I go shovin' your ass in! Now get in there!" He kinda flinched knowin' how mad I was. He went in there and not a minute later he came out the left side lookin' confused as all hell seeing me there. He even went back the other way thinkin' he'd missed a turn and I couldnt help but smile and laugh a bit. He looked to me.

"What the hell just happened?! I could swear i turned right and.... I just came out here to you!" I huffed grabbing his hand and walking with him.

"Ya see? That's a bit unfair aint it? She's tellin' me to get to the center of it and I have no clue what I'm doin'!" I huffed a bit as we rounded the corner to the side of the summer home. "You look me in the face and tell me that's fair! Tell me that's fair to do!" He looked to me and he just couldnt say shit. "Ya see? Unfair right there! Next time Celestia asks us for somethin' she's gotta go through Ryder for that. Now c'mon. We gotta at least apologize to the girls before we get going. Sweetie seemed kinda mad at me...."

We turned the corner and there we had Private Firebird appraoach looking a bit worried. "My apologies that the game didnt go to your liking but we have a little situation inside that requires your aide." He said.

"Well what are ya waitin' for? Just lead us in already!" He gave a nod and ran with us towards the front door.

As we entered there at the top of the stairs we see Celestia pacing around hearing Applebloom and Sweetie Belle callin' out for Scootaloo. Celestia looked to us as we started climbing the steps. "What are you two still doing here?! I thought I told you to leave!" She snapped.

"Not until we know what the hay is going on! Why are these two knockin' on Scoot's door?" I pointed to my sister and Sweetie Belle who were just poundin' on the door calling for their friend. The princess huffed.

"All because you gave up she locked herself in the room and we dont even have any lockpicks in the building! I've tried both my room's side and this side and neither will open! I even lost the key during that damned earthquake!" I huffed and looked to Big Mac.

"Get AB and Sweetie away from the door. I got an idea but it's gonna hurt a bit." He nodded and went for the fillies. I looked back to Celestia. "Princess I swear if this works I'm paying the cost to replace that door or the repairs to what broke!" I went and pulled Big Mac to the other side of the hall. "SCOOT! YOU BETTER OPEN THAT DOOR RIGHT NOW YOUNG LADY! RYDER AINT GONNA LIKE IT IF I GOTTA GROUND YA AND TAN YOUR HIDE AS WELL! YOU GOT TO THE COUNT OF THREE!" We waited a moment and listened. No answer. "ONE! TWO! THREE!" Together me and Big Mac rushed the door and bashed it with our shoulders. We got stunned a bit but this is something we could do. We backed up again and hit it again. It gave a bit. I looked to Big Mac hearing Scoot scream a bit on the other side. "Kick it open Big Mac!" And of course I didnt let him do it alone. At the same time we both kicked the door and it flung right open. I saw Scootaloo hide under her bed as the door hit the wall. I went for her and just dragged her out. She kicked and screamed trying to get away from me but I didnt give. I looked to the door. "BIG MAC! HELP ME WITH HER! CELESTIA YOU KEEP THEM FILLIES AWAY FOR A BIT!"

Big Mac rushed in and slammed the door. He grabbed Scootaloo from me and sat with her on her bed placing her on his lap. She instantly started bawlin' as I got up and fixed my mane. "LET ME GO!" She snapped. "JUST GET OUT OF HERE! I DONT WANT YOU HERE!" I grabbed that fillies face and had her look at me. I didnt like it but it needed to be done.

"Scoot, what the hell are you doing?! Lockin' the door on a princess, guards and your friends? What's this all about?!" She sniffled a bit.

"Why do you care? You obviously hate the game!" I huffed.

"Is that what this is about? You just locked yourself in here because Celestia cheated? Why are ya mad about-" She swung and cracked me in the jaw after she slipped Big Mac's grip somehow. I held my jaw a bit as she yelled at me.

"I DONT CARE ABOUT THE GAME! I JUST WANTED YOU TO GET THE CLUE SO YOU CAN SEE RYDER BUT YOU DONT FUCKING CARE ABOUT HIM!" I grabbed her mouth and held it shut.

"One... I do care, I was just mad at Celestia and Two, YOURE GROUNDED FOR LANGUAGE! Absolutely no fun from here on out and I'll make sure AB keeps an eye on you! She tells me you did somethin' that aint sittin' around this room or eating with them downstairs in the dining room I'm getting a bar of soap and I'm gonna wash your mouth out got me?" She nodded starting to cry more. "Be glad I dont tan your ass right here and now! Ry'd kill me if he heard I smacked you!" I looked to Big Mac. "Let her go. She's gonna think about what she did. We're gonna tell Ryder what she did and said and we're gonna see what he's got for her." Big Mac let her go and set her on the bed next to him right as she started screaming. We left the room and closed the door behind us. I didnt break the handle or lock. The latch hook on the door had small screws and this thing just came right off with a few hits. Hurt like hell but we got it open. I looked to Celestia as Big Mac took the fillies aside.

Celestia looked to me a bit mad and kinda scared. "What did you do?! Why did she have her door locked?!" She asked. I huffed.

"Okay I know it sounds bad but she thinks I hate Ryder. Guess she overheard what we were talkin' about outside.... Now you know I didnt mean what I said about Ry dont ya?" She nodded. "Well long story short here, Scoot is grounded for spoutin' off with language she shouldnt be usin' and until we get her back and into Ry's arms she is to have no fun and I'm havin' Applebloom rat anyone here out. I aint threatenin' anyone here but I aint gonna like it if we gotta lay some rules down with the fillies that some guards here gotta enforce. And we both know Ryder can get that done. Understand me?" Even though she hated the idea she sighed.

"Understood. I'll be sure that your sister doesnt need to be involved and I'll even be sure that we dont need to set rules for guards to follow while your little sisters are here...."

"Alright. Now we're leavin. No need to worry about us anymore." She nodded and just walked over to the door and walked inside Scoot's room.

It wasnt even long after that we were driving down the road. Now before we left we had Celestia give the okay to Dash to let us know where Gilda was. Gave us the address but she didnt wanna say the name of the place. Didnt know why but we went lookin' for it. Had my phone's GPS look for it. Big Mac looked over at me as we turned down a street going right past Twilight's castle. I was just starin' out the window pissed off outta my gourd. "Sis.... I really think we gotta talk..." He said. "You've been a bit pissy lately and not the way Ryder likes it." I huffed and looked at him.

"In what way am I pissy?" He turned down a road going south.

"Well you yelled at me this mornin' telling me to get you outta that trap I had ya in. Sure I wasnt in the room but that dont mean I dont got my own needs to attend to here. And last night while we were eating you were getting a little mad when the remote control for the TV didnt change the channel. You had it turned the wrong way but i was afraid if I told ya you'd gut me with that knife ya had!" I rolled my eyes.

"Alright so I'm impatient with a few things big whoop! But I'm still putting blame on Ryder for putting me in that mood!" He huffed.

"I already know where we're going. When we get there I hope Gilda doesnt do anything to make you even more pissed. Otherwise Ry'd kill to get tickets to see you two duke it out in a mud pit." I blushed.

"Really BIg Mac?!" I snapped looking over at him. "Just for that I might just kick you out so you can go sleep at Fluttershy's so I can stay with Rarity! She'd say things about me being unladylike but that is just making me sound like im some god damn whore!" He huffed.

"Alright I didnt mean it like that but you know Ry'd want it. I just dont want you to snap at somepony and end up getting arrested because you two started a brawl. Ry wouldnt like that. He's been in a cell himself and I can tell you when Shining and I met him outside the precinct and he looked like hell if i've ever seen it. He just hated it in there and I'm sure you'd hate it too." I huffed. It aint like I havent imagined being left in a cell before. I even asked Ry after he got out and... after we were done that day he told me about what he was doing in that cell.. no sleep, little food because of his stomach and he just felt at home in my arms. Texted Big Mac that he should wake us up in a while. He did but.... I just when back to sleep there. Didnt eat dinner that night but.... I was just full up with from lunch that day and... maybe a bit of somethin' else....

Anyways when we got to where we were headin'.... A grave yard surprisingly... We just sat in the lot just kinda gawkin' at the graves and the all around eerie scenery. Pegasai started moving the clouds in on the drive over. Neither of us said anything. I dont know about Big Mac but... something felt off about this place... like... we were being watched from everywhere. We only got startled out of it by Gilda who knocked on our window scaring us half to death. She was at my window knocking a few times. She was wearing her leather jacket, jeans and her biker boots. Her bike must've been somewhere that wasnt this lot. Either that or she had a car or somethin. Anyways we stepped out of the truck. I looked to Gilda. She just hugged me as Big Mac came around. "You might've kicked that dweeb out but I seriously am sorry that Celestia kicked you out!" She said. "I know it wasnt meant to go that way but I promise mine is going to be an easy one for you. There were meant to be more but I did get a call from Twilight telling me to tell you this is gonna be the last stop before you head out. Got a storm coming and this one is supposed to be as bad as the last one!" I sighed knowing what that meant. Applebloom climbing into my bed- or probably Big Mac's in this case considerin' I'm not sure what is gonna happen- and we've gotta both the truck and my fourwheeler somewhere away from the trees so we dont get em damaged more than they are. Radio antenna busted on the truck, tire or two popped on my fourwheeler but from an unrelated matter.

Before I start to ramble I sighed. "Well thank goodness...." I said. "...And here I thought that boy was gonna set more shit out for us to step in. What do you got for us here? Hope it aint a race like Dash did.... She's just lucky she let us go when we got her some food." Gilda grinned a bit.

"Well Dash is a bit of a pushover when her stomach is empty. I'm not. I've been out here all day and all I've had is a hayburger that I warmed up and that was at five in the morning! I'd go for something to eat in a bit but I'd probably get lazy and forget what I was doing in the first place and something tells me you'd've drove around town aimlessly until you either gave up or ran out of gas." Honestly we would've done either. "What I'm gonna do here is have you two on a scavenger hunt. I've hidden stuff around that Ryder left at Dash's. Celestia even had the guards contacted to let me put some stuff around and even told them about how you're going to collect them. One asked why I was doing it and I said it was a bit of payback. Sorry." I sighed shoving my hands in my pockets.

"It's fine. Guess I deserved this." I looked to Big Mac. "Any restrictions with this buffoon?" I looked back to Gilda pointing to Big Mac. She looked to him.

"....Well.... Yes and no.... He's gonna be able to help but he isnt gonna come with you." She reached into her jacket and took out a few walkie talkies and gave me one. "He's gonna stick with me and we're gonna feed you lot numbers to where you're gonna find what Ryder left. We'll have you go through lot A first. Four items total and you start when you get inside. You get a few minutes to stretch so dont go cramping up on me." Some advice i could take if i'm gonna be runnin' about. I took one of the walkie talkies and started towards the graveyard. I swear this place had something against me... It felt so eerie as i trudged on alone. I stopped near a bench at the opening of a branching path. A signpost sat in the middle with signs pointing all over the place. Seven lot areas. Most of them got A through D. Only one that didnt was lot three. A to B.

I did stretch my legs kinda looking around a bit uneasy. I saw a few guards patrolling the areas around makin' sure nopony was doing anythin' illegal. After maybe five minutes of checkin' my surroundin's I got my first call. "Sis? Ya ready for the first lot?" I hear Big Mac ask.

I huffed bringing the thing up to my mouth and pressin' the button. "Yeah... Just hurry this up... I feel like one of these damn graves is gonna open up and a zombie's gonna bite my head clean off!" I said.

"Alright... Dont say that again... You know what happened after that damn zombie movie I watched alone!" How could I forget? "...First lot is Lot 6. Gilda is allowing me a hint per lot so I'm gonna try the best I can. This one is in Lot A or C. Shouldnt be too hard to find the item though." I looked to the sign and started towards lot 6. Didnt take but a few minutes. The separate lot parts were pretty big but still small enough for me to look through without getting lost. Had maybe fifteen or twenty headstones of every size and shape. I checked top and bottom of Lot 6C but I went over to A finding nothing. I even walked through B just to make sure they werent messing around. When I got to A i saw a green camo garment flying in the breeze hanging on a cross headstone. I went over and sure enough this was Ry's giant onsie... Once i saw him in this thing I just couldnt help but laugh and just cuddle him while he sucked on my breast.... Big Baby is right. I pressed the button and brought the walkie to my mouth.

"Alright. Found Ry's onsie.... How'd he leave this thing at Dash's place?" I let the button go and look around at the graves. I still didnt like how creepy this place was.

I heard a bit of static before a sigh. "Yeah the dweeb went in for a diaper change and we had to wash it because he decided to act like a baby who hadnt finished wetting himself. You ready for the next lot?" I huffed pressing the button again slinging the onsie over my shoulder.

"As ready as ever. Where to next?"

I heard Big Mac cough a bit as I released the button. "Alright... Next lot is lot number two. This part I'm gonna give ya a lot section because the item is gonna be a bit smaller than the clothing. Lot part you're going to is section B."

I looked for a sign. Lot 2B was a good ways away.... I went and jogged... I think west from where I was and north a bit. Couldnt tell it was so damn cloudy. But lets just assume I was facing north looking from the service home. I reached the lot and started looking around. They said it was small but how small I didnt know how small was small. I jumped a bit hearing static come from my walkie after a few minutes of looking around. "Okay.... Sorry about this AJ but we're moving on here. You look confused and there's a good reason behind that." I heard Gilda say. "Guard came up to me and gave me the thing. Said someone tried to steal it. He's having other guards patrol the areas where the other items are. Nothing else has gone missing. This one was Ryder's Metallicolt coin. He and Dash snuck out in the middle of the night and went to find this.... Somehow this thing was still intact from the fire. Actually had to get into a lockbox the guard had for him. Surprisingly they found quite a bit of intact stuff. Most of it he took back with him. Others he left behind. I'd ask him about it when you see him. But yeah."

I huffed. "Well that gives me a bit of relief...." I said. "Where to next?"

"Head to lot 1D. Another small one but this one is gonna be easier to find than a coin. Little bigger than a bottle cap to a three liter soda bottle." I hummed a bit trying to think of what it was. Lucky for me this one was close to me. Just maybe a couple yards across the way. I went and looked through the tomb stones and just a little silvery glint caught my eye. Werent the brightest of glints but it caught my eye nonetheless. Just like a freshly polished mirror. It was a wrapper to a candy bar my sugarcube just loves to munch on when I aint lookin.

"That other thing aint a Slypers Candybar now is it?" I heard Gilda laugh after I released the button.

"Damn that was quick. That was supposed to be a lucky wrapper but the contest was long over and he couldnt redeem it. Last one is gonna be on you to find. I've sent your brother in. Find him, find the next clue. No hints this time!" I shook my head just shoving the walkie in my chest pocket. I looked around from where I was.

"Alright... Where the hay are ya Big Mac... Aint no use if I dont have your keys...." I had to walk around each lot checking behind every tall and fat headstone. Damn brother of mine aint the easiest to hide but somehow the hardest to find when it came to hide and seek. When we were younger just after Ma n' Pa passed Big Mac, Ry, Dash and I would all play hide n seek. To make a long story short that asshat hid in a tree blendin' in with all the apples.... Cant believe he stripped down to his underwear too.... If it werent wrong I'd've loved to see Big Mac's ass become as red as a sunburnt crab.

I did end up finding him after... oh fifteen or twenty minutes of checking lots. I checked every damn one of them except for three. That's where I found him. Lot 3B. He was just staring at a few of the tomb stones so I snuck up behind him. He sighed. "Sis... I know you're there..." He said sounding a bit down. I huffed getting a bit disappointed.

"Dammit... How'd ya know I was there?" I came up along side him just kinda turning him to me. He looked like he'd just seen a damn soap opera where a little filly ended up gettin' lost.

"I just knew you were there.... Boot kinda scuffed the ground a ways away but... got the last item right here..." He held up his hand and opened it slightly dropping a still gripped the chain. I saw what looked to be a dog tag on the end of it... with my cutie mark on it.... and Dash's but... what was it doing here? I took it in hand and just looked at it closer. Scootaloo's colors, my cutie mark and Dash's with RUSH on the other side of it.

"This is Ry's huh...?" He nodded. "How'd he end up leaving it at Dash's place?"

"...Dash took it from him saying it was cool and he just didnt get it back... Gilda took it and hid it. She wanted to get it to Ry but never found the time until today..." He took it and hung it around my neck. Had to take the chain apart to do it. I looked at it as he took his hands away from my neck.

"There..... Guess we're all ready to go?" He shook his head hesitantly. "Why aint you ready to go?" He sighed turning back to the headstones he was looking at.

"...I just... I just thought I'd come up here... pay my respects to the fallen..." I looked at him confused and then to the graves... My heart just stopped like someone turned the damn TV off. What I saw on those graves gave me chills... These graves he was looking at were the graves of my sugarcubes parents... Date of death matching just the other day....

"Wh.... what....? Why didnt he... Why didnt you...?" I couldnt form a sentence my mind was so full of emotion. He grabbed my hand and pulled me in for a hug.

"....I was gonna tell you every chance i got but any time I wanted to mention Ryder I'd've done it but you were mad outta your mind... He would've told ya but he couldnt go and say anything because you didnt answer and hung my phone up every time I went to talk to him... Guess it was all the emotional trauma that went on through out the time between then and now just blocked it out... that and maybe a few smacks to the head but... you just didnt know..." I did... I did know but I didnt want to think of it... the night that happened, he got arrested and I almost died... If it werent for his rage he would've lost more than his little sister.... Just there all these damn memories came flooding back... the shotgun blasts, the screams of both Ryder and Scootaloo, seeing Ry get hauled off and that sister of his just bawling her lil heart out over her dead parents... It just hurt me so much seeing that... I ended up bawling right then and there in Big Mac's arms.... He had to pick me right up and sling me over his shoulder.

I could feel him rushing around doing what ever. We stopped for a moment as he tried to fix me a bit getting me back into position to where I hugged him again. Just then I heard Gilda yell. "GET HER IN! I'LL FOLLOW!"

Only then I felt myself just land in the truck's seat and I was bound to it, arms stuck to my sides with the seatbelt, and I just couldnt bring myself together. I dont remember much from the ride but we ended up getting over to the castle where Big Mac AND Gilda had to get me up the stairs. Big Mac had my top, Gil' had my legs. I almost passed out but Gilda just kept pinching my legs. We stopped about half way up the stairs on a little plateau. Gilda whispered something in my brothers ear as they both set me down. Next thing you know I see Big Mac just run up the stairs. Gilda sat next to me and just held me close shushing me. I sniffled. "...Wh-...why was i such an asshole to my-my sugarc-c-cube....?" I asked. "...H-he must hate me.... I kicked him out.... on... th-the date his parents died...." Gilda shushed me wiping tears from my eyes.

"...The dweeb doesnt hate you... this is something that happens.... When I tried to off myself a few years back.... Dash and Ryder helped me down from it all.... A year later I started to cry and didnt know why... turns out the mind blocks traumatic things and from what Dash tells me you nearly got yourself shot.... When we see that dweeb of yours.... Just make it worth the apology... He worked hard... Not on this stupid scavenger hunt but... You'll see..." She sat there with me just keeping me awake.

It took maybe a few minutes to get Twilight... She came down with Big Mac. She was wearing her pajamas still. Probably just a lazy day but she did look a tad tired. She picked me up and hugged me. "...I'm sorry for the wild goose chase...." She said. "....We just needed the time to get something special set up..." She looked back at Big Mac and Gilda. "You two can either stay or go... Got a feeling you might know what will happen...." Gilda sighed.

"I'll stay. Got a feeling you might need to diaper her up as well as him and you may need a foal sitter... I can do it." Gilda looked to Big Mac. "Just get out of here. If anything comes up I'll contact you." My big brother nodded and gave me a quick hug and a kiss on the forehead before handing me off to Gilda and Twilight and going downstairs. They each got under one of my arms and helped me up the stairs. "Alright... AJ look at me and dont take your eyes off me until Twilight says so. Okay?" I nodded as we took our first few steps up the stairs. I admit it was awkward making eye contact with her the whole way up but she pinched me every time I was about to nod off. Twice I nearly did. But that was it. We came to a flat area but they still helped me walk around. I faltered here and there almost tripping over my own boots. I was just that out of it. Mix of emotions, fatigue, not looking where I'm going. After a minute we came through a door. Saw the door jam and we had to go in sideways, Gilda going in last.

I heard Twilight sigh as we straightened out. "Alright AJ... I'm gonna step away." She said. "I'm gonna have Gilda step away too but dont take your eyes off her but dont look away just yet." I could feel her step out from under my arm. "...Careful.... Big Mac told me you were crying quite a bit and I'm not sure if you're okay to stand but... just try and stay balanced... If you need to just grab on to one of us. We arent far from you." Gilda sighed and backed away a few feet. My legs felt shaky and my stomach felt like it was gonna twist itself outta control but I just took a deep breath and calmed myself. I even gained my balance but I still felt uneasy. "Okay.... AJ... I'm going to count to three.... and you're going to face forward." I could hear somethin' just rustle a bit. Nothing giving away anything but just a little whisper. Couldnt tell what was going on though. "Alright... one... two.... two and a half.... two and three quarters...." Gilda grunted a bit staring past me.

"Dont let the girl wait! Get it done already!" I heard Twilight huff.

"Fine! Three!" Just then I looked forward and what I saw just made me froze. There in front of me I saw Rarity kinda struggling to keep my obviously tired coltfriend upright. Rarity and Ryder both looked tired, Ryder more so. Rarity was wearing some feetie pajamas that I assume she borrowed from Pinkie. And even though Ry was tired he still looked good dressed in a suit, holding a bouquet of roses. I couldnt help but rush him, snatch the bouquet from him and hugging him. Rarity just dumped his flank off on me but I'm strong enough to hold him upright.

I had to give the bouquet to Twilight just to hold while I kissed him. I broke the kiss and looked to his tired eyes. "...Ry... I... I wanna say I'm sorry for bootin' ya..." I said. "....I just... I didnt know what was going through your mind... You were distracted with something that I only recently remembered..." I glanced back at Gilda. "...I did have some help remembering it but... I just needed someone to give me a swift reality check to know that I was the one in the wrong..." I looked back to him. "I should've just asked what was going through that brain of yours but... I didnt...." Ryder kinda groaned a bit. I looked over to Twilight. "Uh.... Got a spell that can give him just a little jolt of energy? Maybe wake him up a little?" Twilight sighed setting the bouquet aside.

"I'm gonna have to pass for this one AJ... He didnt want it so I'm not gonna give it to him... He stayed up a good portion of the night with Pinkie setting this all up... Rarity and I had to help him into his suit and we've been waiting here for hours... I think it's best if you just take him into a room and let him sleep."

"...If ya can help me get him to my personal quarters I promise I can get us a mares night out and I'm buyin'!" She thought for a moment.

"I'm gonna have to say no to that because the last time we did something like that Fluttershy had a bit too much and woke up in her bed upside down and naked. She didnt know what she did that night and she was afraid she did something bad after she blacked out but...." I kinda faltered a bit as Ryder just went a bit more limp. He leaned on me kinda babbling a bit. Couldnt make out what he was saying but I just looked to Twilight. She rolled her eyes trailing off on what she said and used her magic on him. She lifted him off of me and I swear she hit him with a jolt of electricity.

Ryder grunted and twitched a bit as he suddenly became more awake. He looked at Twilight blushing a bit. "...Uh... Thanks Princess..." He said giving a bit of a yawn. He looked to me and hugged me again. "...And AJ... I forgive you for doing that.... I didnt say anything and you didnt remember... we're both at fault there.... I just..." He averted his gaze. "...I didnt mention it because I didnt want Scootaloo to hear, have her remember and we just start crying and..... It would ruin the mood for the day..."

I sighed taking his hand and starting to the door. "....well... just lettin' ya know now that Scoot didnt need you to mention it..." I said. "...I think she knew it was around that time... She told me earlier right before I got booted out of Celestia's summer home for complaining about a challenge... Told me she needed you before I kicked you out but... she was afraid to say anything thinkin' I'd go off on her so she climbed into bed with Applebloom..." Ryder looked to me a bit shocked as we went down the hall. I glanced behind us and saw Gilda followin'.

"Wait you got booted out of Celestia's summer home for the challenge? What did she do over there?" I huffed looking forward.

"She was gonna do a round of that Bass Villain thing and have me try to beat Scootaloo's high score but changed it to a game of hide n seek with the fillies and she had Sweetie Belle hiding in a damn magical maze! You ask Big Mac and he's gonna say that was bullshit!" He huffed.

"Yeah definitely sounds like some BS!" He glanced at me. "Maybe we go back over there soon, apologize and maybe see if we might be able to take a little trip up to the Crystal Empire to visit Shining and Cadence. Twilight tells me they've got a little new thing they wanna try and well... she may wanna head up there soon with you and the girls anyways so... Up to you if you wanna do it." I rolled my eyes laughing a bit.

"I guess its all fine here. Just as long as things aint gonna get crazy." We stopped at the door to my personal room here. Always use it when we sleep over here... and yeah this is the same room where we stayed when Ry went and pissed the bed. Couldnt remember if it happened before or after he became a guard. All I know is was he was embarrassed but it was good we had another room to share even if it was in separate beds. Anywho I looked to Gilda. "Speaking of crazy why dont I just give ya an apology gift?" I beckoned Gilda closer. She blushed hard as she approached. Ryder just blushed as hard if not harder. "Say Gilda.... You wanna maybe help me give this boy a show before he goes to town on our asses? I figured since we both have something he likes and he's had such a stressful time away from the house... Might as well right?"

Gilda gave Ryder bedroom eyes and licked her beak. "...Been a while since he and I had a little rough fun...." She said. We both looked to him. He was blushing so hard he actually started to sweat a bit. We both grabbed an arm and opened the door up. We dragged him to the bed tossed him on and just closed the door up. Lucky me I got a light dimmer switch for those nights I had Ry over and I couldnt sleep.... She had me read a damn book in case i didnt sleep. Anyways once that door was closed Gilda and I started strippin' each other for him. He just couldnt take his eyes off of us as we dropped each others clothes on the floor around us until we were topless and holdin' each others hips. I could see Ry's pants just getting tighter and tighter. I knew what would put him over the edge. I grinned looking at Gilda and then just without hesitation just tongue kissed her. She didnt even have to think about doing it right back, grabbing my flank. I just heard Ry's pants just unzip and get tossed onto the floor.

We both looked over to him and there he was just stark naked with a hard on. We both walked over to the bed and dropped our panties right there and I couldnt help but toss mine right onto his face. He just tossed them right off as Gilda climbed onto the bed and straddled his face. She gave a grin telling me 'Let me get him all primed for ya' without even saying a word. She even deep throated him like she didnt even have a gag reflex. He just gasped a bit shocked. Admitting this now but I cant do anything like what she did without coughing up a lung. "G-GILDA!" He yelled. "....Oh Gil... P-please...dont stop...."

I gave a little chuckle going to the side of the bed in his view. "She's gotta stop sometime sugarcube..." I said. "...Gotta get ready for this!" I spread my legs a bit giving him a good view of my apple pie before I started to prep myself for him. He couldnt take his eyes off me then. Didnt even try when Gilda forced his head back to lickin' position. Ooh I gotta say I dug deep preppin' myself for him. Felt like heaven as I did it. Even caught Gilda taking a few glances. Once I was primed and ready i just pulled Gilda up from my stallions tree and mounted it myself. "Keep at her Sugarcube... think of her as my Anniversary gift for you!" I teased myself trying to guide him to the good spot and when I felt him pop right in I swear i was gonna scream it felt so good. I just started riding like I didnt have a care in the world. Gilda couldnt help but just bring me in for a kiss. I swear this was some spell Twi used just for me to do this but... I knew it was me doing it all on my own.... I just lost track of time as Gilda and I just squeezed each others assets. And as much as I know Ry would've loved it if i let lose some apple juice onto him I didnt have anythin' in the keg. Hell I even slapped Gil's ass before we both just came. I dont know what compelled me to do this but I just rode until I got filled to the brim with his spunk. Felt each spurt between each slam down onto him. When I was done Gilda climbed off the bed letting me just fall on top of him letting his dick just slump on out. I even felt that cream just start oozing out of me but I didnt care. He and I just shared a kiss before Gilda and I just cuddled up next to him on either side. I was however woken up for a moment my someone just giving me a good cleaning out. Didnt really wanna fully wake up but who ever did it must've had the stomach to do it... Wont even ask around. Dont wanna make anyone feel awkward. Now that this day is outta the way... Might as well rest and cuddle with my sugarcube....

My Timeline To Run (part 1)

Author's Notes:

From here on out if I do another characters POV its gonna say it. Otherwise it's always gonna be Ryder. By the by this is going to contain a little bit from the S5 Season finale with Cutie Remark. (I think that is what it was called....)

Okay... this is a weird one... and I'm not talking having your underlings take a syringe vial to your marefriends cum filled pussy just to drink it in a potion the next day. By the by that potion was an aphrodisiac for couples.... ooh I hope we get compensation for this.... lucky I'm not firing any of my underlings... I knew this was gonna happen.... But no this isnt what I'm here to talk about. What I'm here to gab on about is something that just... It's something I should just let Spike handle. It all started with me with Soarin outside the house at about... oh eight thirty in the morning. I was wearing my lunar guard service uniform. I was issued a new one by Luna because I asked for it. She even gave me one that supposed to be a costume kinda. It was a long duster with the sleeves cut off. Made me look like a character from that one post apocalyptic game Luna and I both play... Oh the next comic convention that happens out in Cloudsdale I am showing up wearing that AND the breathing mask that goes with it. Oh so excited... But yeah I was wearing a fresh uniform, jacket, boots and pants. I still have my cap in the house. Didnt wanna have it out but... This was a disgrace. Soarin was sitting up on a cloud in his wonderbolts jump suit and I wasnt even three feet off the ground afraid to go any higher. "C'mon rookie! You can get it!" He said. "You want that dinner with me dont ya?"

I huffed. "Are you teaching me or making a fool of me!?" I snapped getting a foot or two higher. He laughed a bit.

"Maybe a little bit of both. I think I saw Applejack snapping a few pics. Now if you get up here I might be able to convince her to delete those pictures before we head to what ever restaraunt you want. Just know nothing fancy. I'm not a princess you know!" I glanced at the house. And yes. I did think it was a trick but for the first time it isnt. There in her jean skirt and a white tank top holding per phone just recording what was happening here. I blushed hard and looked back.

"...she's lucky I love her... otherwise I'd wrestle that phone away doing anything I could...." I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. "....You can do this Ryder... just imagine Scootaloo is playing on this cloud and you need to get her down before a storm rolls in..." Just before I opened my eyes I heard a loud bang. I had a freak out moment and shot straight up latching onto Soarin thinking it was a gunshot. I didnt know I did that nor did I know that so-called gunshot was a vehicle backfiring.

"Okay okay.... just... you're good now dude!" Soarin said as he pried me off of him and dropping me onto a cloud. "I'm gonna chalk that up as a win... You got up here, maybe with a little help but it wasnt me that helped." He pointed towards the house. I looked and saw Big Mac's truck pulling up and Applejack just laughing her flank off. I blushed hiding my face. She knows the shit that happened over there and why I shit myself scared... I did actually shit myself there... I only realized it after I got off the cloud. Thank goodness nobody smelt it.... I had to dip into the bathroom, ditch my underwear in the trash, wipe my ass and rush into the bedroom to swap my pants out for jeans and get new underwear.

I came back down in jeans, my service shirt open revealing my white tee i had on under it. Applejack and Big Mac were just looking at a video of me that AJ took snickering. "Look get ready! Ya practically see his heart jump from his chest!" AJ said. I heard the video sound off with the backfire of the truck... Big Mac is replacing that air filter on his own. I tipped them off kinda stomping down the stairs. I had to change into my running shoes too. Boots do not go well with jeans unless they're work boots. AJ and Big Mac both look up at me snickering. "Hey sugarcube! Sorry about that scare! At least I got a good shot of you gettin' up too the cloud for proof! So happy you're doing this for your little sister."

I sighed hopping into the recliner. "...Well thanks for the fucking heads up on the truck!" I said. "Yeah I know that air filter needs replacement but I would love it if i'm not either having to change my pants, strip the bed or wake up from a dead sleep when ever that thing backfires!"

Big Mac huffed. "I told ya if I can find the model I'd replace it but until then we're stuck with this hunkajunk! Why cantcha just rig another filter to fit into it without replacing the engine?" He asked.

"If I could dont you think I would've made my car into a fucking monster truck by now? Just go on your phone and just search up the part number and you should find it!"

Applejack huffed. "Alright I'm gonna stop this here right now before ya start yellin' about it." She snapped. She looked to Big Mac. "You're gonna need to get that damn thing fixed yourself since you work on it more than Ry does and he aint gonna be a personal mechanic for us." She looked back to me. "And you better stop complainin' about this shit!" I sighed.

"AJ... Do you remember what happened some months ago while I was away? Do I need to drop my pants and show you the scar?" I saw Big Mac blush and wish I didnt put an image in his head. AJ huffed and shook her head.

"Right right my mistake sugarcube but seriously I dont want you two fighting about that stupid truck." She looked to Big Mac. "Just get it fixed big brother... if ya need just ask Ry for help but you're on your own for fixing it. You know papa's truck inside 'n out! Ry might like classics but this aint the kinda car that he'd drive."

Her brother sighed and looked to me. "Alright... I'll fix it ... Dont want ya having any flash backs that ends up hurting one of us...." He said. I didnt want that to happen either... First week after the surgery I slept over in Celestia's castle in Canterlot. I slept away from Scootaloo just to keep her from hurting me and keeping me from scaring her if I did freak... I only did twice. Once when Shining woke me up when he sneezed and another from a nightmare about what happened when I came back... If I need to go to a place like Fillydelphia or Manehattan from here.... I'm gonna drive or fly with Celestia if she needs to head there for some reason... I'd even suggest to her that I be her personal bodyguard for that day but who knows.

I took a deep breath and sighed hearing my phone ring upstairs. I got up and looked to AJ. "....Just wait for me down here... Gotta take this...." She nodded and just leaned on Big Mac. There was something on her mind but I noticed the ring tone. It was a pop song by sapphire shores. Who do I pair that ring tone with? Princess Twilight Sparkle. I hurried upstairs and darted into the room only to come a foot away and miss the call. I swore under my breath and picked up my phone only to try and return the call. Immediate voice mail. I waited a moment and there the ring tone was again.

I slid my thumb across the screen answering the phone I put the phone up to my ear and said nothing. "....C'mon c'mon..." I heard Twilight say. She sounded a bit worried. She hummed a second I think checking her phone. "Ryder? Hello? Are you there Ryder?" I huffed.

"Sorry Princess. Had a little argument with Big Mac that AJ had to break up. Not to mention it is my day off...." She huffed as I walked out of the room and leaned on the banister looking over Big Mac and AJ who were quietly whispering. I heard Twilight sigh.

"Yeah I know but I need to call in a favor... I did use you for potion making yes but... this one is something ENTIRELY different!" I rolled my eyes as I started down the steps. "What I need from you is just your time... You're the only one I can call because AJ doesnt like it when I use my magic to test on her, Spike is out sick, Fluttershy agreed to care for him until he's better, Dash would bitch about everything I did, not to mention fall asleep while I'm trying to explain something and Pinkie? Yeah not touching that with a ten foot pole there...."

"And let me guess... Rarity is busy." I heard the princess give a little 'mhm' as confirmation. "Well... What do you need me to do exactly... I'll come over but only if its a good reason. Otherwise I'm sorry I cant." And then she'd tell Celestia and Celestia would lay into me.

"Okay I get it its your day off, you wanted to enjoy it, and get that little problem worked out with Soarin but... Please general I need this and you're the only one I can trust with this simple task! I might not pay for your time but I can at least pay for a meal or what ever you want!" I sighed.

"...Alright let me think about this for a minute and talk it over with Applejack... see if we have anything planned later... I'll text you. If I dont text within ten minutes call me back. If I dont answer call AJ."

"Alright.... Just hurry and make a decision. I need someone and just some random guard wont do! But I will understand if you say no. I can always do it another time." I heard her give a sad sigh before hanging up the phone. She knows I dont like to let anypony down. Let alone a princess. I shoved my phone in my pocket walking back downstairs.

Applejack looked at me as I went and sat down where her brother once sat. Big Mac was now in the kitchen rummaging through the fridge. "Let me guess... Work called?" She asked. I nodded and cuddled up to her. "Did it sound like they really needed you?" I nodded a bit more hesitantly. She sighed. "...Just get. I love ya but I'd go if I were you. Who knows ya might just get a little sugar from me if ya get a few more bits to at least help pay for a new part for the truck. Need I remind you the one who busted it that time we had it brought into that shop?"

I sighed rolling my eyes. "Of course you had to pull that card..." I said sitting up. I looked to her. "...I thought you forgave me for that stupid mishap. The garage fired me and I was forced to live-" She put a hand over my mouth and shushed me.

"Now dont you say a thing about that sugarcube. I know I said I forgave ya but Big Mac wasnt so easy with that remember? At least pitch in to make it so we can just get the damn past all the way behind us!" I sighed as I got up.

"Fine fine... Can you at least text Twilight and tell her I'll be there? I'll leave my phone at home because I know she doesnt like me having it while around the castle... especially when I'm supposed to be helping her with her spells..." Yeah just maybe about a week or so after the surgery I had to help with a spell just outside my place before it burned down. I had my phone in my hand because I was texting AJ while Twilight was trying to explain it and was that the biggest mistake I've ever done. She took it, hid it with her magic and made me go through with the spell testing with ME being the target instead of spike... Took two days for me to stop burping fire.... She even had me in a room in the castle where I had to stay to not burn anyone or anything... fireproof cots are very uncomfortable...

Anyways I managed to change into my uniform in under ten minutes even with my shit wing. When they said it would act like a real one they really meant it.... well.. other than the occasional squeak when I open it sometimes... nothing a little oil cant fix. My armor was changed from the armor i had prewar- being a gold helmet and chest plate- and turned into some nice vintage yet strengthened riot gear and an old guard cap reading UFG. I didnt request this but Princess Celestia dug this out of the Canterlot storage depot for me. She knows I love vintage things such as cars, music and the occasional household item but clothing was really my number one. Got my eyes set on a varsity jacket sometime soon. But to something else entirely. Once I got to the castle I was met by Princess Twilight and a few other guards in the parking garage. The other guards just wore their normal armor. Both were unicorns wearing their gold armor. The princess wore jeans, black canvas sneakers and a white shirt with black sleeves. She looked to her guards and sent them away before looking to me. I bowed in respect as the others teleported away. "Thank you for coming General." She said. She sighed as I stood up. "Ryder I'm sorry I have to call you here on your day off but... Princess Celestia has tasked me with something that even I dont understand and with Spike sick in bed I dont have anyone else who would help willingly." I huffed.

"Some of the other guards told me they dont like to help with experiments involving spells. A few have actually told me about their academy days and I dont envy them one bit. The spells they had endured during said training just sucks... Would you ever use a taser spell on me? Supposedly depending on the user it can range from the slightest of tingles to the equivalent of a two thousand volt shock and some in rare occurrences can temporarily paralyze someone. Your magic? Probable chance to permanent paralysis for certain targets." She sighed and averted her gaze.

"...My magic is mostly passive in nature. If I do end up using magic that has a chance to shut down someone's body parts or kill them I'll have Celestia revoke my princesshood..." She really doesnt like it when someone says for her to use magic like that. Maybe a week after becoming General I was given a manual about the laws with magic. Turns out magically rupturing someones organs is illegal. Same with magical surgeries. Well... some are overlooked if its small and something is needed in extraction and they might be missing a doctor but any major surgeries such as limb replacement, organ transplants and certain shrapnel slash penetration injuries. If it is serious like almost where I was shot it might have been overlooked. Anyways the princess looked back to me. "Alright... so shall we head somewhere to practice these spells? I'd suggest my library but.... I've got guards trying to relax in there... some just recovered a body that just...." She stopped and shivered.

"...I think I might have an idea princess... no need to say anything." I took her hand and lead her to the elevator. "Mind if we actually get something to eat first? I was woken up by Soarin' arriving too early and never got to eat breakfast..." I saw her blush a bit as her stomach growled as I pushed the button.

"...Food doesnt sound bad right now... I havent eaten since lunch yesterday... I had to watch over spike for a couple hours last night and since he was the one that was supposed to cook dinner... or at least suggest something to eat... I didnt eat last night... not only because of worry he had me rub his back while he was losing his stomach in the toilet.... Too much info... I know but... it just stinks for him to be in such condition..." I sighed as the elevator doors opened up and we stepped inside.

"I understand how someone who's been in your life for so long seeing them so sick..." I sat down as she leaned against the wall. I honestly have a fear of these things stopping so i gotta crouch down and feel safe. "...I still remember when Scootaloo was around six or so.... I was at home with her and she got up from her bed so fast the night before I could swear Winona was just running around at high speed in my house. I hurried for the bathroom only to see Scoot just hugging the toilet bowl with a little mess in her pajamas... Now that might be a little too much but nobody let her out of the house let alone out of her bed for a while. Mom and dad even had to put her in diapers... and me one night just because I had an accident earlier that day...." I blushed a bit and tensed up slightly as the elevator rose.

"I admit it isnt that bad to where he had an accident... and I hope it doesnt come to that..." Lets just skip the elevator ride and the meal... just a quick hayburger. Nothing special. When we finished we went into an empty room right around the corner. It was honestly supposed to be a lounge room but having an empty room might be easier to hide in if any attacks come along. Twilight can use a cloaking spell that hides the door and make it disappear into the wall and hide us, while simultaneously cast a spell that cancels noise and if the attackers do end up finding it guards would be there guns trained at the door and unless a certain knock is given.... you get it. Anyways the room wasnt padded, it echoed like hell, and the only thing that I had was my uniform, a pen and a notebook. The princess looked to me as I sat down against the wall. "Alright... Guards tell me Spike is stable, he's still asleep from last night and while we're here the other guards are gonna check on him and when he wakes up they're gonna feed him some soup.... granted he doesnt like being fed but I'm not gonna let him feed himself... last time i did when he was sick he needed a bath and where he was eating at the treebrary a while ago needed a good cleaning... Had to replace two books coated in cheese sauce and sniffle goo.... Lucky his fire breath is only when he burps... When he does when he's sick its like a natural safety switch to keep everything around him from burning down." I huffed.

"Okay Princess I'm being nice here when I say we have something to do and worrying about Spike is gonna throw you off more than he will throw up. You get what I'm saying?" She thought for a moment and hesitantly nodded. "...Good... now just take a deep breath, focus on what you're doing. Dont wanna use the wrong spell and accidentally freeze us in time now do you?" She shook her head again and just came over and sat against the wall with me. I set the pen and the notebook aside and just put my arm around her. "Something else besides Spike hitting ya?" She nodded.

"... I just... Ever since you came back from the war its just... I miss my brother like Scootaloo did you....I dont get to see him as often as Scootaloo does you and she's even seen more than i have of him..." I sighed. Felt bad for her.

"Alright... here's what's gonna happen... after we're done here, we're gonna call Celestia, tell her you need a break from what she has you doing and then we call your brother to schedule a little get together with him. I know there might be a chance he's busy but I know he's gonna drop what ever it is and spend time with you... If you want I'll let you go do what ever with him while I watch Spike for you. Sound good?"

"....Well... I guess that sounds good but... I'd need to leave a list for you to do for him to make sure he recovers, things to watch out for and some stuff for you guys to do that wont make him mad or sad and just..."

"I get it... Keep him entertained, happy and healthy. Lets just get this over with. Faster we get this done with faster we can relax. Got me?" She nodded and got up using her magic to give me the pen and notebook back. I grabbed it and opened it starting to scrawl out a little title. 'Ex-spell- iment number one.' ....Yeah fail title but cant just start off with anything. My mind makes me do these kinds of things... Almost like OCD but... weirder. Not really gonna explain much of what was going on but she got up and walked towards the center of the room. She took a deep breath and huffed.

"Alright... Just give me some quiet and let me concentrate here.... Just make sure you write anything you notice happening with me please and the spell once its cast."

"Understood. When ever you're ready." To be honest I had no clue what I was supposed to be looking out for or what but I just kept the pen ready. She stood there for a moment before putting one hand to her temple just lightly touching it with her fingers. Her horn started to glow a light purple. I saw sparks of magic in the air. I just watched it for a few minutes, my mind being mostly simple as hell being entertained with little lights I spaced out a bit not even writing anything down. But when shit hit the fan everything went into slow motion. A concussive blast came from center room where a portal opened up. Dust and dirt from corners, above and below flew around the room, what ever force it was just pulled the pen and notebook from my hand and sucked it into the portal but my guard action had to set in. My cap flew off into the portal as I got up and rushed Twilight seeing her struggle to get away from the portal.... probably the worst thing I could've done. I grabbed Twilight and threw her to the ground but I managed to fall off balance and there I go flying into the portal and I get just enough of a glimpse of Twilight screaming for me just before it closes and I hit something hard dazing myself silly.

I groaned a bit crawling around having the wind knocked out of me. I coughed a bit before grabbing my cap again. I sat against a rock... I barely could tell what it was but it felt lumpy and uneven. Only reason why I couldnt tell what it was was because of a sand storm. All I could do was keep my head down and just curl up waiting. It felt like forever while I waited there. Everything hurt... even my lungs when I tried to breathe. Dusty fucking air messed with me something bad... I heard the sound of armor clanging... I couldnt tell where it was coming from. But who ever it was... they saw me easily. "You there!" I heard a metallic voice say. "State your name and what the hell you're doing out in this sand storm!" I coughed and hacked almost unable to answer. Then I heard a little metal kinda click and jangle around. Not armor. Something a little lighter. "Here! Take this, put it on and just follow me! Do anything to try and harm me... You're done you hear me?" I nodded and felt around in my blinded state. When I felt it i rubbed it a bit to feel what it was. Felt like a gas mask. I quickly flipped my hat around, stretched out the head straps and put it on. Took me a moment to catch my breath and look around. This mask was enchanted with some kind of night vision enchant. I saw everything in a greenish hue and looked brighter. I saw my notebook fluttering in the wind and grabbed it before looking around. I saw a large pony clad in armor... almost medieval like in stature and color with the eyes glowing. Though it looked as such it was motorized. I heard pistons fire with each step as I followed.

"Wh-Where the hell am I?!" I asked the armored pony. They stopped and looked to me.

"...Not from around here are you? Just hit your head or something?"

"I... I dont know... Yes? No? Look can you just tell me where I am?" They turned back the way they were facing and started walking.

"You were where a town called Ponyville once stood. Now razed by an army that Equestria has been feuding with for years. You just got caught up in a major dust storm and I'm surprised your clothes look as good as they do considering the weather and how long this war has been running."

"Wait war?! War what war are you talking about?" They looked back at me and then around us. Then back at me.

"Let's move. Follow me and dont get left behind! Come on lets go!" They turned right around and started to run.... That bulky of armor and they run still pretty fast... I kept up but I was freaking out. The only thing keeping me on my feet was my guard training and this gas mask. We soon stopped just at the base of a mountain. It was very steep but we walked for what felt like an hour. I was freaking out but kept my shit together... just until it hit me moments after we stopped. I screamed for a second and then just blacked out.

I only woke up maybe hours later but I had no clue where I was... again... I was stripped of my uniform having everything set to the side. Even the gas mask. I was only in my boxers in a cot. This thing was uncomfortable but... at least it wasnt stone floor. The room I was in was lit with a few candles... They were bright but about as bright as a very dim lamp that hadnt had its bulb changed since it was put in four years prior. The room I was in was stone with one door leading out. I could tell where it was because of a little light coming from under it and a hole about two thirds of the way up. "...Good... you're awake..." I hear a monotone voice say. "I was instructed to put you in here.... Our commander found you outside in the middle of that sandstorm and you freaked out before passing out. Put your clothes on now. Our leader wishes to speak with you..."

I didnt answer the voice. Just did as I was told. Put my clothes on and clipped the gas mask to my pants. I didnt even bother looking for the notebook. Just readied myself at the door and knocked a bit. Took a moment to open after I hear a lock click and a chain drop to the floor. It opened slightly and I carefully pushed it open. I looked out and saw door after door with torches in between a few spaced four doors per torch. There was a mare across from me wearing some badass looking black armor... It wasnt like anything I've seen. She had a dark grey mane... looking almost purple but her coat was just a bland grey that.... seemed familiar somehow in color. The style was uniform but intimidating... "...Uh... Who are you?" I asked. She looked to me and rolled her eyes.

"I'm Corpral Maud Pie of The Equestrian Resistance army. Might I ask your name as well?"

"I'm uh..." I hesitated on who I was. Do I tell the truth? Do I hide it and make a fake Identity? I just bucked up and stood in attention as if I were addressing Celestia during crisis. "I am General Ryder of the Equestrian Royal guard... I know it doesnt sound right but trust me... I have my badge." I reached in to one of the pockets on my uniform and pulled it out. Had it in a little carrying case that was made of leather. Flipped it and showed it to her. She hummed as she took it in her hand.

"...I havent seen one of these for years... last I saw was during the massacre near Manehattan when the war first started with Sombra..." She handed it back to me. "...How you've kept it in such condition is amazing to me. Your uniform still in good condition too looking back from... 1967?" Her face remained emotionless as well as her voice.

"1970. And... this uniform was a gift from someone... now about what you needed to do?" She nodded and started walking down the hall. I followed just looking around. Soon we came to an atrium just covered in ponies clad in the same armor. Most of which had the same style as Maud did. Others just shaved theirs completely and some were even tattered parts. Might've even seen one mohawk or two. There was a network of walk ways over us mostly wooden bridges. We came to a large wooden door with ponies crowding it.

"Everyone move! Back out of the way!" Ponies dispersed after hearing Maud raise her voice slightly. Monotone still. She opened up the door and we slipped in to a large room lit by goblets of fire. There was an ornate red carpet leading down the middle and four ponies all in that heavy medieval looking armor.

There was a familiar looking mare sitting in a large throne just ahead of me... That mare was Celestia looking war torn and stressed to shit. Her mane was tied in a pony tail flowing ever so slightly. Her horn was broken a bit and covered in black crystals and a scar over her left eye... No eye patch or anything or any damage to the eye itself. I shuttered as we approached and stopped just short. Two armored ponies came to her side. Maud knelt down as Celestia stood. "Thank you Maud... You may go now!" She said. Maud stood up, saluted and just started away. Celestia approached me and looked to me. "...Uniform is spotless... not a scratch of damage anywhere... Where did you come from?" I hesitated just staring at the armored ponies. She looked back to them. "At ease you two. Cut the intimidation tactic!"

They then stood in attention just before their eyes went dark and the sound of pressure being released like when a truck stops sounded off. They opened up at the back and out step two... insanely familiar ponies and I just wanted to scream when I saw them. The ponies who stepped out were Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. Pinkie... She looked pissed off like someone broke a pinkie promise. She wore the same armor Maud did. I KNEW THAT FUCKING NAME SOUNDED FAMILIAR! Maud is Pinkie's sister if you havent put that together by now. Pinkie never shuts up about her when someone mentions rocks. Her mane and Dash's looked the same as some of the other ponies. Except she was wearing a blue and yellow jumpsuit almost wonderbolt like. Pinkie approached me and got close. "We're watching you.... Dont get any smart ideas..." She said.

Rainbow Dash pushed her away. "Captain Pie, leave at once!" She snapped. Pinkie didnt say a word before growling at me and leaving us. Dash looked to me and huffed. "Apologies for her actions. Commander Dash of the Resistance. This is our leader Celestia."

I hesitantly saluted. "I am G-General Ryder." I said. I went to try and reach into my pocket but stopped. High leader, someone who can order an attack on me if threatened.... I just went and put my hands back at my sides. "I am a royal guard.... If you will I have a badge in my chest pocket, my right side your left... You may take it out and verify." Dash came around to the back and forced my hands as if she were going to cuff me before Celestia patted my chest feeling for the badge. Found it right where I said it would be.

Celestia opened it and gasped. "...By my mothers light... Stainless steel and silver combination, untouched by elements and with my verification...." She said running her fingers over a little CF on the combined cutie marks in the middle. Her's and Luna's of course. She sighed running her fingers over Luna's side of her cutie mark. "...Oh sister... why hast thou refused to come back...."

Dash released me and pushed me back getting in between us. "Celestia do you need a moment to be alone?" She asked. Celestia looked up at her and reached past her handing my badge back to me.

"...No but... I want to have a talk with the stallion here... You may leave though. I trust him..." Dash's wings ruffled up. She looked at me and back to Celestia.

"B-But Celestia he's just some rouge element! He could just be holding back until you two are alone! HE COULD HURT YOU!"

"Enough lip Dash! I know what I'm doing! Now go before I have the Pie's drag you out!"

Dash hesitated before just pushing me aside leaving the room. I watched as Dash stormed out with the other armored ponies leaving the room. "...Jeez... I understand being protective but... that was harsh..." I said. Celestia sighed turning me around before she walked back to her throne. "...So uh... may I check out that armor? I've never seen anything like that where I'm from."

"Go ahead... Just be careful some of these are malfunctioning a bit with the joints. Once they get stuck it has to be replaced." She pointed to the right side. The one that Dash was in. "This one is more of a problem than any of the others... Legs lock up, arm joints disengage mid punch, and the helmet sensors mess up as well." I went to Dash's armor and started to look at it up close. "I just want to say I know you arent one of us.... You arent a changeling either or an enemy at all. Otherwise you would have revealed yourself.... Though... You remind me of a recruit we lost long ago.... Can you tell me who you are and how you got here?" I huffed looking through the little cracks of where the armor plates connected.

"...I'm General Ryder, I'm a Royal guard who just got back from a war, amputated my wing after a plane crash, managed to get called in by someone on my day off only to get sucked into a fucking portal where one of your armored warriors found me and when I got to the door it all hit me at once knowing I would be stuck here..." I looked around the armor at her. "Do you have a tool I can get these armor plates off with? I need a better look and i cant really tell what's wrong but.... I feel this shin guard a little loose...." She got up from her throne and approached me pulling my arm and helping me up.

"It's going to be better if we get this to a work station. Granted you do not have the proper training here I might as well tell you how to use this." She set me at the back of it and turned a valve having it just pop open letting out that steam-pressure sound. "Just place your arms and legs where they need to be and keep your wings pinned down to your back." I did as such. Stuck my head into a hole that was attached to the helmet. I stuck my arms and legs in their places before folding my wings tightly on my back. Not even a second later I felt everything close around me and a UI brighten up in my eyes. I was amazed at what I saw.

"No way! This thing has a neural interface and an ammo counter? How do I look at the stats of this thing?" I heard Celestia give a giggle.

"Wow not even five minute into the armor and you're already noticing these tidbits. By the way if you want to check those statistics of the armor plates themselves just nod your head to the right just a bit. Dont worry you wont knock the helmet out of place." I nodded to the right and it showed the condition of all the armor pieces. Even little error notifications like a cars dashboard. Right side knee was a bit damaged.

"There definitely is something in there. Right knee looks a bit off color from the rest."

"Alright.... Professional Mechanic here are we? Now lets just do this real quick... Just slowly move your arms forward not even moving your feet. Do it like you're trying to force it it might move a bit slowly. Work with the pistons and actuators and not force them." I hummed a bit as I moved my arms and raised my legs ever so slightly. "Make sure the knee bends all the way otherwise it's not gonna go down easy." I kinda stumbled a bit before just slamming my foot back down.

"Okay! Maybe not a good idea to trust a newbie with high tech armor! Dont wanna hurt myself or you for that matter! How do I get out of this thing?!" Celestia got in front of me in my field of view. I could see the glow of the eye lights on her face.

"Alright relax! Don't panic! It's not the first time I've had a run in with someone who didnt know how to use Power Armor before. Deep breaths first to calm you down." I closed my eyes and took a few deep breaths. My heart rate slowed to just about normal. "Alright.... Now what I need you to do is go limp. These things are programmed to let who ever is inside out in an emergency. Fainting, loss of fuel for motion and even those worst case scenarios during battle but... These things arent going to see any action unless its direly needed." I went limp still having my eyes closed. Not even a few seconds after I hear the steam pressure just exhaust before I just fall flat on my back. I opened my eyes and sat up rubbing the back of my head which hurt a bit. Celestia came around to me. "Oops... Forgot to tell you to hold onto the hand grips... You're okay?" I nodded.

"Yeah... I'm fine... Can we go somewhere and talk? These armor pieces are awesome but... kinda creepy if nopony is in them..."

"Alright. I should take you to our barracks. There's a bed open after we lost someone during a recent battle but... dont let that get in your head." Like I havent seen enough death. "It's going to be right across from Commander Dash's room. Feel free to consult her about any information you need." I sighed getting back to my feet.

"....I'm surprised you havent asked me where I came from at least... My uniform and badge AND rank should've given you some questions about me havent they?" I looked to her as we started walking towards the door.

"I admit those questions crossed my mind when I saw... her cutie mark on your badge... You wouldnt mind if I asked would you?"

"Ask away Celestia. I am but your personal tap of information." She gave a hesitant smile as she opened the door.

As we left the room Dash confronted us. Stood in front of us and just stared me down. "...You're lucky to get a private audience with our leader outsider... not many do..." She said. She looked to Celestia. "What are your orders oh faithful leader?"

Celestia looked to her. "I want you and everypony else to return the power armor to their work bays please." She replied. "Our guest here has offered to help in our cause with a little added benefit. We give him a room to stay in, benefits of anyone else in this bunker and access to power armor at any time." Dash pushed me out of the way.

"But Celestia how can we trust him with such things? He could kill one of us with just a few punches!"

"You were the one who brought him in. Why think he's such a danger if you bring him inside our base! If he's a security risk what ever he does goes on your head! Understand me?" Dash sighed.

"Yes ma'am." She lowered her head looking regretful but her aura said something else.

"Good. Now show him to his quarters. The room right across from yours is what I'm giving him. Anything inside is now his property so that means weapons, tech and even valuables. He has the right to everything and is to report to me if anyone strongarms it away from him." She looked to me. "Alright... General... That's going to be your rank in my impromptu army. Dash still gives orders as well as me but if on a whim you need to take over I give you permission. That even means defying orders if necessary."

I smiled. "Thank you ma'am. I wont disappoint!" I said saluting. She saluted back.

"Alright you two I must rest. A short nap before the next ration distribution is going to suffice for me. Rest up if you need. Somepony will fetch you if you do fall asleep. Now go you two." Dash and I both saluted before she hurried off. Wings looking a bit.... dirtied and unpreened. Some was even bare...

Dash grabbed my shoulders and turned me around. "Okay she might've given you the damn rank of General but to me you're a fucking recruit! No way in hell are you getting power armor from me!" She snapped.

I shrugged her off and huffed. "Look, I know you dont like it but I was given a chance to use your armor in there! I was alone with Celestia and I had the chance to take her head off but I didnt know how to use it! She walked me through some basic things and I can tell you've been using that armor in battle! You've got a bullet or some fucking sand stuck in the right knee!" She sighed.

"You keep out of my armor! I'll fix it myself!" She shoved me in the direction of a doorway. "Now start moving. Faster we get to your quarters the faster I get to fix my damn armor." We started walking towards the door.

"...Not to pry but what's your story? You seem interesting.

"You first motherfucker. I'm not saying shit until you spill your story!" I just kept my mouth shut. "Not talking huh? Well you're not getting shit from me." I glanced back at her.

"I'm not saying anything because I want us to be alone when I do say something. I'll sit on my hands and you can cuff me if you need. I'm willing to submit before I speak." We walked down the corridor passing by multiple closed doors, torches and banners with a shield and Celestia's cutie mark... It almost resembled Shining Armor's... Not that I've seen it before....

"Your room should be up here on the right. Right across from the engraved door. You'll know it when you see it." I rolled my eyes and just kept walking until I came to a big red door. It was engraved with Dash's cutie mark and the words awesome, epic and legend all etched into it. Typical Dash. I looked across the hall at another door. Smaller door than Dash's. Blue but there was little stab marks in the wood. I opened the door and walked inside. A lot of stuff I recognized. Military cot, bullet reloading bench, ammo crates and even a rack of tools and such. Dash came up behind me and rest her hand on my shoulder. "The stallion who used to own this room tinkered a lot and you knowing I've been in battle with that armor without taking it apart might be promising. You might be good with what we have here. Now about who you are?" I looked up and down the hall.

"Your room maybe? I just.... I feel like nobody is bound to intrude upon your room right Commander?" She gave me a smug look.

"Right you are dork. Step into my office." She pulled me across the hall and put my hands behind my back gently but held them there firmly before opening the door. Inside her room was a large bed- Not even a cot- motivational posters, weights and even an old mural of Cloudsdale. I huffed.

"I'd hate to see what Cloudsdale looks like in this hell hole version of Equestria..." She sat me in a chair in the corner by her bed.

"What do you mean by that?" I huffed.

"...When you found me outside in that sandstorm I had just come out of a portal to an alternate universe where you and a few others defeat Nightmare moon, Discord, Tirek and even this Sombra... None of this ever happened where I'm from... Closest we've had to this was when Tirek attacked Ponyville..." I saw emotion just drain from her face.

"...No wonder your uniform is so clean and you have that badge... I mean you even were alone with someone extremely powerful, alone and not even trying anything to even hurt her.... My apologies for my rudeness..." I sighed.

"It's alright Commander... You didnt know... Can... Can you tell me about why you're in this resistance?" She sighed and lied back on her bed.

"...Revenge... I dont talk about this often and when I do its just... It's kinda my weakness.... I dont want to do this but... I guess I have to since you told me your story...." She took a deep breath and sighed. "...A few years ago when this thing started I was out with a filly who just loved me...." My heart dropped. "...She basically followed me everywhere I went until that day.... that day there was a massacre I was caught in with her..... Sombra's forces snuck in from the north and just..." Her voice got weak and I teared up slightly.

"...No need to finish.... I get it...." I got up and came to her bedside. "...You mind?" She scooted over and patted the bed next to her. "....In my universe... that filly is my sister.... she adores you and you just comfort her but... I just.... I dont wanna hurt you any more.... But... It's kinda surprising.... do you uh... do you wish to hear it or do you want me to leave it where it lies?"

"...Just tell me... I can take it..." I kinda curled up.

"...Well.... Its just that... you're cousins... very loving ones at that...." She turned over and just hugged me tight. She didnt whimper or cry but... her wings showed it. Carries on over universes... "...you two became very close after someone murdered our parents in cold blood.... Almost killed my marefriend too..." She looked me in the eyes.

"...Wh-what do you mean by that...?" I averted my gaze blushing.

"...in my universe.... you're my cousin and that filly you lost... that... that was my sister... she survived in the other universe because as I said.... No war with Sombra went on..." She blushed a bit.

"...Sweet fucking Celestia... I... I am so sorry about how I treated you thus far... Now I guess we both need to get revenge for her..." I nodded. "....Are you... are you willing to help us fight?"

"...Are Pinkie and Maud sisters?" She smiled a bit and gave a little laugh. "Why dont we just sit here, calm down and... maybe we could run a mission or something... Just get me started with something simple okay?" She nodded and sat up.

"I know the perfect thing for a guy like you. You still got that mask I gave you earlier?" I nodded grinning like a smug asshole. Maybe about an hour later, after our rations were given to us (A can of apple sauce and a cup of water...) we were sent back outside. The dust storm was raging but I couldnt give much of a fuck because you know what? I had that mask on but even better I was given a shotgun. Semi auto with explosive rounds. Celestia gave it to me thinking I need a 'proper welcome' after Dash told her about my predicament. Seems Celestia had a little idea of it because of what I was wearing. Anyways we were walking out in the dust storm and I had my shotgun just leaning on my shoulder, barrel in the air and hand on the butt of the gun. Dash was back in her power armor and carrying an auto rifle. And I gotta say... I was a little jealous but this one had the body of an assault rifle but it fed ammo like an LMG with a handle on top to hold it like a mini gun or something.

"Can I ask where we're headed?" I called out over the howling winds. Dash glanced at me... I think... hard to tell with that Power armor helmet.

"We're heading to an outpost that puts us resistance members up if we're a little too late for curfew. It's way out of the way of this storm but the air doesnt smell any better. Best keep that mask on unless you wanna smell like rotten apples and urine!" ...Winona used to go and just piss on a pile of rotten apples... A lot... Only thing that smelt worse was probably having me shit myself, puke and not bathe for a while before. Pit stink plus spicy food shits AND predigested soda is just.... fuck... that tasted bad AND stunk.... Long story short I had to be hosed down in the yard. I huffed aiming my gun out into the storm looking down the sights.

"...Ever get much action when on patrol like this?"

"Well there are the occasional attacks when trying to get up north. We've got some watch out towers that will alert us with morse code and just give us coordinates of where the enemy was last seen so we can dispatch them before they take another outpost. Hell some of our guys are in underground bunkers like we are just hidden away and they can barely go outside because they're so far into enemy territory. When they can they either have to be extremely silent or heavily armed. Most of the time its just silence because they dont wanna be found." She stopped and looked around. "...Get behind me.... I think we're in range...." I looked to her confused.

"...In range of what?" I got my answer when I heard a sniper shot ring out and the bullet just bounce on the ground at my feet. I jumped and just hid behind Dash still with my gun ready. This thing wouldnt have shit for range but its worth a shot in some situations.

"Keep your head down and stay close!" I nodded and followed still with my gun ready. Another shot rang out and it ricochet'd off Dash's armor. Saw a spark come from her shoulder. It was weird that it was only missing shots and grazing ones... I didnt question it. All I could think about was surviving. Every.... Oh twenty yards or what have you a shot was fired off. I head one whiz right under Dash's arm narrowly missing me. Not long we got to familiar territory... Familiar sights being trees. Apple trees. I looked around just as we approached a watch tower. "HEY! YOU WANNA WATCH WHERE YOU'RE SHOOTING?! I GOT A NEW GUY HERE!"

I heard someone climb down a ladder and toss a gun to the ground. "Well how the hell was I supposed to know that was you?" I heard a familiar voice say. I glanced around and saw a strong looking red stallion. Orange mane and he was wearing a dull grey camo jumpsuit with a bandanna wrapped around his forehead. Big Mac. "You guys are supposed to send a runner with a fucking flare gun!"

"I've already had two say you shot at them even after the flares. If we could figure out how to change the color of a flare it might be easier but can you just wait for the fucking person to show up?" He huffed.

"Hey we gotta protect the harvest somehow! What good is your damn rations if we get attacked by the enemy because I wasnt pickin' them off one by one!" Dash huffed.

"Just shut up and tell us where the damn problem is!" Big Mac huffed and picked up his rifle. Old hunting rifle. Barrel has seen some wear and tear, grip and stock definitely seen some work too. Masking tape on the stock and duct on the grip. Most likely keeping it held together from constant use.

"Alright. Follow me to the factory floor. Armored to hell in case of an attack but in case there is mine field is out there... surprised the new guy didnt trip any of em off.... Surprised I didnt hit any after having those shots ricochet off that damn armor of yours."

Neither me or Dash said anything before following Big Mac. I came out to the side of Dash now walking beside her. I even put my gun's safety on and rested it on my shoulder still holding the butt of the gun. Just looking around at everything made me miss home. Not only home but... Applejack, my sister... even the princess... But I just let that fuel me to keep going like it did when I was away. That tour was hell even though it was just me sitting around giving orders and placing attacks. If it werent for the rebels aiding us I'd've broken hard. Anyways we walked up to the barn looking like it had smoke stacks coming from the top of it and the whole thing covered in sheet metal, barbed wires and chains. Big Mac pounded on the door of it right in a spot where it was unarmored. Once it opened I saw another familiar face but... one I handnt seen for years.... The one and only Granny Smith. Lively old mare. Granny smith had her silver mane in a hair net and wore the same grey jumpsuit as Big Mac. She took one look at us as we hear a machine shut down. "About time you brought the cavalry. Where's the rest?" She asked.

Dash took her helmet off having the air be clear enough. "This is it. Just me and the new..." She said making a noise of disgust. "General... here... he's a bit of a newbie but has seen some combat experience hence his wing."

Big Mac looked at us as Granny went back in leaving the door open. "I thought you said he was a new guy. How does he have a rank just under you?" He asked.

I huffed. "I did my hard work elsewhere." I said "Word just traveled fast and the commander here found me after I was attacked in the middle of nowhere." The stallion hummed.

"Surprised word hadnt spread here at all." He looked at me closer. Kept my cool but deep down I was freaking out a bit.

Dash nudged Big Mac out of the way. "Back it up there. Word isnt gonna spread here much unless your fucking sniper jams when you're shooting at one of ours." She said. "Now just shut up and lets talk business here. Just tell us what the damn problem is before we just turn tail and leave." Big Mac huffed.

"Alright fine. Talk to The Boss. And make sure that gun stays on safety otherwise I aint gonna miss through the tight cracks of this here armor." He pointed to my shotgun with one hand and tapped the hull of the barn with the barrel of the sniper. I rolled my eyes after taking my gas mask off and clipping it to my belt.

Once we entered I set my gun on a shelf just off to the side. Looked to be just a shelf of scrap metal, circuitry and some other things. I just set my shotgun in the middle of a few piles of scrap metal right under a large sheet of sheet metal. Just around the shop was a large pile of tin cans, a large machine with connecting conveyor belts and crates packed tight with canned apple sauce and just a loading bay that was shut tight. The machines were stopped but something felt odd. I knew this wasnt empty but... I kept my guard up. Dash put her helmet back on and walked over to the wall where she just stepped out of her armor. I looked around trying to see where Granny smith went but as I turned around a corner I was just tackled from behind and had my arms shoved behind me and my face into the ground. "WHO THE HELL ARE YA AND WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU TRYIN' TO DO HERE?!" I hear a majestic yet pissed off sounding voice say. Mare's voice with a southern drawl. I turned my head a bit (as much as i could really) and looked up as best I could. Who i saw above me kinda shocked me. Applejack. Her mane was in a bun and covered by a hair net and the same grey jumpsuit with leather reinforcements here and there. I didnt dare fight her but I know where her weak spot is when she has me like this. Right at the back of the leg and she starts buckling down for me to get her off.

Dash booted Applejack off of me and grunted putting her boot on her neck. HER NECK. That pissed me off. I got up and pushed Dash off her before helping Applejack up. Dash looked to me. "WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR GOD DAMN PROBLEM GENERAL?!" She snapped.

I huffed. "I'll explain later but we have a fucking job to do here!" I snapped back. I looked back to AJ who rubbed at her neck blushing a bit. "You alright there?"

Applejack huffed. "...Yeah...All granny said was we had company and when I saw you I just attacked..." She said. She glared at Dash. "Never said it was the help I asked for a week ago!"

Dash pushed me out of the way. "You're lucky I even came here!" She said. "I would've been here sooner if we had someone to help with that fucking problem you have! Right after you asked we had to run a recon mission and we had to send our repair guy out into it! This was the best I could fucking do!" She pointed to me. I huffed as Applejack went behind some machinery and helped Granny smith to her feet. Almost could hear her bones crack.

"Well sorry for your fuckin' loss! You're lucky we didnt lose nothing but our machine to something being jammed in it and we have no fucking clue where it is jammed!"

I went and covered Dash's mouth the way i always do knowing she cant just bite me to get my hand off her face. "ENOUGH YOU TWO!" I snapped. I looked to Dash. "Commander I'm taking over here. Either give up control willingly or someone isnt going back with that suit of power armor protecting them! And you know damn well I can over power you!"

Dash shrugged me off and turned around slapping my hand away from her mouth. "Over power me? Like hell you can!" She snapped. Almost forgot that she doesnt know me very well. I grinned.

"Okay. Fine. You wanna spar? I can take your ass down right here right now!" I looked to Applejack. "Gonna need some space here." She nodded and backed up with Granny Smith just sitting her on a lower part of some machinery just as Dash and I faced each other. She cracked her neck not even breaking her gaze. I cracked my knuckles. Never even looked away either.

"So... who makes the first move...?"

"Your move commander!" I readied myself in my best 'I'm most likely gonna fucking get my ass kicked but not really' pose. Fists like I know how to fight but my stance just all off balance. Dash just looked at me like I was an idiot (like normal) but when she came at me with an over the head chop I crossed my arms and just stopped her dead before she hit me before I went and just put a boot dead center of her stomach sending her to the ground before I tackled her and pinned her. I got in her face. "I'M IN CHARGE UNTIL WE GET BACK TO THE COMPOUND! And dont think you're gonna go cry to someone because you're just being a little bit of a bitch when it comes to someone undermining you!" I turned away and unclipped the gas mask from my belt. "...You're going to need this once we leave here." I tossed it to her and she caught it begrudgingly. I looked back to Applejack. "Apologies for that miss...."

Applejack gave a little bit of a smile and approached holding her hand out. I took it and shook it. Felt a bit weird but... her contact made everything better. "Name's Applejack!" She said. "Usually called 'The Boss' or AJ. You just call me what ever you want there sugarcube. Nice one for showin' lil miss 'iron pony' a thing or two. She never wants to fight me without her armor. Must've thought you were weak but you definitely showed her!" I kinda laughed as Dash grunted and leaned against some of the machinery.

"Yeah well out there you learn somethings on your own. Especially when you have to deal with some unruly characters alone. Now about the problem you need fixed here?" She lost her smile and huffed.

"Bout a week an a half ago we were cannin' food to get out to the resistance. Problem is that someone brought a little keepsake for someone who we just... just had to say goodbye to and have them go off to keep them safe...." She averted her gaze. "...That keep sake fell onto the belt and when it went through the machine it got caught and stopped some parts from moving. We're only sending half the rations we usually do to keep everyone fed but to not tip them off that something's wrong. Otherwise we're gonna get a militia of ponies armored to shit stomping down the trees and ruining the crop." She looked back to me. "Any chance you can get everything back out of the machine without breaking it? You'll get whatever you need from us and I aint willin' to stop at all the food you need! It aint in my nature to say stuff like that but... This keepsake is just special to me and if you get it out i just... I..." She clenched her eyes shut. I just grabbed her hand and pulled her in close.

"...I get it... It's that important... Just take a breath, calm down and show me where it got stuck so you can resume operation. Those folks dont get fed we got ourselves a heap of lost ground." She nodded into my chest. I wiped her eyes away seeing tears build up. To be honest... this just made me miss my AJ on the other side of that portal. She opened her eyes after a moment and looked to me.

"...A-alright sugarcube... follow me..." She took my hand and led me around the machinery until we came to a big part with 'Mac's Masher'. "Right here... she's in there...." Okay dont ask me why I carry these things but... its more fitting if I have them. I pulled out a screwdriver from a pocket on my pants and brushed some of the dust off of the handle. As I unscrewed the screws Applejack sat next to me just holding my legs. I looked down at her.

"You alright?" She shook her head sighing.

"...I dont know anymore... I just start stressin' out sometimes and it just.... it makes me think of everything that could've been if this damn war hadnt started... we could've been happy, no problems to gripe about and not have to worry about going to sleep only to wake up to you tied to the bed and a stallion forcing his way into your trousers... either that or lookin' down the barrel of a gun before who ever's got their finger on the trigger demands what ever shit we got around the shop..." I opened the panel up and looked inside the machine. I didnt know what kinda stuff I was looking at but i saw it... A familiar looking bow chewed up and stained with rotten apples caught between a few pistons pointed towards the belt. I grabbed at the ribbon and slowly started to untangle it. I huffed.

"...How old was this filly?" She stood up again next to me.

"...Just about twelve or so... been a while so I cant remember.... We had to send her with some resistance members down south to get her away.... Some of them Crystal Empire Marauders have been raping foals and killin' the old that dont even have enough fight in em. Granny here survived because they couldnt keep a damn hold on her to get the gun into place. She ended up snatchin' the gun away and gettin' a few of em between the eyes and the rest fleein' to get away before they were picked off by me and Mac out there. Every now and then a courier comes along givin' us letters from her and a little friend of hers she met wherever they're hidin'." I managed to get the bow untangled and huffed handing it back to her.

"...At least she's still alive...." She took the bow looking to me as she held it to her chest. "...Lost my sister a long while ago... it just fucked me up... I couldnt trust anyone after that... well... until I was left to die out there...." I looked to Dash who just polished her power armor with a rag. "...Only reason I couldnt kill her is because I didnt have a gun and she would've kicked my ass in that power armor... I had to trust her and it just so happens that it was a good idea to... Someone close to her died as well and she and I make a pretty good team... well... Havent seen any action.. she just makes a good shield so far." AJ smiled a bit snickering.

"Well that's one way to say my brother's shit at shootin'. He should know not to shoot until he knows what the enemy looks like.... Maybe something there to fix that but that comes later.... for now why dont you two take a few cans for yourselves? I know I promised more but.... gotta be somethin' else you need doing...." I huffed. Knowing how I'd be we both would be walking funny... not sure how I'd be walking in power armor either. I closed up the panel and screwed the screws in tight before shoving the screw driver back into my pocket.

"Yeah... besides... theres a mare out there for me somewhere. Just gotta find her and help her out.... Settle down if this shit blows over.... Wouldnt even hesitate to build my own fucking house up if i needed to..." I averted my gaze and huffed. I almost didnt want to do this but I turned around before kissing Applejack on the lips almost by force... Almost meaning she didnt fight it. Just let it happen. I broke the kiss after a few seconds and hurried over to the power armor getting it opened up and hopping inside holding my wings to my back. As it sealed up onto me I felt my lip quiver. I looked to Dash as she got up and went for my shotgun taking it.

Nobody said anything as we left. No thank you, we didnt take the cans of food.... I just took my payment but... it hurt like i just drew my own blood by blade. Dash didnt even demand her armor back. Guess this one knows when she's beat. I had little to no trouble moving in the suit but... when we had arrived back at the compound I walked with Dash to her armor stand in her room. Circular base, silver pillars on either side with chains attached to each pillar. I relaxed once in place and got out of it. As I stepped out i looked to Dash who sat on her bed, head hung in shame. I sat next to her. Didnt say anything. She handed my mask back. Actually gave the gun to a guard who took it back to the armory. Dash looked to me. "...wha.... how did you manage to take me down....?" She asked. "....I've never been bested in a sparring match... always been out of power armor but... never bested...." I sighed.

"...Look if you're discouraged I'm sorry... I didnt mean to act that way but.... I was forced into it.... Remember when I said I'd explain something later...?" She hesitantly nodded. I looked down at the floor and just flopped back onto the bed. "...The Boss... AJ... Where I'm from she's my marefriend... seeing her just made me.... it hurt.... it hurt so bad i just... I kissed her...." I started to tear up a bit. "...and her little sister.... seeing that bow come from that fucking machine it just.... i swear something bad happened.... it hurts.... I just.... I wanna go home....."
Dash lied down and cuddled up to me.

"...I'm sorry this experience is so hard for you.... hearing about your sister.... seeing your marefriend.... I bet Pinkie and I kinda push you more towards insanity huh.....?" I nodded a bit. I'm not gonna lie here seeing Dash and Pinkie... even Celestia all war-torn and changed like this makes me hate this universe even more. "...Lets just stay here... calm ourselves down before Celestia throws us into our next operation... Okay....?" I nodded again. I was glad she was there for me.... I know she would've been there for me in my dimension but... She would've joked about something or given me shit for it.... Anyways I just nodded off cuddled up to her. Might be awkward but it was something.

To be continued...

My Timeline To Run (Part 2)

It was an hour later and I found myself back in my room stripped to my boxers again... Nobody greeted me as I got up which felt kinda good yet kinda creepy too. Kinda felt like shit as I got up but it was better than how I was earlier. I got dressed, walked out and checked inside Dash's room. Nothing. Noone in there. I turned back to my door and saw a note. Stuck to a bent nail towards the top. I sighed and grabbed it. Even read it out loud. "...Ryder... Need to speak with you in private. Come to the dining hall. All others should be training or resting. Celestia." I said almost quietly. I huffed and shoved my hands in my pockets starting to just walk along. I didnt have any knowledge of this place but there are markings spray painted into the stone. Just followed the crossed fork and knife around for a while.

When I came in I saw Celestia sitting at the end of a long table in the middle. Nobody around her or in the room. She wore a set of pure white metal armor, painted beautifully in her image. Her cutie mark printed onto the flank and the chest piece and her mane tied into a ponytail. Her wings were a bit messy but this armor isnt maneuverable if I remember right. She watched as I approached and bowed in respect to her before sitting. "...Thank you for coming Ryder..." She said averting her gaze. "...I.... Apologize for everything you've heard and seen in this universe...... The death of your sister, the breakdown of your marefriend... even the status of your own cousin.... Dash told me all about it.... I have my top magical advisor helping me to get you back home but... it wont be ready for some time...." I kinda cringed hearing the words death and sister in the same sentence....

"...Thank you Celestia.... If there's anything I can do before then as payment... so it shall be....Name it and it shall be done.... I wont even stop at body disposal if the need ever arises...." She glanced at me and smiled.

"...This is done out of the kindness of my own heart.... that badge you have gave me fond memories of my sister.... if she were here I'd plead even in her nightmare state for her to fight along side me and take back our faithful equestria... I wouldnt even hesitate if she started a new side to make it happen... I would want her to feel loved and cherished like she always had been by me...." I could see tears building in her eyes. I scooted over and wrapped my arms around her.

"...Something tells me this Luna hasnt been changed back by nightmare moon and instead reimprisoned by you and the Elements of Harmony before this war broke out.... Couldnt you get the elements back to take down Sombra?" She wiped her eyes and sniffled.

"...No... i-it's impossible... if I ventured out even with a team of power armor trained sentries i'd run a high risk of being shot in the wastes... It's even been so long I cant remember where i hid them or how to unlock them again... my mind has been run ragged since the attack and... its just filled with so much strategy... if i failed on one attack and forget to set up defences at another point the enemy could take up so much territory it'd be suicide to get it back... I... I feel as if I'd have to launch the bombs to end them all... even a few of my own to martyr..." I huffed.

"That isnt an option EVER Celestia!" I took my arm from around her and slammed it on the table next to her. She jumped a bit and looked over at me. "I'm sorry to say this but you're being such a fucking pussy right now! My Celestia wouldnt have given up so easily. She would fight and fight and fight until she had won! You are getting the bombs ready after what? Two? Three years? Think about this! Those that escaped from Sombra's wrath and didnt want to fight for your revolution are out there somewhere hiding in a cave, a shack or even a fucking hole in the ground! One bomb could mean millions dead within seconds and those things are massive with explosions! Trust me i've seen so many go off at once it isnt even funny!" If you caught that there that's actually the opening to that post apocalyptic video game I play with Luna. We gave each other so many tips on where to look for weapons and car pieces its just a wonder to how we havent found anything extremely rare. Anyways Celestia looked to me with a little shocked expression.

"Surely your universe must've gone up in flames.... How have you survived that nuclear hell?" I huffed.

"That isnt important right now. What is important is getting this Equestria back on track to progress to take out the enemy. Now why dont you take a breath, show me where your command center is and let me see what the situation is. I might be able to see through their defenses and bring victory to the resistance!" I stood up and offered my hand. She took it and stood up.

Celestia lead me through the compound going up stairs and through corridors and even had to squeeze past a few firing ranges with guns just going off every step and in between. I flinched a few times and held my scar the whole time. It pulsed a bit but didn't hit me with any pain. Shit hitting the fan aside we finally came through to her strategy room. Ponies along each wall, some looking at maps and others writing reports on computers and some cleaning and assembling weapons. Yes without ammo. Are they stupid? Am I? Wait don't answer that. Pinkie came out from the back of the room and saluted as we came to a table with a map of Equestria marked to hell. Red X's and Blue O's and green and black arrows. Gold star right over where Ponyville should be. Pinkie looked to me and to Celestia after saluting. "Is it wise to have him in our base of operations ma'am?" She asked. I looked to her as Celestia brought up a new map, tearing the old one away.

"Shut up and start following orders from me! I'm taking over on this outfit and you better start fucking calling me General if you know what's good for you and your fucking sister. Where's she?" Pinkie looked at me shocked but returned to her pissed off looking state.

"She's off training her close combat skills in her room. Shall I fetch her?" I went back to studying the map.

"Yes just tell her she listens to me or she answers to Celestia for insubordination!" Pinkie said nothing and just ran off. I glanced at Celestia as she set markers out for me. "I wasnt too harsh was I? I dont like being harsh if i dont have to." I took a blue marker and just tapped the cap on the map.

Celestia huffed as she drew out some marks on the map. Star where we were and a curved line for where the fighting was. "You were right to snap like that at her. Sometimes even she needs a good talking to." She said setting her marker down. "Alright. What do you wanna do and where do you wanna go. Any and all resources are yours. Launch a rocket if you must. Just bring us to victory General." I scanned the map and put my mark as an X right where Canterlot should be.

"Right here is where we need to strike. Forces far outside on either side start pinching around the front line if they have an opening. If they can get far in rain hell but Canterlot is ours." Celestia drew arrows on one side of the line that came back towards the middle of the line. Even drew one in a different color straight from the star to the X.

"But how are we going to get in to Canterlot? We're gonna be picked off before we even get there!" I hummed and looked around before kinda having her bend over near me.

"This is gonna be one hell of a stretch but we're gonna need some of the enemies armor. Three go in, two in armor and one naked so to speak." I looked around. "Has anyone seen Dash? She might need to get in on this and probably the best one to get into it...." I looked to Celestia. "Have we got any transport?" Celestia thought for a moment.

"Those storms can knock an aircraft and pegasai out of the air... me included... Best thing we can do is just stick to the ground and just go but we've had a problem with the vehicles. Someone in our ranks seem to have sabotaged our ground transport vehicles. No body here knows what they're doing apparently when it comes to being a mechanic. If anything I'm the most qualified and I only have changed the tires on one myself before!" I grinned looking back to the map marking it towards the west a little bit.

"Well I'll get one working fine. Might have to raid the other vehicles for parts if any are damaged but I might be able to repair some if it's necessary. The path I marked is a way we're gonna drive. If we can get attention drawn away from us we can slip through." I marked a few X's on the map left and right on the northern side. "We hit these sides with bombardments and keep them from converging on our path. We should have a nice shot on where we're going. And if my guess is right they're gonna have maybe a blind spot somewhere before the castle." Celestia circled a little area just a bit southwest.

"Right here. There should be a cliff that you'd be able to scale for a few yards and if someone has some good eyes they can see a secret passage that leads into a staircase that comes up right in the dungeons. They may have guards posted but it might come up in a storage closet. If they have guards on that closet take them out and take their positions but make sure noone is looking."

"And if we get caught?" She rolled her eyes and huffed.

"Fight like hell and cause an uproar if you must. We have cells on the other side that know a blue flare when they see one." Blue flares. Solar Empire's best friends. Didnt have to use one but from what Shining told me is if I'm ever in a tight spot on a raid or something there are always another crew on standby, plainclothed or armored all ready to move in to where the flare was shot from. I looked back to the map and marked a few more X's.

"If we can get some mortars to the north there might be some way we can rain hell for two options. One is being a distraction for our escape or to aid in a siege. In enough of numbers we can make it seem like there's more than what we have. Not to mention they're gonna be so confused on how the hell we got so far north so fast." Celestia hummed and went over everything in her head as other ponies just mumbled around us.

"...That sounds like a plan that might work." She looked to me. "I'll have someone lead you to the garage and you pick which vehicle will do you good. I'll get some squadrons together to aid in the assassination of Sombra. If the need arises just take whatever weapons you can get there. You cant get anything here. Everything has my mark on it. It's gonna give you away. Most of the things are on the butts of the guns... Depending on the guns you choose I could make an exception to either edit the weapon the way you want it to blend in or to hide. You think on it. Just find me in my throne room after you're done in the garage." I nodded and went on my way. I did stop a few feet away noticing Celestia just looking back at me as others worked around her. I waved her over and leaned against the wall. She approached me with a slight worried look on her face.

"Something wrong Celestia?" I asked. She kinda shrugged a bit. "Everythings gonna be okay as long as you dont hesitate or give up as a leader. You're someone who everyone looks to for hope. Where I am from, I work for you. You cared for someone that me and Dash lost in this universe and wanna get revenge for. You even offered her a better life if I just bit the dust... the closest I came to that was bleeding out on a cold mountain after a plane crash... It frightened me as well as the others who were with me.... When I got to see my sister she was with you and... and your sister... both of which were in tears worrying for me and what to do with my sister..." I averted my gaze feeling my mood start to slip. Thinking back to that day just kills my mood every time, whether it is just talking about it, looking at the mountain we crashed on or just meeting up with one of the troops I was with in the crash. I've heard from Rouge and Pepper but Shadow? Fuck if i know where he is or what he's doing. Celestia took my hand and led me out of the room and down the now empty hall.

"...My apologies that you and Dash lost someone close to you.... but your words ring true... I must fight and make my subjects want to reunite to fight for Equestria and make it known I will not back down no matter how hard we try." She glanced back at me for a moment. "For now I'll lead you to the garages. Maybe while we're there I can at least be told about my sister and her endeavors.... I wish to know what she's like after her imprisonment...."

Not long later i was just under the hood of an armored sports car. Off road wheels, lifted chassis, bullet proof glass on the windows and even reinforcements on the back, front and side windows, even a gun on top... big gun too. Mounted MG with a large magazine leading into the back of the car. Fuck me if this is not a thing where I'm from. But really all this thing needed was some fresh fuel and spark plugs. Actually had to take the fuel tank out of this one, dump the old fuel out it was sitting for so long. Took maybe an hour tops but it felt good doing mechanic work again... Part of me wants to do garage work for the guard but another part just wants me to keep doing what I'm doing... maybe I can ask Celestia if I can do a little of both every other week. Anyways Celestia sat off to the side just running her finger over every little nook and contour of it. She obviously missed her sister. Maybe more than I miss mine but... I can say I feel her.... But as I got that last spark plug to stay the door going into the compound was kicked open and in ran Pinkie and Maud. Both looked equally as pissed off but... something in their anger told me something was wrong. And uh well..... "CELESTIA! We have a problem!" Pinkie yelled. "We have reports that the commander raided the armory for weapons and ammo and she ran off! Nopony knows where she went!"

I slammed the hood on the car shut and opened the door on the drivers side. "You two! In now!" I said. Neither mare questioned it. As they stepped in I looked to Celestia who tossed me my badge. "You get some fighters together and have them start to converge and draw fire. I dont care if this is a suicide mission but we need to get Dash and get the fuck to that castle. If she's got weapons maybe she can at least spare some and some ammo!"

Celestia gave me a determined look and rested her hand on my shoulder. Damn firm grip. "General... you are doing great things right now and if i know where she's going its got some significance to it." She said. "Just go. Dash should be heading towards what was once the Rainbow Falls if i'm correct. That place hasnt been the same since the Rainbow Factory incident... I wont say what happened but... it was pretty gruesome..."

"Noted... Just.... stay safe and be ready. They do have flare guns right?" Celestia nodded. "Good. Just look to Cloudsdale for the flare. We might have resistance but they're gonna shit themselves when they see me on that fucking gun! I wanted to fire one of these babies since I got started as a guard in my world." Celestia just hugged me straight up before just stuffing me in the car and closing the door. She knelt down to eye level with the little slot i could look through.

"Just go already! I want you to bring us to victory!" I said nothing as I started driving off town towards... well a wall. But something just told me keep driving. Next thing you know we just teleport outside and start tearing through the dust. Oooh god this thing was an orgasm in my ears the way the motor ran. V6 engine, roaring and just kicking up a nice dust cloud around us.

As we drove Pinkie grabbed some gas masks from under the seat. "Standard issue with every fucking one!" She said handing one to me and her sister. "Lucky us there were still some here!"

Maud sighed. Couldnt tell if it were a relieved sigh or not. "And here I thought we were screwed." She said. She rested her hand on my shoulder. "I heard what you said General and me and Pinkie here arent just doing this for our own safety. Neither of us like to mention it but we've lost our family's farm to the enemy and they destroyed every single shiny sedimentary and just made our lives rockier than our farm even."

I huffed. "I'm sorry if I'm being a bit stern with you two." I said just flooring it. "Gotta yell at someone who looks like they need a little push and you two look like you need it." I glanced at Pinkie who was just having her mask just sitting atop her head just staring almost blankly out the little slit on the side window. "Pinkie? You alright over there?"

Pinkie just curled up in her seat and just sighed. "....They have our sisters...." She said. "...the day they came in and.... took over... Maud came and saw if i was okay... She was the only one that made it out...." I heard Pinkie whimper a bit. I snapped my fingers and pointed to her. Maud just went over and hugged her.

"Hey hey! I know you wanna cry for this but dammit we need to let this fuel our hate for the enemy! If anything they're alive and you just have to find them!" I just turned the wheel narrowly missing a fallen tree. "If it makes you feel any better we can take a squad after we're done here and raid that farm of yours, see if they're still there... Might not sound good but... they could still be there, enslaved to work for the enemy and mine resources for them..." I could really tell I probably wasnt helping but... at the same time i was... I dont know.

Maybe about an hour in to the drive we finally arrived at the falls.... My how time wasnt good to this place... I stepped out of the car leaving Maud and Pinkie to hug it out and buck up. Put my mask on and looked out at everything I could see among the dust kicked up by the wind. Not much wind to kick everything up but I just didnt wanna get sand in my eyes. But the clouds looked like shit. Grey, broken here and there, the rainbow waters just looking all mixed and just weird.... Most of it was brown, the only distinguishable colors were green and red. A little blue was in there which was nice to see but... it still didnt look nice. I slowly walked towards a big blasted out hole and looked up at the clouds. Saw Dash sitting on the edge of a cloud in what looked to be biker attire. Black leather jacket, black jean pants and combat boots. Even held onto a rifle with a large 8x zoom scope. I flew up hesitantly knowing she could shoot me if startled or just.... I didnt wanna think about it. As I approached she looked to me and had the gun readied. She didnt aim. Just had her finger ready near the trigger. "Go away! Just leave me the fuck alone!" She snapped. I huffed and took my mask off even if i didnt wanna. I on the clouds just to the right of her. Had a few feet between us too.

"....So this is where it happened huh...." She didnt answer. I glanced at her seeing a duffel bag looking packed full of ammo clips and maybe a few more guns sitting right behind her. Kinda tented at the ends. I looked out over the wasteland before us. Fires burning off in the distance from bonfires, possible attacks that have been long dealt with and maybe some explosives that went off somewhere between before i got here and now. "...Look... I know this place means something to you.... Basically means the same to me here... Its a place that calms us and just gives us hope for what lies ahead... I've been here a lot in my mind and in real life... After I was shot I came here because I was scared to leave my sister with noone to care for her... It was the same when my parents were murdered... I was jailed because I saved my sister from going into protective services.... I was freaking out so bad I just didnt realize they were taking her away.... When I did i punched the guard that had her in the face to get her back and I was rushed.... I realize it may seem like it's too late for her but in your mind she could be at your side pushing you to just help her rest easy." She sighed just hanging the gun by a strap on her back.

"....When I signed up for this I was scared... didnt know what to do... the only ones I was with after the attack were the guy who fixed everything and someone I grew up with... My friend is off down south... making sure everyone is okay... even the animals... With them I felt safe.... One left and I still felt safe with him.... Now you show up, kick my ass in front of your marefriend and make me feel so fucking insecure I wanna take this gun and end it all..." She whimpered and started to sniffle. I scooted over and hesitantly hugged her. She didnt hesitate to latch on. "FYXIT!!!! FYXIT I'M SO SORRY!"

"Okay... Dash... Dash listen to me here. That filly and my sister would want you to just keep it going! She kept me going in my universe and she keeps you sane too! If she were here right now I bet your ass she'd fly up here and give you a hook to the chest. Just because I can over power you doesnt mean anyone else can! I'm only one pony and I got lucky. Just because I got lucky doesnt mean everyone will. Doesnt even mean that'll even happen again with me." I could tell she was listening even if she didnt say anything after that. She thought for maybe a good few minutes. After that few minutes she sniffled, wiped her nose on my sleeve... ew.... and looked me in the eyes.

"...Y... You're right... I need to get back in there, fight and show I'm strong! My little cousin would've wanted me to show the enemy how awesome I am with a sniper. Or any gun for that matter!" I smiled and released her before taking the gun from her and have her readjust the bag before we both flew down. Dont know if I've noticed this before but she's got a wing like me. Prosthetic but works like a real one. When we got to the car she whistled looking at it. "Damn... Even Fyxit couldnt fix these... He could fix almost anything but... never a vehicle..." She ran her hand over the armored hood, hearing the motor just purr. She looked to me as Pinkie and Maud came out of the car saluting both looking back to their normal selves. Well... Pissed pinkie normal. Not chipper, plump and perky. ...Wonder if... NONO NOOOOO. Not now now is not the time for thinking about that! Anyways I sighed.

"Not that I'm confused but... How did you manage to get out here so fast? You couldnt have walked, ran or flew.... Probably would've found you napping in some sludge up there." She snickered a bit and started walking to a mass of bushes.... somehow I've failed to miss that... Anywho she walked over to the bushes and parted them aside revealing a nice motorbike with an armored windshield, saddle bags and what looked to be mounted guns. I grinned. "You and your bikes..." I glanced to Pinkie. "What say you and your sister split off for a while? One comes with me and the other goes with the commander... I have an idea and it is ballsy... Who's with me?" Dash looked to Pinkie and then Maud. They all looked to me and saluted.

"What are your orders general?" Dash asked. I huffed kinda feeling good just being respected.

"Alright! Commander Dash you take Maud here and follow me." I looked to Maud and handed her the rifle. "You're gonna need this for what I have planned."

Maud took the rifle and cocked it. "Wow.... Looks like we're gonna go for a full on assault..." She said. She looked back to me. "I thought Celestia said we were gonna sneak in."

"Change of plans. Recon isnt my specialty. Going in loud and proud is my thing and force wins." I looked to Pinkie. "Pinkemena you're with me. You're driving, I'm on the gun! We ready to do this?" Everyone nodded and saluted. "Good! Now move out!" I squeezed into the back seat and got my mask back on getting into position as Dash and Maud got on the bike. I looked to them. "MAUD! SHOOT A FLARE AND LET EM KNOW WE ARE GOOD TO GO!" Maud gave a thumbs up before pulling a flare gun from the back of her pants before aiming it into the air and letting it fly with a loud pop. "ALRIGHT LETS ROLL!" The engines revved and we just started to speed off. I felt every blast of wind and dust against my chest but I did not give one fuck as I cocked the gun and readied my aim on it. I was ready. Even heard my fucking favorite metallicolt song- in my head mind you but I could swear it was playing on a radio or something. As we neared I saw Canterlot in the distance with just smoke rising up here and there all around it. I ducked down slightly and looked to Pinkie. "HEY! STOP THE CAR!" She slammed on the brakes and I held on as we skidded to a stop. Dash and Maud pulled up next to us.

"What's going on? Why'd you two stop?" I got out of the gunners position and just stood on the roof of the car.

"Someone give me binoculars or the rifle so I can look through the scope. Gotta see what's between us and the castle so I can plan a route. Maybe see if there's any places the enemy left open because of traps..." Maud handed me the rifle and I peered down the scope at the base of one of the smoke pillars. I saw a bonfire with... well... we know what's going on with the captured rebels... Open field to the right, possibly filled with mines planted by farmers because the way I've seen saplings at the orchard being planted just made it seem like it's always been there even with fresh dirt. "Okay... troops near smoke.... possible land mine field to their right...." I panned to the left and saw grave yard junk. Old cars and shipping containers... even a downed jet. Fighter. Not commercial. "Best path is if we can get through the junk yards without problem..... Either that or someone with a keen eye can get on this gun and start raining hell where ever they see some land mines... Or maybe...." I looked to Maud. "How good of a shot are you with that rifle?" She looked to me.

"The Commander here put me in charge of the sniper brigade. I've got snipers all over the place and most of them havent even been found yet. Some were found because of some party popper traps Pinkie had them set up as startling mechanisms but they have a twenty four percent failure rate by either not going off or startling the sniper." She got off the bike and lied down on the ground putting the rifle up onto a bipod which somehow I failed to see... either it was in the duffel or just attached to the gun. In this case I'm gonna assume the latter. "Not to mention I've taught all the snipers personally on how to detect traps and use sound to their advantage. And if I'm right... we should have a distraction in three... two..." Just then out near the junk yard something exploded sending fire, shrapnel and smoke into the air stunning the patrolmen by the body bonfire. She fired off a few shots cocking it fast like it was a semi automatic sniper. Didnt even take long for her to settle. "Tango down. Now for the mine field...." She aimed back down the scope and hummed a bit.

"Maud we havent got all day!" She glanced up at me for a moment.

"Hold on General. I'm trying to check for weird sediment patterns you dont usually see in this part of the wasteland... I've memorized maps upon maps of where to find certain sediments and in this part its normally a wavy yet jagged pattern..... They either dont even have mines there or covered it up well..."

"Just take a shot where you think it is. If needed we can just-" Suddenly just out of nowhere whistling came to our ears. Maud and Dash looked up and that just caused me to look up... Heart kinda dropped knowing this would've been loud because I just saw bomb after bomb dropping. I had to get down and just take cover before everything in front of us went up in hellfire making everything around us shake. It took maybe a few minutes before things settled but holy hell that was kinda scary. I climbed out of the car and just saw dust everywhere. I put my mask on again and looked around just as Pinkie hopped out of the car. Maud and Dash came from behind the car, Dash coughing slightly. "Is everyone okay?"

Dash nodded and Maud gave a thumbs up as she grabbed her gas mask off the floor and put it on after blowing what ever dust was in it out. Pinkie coughed a bit putting her mask on as well. "What the HELL was THAT?!" She asked. "WHO THE FUCK CALLED IN DANGER CLOSE?!"

I looked out to the blast areas and walked up next to Dash. "Not too sure on who did but... I wanna say it cleared a path..." She said. She looked to me. "What are your orders General?"

I kinda smiled behind my mask hearing her call me that. Back home she just gives me shit for stuff I've done to her while in my title.... Basically that first thing I did by cuffing her and forcing her to tell her friends she pissed the bed since she was five.... boy did i regret that. "We go forth with the mission as planned and take out any opposition." I said going back to my gunner position. "LETS FUCK EM UP!" This time Maud got into the drivers seat of the car and Pinkie got on the bike while Dash grabbed the sniper and hopped behind Pinkie. At the same time we peeled out and took off.

The drive was long, I kinda got bored and did a few donuts in my gunner position. Got dizzy doing one a few too many times but couldnt help but duck down slightly kneeling on the seat. May have zoned out for a while but was only snapped out of it by the car jerking to the side and me hitting my head on the side. Maud glanced back for a moment. "Sorry General." She said. "Saw some quartz lined igneous rocks that would've popped a tire. These might be bullet proof but only the outer layer helps. Anything that breaks and penetrates that first layer could end up popping the tires." I just sat right in the seat starting to think about things. "Is something wrong?" I glanced out the slot in the armor out the window.

"...Just... Just wondering what I'm gonna do to get back to my own universe.... sure I'm doing great things here but... it's missing something that I hold near and dear to my heart and I just wanna get back for that...."

"If I heard correctly Celestia was speaking to her magical adviser about trying to open up a portal for you to go home but only if we get through with this damn rebellion once and for all. That way me and my sister can go home and see if we can free our family members." She turned the wheel going into a turn I had to fight a bit. "Right before we left and while I was looking around for the commander, a scout that returned from the field and told me that our family is alive. I tried to suppress my emotions for when he told me and I thought I'd surprise my sister when we went and did this but uh.... is it bad I'm kinda hoping we do survive this...? I do trust you but the commander would've thought this was suicide... What makes you think we can do this?" I saw things marking where we were. Broken buildings, burned trees and even still burning things.

"To be honest I was just spouting bullshit but... something tells me we can do it and win. All we need to do is bust through the gate to the castle and just grab what ever weapons we can before we rush in. If needed two pony teams. Either that or we stay in a group. More communication and more cover for who ever needs to reload. Not to mention if we find a shotgun its mine!"

"Understood General. I'm more of a long range kind of mare.... Even a marksman's rifle is good for me and I wouldnt even mind a high powered pistol with a scope on it. As long as I can hit something with it it's okay in my book. But now... if i were you I'd get back on that gun. Tango's at twelve o'clock and it's gonna be a tough but fast ride!" I got up and poked my head out of the gunner seat and just jumped right into position and just aimed down sight at a few blockades. I only glanced behind me to see Dash and Pinkie sitting way back. To be honest I just lost myself in ecstasy as I just started laying into everything around us- yes being mindful of my comrades. Why did I enjoy this? Why did I enjoy that? Because I was just imagining every one of the enemy as the bitch that murdered my parents.... Oh how I hate her. We drove through wooden barricades, sand bags and such (Some bodies and a nice red mist if I've already mowed through them) before getting to the front gates of the castle. Gates were just busted to hell when we got there.

Nobody bothered fixing them and there were a few dead Crystal Militants. One to the right of the gate leaning against the wall and one to the left of the gate on the ground in a pool of blood. I hopped out as we stopped and patted the one on the right down just as Maud hopped out of the car. She went for the other body and started patting that one down after i found nothing on this one. I got up and looked around only to see a bike riding up the road to the west. Canterlot aligns perfectly with a compass rose. Smack dab in the middle of Equestria (Okay maybe a bit to the north but it still lines up.) and with what I know the road to the west is just an alternate route into Canterlot. And yes on that bike was Pinkie and Dash. Dash hopped off the bike with the sniper and the duffel bag. "Hey! I thought you wouldnt start the party without us!" She said inspecting the body I was inspecting.

I huffed looking up at her as Pinkie and Maud slipped into the gate. "Please. This wasnt us." I replied. "I'd say it was you but these look straight on like they were facing them..."

"Wait... Were they shot in the neck?" I checked the body again. Hole right in the neck.

"Yeah... Precision accuracy? Up close and personal?" Dash felt up around the waist of the corpse and pulled a card. I took it and looked at it. ".... Badass Belles...? Is this who I think it is?" I looked to Dash as she took the card from me.

"Well well seems somepony got into the party without us being invited." She said starting to dig into the duffel bag. She pulled out a few smaller bags and tossed one to me before whistling to Pinkie and Maud signaling both to catch one. I looked in mine and pulled out a revolver. Had a few speed loaders inside the bag with plentiful amounts of ammunition. Nice .357 magnum. I rolled the chambers and attached the pouch to my belt loop making sure it was secure.

"Huh... Nice... Always love a game of chamber roulette where it's never my turn!" I readied up my gun at the ready as the others got ready behind me. Dash with the barrel of her sniper sitting on my shoulder. "Alright! Let's move!" In just one move we all just rushed the door. Maud checked corners while Dash looked up to make sure we werent walking into any line of fire. As we set foot inside the now graffiti ridden innards of the castle a few shots rang out inside the halls. All of them sounded muffled. "...Three shots..." I looked to Maud. "Maud. Take Pinkie and check downstairs. Me and Dash will take the upper floors." Maud nodded and rushed down one of the halls just as Dash and I started up the stairs. I had my gun ready as we climbed up to the stairs. I feel like I might've wanted to piss my pants to calm myself down but I didnt want Dash to look at me weirder than she already has when i told her who i was to her. That comes later if i can try and raid a destroyed med center for a diaper or two.... Either that or try and make a washable one out of clothing scraps... NOT DOING THAT UNLESS REALLY NEEDED. As we started down the hall on the right side I looked to Dash as she aimed the rifle over my shoulder again. "Would you fall back a bit? I dont want my ears to ring and go down just because you shot right near my fucking ear... Certainly dont want a casing go into my ear either...."

Dash huffed a bit. "Fine... I kinda wanted whoever to shit themselves when they saw this barrel in their face..." She said taking the gun and backing up a bit. "What ever. I can use you as a notice for when you get shot." I rolled my eyes.

"And here I thought you cared about me!"

"Dont worry! I'll still have ya patched up the best I can if it's in a spot that isnt normally lethal like uh... your foot?" I shook my head and sighed as we kept walking. I looked around at the doors either broken, burnt or just hanging off the hinges. To think this castle once housed my sister in my universe. I was lucky Celestia took her in when I couldnt get her to go with anyone else... Yet I wouldnt have the perks I do if that were the case. Anyways as I walked I was an idiot and kinda let my guard down I felt so comfortable. Next thing you know I get tackled to the ground and pinned by some shrieking banshee who kicked my gun away and held my arm against my back.

I couldnt even turn my head to see who it was. Yet I did hear an all too familiar voice. "You stay right were you are Crystal scum..." They said. Soft and feminine. Next thing you know I feel the weight of what ever mare was on me get jerked off and when I looked I saw Dash on top of a mare dressed in... well what I could only describe as a maid dress combined with a ninja costume. Short maids dress and a ninja hood as well as some smooth running shoes that seem to keep them quiet. They kinda struggled for a while before I booted Dash off the mare and stood her up holding her in place. Dash grabbed my arm and growled.

"WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO THAT FOR?!" She snapped having it echo a bit.

I shushed her. "Will you shut up for a second!" I snapped back. "I only stopped you because I know who this is!" I turned back and removed the mares mask. She wanted to hit me but i tightened my grip on her a smidgen kind of hurting her. After i yanked the mask off a light pink mane flopped out looking shorter than usual as well as some yellow ears, one of which look like it had a small bite taken out of it! Dash took one look at the mare as she tried hiding her face and tearing up a bit.

"...F-Fluttershy?" The mare whimpered more and took my hand prying it off her arm. "Fluttershy! Fluttershy it's me! It's Dash!" Yes in deed it was Fluttershy. Got some fight in her when its really needed but more flight than fight.... sometimes.

Fluttershy stopped trying to hide her face and just looked to Dash. "...D-dash....? I... I didnt recognize you without Fyxit... isnt he usually at your side?" She asked hugging her friend. Dash wiped her friends eyes away sighing.

"....He's.... He's with that little filly now Flutters...." 'Shy had her mouth agape shocked at the news. "...Yeah... Two shots... one to the head and the other to the chest.... Chest could've survived but.... he was executed by who we were attacked by before I could save him.... I'm sorry..." She held Fluttershy tight and yes I was watching closely and she never shed a tear.

I huffed and went for my gun. "Lucky us we might be on the same side here..." I said. "Now c'mon we have a job to do!" Dash glanced at me and nodded as she broke off of Fluttershy and grabbed her rifle quickly. I looked to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy I'm General Ryder and I've taken control over this operation on my end. I just need any intel you have on this place and what you're doing here. Maybe we can work together."

Fluttershy wiped her eyes and shook her head snapping back into her fight mode. Just basically an angry look. "My team is getting rid of any and all enemy forces inside the castle as a request of Celestia. We were recruited and sent in with no knowledge your team would be here." She said. "We were only recruited for a stealth assassination while per bomber brigade caused distractions outside of Canterlot. It was our leaders idea for the bombing otherwise we wouldnt have been able to get in but now we have a problem. The target has hidden somewhere and we cant find him. He is here though I saw him!"

"What caused him to get away?"

Dash closely inspected Fluttershy going through her mane and her uniform. "Judging by the residue on her uniform... smoke bomb that has a concussion effect..." She said. She looked Fluttershy in the eye. "Right?" Fluttershy nodded. "Well if you show us where the room was we can look around there. He couldnt have gone far!"

Fluttershy nabbed her mask back and put it back on. "My leader would kill me AND you two if you found out our identities." She said. "The Belle is with two recruits making sure they're doing well. Little Apple and Mist Walker are their names but dont react if they attack. They're new still so they still need self control when it comes to attacking anyone that startles them like I did you.... Sorry about that by the way."

I huffed as I just started off going down the hall again. "It's fine. Now just hurry up and show us where he was last." I said. "Sooner we get there, sooner I can get revenge for my baby sister...." I wasnt questioned as we started off down the hall again, Fluttershy rushing in front of me now going into a run. Dash and I ran after her, me having my gun at the ready just in case. We ran for a while until we reached the throne room where we saw three Badass Belle maid ninjas. One large one and two short ones. The large one was a full white maid ninja looking as if she were covered in diamonds. One of the shorter ones was on the left of her in a dark grey uniform covered in a light mist. The one to the right was wearing a dark green uniform as well as goggles with a familiar looking mark on the side of the lenses. We stopped behind Fluttershy as she saluted them.

"Miss Belle! We now have back up courtesy of Celestia's Rebels! I'd like you to meet Commander Rainbow Dash and General Ryder."

The Belle walked over to me and looked me up and down. "...Hm... Old world uniform but new world look..." She said. Yeah... definitely Rarity with her regal yet intimidating voice... Okay she scares me sometimes! Whatever! "Tell me General... how did you get a hold of that uniform in that condition?"

I huffed. "Look we could spend time talking fashion later but right now we have two other ponies roaming the castle trying to find any opposition that could be lurking around. If anything they might run into more without back up." I said. "You wanna send them some help while we get stuff done here?" The mare huffed and looked to Fluttershy.

"Whisper. Take Mist Walker and find them. Aid them if you must but bring them back here." Fluttershy nodded and put her hands to her mouth letting out a birds call before Mist Walker was just enveloped in mist before just disappearing. Dash and I couldnt really question it but then again... This universe could house more secrets than anything else. After that sight Fluttershy just rushed off out the door leaving us alone with The Belle. "Alright. That's dealt with. Now back to looking for that kidnapper and killer...." I cocked my gun.

"Where ever this fuck is he's getting the business end of my gun and I'm not gonna take no for an answer!" I was pissed off beyond belief knowing this guy was around here somewhere. "Start looking Dash. You've got a keen eye for stuff like that smoke bomb residue on Fluttershy's uniform." As soon as I said that I covered my mouth just slapping myself for even saying something like that. Suddenly I was rushed by The Belle and she did nearly the same thing Fluttershy did. Rushed me, knocked my gun out of my hand but this time had it go off and hit the wall thank god but she just pulled a knife somewhere and planted it in the tile right in front of my face.

"Choose your next words carefully 'general'.... They might just be your last.... and your friends there too... So be careful darling...."

"Hey! Whoa no no no can we please just let this slide?!" She tightened her grip on me and jerked my arms more into my back. "OKAY OKAY! I-I'M FROM ANOTHER UNIVERSE! I KNOW YOUR VOICE RARITY!" Her grip immediately weakened allowing me to push her off and slide out. She looked at me shocked as I stood up. "That's right! I know your name and only by hearing your voice. I never asked Fluttershy, I didnt read anything that said your name on it and I never pried it out of anyone!" Little Apple suddenly rushed me, knife drawn and I just put my hand on her head keeping her back as she started slashing about with the blade. Rarity took off her mask letting her long purple mane and horn show before snatching the knife away with her magic.

Little Apple grunted as I kinda pushed her back slightly. "No fair! He needs to die for saying that private info!" She snapped in another very familiar voice.

Rarity sighed as she used her magic to take the mask off and there I see Applebloom with dirt on her face and mane all messy. "No. I trust him fully. If he were an enemy he'd've gone and killed us before saying anything." She said. "Same with his friend there... And she's a very trusted member of the rebellion."

I approached Applebloom and knelt down in front of her. She tried to punch me but I just blocked it with my hand. "Hey... I'm not gonna hurt you Applebloom..." I said. "...You'd be right to listen to her... I dont wanna hurt you and I wont..."

The filly before me teared up a bit scared. "A-and how would I know?" She asked. "Y'could've taken me and just-"

"Hey not another word... I just wanna tell you that I wouldnt ever hurt you at all... Also wanna let you know that your family is very worried about you..."

"M-my family...? But... The Belle's are my family...."

"They might take care of you and teach you things but your real family is out there and I've seen them... I had to get your bow out of one of their machines... You used to wear a pink bow didnt you...?" She gave a nod before just latching onto me. I looked to Dash. "Hey uh... you mind a little babysitting?" Dash rolled her eyes and came over to me prying the now sobbing filly off of me. I looked to Rarity who kinda looked a little sad. "Dont we have something to do here?" She nodded and put her mask back on.

I got up and Rarity patted Applebloom on the back as Dash passed by with her going to the corner. "...She really doesnt do well as a Belle... ruffian and all... more like you than anything but she wasnt willing to learn to stay quiet... I thought this would've been a good learning experience but now I see she just needs to go back home..." She said. "Alright now let's get looking for where that motherfucker went..." I nodded and immediately walked to the throne. I know this from memory just in case i'm ever in Canterlot during a large scale invasion and we need to protect the princesses. If Celestia is on the throne there is a secret lever sitting at the side on the third step from the top. I walked to the right side of the steps and knelt down at the side before finding the lever. I gave it a quick tug and I hear a few loud clicks and pops. As I stand up I see the throne draw back.

Rarity rushed over as I got to the top and looked into the hole only to find a safe room ladder hidden underneath but before I could even attempt to start going down I hear a gun shot and feel something hit my stomach giving me a sharp pain before collapsing to my knees. Dash threw Applebloom down and rushed me panicked. "RYDER!" She yelled but by that time I was already slipping... I fought my hardest but my eyes closed but... I still heard someone calling my name.

The pain in my stomach stayed until the voice faded and came to be Princess Twilight's voice. "Ryder! Ryder C'mon wake up! Wake up damn you!" She said. Suddenly I feel a hefty slap come across my face and I wake up finding myself where I started. In the room at Twilight's castle. I saw Twilight straddling me with tears in her eyes. I looked down and saw I had the pen I was holding stabbed into my gut where I could swear I was shot. Twilight hugged me. "R-Ryder! You're finally awake!"

I groaned pushing her off and removing the pen gasping a bit feeling it slip out. There was a little blood on it but not much but it hurt like a motherfucker. "...That... that was all a dream....?" I asked trying to stand up. I didnt even get close to getting to my knees before Twilight forced me to sit back against the wall while she undid my uniform carefully. I gasped and winced a few times before she saw the hole the pen had made in my gut right above my belly button. Her horn glowed for a second and the pain faded.

"...F-fuck... Just... just go home... Go back to AJ... I... I need my brother here NOW!" I didnt get an answer on if all that were a dream or not but... That's what I'm going with. I did however walk Twilight back to her room before giving her brother a call telling him to get his flank down here for his sister and that she'd be in her room napping... hopefully dry... And then I just went home to AJ... cuddled her and never wanted to let her go once...

The Taboo (Or The Dinner Part One)

Tonight was a very important night for me... Luna called me up this morning and told me that I'm invited to Canterlot for a dinner in my honor with special guests that are invited as well, one of which being Soarin. He kinda made a good impromptu brother while I was away and if I could I'd go and say he was my brother but we all know that's a lie. But uh... Hold on... Lets just start from the beginning. I woke up early in the morning in a cold sweat clutching at my scar where I was shot. I yelped a bit shooting up almost falling out of bed. I was half on and half off the bed just in my boxer shorts. I just swung my feet out from under the covers and fixed the blankets over AJ who just surprisingly didnt wake up. I got up and walked myself to the bathroom just to splash water on my face. Kinda looked at myself in the mirror wiping my forehead away. "....god dammit... I... I thought I was past them..." I said to myself. "...Th-they've been gone a while now but.... why now? Why the nightmares now...?" I sighed as I walked back out of the bathroom only to stop just feet from my door starting to hear crying start up. Not from Scootaloo's room. Applebloom's. I sighed hearing Applejack groan a bit. "Don't worry AJ... I got it you just go back to bed..."

I walked over to Applebloom's door and opened it only to smell just the most powerful smell of urine to hit my nose. AJ tells me she's been wetting the bed every now and then but tries to cover it up... Guess who just got caught red bladdered... handed? Fuck it. Just as I flip on the light I see Applebloom rush me and hug me tight. I shushed her and hugged back. She was crying pretty hard for a bit. Just dug her head into my stomach. I consoled her until Big Mac came into the room and sighed just going to the bed starting to strip it down. He wore a tank top and a pair of black basketball shorts. He looked back at me. "...Go get her cleaned up and padded..." He said. "I aint willin' to strip things down a second time... Even after your accident the other night!" I blushed just huffing prying Applebloom off me and taking her hand.

"Hey that's because you were hogging the bathroom and I passed out! Just shut up and clean before I push you into it!" Applebloom kinda chuckled through her sobs as we started for the bathroom. I let her go in and turn the light on as I just stopped at the hall closet. I grabbed a pack of bedwetting diapers meant for Scootaloo and Applebloom alike but I originally bought them from Paddy Cakes for Scootaloo. These were a tad girly but he told me that these hold more than anything... I may or may not have tested them before buying... anyways I went into the bathroom as Applebloom was taking her pants off. I sighed. "Alright just lay down... I gotcha from here 'Bloom..." I knelt down at the sink grabbing a box of wipes just as she did lie down. "...You wanna talk about what made you do that...?"

Applebloom sniffled as I started to change her. "...I... I just.... I had a nightmare about AJ... I got scared and just... went..." She said. "...I dreamt she just... hurt me... bad..." She whimpered a bit as I wiped her down.

"...AJ wont hurt you more than a spanking... but know she does it out of love... anything more there's something wrong with her...." I could tell she didnt like wearing diapers but she just lives with it unlike Scoot... That filly will only wear if someone else does... otherwise that diaper is on the floor or in the trash. Mostly on the floor because she isnt the lightest stepper in the house. There are times she deals with it but those times where she just ditches it. Anyways the little filly just kind of pouted as I put the diaper on her and sat her up. "There... protected for the rest of the night... Now why dont you go get some new PJ's on and climb in bed with Scoot... I gotta talk with your brother for a bit...." She nodded and got up taking her dampened clothing before going out of the bathroom. I sighed putting the wipes back and going into the hall and swapping out the bedwetting pants for one of my diapers.... As much as I didnt want to I had to pad up as well. These diapers were uh... Lets say Dash bought them for me as a joke for payback for blabbing about her bed wetting to someone who wanted to help me out. These were just Cadence coat Pink diapers... her cutie mark and EVERYTHING. Dash even had AJ blindfold me and tie me up before they shoved me in a bonnet and a dress only to take pictures to hold against me when I say something I shouldnt.... That's what Fluttershy is for and Big Mac... They know the passwords to both my cousins and AJ's phone so just in case... Hold up I'm getting too far off track... I just grabbed one of the diapers from the package and came to Applebloom's bedroom door and huffed. "...Big Mac? Can we talk real quick?"

The stallion looked me as he stuffed the last of his little sisters covers into her hamper. "Sure just... Wait for me downstairs." He said. "And uh... try to pad yourself up before I get down there..." I sighed a bit and averted my gaze.

"It's... important...." He rolled his eyes sighing.

"...Alright fine... Just start helping me get the mattress flipped.... God damn big baby..." I huffed and tossed the diaper aside onto the top of Applebloom's dresser and grabbed a strap on the side of the bed. "Alright so what's the problem now...?" I grunted a bit getting the mattress up not even feeling him lift at all. "Obviously you aint up just to clean up my sister."

"...I just...." I thought about my next words carefully. Big Mac knows i've been stuck on them for a while and that I had a heavy mind on the anniversary of me and AJ hooking up but... It just still hits me hard... "...I... can you just help me pad up and take a walk with me first...?" He hummed just as we set the bed back down.

"...Something tells me its something you dont wanna mention around certain ponies...." I hesitantly nodded tearing up slightly. "...just lie down and just collect yourself. I just wanna put this downstairs and get my slippers. Okay?" I nodded and just lied down on the floor curling up. Even if I was uncomfortable in most cases I would've started to nod off. Example being in Scootaloo's room after she has a bad dream. This was not that case. I didnt wanna sleep at all until after I've cleared my mind and padded up. After maybe a few minutes Big Mac came back into the room with a sweat shirt and pants for me. Even brought my own slippers too and just dropped them next to me before going to grab the diaper. Honestly didnt take long for him to pad me up and for me to get dressed before we went out into the crisp night air. He glanced at me as he started to shine a flashlight around. "Alright now what's wrong?" I sighed as we started towards the trees.

"...It's... I had a nightmare about my parents again..." I replied. "....I just.... I feel like... they're just trying to tell me something.... something bad... It... i dont remember what went on in my nightmare but... all I can remember are my mom and dad's faces...." He sighed.

"...Sounds kinda harsh... I kinda think the same way when we get a rotten apple in our harvest. Family tellin' us to talk things out and do something different. Not sure with you but... I'd talk with Scoot in the morning, see if anything is wrong between you. If there is fix it if not ask around here. Ask Dash if she's got any problems with you or what have you. I dont have any problems with you if that's an issue and I certainly dont think AJ's got any problems neither. She'd've told me." I mean that is true. She would've said something to him and he'd say something to me so i didnt dig myself deeper because he doesnt wanna see her unhappy like that night.

"Still wouldnt hurt to ask I guess... I dont know if i did anything wrong and she's not telling either of us or if something's wrong between me and Scoot... Just wanna make sure you know?"

"Yeah..." We looked up at the night sky. Bright moon and stars dotting the sky. He sighed. "...You ever wonder if certain things didnt happen we wouldnt be-" He stopped himself. "That's a.... that's a stupid question to ask of course ya do...."

"You kinda seem like you have something on your mind as well Mac. Anything you'd wanna share?" He sighed.

"...I've honestly been up for a while. Heard you walkin' to the bathroom and running the sink but didnt wanna say nothin.... Been thinking about this house and if its ever gonna change throughout the years... If you and AJ are ever gonna have a kid and if I'm ever gonna get someone to love... I know its kinda weird to think about but... it's just... I'm jealous of you Ry... Best friend dating my sister while still taking care of his little sister with a damn good job to boot? Sure I love workin' here on the farm but compared to being General of the guard? Makes me look like I scoop shit at the Zoo on a daily basis." He does know Fluttershy does that every other week does he? I didnt wanna say it.

"Look you get to work from home and the worst you get are stretched ligaments and splinters and maybe a sore back. Me? I have the dangers of being shot, stabbed and all this other shit but I cant and dont wanna think about all that! Now just.... I dont know talk about something else!" He huffed and sighed.

"Sorry... My mistake." He just averted his gaze as we reached the old clubhouse that we used when we were kids. Now its used by our little sisters. I sighed.

"...Sorry if I snapped Mac... I'm kinda tired is all... havent been sleeping right since I went to Twilight's castle to help her..." Honestly that dream scared the shit out of me. Apparently that spell showed us our WORST nightmares. Mine was losing my sister and the end of the world. Twilight's was losing her friends, family and even her home. Nobody to help her in a time of need. Scary thought... probably would've been me if I hadnt been with AJ since that night...Then again... things could've been worse. Might I refer back to that dream where Luna had shown me and Scoot what would've happened if our parents werent murdered. Anywho Big Mac took my arm and pulled me in for a hug.

"It's fine... I understand...." He said releasing me. "...Lets just get back to bed... we got a big day ahead of us and the girls got school in the morning. You're the one driving them there." I sighed and shook my head before we started walking back to the house. I stayed silent for a moment but looked to him blushing.

"...Uh... Question Big Mac?" He glanced at me.

"Sure what's up?" I dont know why i was thinking this but it's been on my mind for a while.

"... If I asked AJ if she'd let me but..... Is there any chance you'd let me blow you?" He kinda stumbled a bit and caught himself on a tree just as we were getting to the edge of where the house was. He looked to me a bit shocked.

"Uh... I uh... Do you...." He fixed himself and took a deep breath before grabbing me by the shoulders. "Where the hell did that come from?! Did you have a beer while you were asleep? Did you eat some evidence from a drug raid?" I shrugged him off.

"No I just... I'm gonna admit I have thought of being pegged by Gilda and AJ... maybe if Twilight can work some magic on either of them I wouldnt need a stallion..." I blushed a bit more.

"Did you even take AJ's advice of sleepin' with someone else while you were away? She said you could and she wouldnt get mad about it." I shook my head.

"...I couldnt do it without thinking AJ was gonna be ready to bust through and chew me out... Surprised she lets me sleep with Gilda to get my rage out..."

"That's only cuz she knows that she can take anything you got to throw. And you do that because you dont want me coming down on ya because my sister cant sit down or what have you!"

I sighed but as I was about to snap back we heard a window open. "WOULD YOU TWO SHUT THE HELL UP!?" We hear Applejack ask. "IF YA WANNA BE THAT LOUD GO OUT MORE OTHERWISE GET YOUR ASSES BACK INTO THIS HOUSE! YOU ESPECIALLY RY!" We both just shut up about each other and made a b-line for the house. Once we got into the door Big Mac went into his room while I just made my way up the stairs just hoping that one of these steps wasnt booby trapped with a lasso. Once I got into the room I saw AJ sitting on the bed in the dim light looking tired but with my phone in hand showing Luna's face. "Got a call for ya sugarcube... take it downstairs and sleep on the couch if you're gonna be loud some more..." I huffed taking one of my pillows and my phone before going back out.

I put my phone up to my ear and carefully started down the stairs. "Hello?" I said.

I heard a sigh from my phone. "Ryder! It's Luna. Tell AJ I'm sorry for waking her but I really needed to talk with you." I heard Luna say. "It almost slipped my sisters mind that we've needed to throw you a dinner party in your honor with some very important guests. A few I cant mention but two of which Scootaloo has had the opportunity to cuddle with while you were away. Soarin and Sparkplug are coming. We would have the other members of both The Wonderbolts and Gems but Spitfire tells me The Wonderbolts have training for new recruits and Gems is a bit out for the count. Jax has a major hangover and Gash is out with food poisoning. But I wouldnt worry they'll both be fine."

"Well... Send them my regards please princess. And... thank you... I really appreciate everything you do for me Princess... Anything you need in return it's my duty to oblige and get it done for you. Anything at all and I wont object to it." Luna hummed slightly.

"Well... there is one thing you can do for me... Not only is Soarin and Sparkplug coming but me and Celestia have our parents coming... It's a yearly thing we do to spend time together as a family and that means you're going to be near my father... Please please PLEASE! Be on your best behavior. Don't hit him, don't bad mouth him, don't even give him any gestures deemed rude or otherwise. Can you do that for me?" I sighed.

"I'll try but if he does things that hurt me or the ones I care about I'm gonna ask you to either look away or hold me back. I will tell you before I snap though and hopefully I don't."

"Even though you're present we will have guards protecting our parents and only we can tell them to back off and disobey your orders. Just letting you know now." I lied down on the couch putting my pillow under my head. "If you do have any problems with my father I do urge you to let either me or Celestia know. Any action will result in trouble for you General. Nothing of what I threaten all the time but something a bit more... An example being demoted in rank or some jail time... possibly even unending nightmares from me."

"Princess you and I both know you don't want Nightmare Moon to come around again. I'm also sure it wouldnt bode well for Equestria knowing you were turning back into your evil counterpart and I'm also guessing you went down a path where Nightmare Moon came back after being pacified and you didnt like the outcome. Am I right?" She sighed.

"And I hate it when you are... But there will be problems if you do anything but play nice when it comes to my father... he might even have his day with you just to show you what it's like in his domain.... Now you might want to get to bed. I'm having a suit tailored to your measurements and sent to Rarity to hold for you until our transports arrive to get you and Applejack along with the rest of who's there at Sweet Apple Acres." I huffed.

"Alright... I guess I'll see you later Princess. Night."

"Sleep well General. And remember what I said." I sat back up quickly.

"Wait! Before you hang up can I ask a question?" She grunted a bit.

"Fine but make it quick. I've got a match on a popular shooting game in a few minutes. Somebody must be pleasuring themselves on their end..." I shivered a bit.

"...Well.. Okay but... I know it's your night off tonight but... I had a dream about my parents and just... something troubling that had to do with them... I don't recall what happened but... I woke up like I was pushed out of bed but... in a cold sweat and my heart racing... Anything seem wrong there? Are my parents trying to tell me something from beyond or... what?" She hummed a bit.

"I'm... I'm not sure but we will speak later on this. For now just sleep." She hung up not even giving me an answer but something tells me she was hiding something. It was just the way she said it. Anyways I couldnt get comfortable after I put my phone on the coffee table. Tossed, turned and just tried every different angle I could, even tried the damn recliner but that didnt even feel good. I had to get up, grab my pillow and my phone before just going to Big Mac's door.

I knocked and waited for a moment hearing him sigh and get out of his bed. I averted my gaze as the door opened and he flipped his light on. I was stunned slightly but he huffed and just brought me into his room. "Go on and lie down." He said. "Hands stay where they are but if ya need to cuddle I'll let you borrow Mr. Smartypants." I went and gave a bit of a smile before just crawling under the covers. I sighed as I put my phone on the nightstand at the side of the bed and putting my pillow down under my head. "She just kicked ya out of bed didnt she...?" I hesitantly nodded not even looking to him as he hopped into bed with me. "...Guessin' she was kinda pissed off because we were being a bit loud.... I'm the one to blame there... kinda wasnt expectin' what ya said...."

I sighed. "...It's fine... lets just... lets just leave this be until tomorrow... I need some sleep...." I replied. "Just.... wake me up when you get the girls ready.... I'm just..." I just passed out there. I was tired, comfortable and I was just out of it.

When I woke up it was to the click of a camera. Sounded like from a phone. I kinda open my eyes a bit not really seeing much. My heart kinda dropped hearing a little snicker. I opened my eyes more and saw myself just spooning with Big Mac and without pants. My pants were somehow on the other side of the room and I was just in my hoodie, pulled almost to my chest revealing the pink diaper. And standing right behind me with her phone out was Applejack wearing a sports bra and sweat pants. I blushed and yelped just vaulting the stallion, who was still asleep mind you, and fell to the floor. Applejack put her phone in her pocket and sighed picking me up. "Well good mornin' there sugarcube!" She said. "Someone need a little changey wangey?" She grabbed at my crotch and laughed a bit. I huffed taking her hands away and hugging her.

"...You're lucky I love you... That better not leave your phone if you value your secrets being kept." She sighed taking my hand and walked me out of the room, even snagging my pants on the way out.

"Sorry there sugarcube. Thought I might have a little fun before ya get the girls to school. Got em both getting ready now." I sighed taking my pants as we walked up the stairs together.

"It's fine.... But uh... Can I ask you something Applejack?" She looked to me as I walked into our room before getting my pants on.

"Something wrong sugarcube?" I sat down on the bed and i uh... may have wet myself. I didnt try to hold it, didnt try to at least wanna use the toilet or even give a shit if it were discrete or not.

"....I just wanna ask... Is there any bad blood between us at all? I'm just... I'm just scared theres something wrong between me and someone... I dont know if it's you, Scootaloo or someone but... I just... I wanna fix what ever it is with who ever it is...." She hummed as she started digging into a drawer where I know she keeps her packs of diapers that arent pink. She pulled out one of her diapers and a box of wipes before heading to the door and closing it.

"I don't think there's anything wrong here with me but I'd check with Scootaloo. Kinda didnt wanna get up this mornin' but what else is new?" She pushed me back on the bed and yanked my pants back down to my knees. "Alright lift them hips ya big baby. I know you and judging by this diaper I know you werent wearing to bed and since you put it on and took a walk I'm gonna assume ya don't wanna change out of one today. Expecting some accidents?" I shrugged as she just tugged at the tabs of my pissy pants. "Well ya must be. Considerin' you aint fighting me on this. Now ya wanna tell me why you were outside walking around with Big Mac and why Luna was calling you while I was dead asleep?" I averted my gaze as she started wiping my crotch down.

"I had a nightmare... And...." I stared at the door before looking to her beckoning her closer. She came to the side of me and climbed on the bed before just kinda lying down. "...The nightmare was about my parents..."

"What happened in it...?"

"....I... I don't remember... All I do remember was they were mad and... I woke up scared...." She hummed getting back to the job at hand. My lower half was freezing.

"Well... Somethin' must be wrong if ya ask me... It's a bit of a fact- considering I asked Luna- that if you see someone that has passed on in your dreams and they're either angry, sad or what have you it does mean something's wrong on their end. Why angry? I'm not sure but... i'd get on with stuff if that's the case. And what about the call from Luna?" She had me lift my ass up and stuffed my tail through the diaper hole.

"Well... The good thing is she invited us and the girls and Big Mac included to a dinner tonight. I'm assuming in Canterlot but we're gonna have transports coming sometime later. Bad thing... I asked her about the dream and she just sent me on my merry fucking way. Didn't answer it just said to go the fuck to sleep!" AJ gasped as she tabbed me up.

"Luna did what now?! She just shrugged off your question like it was just water droplets off your car windshield?" I nodded as I pulled my pants up. "Okay well that tears it! When we go to Canterlot we gotta pull her aside and ask her what the hell is going on!" She pulled me up off the bed and helped me with my pants before giving me a kiss. "Drop the girls off fast and get back here. I wanna have breakfast ready for ya for when ya get back alright?" I nodded going to just slip my feet into my sneakers before leaving the room. Scootaloo wore blue jeans and a gems and tulips tee shirt and wonderbolt blue sneakers. Applebloom wore a white tee shirt and her overalls and work boots. They both looked at me as I sat on the recliner sighing. I looked to them and smiled.

"Mornin' you two. You guy's sleep well last night?"

Applebloom sighed. "...You know how I slept..." She said just going back to the TV.

Scootaloo swallowed her last bite of her cereal and drank the milk. "I slept well I guess... Couldnt get to sleep at first and woke up when Applebloom hopped in bed with me." She said setting her bowl down. "Did you sleep well Ryder?"

I huffed. "Not well but... I kinda need to talk to you after we get to school..." I said. "I know it's probably not the best idea to even say anything about it but..." She got up and came over dragging her backpack with her before hopping into my lap.

"....Is this about Mom and dad?" I hesitantly nodded hugging her. She hugged me right back and nothing felt wrong... she'd've shrugged it off and made it like there wasnt anything wrong. "...It's okay... Just talk about them.... I'm here for you...." I sniffled a bit tearing up.

"...I just... I don't know why but... I had a nightmare.... they were mad at me for some reason... like... they needed to tell me something but... I wasnt willing to listen...." Scootaloo huffed as I just started to sob a bit.

"AAAPPLEJAAACK! He's crying again!" I just couldnt help but cry. Like I just happened to find out what they said and just lost it. Applejack hurried downstairs and pulled Scootaloo from my arms before setting her aside and hopping into my lap cuddling me.

AJ looked back as Scootaloo went to her friend and sat by her again. "BIG MAC! Get up now!" She snapped. "Got a little emergency here and you gotta take the girls to school now!" She looked back to me and shushed me just holding my head against her chest. My favorite place most of the time but this wasnt really calming me down. A few moments passed before Big Mac came out of his room now in jeans and a white shirt and a pair of... bunny slippers.... I can NOT make this shit up. I swear! He got Applebloom and Scootaloo up and got them out the door. Scootaloo stopped for a moment and gave me and Applejack a quick hug and me a kiss on the cheek before just leaving. Applejack forced me up and brought me over to the couch where we collapsed and she lied on top of me. "Ry! Ry c'mon now don't cry! I gotcha... I gotcha..." She shushed me.

I sniffled and whined a bit. "...B-but... Wh-what about-" I said only to be cut off by her shushing me more.

"...Just take a deep breath... Let AJ just soothe your pain...." She sat me up for a moment before sitting right under me and laying me on her lap. I looked up at her seeing her blush a bit before lifting her shirt up revealing her plump breasts. I couldnt help but just start sucking on one making it seem like I'm a hungry foal wanting some milk from momma. I sniffled a bit before just calming down completely. "...There we are... ya feel better now?" I sniffled and nodded before I stopped suckling and she put her shirt down. "...Alright... Why don't you get your keys and I'll drive us to Sugarcube Corner... Pinkie needs to do something with us and she hasnt seen ya since ya got out of the hospital for that blasted wing... still can't believe you had em cut it off..." I sniffled as I got up from my position.

"...well... I just..." I averted my gaze. "....Can we not talk about that please?" She sighed.

"...Yeah... Sorry..." She grabbed my hand and stood up from the couch with me. "Let's just get dressed... Pinkie might like Pajama parties but not when there are customers about... Just get dressed and grab a long shirt... Dunno if you want out of that diaper but we'll have some spares if you use that one." I nodded and brought her into the room.

Not long later I was dressed in my jeans (looking a little thick around the hips), a long sleeved gems shirt given to me by Soarin during our last flight session, and my red canvas sneakers. Applejack wore a cute red short sleeved shirt revealing her midriff, short shorts and some long boots. She even carried a diaper bag. Packed a few diapers, wipes and even some powder. We sat in my car, while she was driving and I was sitting in the passenger seat. To be honest I loved driving my car but... I've learned to not be so protective over this car. It might be a nicer car after I left it for Luna to change and mold into something that wouldnt remind AJ of me and would remind me nothing of that night I almost lost this thing. We didnt say anything to each other for a while. Just listened to the radio. She doesnt like listening to my rock all the time and I'm not one for just country so we always compromise to listen to some mix tape Big Mac had burned for us. Anywho we drove all the way to Sugarcube Corner where the windows were blacked out... why? I didnt know until Applejack walked in ahead of me and when I walked in I was grabbed by my arms and hugged by AJ before being blinded by lights turning on. "SURPRISE!" A large group of ponies yelled.

When I opened my eyes after being stunned, I saw a banner with 'Welcome Home Ryder' written on it, all my friends and some parts of family.... Dash and my aunt and uncle. Friends included Shining Armor (holding one arm), Pinkie Pie (holding my other arm), Twilight, Fluttershy and Mr. and Mrs. Cake. I couldnt help but tear up as everyone came in and just hugged me. Shining chuckled a bit as everyone released me. "There's that liquid pride!" He said. "I know you've been home for a while but with all that shit going on nobody could do anything for you since then!" It is kinda true. First the plane crash, healing up after my injuries, the house burning down, and just all around trying to adapt my life after everything that has happened. Sure I did hang out a couple times with friends but it was ruined by something being said, coming up or just me crying because of something. Shining had to go back with Cadence just to let me and himself breathe because of the crash, even a week after. He lead me over to a table and sat with me. "You feel better now that things have calmed down?"

I grabbed a napkin from a dispenser and wiped my eyes and blew my nose. I looked to him and smiled as Applejack went and talked with Pinkie just glancing over at me. I could see that over his shoulder. "...It just... I just...." I said just not able to find the words. I took a deep breath and sighed. "....Just... feels nice to see everyone that cares about me so much here... all in one place... I just feel so loved..." He sighed.

"I know how you feel... Well.... kinda... when I was in boot camp to be in the guard I was separated from my family and friends for a long time. When I got done with it I was tossed back to my home, tired out of my mind for a few weeks of little sleep, snippy when it came to my parents asking me but... when it came to Twilight if I ever yelled, snapped or accidentally hit her I'd hate myself and my parents would've smacked me good.... But I never did any of that stuff... I cuddled with her when she was scared, helped her with homework she couldnt figure out and such.. Even color with her.... Next thing you know I'm congratulated on being guard material weeks after I left boot camp... Seeing my family there, my little sister and my friends all in one place made me happy... We even got Cadence to come along and congratulate me and give me a one on one dinner... Today's your day. All up to you on what you wanna do. If you want a drink? I'll buy that drink! Need a little time with AJ somewhere public? I'll have to ask Celestia if we would be able to block off a park or something so you and AJ can get your freak on or something...." I blushed a bit.

"...You're kidding right?" He shook his head.

"Cadence and I do it all the time. Nobody questions it. Just make it seem like there's something extremely important going on. Nobody breaks the lines and everyone in the boundaries either must mind their own or vacate." I hummed.

"As good as that sounds i'd have to talk it over with AJ and make sure we pick the right place... we don't want to pick a place and have it just be in a bad place where it'll kill the mood with what's around... I mean... if we pick a place where we know there are ways around it someone's gonna be taping and shit...." He chuckled a bit as I saw Applejack coming over with a tray of sweets and a few gift boxes.

"I'll ask Cadence and see what we can do and that is if AJ allows."

Applejack chuckled a bit as she set the tray down in front of me and Shining. "I hope y'all aint talking about me in a bad way now..." She said. On the tray I saw a couple donuts, chocolate milk bottles, a few cupcakes and a slice of chocolate pie with whipped cream and a cherry. I grabbed for that one first and the fork that was next to it. Couldnt help but start to stuff my face. Shining chuckled as I had bite after bite of sweet delicious pie.

"Just letting Ryder know what can be done in return for his heroism. But do you mind if I hang out with him for a while after this? I just.... Kinda need my time with him you know?" Applejack chuckled a bit as she cuddled up to me as I ate the last bite of the pie.... How I ate it so fast I dont know.

"I'll allow it but later we gotta get ready to get over to Canterlot for a little dinner party Celestia and Luna invited us to. Think Ry said it was family only." To be honest I blanked out while only listening to the conversation and found myself with a mouthful of cupcake. Applejack looked to me as I grabbed a bottle of chocolate milk and started to drink from it. "Aint that what ya said sugarcube?"

I swallowed the chocolate milk and cupcake mashup and had it go down smooth... To be honest this was almost like my birthday but wasnt exactly my birthday. Couple weeks away... I think... Time has fucked with me since I went to war... different time zone so going to bed late and waking up earlier. "Uh... Yeah I think that was what Luna told me..." I said before washing the rest of the frosting from my mouth. She looked back to Shining.

"I'd say if you're gonna be in town long I bet he'd make the time. Hell if anythin' I can even let him off to the Crystal Empire with ya for a few days. That sound alright?"

He hummed a bit. "Sounds alright... Just gotta know if Cadence would allow me having someone over to spend the night and if we're not busy..." He said as I just finished off a donut... Jeez I need to keep my appetite under control. Anywho AJ smiled a bit.

"Sounds good." She looked to me. "Oh yeah and before ya go and stuff yourself full of sweets I think Fluttershy needs to talk with ya sugarcube! And I'd go before she decides against it! Seemed really nervous about somethin'... more than usual."

I gave a nod and got up grabbing the last cupcake on the tray before going over to the counter where Pinkie and Fluttershy were sitting. Fluttershy wore a cute yellow long sleeve paisley shirt and bell bottom jeans and some high tops. Pinkie wore a tank top under a very loose sweater that hung off her shoulder and a pair of tights that hugged her hips and some running shoes. Pinkie sprang up and hugged me holding me tight. "Yaaay! Ryder's home!" She said twirling me around a bit. She sat me into a chair just at the other side of her. "You had me worried to death about your sister and Dash while you were away! Were you worried too? Did you miss us? Did you hurt anyone? Did anyone hurt you?"

I couldnt get a word in but thanks to Fluttershy she had her question train cut short by her friend putting her hand over her mouth. The yellow pegasus mare sighed and sat Pinkie down in her chair again. "Sorry Ryder but Pinkie REALLY missed you while you were away!" She said.

I chuckled patting Pinkie on the back. "I figured she did..." I said just taking another bite of the cupcake. "So uh... How are you girls? Doing well since I've been away?"

Pinkie sighed as Fluttershy took her hand away from her mouth. "I've been okay I guess... Dash was freaking out a bunch and I didnt like seeing her like that and it kind of affected me to where I was kinda scared on what she was going to do next...." She said. "I even cried a bit the night she was escorted from the comic convention... I was scared I wasnt gonna see her again...." I sighed.

"She told me she fucked up... I forgave her, Scoot forgave her but she just still hated herself... she needs to forgive herself for her screw up..." I threw my arm around her and pulled her close. I looked to Fluttershy. "And what about you Flutters. You alright while I was gone?"

Fluttershy nodded. "Oh yes. I've been distracting myself with my animals a lot." She said. "The only part I just didnt like was when Scootaloo was very sick... She was hooked up to a lot of machines and such but... it just didnt look like she was doing well..." I sighed.

"...I remember that day well... I was talking with my troops and I just had this bad feeling in my stomach..." I looked at AJ who was just having a nice chat with Shining as Twilight joined them. "...I didnt know what that feeling was until I got a letter from Celestia... Reading that letter I started to just... lose it... I wasnt breathing right, I puked and... I may have lost it all in my pants... Next thing you know I'm just..." I started to tear up. I looked to Fluttershy before getting up and running into the back, pushing past Mr. Cake and rushed up the stairs into their living area.

I went and dipped into Pinkie's room and lied down on the bed grabbing a stuffed toy she had nearby and just held it close as I tried my hardest not to cry. I really did. Pinkie and Applejack came in looking a bit worried. Pinkie sat down on the bed and stroked my mane as Applejack knelt down next to the bed and sighed. "...Just cant talk about sensitive topics I guess...." She said. She looked to Pinkie. "I don't know what was said but... What ever it was it aint good to talk about it..." She looked back to me. "You just wanna stay here and cuddle with Pinkie? I'll let ya do anythin' ya want with her as long as I get a little more later... And I know you want some of this Apple pie..." She blushed and grinned a bit. I sniffled and cuddled up to the toy.

"...And... You wont be mad?" I asked. She shook her head.

"Nah.. I figured since ya didnt take up my offer on sleeping with someone to ease your needs and stress and still have a bruised Gilda to rough up and still come back to me willing to cuddle, listen and just ravage me still... I might as well just let ya sleep with someone... so's long as I approve and you come back to cuddle me I'll be fine with it... Hope ya dont mind if I get the same liberties with someone else if I need it. Sound good?" I smiled a bit and shot up grabbing AJ and bringing her in for a kiss. She pushed me off a bit and sighed rustling my mane a bit. "I'll take that as a yes... So if ya ever find me in bed with Dash or Rarity please dont get mad... I'd probably ask if you'd wanna join in but... that depends on who it is." She kissed me on the forehead and turned around before out of nowhere she just dropped her pants and just gave me a sweet view before fixing her pants and leaving the room.

Pinkie giggled a bit. "Somepony was a bit blinded by the flash!" She said lying on top of me a bit. "So what did you wanna do first? Did you wanna nap, eat more, cuddle, go outside, take me to work, go for a walk, to the store what do you wanna do? Huh? Huh? Huh???" I sighed and just pushed her off of me before going to the door.

I poked my head out the door and just heard AJ going down stairs. "AJ! Bring the bag and take the car back home!" I called out. I looked back to Pinkie. "I say we just go out for a bit. Probably go somewhere. Just need my supplies before we do go anywhere." The pink mare giggled a bit.

"What kind of supplies? Naughty supplies? Guard stuff? Sleepover stuff?" I sighed chuckling a bit.

"You like to ask a lot of questions." I walked over to the bed and sat down with her. "Let's just say they're some stress relief stuff. I'd be willing to share as long as we can go halves on a new pack. That cool?" She smiled and giggled.

"Ooh! It's been so long since I was padded!" She said just yanking on my waistband a bit. "Last time I was The Cakes found me in one and made me take it off before throwing them away... They don't know I use them to calm myself down during storms, think of fun party things for foals and protect myself for when I have too many sugary drinks and wet myself when I sleep.... Since I lost my diapers I cant do any of that! I even had to call Mr. Cake in to help me flip my mattress twice in a week after I had an accident...." She blushed hard and sat up to hug me. I sighed as I turned about.

"...I know how you feel... Kinda... When I was younger I'd always wanna steal Scootaloo's diapers and wear them. When my mom caught me trying to take one she hid them up in a cupboard so I couldnt get them. One night I forgot she did that and when I had to go to the bathroom so bad I was kinda forced to wait to get in to the bathroom... Long story short, no diaper, big puddle."

We kinda squeezed each other for a moment until Applejack came in. By that time I may or may not have peed myself... Chocolate milk goes right through me. "Alright you two have fun!" She said dropping the bag. "And uh... Pinkie... Try not to squeeze the crap outta him just yet... He'll know soon enough." She laughed a bit before digging into my pocket grabbing my car keys and rushing out. I looked to Pinkie a bit concerned.

"Uh... why did she say that? Is it something bad or.... what?"

Pinkie gave me a shrug. "Dunno. She must've had something in her juice this morning." She said getting up. "Let's just get going before Mr. and Mrs. Cake say something about what you're wearing... if they even notice... If anything we'll go out the back door." I nodded as I got back up and pulled her up off the bed. I grabbed my bag and handed it to her before we started out. Not too long later we were walking side by side, a bottle of water in our hands, my diaper bag on my back and Pinkie just giving a nice relaxed sigh as she looked to the blue sky. "Don't'cha just love fresh air?" I sighed.

"Definitely beats smelling dust of a desert country... I swear it was so hot I thought my wings were gonna cook!" Pinkie giggled.

"I just hate it when it's hot out like that! Of course I've never ever EVER been to a desert. Did you get sunburned a lot? Did anyone pass out from heat exhaustion? Did anyone have trouble sleeping at night if it was hot?"

"Pinkie... How much did you miss me while I was away?" She looked to me as we turned a corner.

"I missed you so much I thought I wasnt ever going to see you again! I thought you were mad at me first but Dash told me you were going to lead your troops. I thought she was joking at first but when I went to your house your car wasnt there and nopony answered. Then I saw your car at Sweet Apple Acres and asked Big Mac where you were hiding and then Applejack yelled at me when she really didnt meant to and told me the same thing Dash did but in a meaner way!" To be honest I barely caught that. I put my arm around her.

"Look... I'd've come to say goodbye but I had my own problems to attain to.... I needed to find someone who could care for Scootaloo on such short notice... I had a week to pack my thing, pick up my uniform and find someone who could watch my sister... I thought of everyone to try but some were bad choices... AJ was mad at me, Dash was laid up in a hospital, Twilight would've made her cry more, my Aunt and Uncle would probably adopt her and refuse to return her into my care, Fluttershy wouldnt know how to care for my sister without accidentally hurting her in some way... Not to mention i didnt want one of her animals biting Scootaloo... And you? I definitely thought you were one of the best choices but then again... You had your moments where if she started crying in the middle of the night you probably wouldnt have woken up, The Cakes would've been mad if she woke up the twins and not to mention if she just has an accident I dont want the cakes to patronize her for being old enough to hit the toilets! Trust me when I say I've had accidents when I almost made it to the can." ...Can I say what timing for this? Right after I said that I flinched and held on to Pinkie as my stomach just gave me a huuuuuge pulse of pain.

"Ryder?! Ryder what's wrong!?" She asked a bit panicked. My stomach gurgled and bubbled a bit as I barely held onto her with my head now on her chest. The pain was so bad I dont think I could even stand. "C'mon! Just let it out! Tell me what's wrong!" Well... I did just as she asked. I let it all out... Into my pants... I just let a little gas out and then comes the avalanche weighing down the seat of my pants. The pain subsided as the pain subsided but I couldnt move from my position as I think I peed again. Pinkie looked at me a bit weird as I started to tear up. I just... Messed myself uncontrollably. She held me against her chest again and shushed me as I started to sob. "...Hey hey.... It's okay... You're okay..." God I could feel my face flare up have it being red. "...Applejack must've played a mean ol' prank on you... Something seemed weird when I asked Mr. Cake what he was making and said it was just something special for you.... I swear i had nothing to do with it!" I sniffled a bit.

"...B-bull shit... You had to have had something.... t-to do with it...." She pushed me off a bit and looked me in the eyes.

"Ryder... I normally joke but making somepony a party pooper isnt my thing! If anything I help make those party poopers into the life of the party!" She sniffed the air and coughed a bit turning away. "Now uh.... We should find someplace we can change you.... Such a big stink butt!" She took my hand and started to walk with me.

It felt like every step was gonna just drop me to the floor on how heavy my diaper felt... I'm just glad these pants stretch a bit... Yet only to an extent. I felt like if I moved wrong it could all just come spilling out. As we walked I just wanted to call AJ up and just lay into her but... I wont... I wanted to scream so bad but I didnt wanna bring attention to myself or have Pinkie tackle me and suffocate me with her assets... As much as that sounds like a good way to go out I didnt wanna make that an option even with my fucking embarrassment. The walk took a good ten minutes and I was hoping we wouldnt pass by anyone who knew me... Or had a sense of smell beyond even that of a dogs. We soon came to a shop door where Pinkie just poked her head in before dragging me in. I realized I was in Paddy Cakes shop. He was sitting behind the counter wearing his frilly pink dress, striped tights and black dress shoes. I only saw those when he came around the counter. He came to me as Pinkie wiped my eyes away. "What the heck happened ta him?" He asked. He didnt get within two feet with me before just stopping and coughing. "And what the hell is that smell? Smells worse than rotting potato in a fermenting stew!" Pinkie huffed starting to dig into my bag pulling out a diaper and the wipes.

"Someone secretly put something in his breakfast that just made him weigh his shorts with shit! Any way we can change him here? Please? I might need to work my magic to make him smile again!" Paddy went back behind his counter and grabbed a can of scented spray and proceeded to just send mist into the air. It smelled of apples and cinnamon, my favorite scent that always made me feel better. Mom would always spray it in the house during the fall and I kept a can just in case I ever just needed to calm down.

"If it means this smell goes away go right on ahead! Just use the changin' table in the back and be sure to clean up real good! I don't wanna find skidmarks on me table!"

Pinkie nodded and took me into the back helping me up on the table and... I just couldnt avoid squishing the mess against myself as I had to be helped up onto the table after getting my pants off by Pinkie. I just hid my face with my shirt as I was changed. Everything felt like something worse than it actually was. To me the wipes felt like sandpaper, the powder felt like small embers on my crotch and... It just felt humiliating... I shit myself in front of Pinkie, who AJ said I could do stuff with and just.... Ugh... I'm drinking tonight. Fuck it. Anyways Pinkie sighed after taping a new diaper on me. I sniffled putting my shirt down. "...A-are we done...?" I asked. Pinkie nodded. "Good... I just... I wanna go home... and just... barricade myself in my room... Fuck the dinner tonight..." She looked to me as I sat up.

"You were gonna go to dinner tonight? Was it a date with Applejack? You gotta go if it is! She's gonna be hurt!"

"Oh like i fucking care if she's gonna be hurt! She made me shit myself! Granted I was diapered by her SHE DIDNT FUCKING CARE TO COMFORT ME WHEN I CAME OUT OF THE DAMN HOSPITAL!" Pinkie and I just looked at each other. I was just seething with rage and tears in my eyes. Pinkie looked at me shocked and just whimpered a bit. I sniffled and hugged her. "...I... I'm sorry... I just.... I didnt want to snap at you... Applejack did kinda..." I averted my gaze. "I just... Can we go somewhere private to talk...? Please...?" Pinkie nodded and sniffled.

"...Sure but.... Please dont yell at me again... I'm sensitive you know..." I went and gave her a kiss on the forehead before hopping off the table and grabbing my pants... Somehow didnt notice she didnt even take my sneakers off before getting my pants off.. How the hell did she do that...? Pinkie logic I guess....

We started to walk towards the curtain and stopped just at it only for me to poke my head out just to check if anyone else was in the shop. Paddy was sitting on the counter just looking at me a bit worried. "Everythin' go alright in there? I heard yellin'!" He said.

I sighed. "Yeah... Just a bit of stress here..." I replied. "Is there some place in here me and Pinkie can have a nice quiet chat and not be bothered or hesitant because a customer walked in?" I could see him think for a moment. He hummed.

"...Well... I suppose you can use me home up top. So's long you keep it down it'll be fine! And sorry if I seemed a bit ungrateful when ya walked in. Just going through a little bit and seeing you in tears didnt help. Just get behind the baby diapers display in the back and open up the door." He pointed to the corner opposite to where we were. As we left from behind the curtain I heard him snicker over the crinkle of my diaper but I didnt pay any mind to it. When we went upstairs it was just a small apartment attachment. We came up into a small kitchen that broke off into a small living area with a futon couch in front of a medium sized CRT television. There was a door behind us half cracked open leading to a small bedroom but... why the crib downstairs in his adult foals room? I'd ask later but as of now I sat down with Pinkie on the couch just setting my stuff aside.

Pinkie looked to me as I just patted my crotch. "...So... what's wrong? What made you yell like that...?" She asked.

I sighed just lying down on her lap. "....It's just... so many things..." I said. "...First I was shot while at war... Stupid fucking idiot saw me, thought I was part of the enemy and next thing you know I have a bullet graze my leg, I fall to the ground, then get wheeled to the med bay where I'm just hopped up on morphine and just freaking out... Next thing you know I'm forced to just blow a spy's brains all over the ground... I didnt know what to think or who to trust after that... barely slept that night but I was soothed to sleep knowing someone was watching over me that night....." She gasped a bit.

"You did that?" I nodded. "Wow... Must've been scary to do something like that. What was wrong after that?" I cuddled up to her.

"...After that I was on a plane home... when we were getting ready I was freaking out a bit because I just... thoughts went through my mind.... I was excited that we were coming home to see our families.... I was excited to know i'd see Scootaloo again but... then I thought... what if the plane went down? What if we died back here? What if the plane was rigged to blow by someone else hidden among us...? Well... the plane did go down and just... I nearly died to it... my chute burned up by the chasing flames and such... My wings werent left untouched either... They were on fire and I kept myself in the air long enough to turn over at the right time and cushion my fall on a snowy mountain but... I still didnt avoid injury... Wings busted up and one needed to get chopped off but... that whole time... I was freaking out thinking that was it... that I was gonna die before seeing Scootaloo... But... what really just hurt the most was me being in the hospital... I was there for a week, Applejack didnt show up and... I would swear Celestia would've had her transported so she could be with me... but... she didnt... nobody told her I dont think.... or... they did and... she just didnt want to come visit...." I teared up a bit.

"Hey hey... dont go crying now..." Pinkie picked me up a bit and held me to her chest. "...If I know Applejack she would've let you rest after that and not bug you! When Dash was hurt she stayed away from her trying to not hurt her at all! Just ask her!"

"...I... I don't wanna... she's just gonna laugh at me and just..." I just couldnt find the words. That's when Pinkie sighed and grabbed for the backpack again digging around in it. She pulled out my phone and before I could say anything just pulled up her shirt and put my face to her nipple. No bra. Like always.

"C'mon... let mama Pinkie show ya she wouldnt do that stuff..." Pinkie started messing with my phone as I just started to suckle on her breast like I was just a hungry baby. Weird enough I was actually tasting something. I guess she saw my confusion as I was drinking ACTUAL milk. "Lactation spell that Twilight wanted to test on me. She needed to test it on me just in case guards ever brought in a uh.... forced victim that gave birth and just... didnt survive... Someone's gotta feed the kid right?" I nodded. "...Good you understand... Just enjoy this while it lasts. Twi did this a few days ago and it lasts about a week." I nodded before she just started to call Applejack putting my phone on speaker. To be honest I felt just... safe and secure all padded up and being strangely breast fed by a friend.... but... it just made me feel at home.

The phone buzzed for a few moments before Applejack picked up. She giggled a bit. "Did ya find out what I meant by what I said earlier? Oooh I wish i could've seen the look on your face when it squeezed its way on out!" She said just starting to laugh. I blushed a bit but kept suckling. Pinkie huffed.

"AJ! That was a very mean joke AJ! Jokes are supposed to be funny for everyone! Not hurt someone! Do you know how much he cried after that happened to him?" I heard Applejack gasp.

"Oh uh... P-Pinkie! I... I didn't know that was you! Uh... Please dont tell me he's barricaded himself somewhere with a load in his pants..."

"No I changed him and he's cuddling with me right now. He tells me you didnt visit him while he was in the hospital after he got in a plane crash. Is he telling the truth?" I heard AJ give a sigh.

"Look Ry if you're listening Celestia told me about what happened... I-I wanted to come and visit but... I would've been overcome by my emotions and probably would've hurt you more than you already were... Not to mention I was just freaking out about that plane crash... I... I didn't know what woulda happened if I lost you... I just... I love you Ry.... If you were thinking I didnt love you why the hell did I let you into my home after yours burnt down? Why did I continue talking with you after you fessed up about the family truck? It's because I care sugarcube... I care about you, your sister and... hell that cousin of yours...." I could hear her voice weaken a bit.

I stopped sucking and sat up grabbing my phone. "...I... I know you care but... it would've been nice for you to at least contact Celestia so we could talk.... but you chose to just leave me alone..."

"...I only did it outta love sugarcube... Understand that... Now.... If ya havent done anything with Pinkie yet just c'mon back home. I wanna apologize in the best way I can... Bring Pinkie too. A little apology gift to you and uh... Just get here it's getting a tad awkward talkin' over the phone... If ya need a ride I'll send Big Mac out to getcha."

"Yeah that's good. Paddy Cakes right down the road from Sugarcube Corner."

"Alright just be ready for when Big Mac gets ya. I aint willing to let Big Mac come all the way there and have you not even there!"

"Don't worry we'll be here. See ya when I get home.... Love you..."

"I love you too sugarcube... See ya soon..." I hung my phone up and dropped it back in my backpack. I looked back to Pinkie who... just happened to be suckling on her own breasts a bit.

The pink mare blushed and smiled. "...It's not weird to drink it myself right? I mean... its not like I'm drinking it with a hungry baby around!" She said. I shook my head and sat up.

To be honest it didnt take long for Big Mac to come get us. Pinkie sat in front in his truck while I was in the bed of the truck scrolling away on my phone. And yes I did have my pants back on. As I scrolled away on my phone I went to the messaging app and saw a text between me and Celestia. Decided to get in contact with her and ask about Luna and what was up with her. 'What is going on with Luna?' I asked texting her. 'She didnt wanna answer a question I had about a nightmare I had when I asked. I really don't mean to pry but... it's worrying me...'

I waited a moment and had looked out the side holes at what was around us. We were at a red light... A long red light. I checked my phone after I heard a notification. 'It's quite alright Ryder. She should be handling these things.' She replied. 'I'll sit you two down together tonight and see what's wrong there. Right now we are in preparation for festivities for you. Now do what ever you need. Transport is going to be coming up within a few hours. TTYL.' I sighed and just started to play a game on my phone. Place a house here, play with someone there, collect this crap. The usual mindless task game.

I played that for maybe ten minutes before we got to Sweet Apple Acres. I looked to Big Mac as we all hopped out of the truck. Me just hopping over the side of the bed of the truck almost to my face but I've gotten better with my landings. "Uh... Mac you may wanna stay outside for the time being..." I said. "I'm not sure if you wanna be hearing us go at it..."

Big Mac huffed a bit. "I'd agree with ya but uh... AJ asked me to join in as awkward as it was but I'll be going for Pinkie." He said blushing a bit. "...I just... well..."

"It's awkward, I know, I think I've had that happen with Dash before when I was staying over there that one night." Yeah... Gilda wanted to play and Dash didnt care that we were gonna get it on right in front of her. She said as long as we didnt knock anything over and clean up after we were good. Big Mac did look at me weird but he knows I would'nt go for my lesbian cousin... again... Don't ask. Awkward, young and horny. Never. Again. Anywho he huffed.

"I'm just gonna take a breath and get it over with...." I put a hand on his shoulder and we walked towards the house following behind Pinkie who just skipped along.

As we entered the house Big Mac and I both stopped at the door seeing Applejack just fingering herself a bit. No clothes on even. Pinkie stood behind her just starting to take her top off just letting her milk filled fun bags breathe. Big Mac went and pushed me onto the couch and I now found my face just between AJ's legs. She blushed smiling at me. "All ready for desert now sugarcube?" She asked. "...C'mon now think of this as an apology for forcin' ya to drop a load in your drawers... My body is yours for the takin'!" To be honest I didnt know if it was a trick or not until my face was forced into her crotch with someone pushing on my ass a bit. Didnt even have time to react before someone- Big Mac- held my hands back and pulled my pants down giving a huff.

"Never said who I'd be going for... Just relax and take it like you've always wanted!" I felt him prod at my ass as I just automatically started licking at my marefriends wet pussy. Even saw Pinkie just straddle AJ's face sitting on it giving her a nice pink pie as well. Next thing you know Big Mac just slips in like I hadnt experimented with his cousin out in the orchard before... Seriously I get that guy once, he hurts me a bit, tells me what to do and next thing you know it's like i've been doing it for years... This was before AJ and I hooked up and after I broke up with that murderer. He was in town and... I need to stop getting off track. I couldnt help but reach under me and just start massaging myself. He started slow but went a bit faster. I don't know how I was taking him this easily but it felt amazing on how big he was. I just lost myself in the bliss of tasting my marefriends sweet apple pie while taking a nice stiff cock in my ass. I wish she would've just started to piss everywhere all over me. I guess she played with herself so much she did squirt all over my face. Big Mac just kept going behind me and even slapped my ass. I had to grab his hand just before he brought it back up. Just put it back on my ass where he just squeezed. I brought my sticky face up to where I could breathe without smelling that apple pie. I could feel Big Mac go faster and faster until he just planted himself in me just shooting load after load of cum into me. I came hard too but lucky me I got it straight into the diaper. Once he pulled out of me he stumbled back and into the door before just falling to the ground. "...F-fuck... Never once have i thought a stallion's ass would've felt that good..."

I got up shakily fixing myself the best I could. "...Never once did i think that I'd get filled by another stallion... Feels... uh..." I said but stopped short not knowing what else to say. By that point Pinkie gave a little eep and sighed before getting off of Applejack.

Applejack sat up and wiped her mouth before looking to Pinkie. "...I'm gonna look past that little accident if ya promise to warn me next time that happens!" She said.

Pinkie blushed smiling as she rubbed the back of her head. "Sorry AJ!" She said. "I uh.... I had to go a teeny bit and thought you wouldnt notice!" AJ sighed as I helped Big Mac up and fixed his pants.

"It's fine! Just let me know first before you go and do it! I don't like getting a mouthful of apple juice unless I know I'm getting it!" I didnt wanna question it but I knew what it meant kinda. But to make this ending short we all took turns in the shower coupling up to help each other clean off and out... Even had a little potty break before getting dressed again and heading back out towards Rarity's place where we sat for a while. I even took a little nap cuddled up to AJ again and Rarity actually let us use her bed for it which she almost never does!

The News (Or The Dinner Part 2)

Okay... this day is just... I don't even know anymore. After about a forty five minute nap AJ and I woke up to a knock on Rarity's bedroom door. "Ryder! Applejack!" We heard Rarity call out. "Come now and get yourselves decent! Guards are here to pick you up for dinner at Canterlot! I've got your suit ready Ryder and AJ your dress is in the restroom hanging on a hook in there! Up up up!" AJ and I groaned. I got up still feeling tired as hell. I was surprised I didn't even have a nightmare either the way things have been lately. Sure there was that one this morning but I was afraid of it happening at any time. Naps, sleeps, black outs or just in my mind staring at something that triggers freak outs.

Anyways I looked to AJ who just didnt wanna get up. She was in her panties and one of my shirts. Never once have I seen her wearing a shirt from Gems and Tulips out of my share of the dresser in the house. Looked good in it though. I was just in a hoodie and uh... a diaper... my pants and boxers were over on the side as well as my socks and sneakers. Only used this diaper for as much as I was loaded by Big Mac.... turns out it was a lot and uh... it was awkward asking Rarity to help me get rid of it. Just gave me tips on how to empty and such... Lucky she let me use her bathroom before that nap. The diaper was just in case I had any left. But I couldnt help but use it anyways as I got up. Just up and wet myself as I stood up giving a sigh. I looked back at Applejack as I finished and couldnt help but squish my diaper between my legs. "AJ! C'mon get up! Get up please?" I said almost like I was a little colt ready for his first day of school- first day of unknown hell if ya ask me...

Applejack groaned. "...Nnnh... not now sugarcube... lemme sleep a bit more..." She said. I grabbed my shorts and went around to the other side of the bed nudging her. She just swatted my hand away. "...I said not now... if ya wanna grab somethin' just do it and leave me the hell alone...."

"But I cant! We gotta get ready now! Almost time to head to Canterlot!" She groaned a bit and turned over facing me now. She opened her eyes just brushing her mane out of her face.

"...I just better get something to wear that aint gonna get wrinkled if I can nap in it....Dunno why that session tuckered me out so much but... eh... no matter now..." She tossed the covers off and stretched before getting out of the bed. She sighed as I took my diaper off and lied it carefully on the floor. "Would've changed ya if you had asked nicely... should probably shower off some before we get anywhere... hopefully Rarity can getcha into hers so's long you dont leak anything from the back of the barnyard there..." I huffed and didnt even bother grabbing my pants before walking out into the hall.

Just leaning against the wall was Rarity with her arms crossed wearing blue jeans and a black shirt with sequence making a heart in silver on the chest. She sighed rolling her eyes. "Oh come now Ryder! In your underwear? Really?" She asked.

I huffed. "I'm getting into a suit anyways right?" She nodded. "Then why even get my pants on? I mean... At least I'm wearing my boxers right?" She sighed coming off of the wall.

"I suppose so...strutting around naked is bound to catch unwanted attention.... Especially with your marefriend around... She is up isnt she? That dress isnt gonna hang in my bathroom forever!" I sighed.

"Well it isnt gonna... You could probably bring it into your room and let me rinse myself off some to freshen up maybe? I promise it'll be fast!" She thought for a moment. Looked me over and even rolled up my hoodie sleeves.

"I do suppose I can spare a bit of my shampoos and conditioners... and body wash...." She looked at my mane. "Perhaps just the body wash... your mane is actually well kept for a stallion that runs after baddies, works on a farm and wakes up with night terrors from time to time but... it's understood for a few reasons.... I know of one I was powerless to stop..." She sighed releasing me. "I wont speak more of it. It has been a while yes but... it might still be looming in your mind...." I sighed walking into the bathroom and grabbing AJ's dress off of a hook. It was beautiful. A red dress with a thigh length cut right on the left side. Frills here and there but she wouldnt mind as long as her mane went with it and she could wear her hat. I gave it to Rarity and she hung it outside the door before coming into the bathroom as I sat on the toilet.

"...I know what you're talking about... didnt mention the event by describing but... I know... we all do... I just... I was powerless to stop it... powerless to stop Scootaloo from seeing them... powerless to not just stare at their corpses and...." I averted my gaze. Rarity huffed.

"Now now Ryder... Dont talk anymore. I dont wanna have Applejack take you home and have that dinner called off... It's an honor to have dinner with a Princess. To Scootaloo it might be normal but to me and AJ it's a rare sight just like a fireborn sapphire with a slight ruby core that makes it glow absolutely devine!" She kinda squeed a bit before sighing. "...If only Spike didnt eat it it would've made the most amazing necklace..." I looked back to her.

"Oh uh... S-speaking of necklaces... might I ask something?" She looked to me and nodded smiling a bit. "I know this isnt much of your expertise but... is there any way you can help me pick out a necklace AJ would like? I mean.... when we get back from Canterlot it would help... Yeah I could pick it for myself but... I'm bad at choices like that... kinda gets me panicked in case she doesnt like it or I just make the wrong choice and it flies off her neck while she's working or it makes its way into a jar or a pie and someone eats it and chokes and-" She covered my mouth.

"Ryder... You worry too much! Now hush, rinse off and get dressed honey. I'll help you as long as you help me go digging for gems later this week! Deal?" I nodded. "Alright... now I'm going to get up and leave this bathroom. If I have to send Applejack in here to drag you out in nothing but a bath towel I will. Understood?" I nodded again. "Good. Now hurry. I'm giving the guards some coffee while they wait." I nodded once more and she just left me alone in the bathroom with the door shut. Yes i had to add that because you didnt wanna think she'd leave the door open and give those guards a peek at my stuff did you? And uh... Not to mention freak out because that prosthetic wing? Yeah it comes off. It might be plastic and can move with my body and- HA! Fucking with you! it's waterproof. I just hopped in the shower, shampoo'd my hair and washed up as fast as I could without feeling like I'm going through a car wash. Took not even ten minutes to wash up and when I got out I just towel dried off before poking my head out.

"Can someone bring me my suit please? Just knock on the door and hang it somewhere please!" I ducked back in and started doing my mane. Grabbed one of Rarity's brushes and started pulling at it slicking it back. Left a little bit sticking up but nothing that just gave me a spiked mane sorta. Next thing you know I get a knock at the door. Before I could get a chance to open it Applejack came in looking absolutely stunning. The dress on, red high heels, lipstick and her mane in one big braid. Even a little bit of green eye shadow. Had my suit in hand on the hanger but I blushed holding the towel close. "AJ! I said bring me my suit not barge in while I'm naked! What if Rarity sees?"

Applejack sighed and hung up my suit and putting some nice black dress shoes on the floor before ripping the towel right off me making me just cover myself with my hands. "Oh c'mon she said she'd stay downstairs and keep the guards entertained while they wait for us!" She said. "Now hurry up, dry off more, get dressed and lets go. Girls are in the car with Big Mac too." I huffed and just watched as she walked off, tail swaying a bit. I sighed and grabbed my towel off the floor and dried myself off the best I could before grabbing my boxers again and putting them on. The suit was a nice black suit paired with the shoes. White shirt, black pants and tie. Lucky Rarity knows i don't know how to do ties so she gave me a clip on. Even had an Equestrian logo pin on the lapel. As I put on the suit I just looked at myself in the mirror. God I looked so weird in a suit when I'm just a rocker who wears sneakers, jeans and band tee shirts. But... It was good to see someone so well respected at the same time as someone who gets no respect at all. The respected part is The General of the Royal Guard. Unrespected: That random metal head with the fake wing who works on a farm. No joke when I say last selling day I was chewed out by a customer just because I didnt have any apple pies left. No we werent baking more, that was it for the fucking day... Anyways back to the story.

After I was dressed, shoes tied and everything, I went downstairs blushing a bit. I didnt know how good I'd look to AJ or Rarity. Didnt know what to expect or anything. As I hit the ground floor I saw AJ just clutching a borrowed handbag. Little black one on a spaghetti strap. Rarity approached us with two guards both wearing golden armor. "Oh look at you two! You look simply lovely!" She said. Rarity looked me and Applejack up and down. "Simply such a gorgeous couple! I need to take pictures if you would allow it!"

I blushed a bit looking at AJ who was blushing a bit as well. "...You're beautiful you know that?" I asked. Applejack blushed even harder giggling a bit. I laughed a bit and hugged her. I looked to the guards who were standing at the door. "Sorry for the wait boys. Lets get going!" I took AJ's hand and looked to Rarity giving her a nod as we passed her. She looked happy even though this suit wasnt really her work I don't think. It didnt really feel like it. Well... Maybe I grew a bit or something. Maybe it was my wing I don't know. But it felt weird. Just out front of the Carousel boutique were two trucks, one that just had the door open ready for me and Applejack. Checked if I had everything before I left too. Phone, earbuds and wallet just in case I wanna head out with Scootaloo and do some secret shopping.

When we got into a truck we were joined by Rainbow Dash surprisingly and she was dressed up in a Cloudsdale rainbow falls themed dress. Applejack sighed a bit as we sat down on a seat opposite her. "And here I thought it was gonna be Ry, Big Mac and the girls." AJ said. "But hey the princess did say family was welcome..."

Dash scoffed. "I hope you two know I was invited to this the same as you by Celestia." She said. "Even my mom and dad are coming! So if anyone asks I'm straight as a fucking stripper pole!"

I took a double take. "Wait... Aunt Misty and Uncle Red are coming too?!" I asked shocked. Dash nodded. "Please tell me they're not gonna freak out when they see my wing or hear what you've done since we last saw them!" She rolled her eyes.

"If they do freak it's because of your wing and you'll tell them you're okay. But nopony is gonna say anything about what the hell happened while you were away." We could hear the driver get in and slam the door behind him before just starting the engine. I grinned a bit.

"Well... Kidnapping my sister from the princess herself was a pretty harsh thing to do... lucky no charges stuck but... I'm still kinda pissed off at ya..." I could see her blush a bit.

"I swear if you say anything...." I laughed a bit.

"I wont I wont!" I averted my gaze. "Well... if you can keep your mouth shut for insults that is... one insult and out it comes and Aunt Misty and Uncle Red arent gonna be too happy!" I'm surprised AJ didnt stop me there. She could've just smacked me in the back of the head messing up my mane or something. Guess she agreed with me in this case. I mean who wouldnt wanna hear nothing but good come from a loud blabbermouth of a cousin who does nothing but berate and insult you every time you try to do something right. Or even open my mouth.... I swear she needs to just put a fucking gag in her mouth every time she wants to insult someone. Anyways Dash sighed.

"Fine... Deal... I blab anything you blab that thing... And... We're still good on my sexuality right?" I nodded.

"I'm not an asshole Dash! Would I enjoy seeing my own cousin be yelled at by her parents and then be a target for inspection just to make sure I didnt get my tailhole drilled by Big Mac and end up having Scootaloo taken from me because they dont 'want her to get infected with a disease' and such." Dash looked at me kinda confused but relaxed.

"That was... descriptive... have you gone through that encounter in your head a few times before?" I nodded slightly. "Well... Just... keep shit like that to yourself okay? If you need to talk about that stuff just text me or bother Gilda with it. But... How's about a drink?" She reached over and slammed her hand against the seat having a medium sized cooler pop up in the floor between us. I grabbed a cola, AJ grabbed a water and Dash.... grabbed a Senor Salt. I looked at her confused. She looked at me and AJ after she cracked it open. "What...? I've honestly started to like the taste of it after drinking it that day we went to the convention... It's weird I know but... it's good! Really!" Yeah AJ knows why I'm drinking a cola. Do not wanna trigger her allergies. But anyways Dash and I listened to a little rock while AJ napped a bit with some earplugs the guard supplied. Only for victims of abuse who needed to be helped away and given a bit of rest. Learn a lot just like a recruit... Still think I need some training.

Honestly I blanked out for most of the ride. The combination of nap after sex fatigue set in as well as a boring ride, now with just slow rock I couldnt help but cuddle up to AJ and take a short nap. Wasnt much of a comfortable sleep but heard Dash tell the driver to turn the music down a bit a few moments into the nap. Didnt move much but just enjoyed the cuddling. I was only woken up by someone coming into the truck as it stopped only to hug me. "Ryder! Ryder wake up! We're here!" I heard somepony say. I opened my eyes and saw Scootaloo just looking so cute in that blue floral dress I had her in when I had to leave... Oh it so hurts to see it but... It's the only dress she ever wears.

I kinda gave a smile and rubbed my eyes chuckling a bit. "Wow... here already?" I asked. "Time flies when you're tired..." I glanced around and didnt really see AJ or Dash anywhere. Then I looked out the window and saw Big Mac in his tuxedo, Applejack, Dash and Applebloom (who was wearing a cute little dress for when she was a little junior bridesmaid in Shining's wedding.) all standing on the steps having a nice chat. I got up from my seat taking Scootaloo's hand and stepped out of the truck. As we walked up to the steps I just couldnt help but think of that day I had to leave... Scootaloo bawling her eyes out, me ready to snap and turn back only to say fuck it and risk getting arrested and losing Scootaloo with no chance on getting her back... I had to have the driver that day help me pry Scootaloo from the inside of the truck... Hope he still doesnt have the bruises. I kinda spaced out for a moment before Dash put her hand on my shoulder.

I looked to her acting like nothing was wrong. "Nervous about this dinner?" I nodded a bit. "Hey don't be. You've earned this. And I know I give you a heaping pile all the time but I gotta do something for ya sometime soon and not just make it about me. And I'm not just saying that!" I kinda looked at her weird. "Don't believe me? Talk to me a bit later and I'll explain." She pointed towards the gates. I looked and another truck pulled up. "Parents incoming. Put up or shut up hero boy." I turned around putting Scootaloo between me and Dash as the truck came to a stop.

The back door opened up and out stepped my uncle had his firey mane slicked back wearing a red leisure suit and my aunt had her mane in a ponytail wearing a grey pants suit. We couldnt help but walk down to them only to have me break off and hug my uncle. He laughed a bit and hugged me back. "There he is! There's the military man!" He said. He released me and rested his hand on my shoulder as Scootaloo and Dash hugged Aunt Misty. "How's things on the homefront? Everything okay there?"

I huffed and just looked to Scootaloo making sure she was out of ear shot. She was already starting back up the steps with Dash and my aunt. I looked back at my uncle. "...Well... Scootaloo and I were forced to move from the house..." I said. "...A fire started somehow in the house and it burned the house down... I had to bust out my bedroom window to get out... I was just lucky I was the only one home... Otherwise Scootaloo could've ended up getting hurt or worse..." Uncle Red huffed.

"...Sorry about that kiddo... you know that place had some energy tied to it..... you did everything you could to keep that place in good spirits... hopefully they know it was an accident..." He glanced at my back and grabbed at my wing. "Woah! How the hell did this happen?!" He looked up the stairs. "HEY MISTY! GET OVER HERE AND GET A LOAD OF RY'S WING!" I rolled my eyes knowing I wouldnt be able to wiggle my way outta this one.

My aunt set Scootaloo down with Applebloom and Dash and came back down the steps towards me. Uncle red turned me around and pulled my wing out and I heard my aunt gasp. "What the hell happened?! Is that a fake wing?" She asked. She grabbed at it too feeling every nook and cranny. "Oh my god how did this happen!?" Before I could answer she turned me around and grabbed my face. "You see? This is what happens when you do something dangerous like join the guard!" I sighed shrugging her off.

"Misty! He's doing a great job why else would Princess Celestia invite him and his family here?" He looked to me as i set my wing back into place. "But uh... maybe you can tell us over a drink? If not I wont make you but uh... Just know Misty will...." He smiled nervously as Aunt Misty gave him a stern look.

I sighed starting up the stairs seeing everyone start to go inside. "Maybe but if i tell you I don't want anyone freaking out or bugging me to take it off." I said. "Now c'mon. The Princesses await. We mustn't keep them waiting." They nodded and followed me up.

At the top of the stairs Applejack was waiting for me and just took my hand as we walked into the foyer where everyone was congregating. Dash was with Scootaloo and Big Mac with a few guards and Applebloom. I looked around and saw guard after guard ready for tonight and who all was coming. The princesses mother and father. As we joined the others I left AJ with my aunt and uncle and went to join Big Mac. Big Mac looked to Applebloom noticing me walk up and salute the guards. They saluted back. "Hey 'Bloom? Why don't you go introduce yourself to Scootaloo's aunt and uncle?" He asked. "Time for the grownups to talk." Applebloom nodded and didnt fight about it before just walking away. He looked to me. "So what's up? Aunt and Uncle getting annoying?" I nodded and then looked to the guards.

"When are Celestia and Luna supposed to greet us? I might need to take Celestia aside to talk about something with her."

The guard nodded. "I shall let her know right away General." He said. "Until then just wait around here. If anyone needs to use the restroom just have them let us know."

"Understood. But make it quick as you can. No rush just don't want any hungry fillies or aunts..." I pulled him in a bit. "Seriously my aunt will complain and bitch her ass off if not offered food somewhere...."

"Noted. I'll ask if we can move everyone to the dining hall for appetizers. Make it seem like somethings came up that the princesses need to attend to or something of that matter."

"Alright. I'll just mingle until you're ready." He nodded and walked off. I pulled Big Mac over with me and huffed. "I hope Celestia can answer questions Luna didnt... Otherwise I'm gonna have a huge problem on my mind...."

Big Mac huffed as the guard was out of sight. "Agreed. As much as I wanna be up to hear you've gone and had a nightmare and need to take a walk I don't wanna be doing that every night and I'm sure you dont either." He said. "But uh... just know I'm here for ya if ya need it... But try to get back to sleep and cuddle up to my sister up there." I nodded and just stood around my aunt and Big Mac just talking things over, trying to avoid the war and the wing until the right moment... maybe where Scootaloo and Applejack werent in earshot.

Took maybe ten minutes before we were escorted to the dining hall where one end of the table was covered in snacks with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna standing at the end dressed in their regal gowns. Celestia's white and gold gown and Luna wearing her black and night time sky blue gown. Dash, AJ, Scootaloo and I were on the left side of the table while my aunt and uncle, Big Mac and Applebloom were on the right side. We all bowed in respect to them. "Welcome everypony!" Celestia said. "We are glad to invite you all here tonight! All of this is in honor of one pony here! General Ryder Wheeler! Take a bow Ryder!" I blushed a bit just turning to my friends and family just bowing and just picking Scootaloo up as she hugged me. Everyone gave a little 'aw' as she even kissed my cheek. Couldnt ask for a better sister.

I looked back at Celestia as both her and Luna stepped forth. "But now it is time to introduce a few guests." The princess of the night said as a side door opened to our left. We all looked and saw two ponies standing there. Soarin, wearing a blue suit and Spark plug wearing a white long sleeve button up with the sleeves rolled about half way up and black skinny jeans as well as canvas sneakers. "Here we have Soarin of the Wonderbolts and his cousin Sparkplug, the basist of the generals favorite band Gems and Tulips!" I let Scootaloo go and she just rushed Sparkplug hugging her while I just high fived Soarin before getting my own little hug from Sparkplug. I was honestly having fun there. Soarin i see a lot more often but Sparkplug? Hoooly shit I loved it. We looked back to Celestia and Luna as Soarin just couldnt help but hold Scootaloo now.

"But that is not all. Before we continue I need every pony here to swear to secrecy and pretend this dinner never happened after tonight. Most of you know a thing called a Pinkie Promise, a promise composed by a friend of the General, his cousin and his marefriend but it entails we have your word this wont be spoken of otherwise there will be consequences. Me ask you to follow my sister and I in this promise and ask none of you speak to ANYONE outside of this little group here. If it is spoken and we catch wind of who ever has spoken all of you are in trouble. Understood?" We all just made sounds of agreement. I know this was a scare tactic but my aunt and uncle don't. Though uh... Pinkie does not let up if you tell her you broke the promise by accident... Oooh spankings galore and no sitting for a few hours... "Alright. If you will put your right hand up we can begin."

We all put our hands up like we were waving a bit but just kept it stationary. Some cleared our throats. I noticed Big Mac whispering to my aunt and uncle on what to say and Celestia just gave them a moment. Once they were done I saw my aunt and uncle nod. They looked back to Celestia and Luna who also had their hands up. At the same time they both recited: "Cross my heart hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!" We all recited after.

They sighed and smiled as we all put our hands down. "Thank you all for taking that... Oath...? I guess you could call it?" Luna said looking to her sister. Celestia shrugged and Luna looked back to us. "Now... For any and all here we would like to call forth General Ryder and his sister and Applejack and her siblings." I looked to Applejack as Soarin let Scootaloo hurried to the Princess' side. She gave me a confused look, the same one I was giving. We reluctantly stepped forward as Big Mac and Applebloom came up as well. We stood just looking at everyone behind us but turned back to Celestia.

Celestia smiled and came forth. "We have something special for each of you here requested by one another." She said. "Both Ryder and Applejack have requested something for the other. Applejack asked for this dinner and something else... And Ryder asked for... well..." She stepped back and looked to Luna. "When ever you are ready sister." She looked back to us. "I'd hold hands if you are ready... no telling how you will take this..." I looked to Applejack as she took Big Mac's hand and Big Mac took Applebloom's and Applebloom took Scootaloo's. We just looked to Luna who closed her eyes as her horn glowed. Just then behind her a door frame formed. Reason we could tell it was was because it was an arched one just like the double doors of Canterlot castle. Grew from the sides up and curled into shape at the top of the middle. A nightly portal opened up showing constellations of the night sky before it morphed into two doors that turned white and gold like Celestia's dress. When it opened white fog spilled out onto the floor. "For those who do not realize this you are having a very special peek into the after life for the good. Anything of your wildest dreams are given here. From a life well lived to a life lived on repeat it is all possible... and this dream is about to become a reality." Celestia looked back into the portal and whistled.

We stood there for a moment just gazing into the whiteness only to hear the bark of a dog. I heard Applejack gasp. "...W-winona..." She said hesitantly. And just then the little brown border collie known as Winona just came running out. She immediately pounced at Applejack knocking her down starting to lick her face. "WINONA! OH MY GOD WINONA ITS REALLY YOU!" She couldnt help but hug the dog as she started to cry a bit. Big Mac and Applebloom joined the fray by petting the dog. I felt happy for them but Celestia hummed.

"Oh! Oh seems someone found their way before anything but... this isnt what we were wanting." She looked back into the fog. "OH! Here they come now!" She looked to me. "Ryder get Winona off! Someone else is coming and I think this is who we really wanted."

I grabbed Winona off as much as it hurt to do that. I had to hold Winona while Big Mac helped Applejack up. The dog couldnt help but lick me and I just couldnt help but let it happen. Then I hear another whistle. "Winona! C'mere girl!" I hear a stallion call out. Southern drawl, deep tone. Next thing I know that dog jumps from my arms, lands on the floor and charges the door barking. I looked to AJ and she was just looking at the door awestruck with tears still in her eyes just ready to pour like waterfalls. I looked back to the smokey door and just to see three figures walking towards us with what clearly was Winona behind them. Shadowy at first but I saw them as they came forth. One happening to be- get this- Granny Smith! I know right? What the fuck?! She was wearing a nice white dress, almost wedding gown like but still old lady like with black loafer shoes. She was walking with a cane despite being in the afterlife. The others were a stallion just short of Big Mac's height and stature and a mare just about AJ's height. Damn nice body but don't tell Applejack that. The stallion had a red mane and a yellow coat like Applebloom. A bit messy like Big Mac's. He wore black suit pants, suspenders and a button up shirt and a black tie with dark brown cowboy boots. The mare was a peachish color with a curly orange mane stuck into pig tails with blue hair ties. She wore a white dress with cowboy boots that almost matched the stallions. Winona just came trotting behind them. "Well now... Look at you three! All grown up and just-" The stallion was cut off by Applejack and Big Mac shrieking and rushing them hugging them while Applebloom just stood there staring in shock.

Applejack just broke down crying right there. "M-Mama! Daddy! I... I... I cant... I cant believe its really YOU!" She said. That was her mother and father? Oh my god I see where she got her looks from. But... I couldnt help but tear up holding Scootaloo's hand tight.

Believe it or not Big Mac was crying too hugging his mother. Compared to his mother it made me look about that proportion to Applebloom. I saw their mother just break off of Big Mac and approach Applebloom. She knelt down. "...Oh my goodness... Look at you...." She said softly. "...I know you might not remember me but... I'm your mother... Granny did a really great job raising you my little apple seed..." She opened her arms up. Applebloom just hesitated but she just jumped into her mothers arms. Everyone just gave a little awe and clapped as their whole little family joined together. Even Winona was just prancing happily around them.

Celestia smiled brightly. "For the Apple Family they receive through favor of our General, well needed family time with their parents, grandparent, and beloved family pet." She said. "A very fitting gift for those who have lost so much at such a young age..." She looked to Me and Scootaloo. "For you Ryder and sweet little Scootaloo... A gift Applejack has requested." She looked to Dash and my aunt and uncle who were a bit misty eyed too. "Might be a good idea to gain a little traction with your cousin and her parents." I looked to my side and picked Scootaloo up as Dash, Aunt Misty and Uncle red came to our side hugging us. It felt good to be surrounded by them. We looked to Celestia. "....Feels good doesnt it? But uh..." She used her magic and took Scootaloo from my arms and into hers. "I'll be right back... Just watch!"

I felt Dash squeeze me seeing Celestia walk into the doorway with Scootaloo just looking back at me. I felt the pain from having her almost ripped from my arms by a guard and then again when it was when I had to leave Scootaloo here before going to war and almost losing my life. But I knew who they were going to return with. Dash and my Aunt and Uncle didnt. Next thing you know we see Scootaloo come flying out flapping her wings as fast as she could. She's been getting better. I've made a bit of progress getting back into the air. But anyways my aunt and uncle gave a gasp seeing her just buzz us before landing in front of the portal door to heaven. Next thing we know two smoke trails surround her and split off going to either side of her and spike towards the ground where they made a flash and made a cloud of smoke where we could barely see. One moment we're all coughing and hacking, next thing you know we hear wings flap only to look up and see Celestia and Luna flapping their wings and clearing it up. We looked back and I swear to god I felt like i was gonna have to hold Dash, Aunt Misty and Uncle Red up to keep them from fainting. Wanna know why? There now holding Scootaloo in their arms were our parents. My dad wore a white suit and tie, mane slicked back, mom wore a white dress with golden trimmings at the hem of the dress that revealed her white high heels. I don't even think I ever said how my parents looked like. My dad had a dark purple mane like Scootaloo yet a deeper orange coat. My mom was a pegasus. Long wavy dark red mane, lighter red for her coat. "...S-Sis?" My uncle said not even believing his eyes.

My mom released Scootaloo and flew over to our side and hugged her brother. "...Oh my goodness it's... it's so good to see you Flash... I missed you so much!" She said. "I heard what you said at our funeral... I'm sorry we didnt even try to contact you two..." I released them and walked my aunt over to my dad just as Celestia came to my side.

My dad smiled and hugged me with Scootaloo. "Ryder! Look at you!" He patted my back and turned me around. "And what the hell happened to your wing?!"

I turned back around taking Scootaloo from him giving a sigh. "It's a long story... Why dont you go see Aunt Misty and Uncle Red?" I asked. "I kinda need to have a talk with Celestia... If that's alright...." He smiled and rested his hand on my shoulder.

"Gladly but... I just..." He averted his gaze a bit before looking back at me. "...I'm proud of you son... General, war hero... And great caretaker for Scootaloo..." I smiled and set Scootaloo down before just hugging my Dad. He patted me on the back for a moment before releasing me and going over to my aunt. I looked to Celestia taking my sisters hand again.

"...I might not remember asking for that visit with Applejack's family but... She needs it for what she lost at such a young age..."

The princess smiled. "You're welcome Ryder... Now why don't you go back and rejoin your family?" She asked. "We have a couple more guests to tell you about. Any questions or requests will be taken later. Alright?" I nodded before going back to our parents side. My mom had to sit down with Uncle Red just to calm him down he was kinda crying so much. I pulled up a chair just looking over at Applejack. She was sitting in her fathers lap while Applebloom just cuddled with her mother.

Luna cleared her throat. "Alright I know everyone is happy about having their loved ones back but hear this!" She said. Everyone quieted up and looked to The Princesses just as Celestia moved the door over to her side. "From this moment forward you have twenty four hours to spend time with them. I know it's not much but you can make it count. Bond, share fond memories, make new memories and share ones they havent experienced yet. But once that twenty four hours are done they're gone. Are we understood?" We all made sounds of understanding. I'm sure we all felt the pain of not holding them for a while or be a family since we lost our loved ones. Yet we still felt the joy of having the back just for that reason. "Good. We will allow you to talk with us if you feel the need to. But now it's time for the royal family to be complete!" She looked to her sister. "Pass out the glasses and earplugs for the fillies." She looked back to us as Celestia made a bag appear in her hand. "Let Celestia know if you'd like a pair of earplugs as well as this next part might get a little loud. Goggles are mandatory for the brightness if you'd wish to look at this spectacle which i know everyone will." She looked at me since I was looking at the distortion that happened that threw me off balance that one time. Fuck that scared me. Anyways the ones who got the earbuds were Scootaloo, Dash, my Aunt Misty, AJ, Applebloom, Big Mac and their mother. Celestia huffed as she went back to the right side of the heavenly door.

"Alright! Now everyone stay silent for a moment! My sister needs full concentration!" We all watched as Luna closed her eyes as her horn glowed and just held her arms out. Not even moments later she started to strain herself a bit as her magic glowed a bit more... red... Celestia just watched as her sister started to grunt and growl a bit before just letting out a banshee like scream having her eyes snap open and glow white like she was channeling nightmare moon again. I held Scootaloo tight cringing a bit as Luna's screams just reached ear piercing. Next thing you know the floor behind her breaks up and up comes a blood red castle door. Torches just appeared in balls of fire on either side of the door before Princess Luna collapsed to the ground.

I released Scootaloo and rushed Luna. "Princess!" I said getting to my knees as she slowly propped herself up. "Princess! Are you alright?"

Luna looked to me and smiled coughing a bit. "Yes... Yes Ryder I'm alright..." She said standing up with my help. "Thank you for coming to my aid... True to your title there but I didnt need the help there.... I've done that many times before but this one took much out of me than anything..." She looked up. "Can somepony bring me a chair? I just need a sit down for the rest of this!" I watched as Big Mac and his father grabbed a chair (and these things arent the lightest things) and bring it over to where we were. They set it down just on the other side of Luna and I helped her into it. She gave them a nod before looking back to me. "Alright... I'll be fine here on out. Just listen and go back to your family.... I have my sisters aid if need be..." I nodded and did as she said. I went back to my family's side and sat with Scootaloo on the floor.

Celestia giggled slightly. "Well we can all see why Ryder deserves this dinner but tonight isnt all about him." She said. "This dinner... it's supposed to be about family and why we're glad to have had what we did..." She glanced to Luna and stepped over to her side resting a hand on her shoulder. "Luna and I shared a very special bond long ago and even after her return as Nightmare Moon it still is strong." Luna looked up at her sister blushing a bit before looking back at us.

"And all of this wouldnt be possible without our parents. Leaders of the afterlives of many. And you are meeting them all tonight." Celestia stood Luna up and they flew over to the doors they spawned and together just whistled that sounded of a symphony of birds. The door to hell opened and a ball of smoke came out. Dark smoke. Not light smoke like how my parents were. At the same time a glowing ball of light came out of the heavenly door and at the same time a flash of light stunned us a bit.

We all grunted and just groaned a bit. These goggles didnt do anything to protect us from that. Could've been worse but when we got our sight back we looked and there was Heavens Light and Hellfire. Celestia's and Luna's parents. Hellfire just wore a dark blood red smoking jacket with a black shirt and red tie as well as suit pants and dress shoes. Heavens Light wore a dress similar to Celestia's but with some differences. White dress, some gold trimming here and some armored pieces around her chest, arms and back. Everyone around us just gasped and just bowed in respect to them all. "My my what a lovely group of ponies!" Heaven's Light said gazing at us all. "Greetings to everyone! Welcome to this grand royal family dinner!"

Hellfire laughed a bit. His voice still echoed here... If I wasnt under the watchful eye of parents, marefriend, subordinates and Luna AND Celestia I'd've charged him and just gut checked him back into the door he came out of. "This is the only time in YEARS we've had other families join us and the first time most of them came from a realm I am forbidden to enter."

Celestia cleared her throat out before looking to her father. "Cut the effect father you dont need to be scaring anyone here!" She said. "We have children present!"I watched as the stallion hit his throat and then cracked his neck before clearing his throat.

"Ooh! Sorry about that. Get so used to that effect but it just sounds so good when you're telling your minions what to do..." And just like that its like he coughed up what ever modulator he had in his throat up. "But yes welcome to the Royal Family dinner! Go on and have a chat while we catch up with each other!"

And that was the cue to go meet Applejack's parents and let mine just speak with my cousin and her parents. I left Scootaloo to cuddle with our parents just because I know she missed them as much as I did but I needed to just introduce myself to someone who I'd probably be scared of if he were still around. Just as I approached their little group Applejack just sprang up from her chair and hugged me. "Thank you thank you THANK YOU!" She said very loudly into my ear. I hesitantly hugged her as her father came over to us.

The stallion just looked at me just looking me up and down which kinda made me nervous. Next thing you know he looks me in the eye and gives me a death stare. "...So... you're the stallion I need to blame for my daughter cryin' like this...." He said with a voice just about as deep as Big Mac's but with less bass in it. I kind of stammered a bit just trying to find the words to say. He then just laughed making me blush and avert my gaze before just joining in on the hug between me and my marefriend. "You're the BEST! I swear if it werent for my son tellin' me who ya were I'd've gone and wrung your neck for even bein' near my daughter! She's just my lil pride and joy before her lil sis!" Applejack pushed her father off blushing a bit.

"Daddy! Not in front of my coltfriend!" I kinda laughed a bit. She pushed off of me before just kissing me and holding my hand. Her father put his hand out which I immediately started to shake.

"Well good to meet ya... Ryder was it?"

I nodded. "Yes sir. Ryder of the Royal Guard at your service!" I said. "And you are?" He chuckled a bit.

"Where are my manners? Name's Bright Mac. Nice to meet ya General. Why dont ya come over and meet my wife? She aint much of a guard type but you got yourself lucky gettin' to protect my daughter." I kinda smiled as I walked behind Bright hand in hand with Applejack. She still kinda cried a bit but not as hard as when she first saw them. Good thing her makeup doesnt even run. Waterproof mascara courtesy of Rarity. We approached Big Mac hugging his mother while Applebloom just sat on Granny Smith's lap just looking at them hug it out. I think Big Mac was even crying! I've never seen him cry like this! "Honey! Come on over here and meet Applejack's coltfriend!"

The mare came right over after prying her son off of her leaving him just whimpering a bit. She looked back at him and just nodded towards us. He just gave a bright smile and came over to us only to hug his mother from behind. She looked up at him giggling. "Such a love bug arent ya...? I missed you too Mac.... Why dont ya just go and spend time with your father? I need time with Applejack here!" She said.

Big Mac sighed and hung his head. "Yes mama...." He said. I snickered a bit and he blushed and glared back at me.

Applejack looked to her father. "I think I got it from here Pa.... You just get Big Mac and sit down with him..." She said. Bright nodded and grabbed his sons arm leading him to the table next to Granny Smith and Applebloom. We looked back to Applejack's mother. "Mama this is Ryder, my coltfriend and the General of the Royal guard. He just got back from a war we had not too long ago."

Her mother smiled and took my hand gripping it with both hands. "Well my stars! A General!" She said looking back to her daughter just hugging her. "My little sugarcube here got the perfect stallion!" She looked back to me. "Oh! I'm sorry I havent introduced myself yet! My name is Pear Butter. Applejack's mother!"

I took her hand and shook it. "So I see where her beauty comes from here." I said making both Applejack and her mother blush. What I wont mention is why she calls everyone sugarcube. Well... Everyone that means something to her. Because her mother JUST called her that. "And... It's good to actually meet you for once... Applejak told me what happened and... I'm so sorry you went like that..." Pear Butter sighed taking her daughters hand going towards the chairs by her family but sat a few away letting us get on the other side of her.

"...I told him I felt like we needed to get to the hospital just to make sure we didnt have complications but... Applebloom didnt wanna wait... The pain I felt, the weakness I felt... When I went to sleep after that I just... didnt wake up... Glad I didnt have my lil seed with me when that happened...."

Applejack sighed. "We're glad to have her here with us... Don't think we'd be the same if ya took our baby sis with you..." She said. "The day we lost you I just... Big Mac, Pa and Granny had to hold me close to make sure I didnt cry more than I already was... The nightmares after that just.... they changed me..." She looked towards the rest of her family just a few chairs away. None of them looked back at us. "...If it werent for granny whippin' me into shape you wouldnt be seein' the mare you see today..." She looked back at her mother. "...I just... Seeing you go hurt.... I wanted more time with you... you'd've been proud the way we're runnin' the orchard..." Her mother smiled a bit before hugging her.

"...I wish we had that time too... that first day up there... I was scared... I knew I'd never see you again but... this changed that thought.... but... what worried me the most was when Granny was called up there... I didn't know how you'd do without her... I can see now you've guided yourselves well... I'm proud of you three...." I looked over to the other side of the table where my parents were talking with my aunt and uncle. Dash had Scootaloo over with Princess Celestia.

I looked over to Applejack and her mother. "Why dont you two catch up here?" I asked. "I kinda wanted to visit with my family too. That alright AJ?" Applejack just looked over her mothers shoulder and just gave a nod. "Alright. We'll talk later after dinner. Love you my little Apple bite." I could see her face turn red as her mother laughed. I couldnt help but smile a bit and just fly right over the table and over towards where my sister was.

When I landed Celestia smiled at me as Scootaloo ran up and hugged me. "Ryder! Did you meet Applejack's parents?" Celestia asked. I nodded just putting Scootaloo onto my shoulder. "This was a noble thing that was suggested. If I could give you a higher rank I would but neither mother or father would allow it. Their standards for ranks are given by bravery and not of the thoughts they hold in their mind." ...She should reword that so it makes more sense to fit to me. I have no thought at all in my mind sometimes. Applejack and Scootaloo can verify that. I smiled a bit.

"Well... I know what happened with her and her parents so I just wanted to see a big smile on her face... Basically one I havent seen at all..." I looked to Scootaloo. "Something I havent seen since Scootaloo saw me come back home after the hell that was losing my job and my apartment... I'm glad I still have her..." Her smile disappeared. I could see her looking at Scootaloo and then just at the table. She looked back to me.

"...Might we be alone for a moment Ryder? I wish to speak with you alone." I nodded and set Scootaloo down handing her over to Dash who walked back to the table and went to go over to meet Applejack's parents and see Granny Smith again. I looked back to Celestia.

"Is there something wrong Princess?" She didnt say anything yet only took my hand before walking towards the kitchen area. We walked past the staff and food shelves before going into the food storage area. It was just a big vault door just to make sure nobody contaminated the food if they infiltrated the castle. She sat me down on a crate and just looked at the door as it now sat cracked open.

"...You know this is the where I had to read your first letter to Scootaloo to make sure she didnt worry any guards or run off.... She cried so hard the first day you were gone... I almost wanted to stop what ever transport you were on and send Shining in your place... but then I'd have Twilight and Cadence breathing down my neck telling me I needed to bring him back." She looked to me and sat on a larger stack of crates. "...Since that day I wondered what would have happened if you havent punched my guard to get your sister back... I'm very glad you did though... Otherwise I wouldnt know the care and compassion of being her caretaker. She deserves you more than I deserve you... This isnt any way of saying I'm letting you go from being a guard but... as a time to apologize for everything the guard has done to you and from everything I've said about you in your time of extreme pain... I should've seen the pain you were going through when we had you in that cell... when you put that gun to your head I worried that Shining would've been hurt from your actions but.... who I should've been worrying about were the Citizens of Equestria and not just about those who work for me... guards are the same as you or me... some are seen more special than others and you? You're a gift that has been bestowed upon me by neither my mother or father... I just..." She started to tear up. I could tell with the dim lighting inside this food vault. "...I'm just... I wonder if I can apologize to you for everything that has happened... from the murder, to your wing and so forth..." I got up from my crate and hugged her.

"....Of course Celestia... I forgive you for the things that have happened but... those things that were out of your control couldnt have been helped... You cant control fate... only your mother and father can... some having more pull from one than the other... I dont wish to be sought on as being favored by the holy or unholy... but just be favored by whos around me...." I backed up a bit and looked her in the eye. "...You should see yourself the same way... Be not favored by your mother or father but by those around you... Scootaloo says you've been doing a lot of things that showed that really well." She smiled and hugged me tight.

"....You and your parents raised her well... thank you so much for letting me watch Scootaloo...." I smiled hugging her back.

"Thank you for giving her a good home while I was away... What ever you need for me to repay that i will do it." She just looked to me and didnt say a word. We hugged it out for a few minutes before we headed back to the dinner. The meal was great. Had a hayburger with hot peppers (I'm regretting it later) and a soda, AJ and Big Mac had a contest to see who could drink a milkshake fast.... Both got brain freezes and Luna had to get them both water. Parents orders. My parents just shared a bowl of salad and my mom was surprised when Scootaloo ordered a big hay burger that was just as big as mine and ate the whole thing.

Everything was good until uh... Until the news came... I was in the entertainment room with Scootaloo, Applejack, Big Mac and their family. My aunt and uncle had to get Dash into bed because she had a bit of a stomach ache that didnt really end well... She needed a shower and a diaper. They're just making sure that she's gonna be okay after that. We had a movie on. Something kid friendly but grown up enough so neither me or Bright Mac choked on cutesy crap. I had Scootaloo on my lap cuddled up to me, AJ next to me with Applebloom and her mother next to them and Big Mac and Bright Mac behind us, Big Mac kinda snoozing away. Never could stay up for movies but I'm getting kinda off track. As we got to... really just the most boring musical number in all of cinematic history... Luna came in. "Ryder? Scootaloo? Can you two come here please?" She asked sounding a bit regretful. Scootaloo and I looked back at the door and saw Luna now wearing a black tshirt with a classic controller print and sweat pants. She had her head hung slightly. We got up and went around so we didnt block anyone viewing the movie. When we reached her side she looked to me before just hugging me.

Scootaloo looked up at Luna as she broke the hug and took our hands. "Something wrong Luna?" She asked. Luna sighed and nodded. She walked with us out of the room and down the hall.

"...Yes... Something is and it's between me and your brother... you're here because I want a witness to what I'm going to say..." We stopped at the middle of the hallway a few doors down from the entertainment room. She released us and just looked me in the eye. "Ryder... I... I'm sorry about this morning.... My sister and I were in a hurry for tonight and I disregarded your plea for answers to a horrid dream... You asked what that dream meant and it was my job to answer said questions..." She just held me by my shoulders. "Will you accept my apology?"

I nodded. "I accept your apology on the grounds that you answer my question. What does it mean if someone has passed on is in your dream and is angered with you?"

"It just means you think they're displeased with things that you have done. I wouldnt worry about that but... I've been tasked by your parents to bring you to them.... They're just in a room up ahead... it's where Celestia is... I need to return to mother and father now... Mother knows what I have to do but father doesnt even want me to help..."

"Your dad just needs to care about his daughters helping others the way they want to. Not try to turn one away and possibly against one another..." She gave a smile and nudged me and Scootaloo along.

"Well said... Now go on... My sister is waiting."

We nodded and I took Scootaloo's hand and we walked down the hall. We walked on for a while until we saw Celestia standing outside of a door just a few away from her own room. She was now wearing some sweat pants and a tshirt just like her sister. Grey sweats and a Metallicolt Tee... Princess getting some better taste in music. She gave us a warm smile. "There you are Ryder!" She said. "Are you and Scootaloo enjoying your time with your entire family here?"

Scootaloo flew up and landed in Celestia's arms. "Yes! Thank you again for letting us have dinner with our mom and dad again!" My sister said. She looked to me. "Arent you glad you had dinner with them and Aunt Misty and Uncle Red?"

I sighed a bit. "Actually was good to see them just talking and not yelling at each other for once..." I said leaning against the wall. "Any time they saw each other they'd yell, threaten and just nearly fight about what ever pissed them off... Didnt bother asking either but... they looked happy just to talk to each other..."

Celestia smiled placing Scootaloo by my side again. "Well that is a door closing and a new one opening..." She said. "If anyone needs anything I'll have them tell you and Luna will look into it if she can with the dreams. By the way she did apologize didnt she?" I nodded.

"Yes but... she still sounded as if she was hiding something... This morning she said she was waiting for a match to start on her game yet... she just told me she was distracted by preparations for tonight... Do you wanna question that for me? I'm not trusting myself for getting information with what's been going on lately... Did Twilight tell you about what happened at her castle?" Celestia sighed nodding.

"She had Shining call me when he got there... He does appreciate you staying with her until he arrived. Now I'd suggest going in there to meet with your parents while I deal with Luna." She pointed to the door. I nodded and took Scootaloo's hand just before Celestia just flashed away.

When we walked into the room we saw our mother sitting on a bed with her hands folded just staring at us with a worried look. Dad surprised us from behind when he closed the door and leaned on it. We looked back to mom as she came up and hugged us both. "You two are the best children we could've raised..." She said. She took both of our hands almost prying us away from each other and lead us over to the bed. "Here... Sit..." We did as she said and sat next to each other. We didnt question it at all. Nobody thought anything of this. Mom grabbed a couple of chairs that were set in corners just the opposite from where we sat.

Dad came over from the door and sat down next to mom across from us. "...We've had a nice time tonight kids..." He said. "Having dinner as a family, with Princesses... And just hearing our boy is a general of the royal guard....and even seeing our little girl fly around without any trouble...."

"Yes... we're so proud of you both but.... we have something we've been meaning to tell you when you were older but... that's not happening any time soon... we figured this would be the best time...." Mom looked to dad... They both gave a look that neither of us liked. Dad sighed and just averted his gaze. Mom looked away too.

"....You uh.... " Dad tugged at his collar a bit and took a deep breath. "....This is... this is hard to say here..."

I held on to Scootaloo kinda scared on what was going to be said. I looked to them. "...Take a deep breath and just say what ever it is..." I said. "We can take it." They did take a moment to breathe, think about what was going to be said. The air felt so tense. Even felt Scootaloo's wings twitch with nervousness. It was either that or fear. Last time I remember being cornered in a room by dad was when he found something out I did that was bad. Mom was the lure and he was the trap. Mom always was the one who punished me but not as bad as Dad... he'd spank me sometimes but would always apologize after.

Mom took a deep breath and looked at us. "I just... I'm sorry to say this but..." She said just hesitating. "...You two arent real brother and sister...." Scootaloo gasped and my heart dropped. "...We didnt want you two to go without knowing that.... sure you've been together all your lives but... truth is..." She looked to me. "...You were adopted when you were very young Ryder... Maybe a month or two after you were born... Who ever wanted us to adopt you left us a note... when you go home the note should be in our closet...." I released Scootaloo who was just stunned by what mom just said.

"...The house was destroyed in a fire..." I stood up. "You expect me to just get a time reversal spell or something and find the note that was left with me as a baby?! DID THAT NOTE HAVE A FUCKING NAME ON IT OR SOMETHING?!"

Dad or... I dont even know what to call him even in my enraged state. He got up and tried to sit me back down but I shrugged him off. "Ryder please!" He said grabbing my arm as I tried going for the door. I looked back at him taking my arm back.

"GET YOUR HANDS OFF ME! IT WOULD'VE BEEN BETTER IF YOU LEFT THIS WELL ENOUGH ALONE AFTER ALL THAT FUCKING HAPPENED!" I teared up a bit seeing Scootaloo just look at me shocked and the ponies who I called my parents looking at each other worried. I just left the room slamming the door behind me and hurrying down the hall. I ran from that room, past the entertainment room, past Luna's room and all the way back to the dining hall where I saw Luna, Celestia and their parents just sitting at the end of the table talking. "CELESTIAAAAAA! SPARRING MATCH NOW!"

Celestia shot up from her chair at the end of the table. "Ryder?! Ryder what's wrong?!" She asked.

"NOW DAMMIT!" Celestia sighed and teleported us both to her training room. Alicorn magic. Gotta fuckin' love it. We now stood facing each other in the boxing ring and I just took my suit jacket off tossing it aside readying myself. Celestia readied herself as her family appeared on a nearby bench with her father smugly eating pop corn.

"Your move Gen-" I cut her off just sweeping her leg unexpectedly and pouncing on her just starting to punch her. Some in the face, other punches to the chest and I even drove a knee into her gut.

Before I could throw another punch I was kicked off and held down by my neck by Hellfire. He looked pissed off as he lifted me up just grasping at my airpipe. "YOU LITTLE RUNT! I'LL TEACH YOU TO-" He said but I cut him off with a swift kick to the face making him drop me. He stumbled back and Luna flashed in front of him.

Luna huffed and shoved her father to the floor before using her magic on Celestia who was just holding her nose in pain. I just sat down tearing up more and hiding my face. "Father! You leave Ryder alone!" She snapped. I could feel her gaze turn to me. "And you Ryder! What has gotten into you?!"

I looked to her. "OH LIKE YOU DIDNT FUCKING KNOW!" I snapped. She looked back to her parents, her father holding his face just giving me a scowl.

"Mother. Father. Leave us now. I have something to take care of here and dont worry.... I can defend myself." I saw her flash her gun and hoped her father didnt get any bright ideas. They both nodded and flashed away. Luna came to her sisters side and sat her up. She was dazed and had a little dried blood on her nose. "There we are sister... you're healed... Are thou alright?"

Celestia nodded and just crawled to my side hugging me. I didnt fight it. "...There is something deeply wrong here Ryder..." Celestia said. "...You... I think you might've broken my nose but... no way to check now... what fueled that rage?"

I kinda broke down there. Sobbed a bit and latched on to both Luna and Celestia. "...M-my parents... they arent my parents... I'm not even... S-Scootaloo's brother..." I said. Both Luna and Celestia gasped.

"Surely you jest!" For all those who like to read old play scripts this means 'you're joking right?' I shook my head.

"...M-my... Scootaloo's parents just said... I... I was just given up to them... They had a note but... it burned up in the house.... we didnt know where it was... we... we never will... it... it probably had the name of my parents on it..."

Luna shushed me as I broke down harder. "Ryder come now... you still are Scootaloo's brother after all you have been through... you've gone and treated her like she was blood this whole time..." She said. ....That reminds me... HOW THE FUCK DO I SHOW EMOTION THROUGH MY WINGS IF IT WAS ONLY THROUGH FAMILY?! I just whimpered a bit.

"...I just... I dont know how to react to this news... I'm scared but... then I'm mad... even just... happier to be glad Scootaloo has someone to care for her...? I dont know... i just...."

"Ryder listen to me... these emotions are normal... its some shocking news that was brought on suddenly.... When I found out about the plane crash I was distraught but.. angered at father for causing that... I was scared too... I was almost too scared to let Scootaloo know of your death... I probably would've hidden it as you being stuck out there for a while more but... there would be talks of letters, chats online and such... Some things we couldnt explain.... the truth would've found its way eventually...." I felt Luna tense up a bit.

Celestia pried her off. She said something in their old tongue which... I'm surprised they still knew.... I didnt know what they were saying but I looked to Luna who nodded and just flashed away. Celestia stood up a bit and helped me up and hugged me. "...Calm yourself Ryder..." She said. "...I sent Luna off to find your family and bring them to a neutral area. Guards will be present to make sure you dont... uh... Go off like how you did me.... And I want you to know you arent in trouble for that... You saw that opening and took it further than even I could... Busted nose, knocked the wind out of me... surprised I didnt throw up when you kneed me in the stomach..." She sighed and took my hand. "Now come. We need to sit everyone down and we can see what can be done. But I want you to handle this the best way you can. Apologize, be grateful for what you have and make sure Scootaloo knows... she's probably just as confused as you are...."

I nodded and she lead me around the castle. This was to a part of the castle where I dont think I've been. Western side, third floor. It was a meeting room. Long table made of mahogany, black leather chairs and flags of every ally of Equestria from St. Bleetersburg to Griffonstone and even some of old fallen empires I remember reading about in history books. History buff ykno? Anyways we sat there for a while. She texted away to Luna telling them where we were. I honestly just sat with my head hung, arms crossed and just... feeling like an asshole... I ran away from those who loved me as if I were their son and from a sister who i've been with for so much that we've been through... This news changed me a bit... but only in that moment... I didnt know what to think and it just made me put my fight or flight response in and I flew away like a little fucking bunny... Though we arent talking about Fluttershy's bunny... Little shit... Anyways the door opened up and I barely bothered looking up. I just heard shuffling feet and Scootaloo sobbing... "N-NO! DONT SIT ME NEAR HIM!" She screamed. "H-H-HE DOESNT LOVE ME ANYMORE!"

I looked up and saw dad trying to fight with Scootaloo to try and sit her down in a seat nearby. I got up and grabbed her from uh... mom and dad... still feels weird to say that and I just sat down with her. She hit me, bit me and struggled but I didnt give up. "Scootaloo! Stop it!" I heard mom say.

Celestia shushed her. "He knows what he's doing." She said. "Let him to his work." They watched on for a little while as Scootaloo kept going and going. I could feel each hit weaken over time until she just stopped and broke down hard.

I shushed her and held her close. "...Its okay Scoot.... I gotcha.... Big brother's gotcha..." I said.

She tried pushing away but she didnt even break my arms. "N-NO! YOU'RE NOT MY BROTHER YOU SAID SO!" She snapped. I shushed her and held her tight again.

"...But I am... Not only am I your brother... I've been with you every step of the way.... you've gone through so much but who did you go to when you were scared from the storms we had? Who did you call for when mom and dad died...? Who promised they'd be back when they were shipped off to a war?" I could tell she was thinking about it. "...Look... I'm sorry I went off like that... I just... I didnt know how to process that... When mom and dad died... I kinda went through the same thing... didnt know what to do and just freaked out.... It hurt bad yknow...? This hurts just about as bad...." Celestia looked to our parents and just nodded towards the door. They said nothing and just went for the door leaving me and my sister alone in the room. "...I've done everything I could to feed you, protect you... I even changed you when you had an accident and stayed in your room and on the floor when things got real bad... The days after the murders you were stronger than I was most days... Sure you'd wet the bed but... I did too and just hid it like you would... cept the only ones to know inside the house were you and me... now we have AJ, Big Mac and Applebloom to help... They'll know but they'll help." Scootaloo kind of burped a little bit. I looked down at her and I didnt like the way she looked... Little bit of a sickly green under a blushing red with her red teary eyes. Next thing you know there's dinner all over me. I just sighed holding myself from puking as it seeped through my shirt and dripped all over the seat under me. "...We gotta get some new clothes here... You got it all over me and you... But dont worry.... I'm not mad." I looked to the door. "CELESTIA? MOM? DAD? Got a little problem in here!"

Celestia ran in with mom and dad behind her. She gasped as Dad gagged seeing the vomit on me.... surprised I kept it together... it'll come later though. "Oh my! Did the poor thing get sick?" She asked. I nodded. "Well that's what happens when someone is crying so hard...." She took Scootaloo into her magic and sighed. "And such the cutest dress too! You come with me and we'll get you cleaned up. I'll even send Luna and some guards out to get you a new set of clothes." She looked to me. "And same to you General. Just take that shirt off and toss it. You can use either my shower or Luna's if you wish." I nodded and got up just as... ugh.... chunks of food dropped onto the floor. I just unbuttoned my shirt and tossed it nearby. Didnt even have my jacket. That was still in the work out room.

Anywho after my shower Scootaloo and I got into pajamas that Celestia got us as a gift. Nice silky fleece pajamas (both top and bottom) that were stain resistant, temperature controlled and still comfortable. Could piss the bed in these and just stink. Not look wet. My pattern was little vinyl records while Scoot had wonderbolts style. She passed out after she got out of the shower. So much taken out of her. Celestia even gave us a bed beside hers big enough for us both. She even had all the cute little pictures Scoot drew with her. I tucked her away and kissed her goodnight but I went back to my mom and dad who were waiting at the door talking with Celestia. I hung my head as my mother huffed. "I hope you're happy..." She said. "...When you ran out you left me and your father feeling like failures and that you didnt think of us as your parents anymore... We're hurt... All those years of raising you, teaching you right from wrong and this is the thanks we get?"

I sighed. "...I'm sorry... I just... I didnt wanna... I didnt mean to hurt you..." I said. I looked to my mom as dad came to her side. "...You two mean the world to me... without you where would I be? Probably in an infants morgue... either that or in the hands of a drug dealer.... You two... you were the ones that took me in, cared for me day in and day out.... I honestly didnt know how to process that information except for anger...."

Dad sighed. "You might not have been ready for it Ry but... Scootaloo probably needed to know... if we could go back and change it we would but... we were more than guilt ridden for a while..." He said. "...Between when we told you and when you first came to visit us in the afterlife... we just talked it over many times, contemplated times before you showed up and even just.... Heavens light wanted us to talk to you through your dreams but it didnt get through that thick skull of yours!" I sighed leaning against the wall.

"...I dont care if you wanna take it back... what's said is said...." I looked to Scootaloo. "But.. by blood or not she's still my sister..." I looked back to them and beckoned them out the door. All three followed. We walked out into the hall and went down a ways. I stopped and just put my back against the wall sliding down to a sitting position. Dad looked away.

"Fuck... this is the 'dont hate me' pose...." He looked to Celestia. "He did this so many times as a kid when he was guilty about something...." He looked back to me. "Alright out with it!" I just hugged my knees and looked down at the floor.

"...After the murders.... I just... I didnt know how i'd take care of Scootaloo... I was afraid I'd hurt her somehow in my state of grief stricken, sleep deprived and fear.... There was just a part of me that wanted me to just... put her up for adoption..." My parents gasped as I teared up. Same with Celestia...

Mom knelt down next to me as I cried a bit. "...It's good you didnt.... And it does look like you regret ever thinking about that..." She said. "To be honest... Your father and I thought of giving you up again after we got you but after a few months of changing, feeding, and burping... we grew too attached and kept you... well... until you broke your fathers prized record but I fought it tooth and nail but your father wouldnt have it... Exactly why he gave you so much trouble as you grew up..."

"...I know..." I replied looking up at mom. "...he told me that before shit hit the fan.... I really was kind of an ungrateful shit wasnt I...?"

Dad huffed sitting next to me. "Sometimes you were but we loved ya through and through." He said slinging his arm around me. "Each time I grounded you I thought maybe I was too harsh but then again it did teach you better. Even was glad when you got your mark... in that garage of your teachers.... How'd you know how to fix that damn car anyways?" I kinda snickered a bit.

"Idiot teacher left the spark plugs off and he had his filter on wrong. I was just a lucky kid getting to that car before he even knew what I was planning." He looked at me confused.

"What were you planning exactly...?" I got up and helped him up.

"Joyride. Only found out it wasnt working when he told me what was wrong with the car. I just found the filter's misplacement. Dude had it on his oil wire. Thought it was supposed to soak up any oil that leaked out!" Dad laughed a bit. Mom just tousled my mane.

Celestia just gave a smile before her phone gave her a notification. She pulled it out and checked it. "Oh! Luna texted me!" She said. "Seems she wants us to meet her in the dining hall. Already there with the Apple Family..." She scrolled down a bit. "Oh uh... without Applebloom.... Seems she got in trouble and grounded in their room that was assigned by Luna's.... Exactly why you must watch what you say around little fillies and colts." Of course... Applebloom caught swearing.... Again. She looked to us as she sheathed her phone. "Are you going to join us Ry? I can have a guard stand by for your sister." I thought for a moment. I did kinda wanna be there for Scoot after what happened... but then again I barely had time with AJ tonight either... I looked to her.

"If Soarin is still here put him in front of the door or in the room. He's the only one I trust at this moment... There's something about him that makes me think your father cant touch him...." She smiled and nodded.

"He's a good choice for this one General. But I think he's asleep. You know your way to the dining hall right?" I nodded. "Good. I shall stay behind. I'll have Luna tell me once you're there." I nodded and gave her a salute. She used her magic and dismissed the salute but only to float me into her arms to hug me. She released me and I ran with my parents following behind me.

When we got back to the dining hall I saw Hellfire, Heavens Light, Luna, and the three elders of the Apple family as well as Big Mac and Applejack. Both now wearing new pajamas. Applejack's was a red onsie with feet covered in lighter red apples. Big Mac just plain dark green. Luna smiled as we walked up. "Glad you could join us Ryder...." She said. "...I uh... I'm sorry I didnt say anything about that... mother forbid me to tell you because then this dinner wouldnt have happened... But no more talking about this. You seem in better spirits than I thought."

I sighed looking back at my parents. "Well... I did have a little freak out but two ponies turned that around...." I said. I looked back to Luna. "I assume you got your sisters message?" She nodded.

"Stayed back to make sure your sister is sleeping well... terribly sorry about the suit by the way." She walked back with her mother and father. "But enough about the General. My mother and father have things they would like to say!"

Hellfire cleared his throat. "As much as I'd like to see some of you down in my realm I am actually not wanting to..." He said. "This dinner was absolutely something... seeing how my daughters adapted to this life of Princesshood and conversing with the ponyfolk which in old times would've been frowned upon... Now... I see that it was probably a wrong choice to make..."

Heavens Light gave a chuckle. "I would have to agree with my husband." She said. "I've been glad to come to know my daughter's friends so well... Their General and his sweet little sister the most. They're kind and very forgiving.... Even from what I saw with a sparring match between Ryder and Celestia... I know everypony works their emotions out differently but there is something special about Ryder... He has a special connection with everyone around him, my daughters especially..." She looked to Luna. "Luna... if you would... have everyone stand back." We looked at each other confused as Luna came and nudged everyone back a couple feet. That's when we saw Heavens Light fly up without flapping her wings and just closed her eyes. She started speaking in the old language.

We had no idea what was being said. But Luna did. She used her magic and gave everyone those goggles again but there was something different about these ones... darker tint I think. We all quickly put em on and Applejack grabbed me turning away before a large flash of light engulfed the room. It even sent out a little shockwave that knocked us all of our feet yet didnt break any glass. Applejack groaned a bit as we got up now finding ourselves faced away from the royal family. "...Everyone okay?" Applejack asked. Everyone gave an answer either being they are okay or that they'll let us know when their hearing came back. Guess which one I was there.... Never mind.... Stupid thing... Anywho when we turned back we all gasped a bit. There sitting on the floor with a beam of heavenly light shining from above was Winona. The dog quickly rushed Applejack barking and panting happily as she just bounced around us. Heavens Light landed back down and gave us a warming smile.

"There we are... Consider your family pet returned as a gift for such a glorious dinner and an apology for taking those who were called too soon... You are welcome..."

I looked to Heavens Light. "...Y-You mean... Winona was resurrected?" I asked. She nodded.

"Yes. I've taken her body and soul, chanted the sacred spell and combined them into one returning her to the way she was before her ascension." She looked to her husband. "And now one more thing... To those who know of Winona's death Hellfire is going to revert minds and alter memories..."

Applejack dropped off my arm to grab and hold her dog. Hellfire stepped forward. "Worry not because the spell I'm about to use only alters memories of those outside of where we are that know about the dog biting it...." He said. "Canterlot being that place so.... everyone in..." He looked to his daughter confused.

Luna smiled nervously. "Ponyville father." She said.

"Ponyville! Everyone in Ponyville will not remember Winona's death even Winona herself wont even remember what happened."

Bright Mac gave a chuckle watching his dog lick his daughters face as she giggled and cried tears of joy. "I don't think she cares how she died. Girl's more excited to be around her best friend!" He said.

Just as we readied ourselves Hellfire flew up and just made his body explode out. Nothing bad. Just crumpled up at first and then stretched out sending a magical shockwave from his horn. He landed and sighed giving a bow as some cheered. Big Mac came over and helped his sister up. "There we are... Winona's back... We had a nice family dinner we'd never thought we'd have... and we got this big lug for making this possible." He said pointing to me.

I blushed a bit. "Aint all my doing there Big Mac." I said. "Could'nt have done it without the Princesses help."

We just ended up hugging it out until Applejack was near to passing out. She just has this tell for when she's really tired. Leans on either me or Big Mac and just latches on to us like a vice grip until one of us brings her to her bed. Big Mac had this one all taken care of. They left the room with their parents on their trail and leaving me and my parents alone with Luna and hers. Hellfire looked to me and huffed. "General.... You and I need to have a small chat...." He said. He looked to his wife. "Heaven honey... Take the boys parents outside... I want Luna to be the only witness here...." I felt my heart drop a bit. My mom and dad patted me on my back before leaving. As heavens light passed me she had a bit of a worried look but just kept going without saying anything. I just looked at them hiding a fear i had lying deep with in me... and rage.... dont forget that hate for Hellfire.

We heard the door close and Luna used her magic to pull up a few chairs. "Father... why doth thy want me to witness... what ever you're doing..." She asked. We all sat down. He sighed looking to his daughter.

"It's nothing bad... dont worry... I'm uh...." He looked back to me. "General... after tonight I might've rethought about what I've done to you... true I cant take it back but after seeing your family the way it was meant to be and the gesture of asking my daughters to let your fillyfriend there see her parents... it was touching... I had something planned for you but it seems those kind gestures touched my heart a bit.... Left that thing back in the underworld but it felt as if i've learned to love again... another thing being... what you've done to my eldest daughter in that ring... it did bring out my rage but even a mere mortal stands a fighting chance.... And... I too want to bestow a gift upon you as my wife did the others..."

I looked at him confused. "...Alright... what's the catch?" I asked. "There's usually some catch to your kinds of gifts...." Yeah... that nut-punch maneuver was awesome to do but it did cost me loss of bowel control for a whole day... Found that out a week after... Anyways he gave a huff and put his hands up.

"There is not one single catch to this nor multiple. As Luna as my witness this gift is something that has no strings attached... I'll even allow you to slap me to ensure that is-" I didnt even give him time to finish that thought before jumping up to backhand him. He didnt fall from his chair but he was stunned by that slap. He just shook his head and looked to me. "Wow.... That hurt.... If there were strings attached there I'd've pulled them before you did that... But I am a humble stallion... Your gift is... well... why dont you look behind you?" I looked behind me and next thing you know I yelp feeling one of my feathers get plucked. But this kinda confused me even more...

Luna gasped a bit. "Father! You said there was no catch!" She snapped. Luna flew in front of me and made a mirror appear in her magic. This was a full bodied mirror and I just... I was speechless at what I saw... There on my back were my wings... my REAL wings... No more prosthetic.

I looked back at him and just smiled even though he was holding a feather he plucked from my now replaced wing. He smiled back. "You gave me my wing back...?" I asked. He nodded. "That fake wing haunted me as a memory of a plane crash I nearly died in... That was your dog that lead me and my team to safety?"

Hellfire stood up. "Yes. Even though mortals cant see him he does reveal himself in ways I can only order and who I can only order to." He said. "You were the one I ordered it to help. Yes I've forced you to follow but if you noticed you havent had to follow him for a while. And you wont have to." He nudged me along. "Now go on General. It's late and I'm sure that sister of yours needs her big brother. Pretty sure you'd want a family breakfast too!" I nodded a bit but.... I stopped and just turned around to just hug him. I was just that overwhelmed with emotion I needed to hug someone. He was stunned for a moment but he just let it happen until Luna pried me off and walked with me back to her sisters room. When we got there I just said goodnight to her, thanked her for a wonderful evening and went to bed. Celestia even passed out on her bed. As I climbed into the sheets on the bed at the side of the wall Scootaloo just whimpered tossing and turning. I just grabbed onto her and shushed her before she just calmed down. I just don't know what to think with this damn night but... I'm glad with the way it ended.

To Be Continued.

Sweet Apple Scare

It's been a few days since we had that dinner with the royal family and our own families. I got to meet Applejack's parents and Scootaloo got to spend some well needed time with mom and dad even after what news we were slapped with. I did get to tell the story of how my wing got hacked off to my aunt and uncle and they were just mortified that I'd even do something like that but what made it okay was Celestia's and Luna's father's gift. My real wing. When Scootaloo saw it she didnt understand until I told her. Even she loved hearing about Winona. She and Applebloom ran around the castle garden with Winona playing ball. I just sat with my parents and watched. It was an emotional farewell that afternoon. Scootaloo and I had to say goodbye to our parenst one last time and I had to hold Applejack close the entire time that her parents and grandparent said their farewells. Though we did have an emotional goodbye we were permitted to visit when ever we wanted as long as if it wasnt too often or forced. So that means we cant yell at Celestia or Luna to visit our parents. Now back to today... I didnt really have a great night of sleep. Woke up a few times to let Winona in and out, had to keep a flashlight on her in case she tried to run. She didnt. Though she didnt do anything I had to do that four times throughout the night. Guess she missed us so much she wanted some attention. I had to stay out on the couch because I've actually figured out she doesnt want me in bed with AJ... Damn dog... I did manage to sleep without anyone waking up wet. That's a plus... I guess... Anyways when I woke up it was to.... ugh... Dog kisses. I kind of snorted and just pushed Winona off groaning a bit. I woke up finding my pants just off... as usual of trying to get comfortable. Pants were on the table somehow, I was just in a tee shirt and my boxers. No diapers for a while which is good. I looked around and saw nobody. I just sighed and grabbed my pants before looking back at Winona who just looked at me happily. "Why don't you go wake AJ girl? I wanna get breakfast started soon." I said.

Winona barked and just rushed the stairs before bouncing up each one. I just got up and walked over to the fridge. I opened it and just looked around as Winona barked. Think someone would've complained with how loud she was barking. I just couldnt concentrate on figuring out whether I wanted pancakes or just a bowl of cereal. Barking just didnt stop. That's when I grunted and slammed the fridge door jangling all the bottles of cider and soda inside the door before hurrying upstairs to just shut that damn dog up but... I stopped at the door just looking in at something that just.... it just made me light headed, it made my heart sink without a chance it would ever come back up. There... I saw Applejack... Hanging.... by a rope tied around her neck.... I just backed up scared and just fell right over the banister before slamming hard. But when I did I screamed and just found myself only in my boxers next to my bed.... I panted looking around in now what I found was the dark. The light flicked on at one of the side table and there in bed I see AJ with her mane a mess looking scared as I was. I hopped back into bed and quickly grabbed a hold of her just starting to break down. She shushed me as best she could but that didnt stop our door from opening letting Winona and Big Mac in. "What in the hell just happened!?" Big Mac asked.

I couldnt answer. I was crying too hard. I dont even think suckling on Applejacks breasts was gonna help at all. She looked to Big Mac. "Just shut up and help me here! We need to get him dressed!" She said. Y'know... I love it how this timed up perfectly with a sleep over Celestia wanted to schedule. Girls are over at the Summer Home compound. Anyways while I cried my eyes out they struggled to get a shirt and pants on me and didnt even bother asking if I wanted to be diapered... forced me into that one as well as some slippers. Big Mac had to carry me to my car and shove me into the back seat. I just latched onto the passenger seat when Applejack. She just grabbed my arms and held them against her as Big Mac went around to the drivers side. "...There there sugarcube... just going for a little drive around is all....A little music'll do ya good too huh?" I didnt answer that either. We drove around for a while just listening to what ever was on my radio. A bit of Gems, a little bit of Metallicolt and some Sapphire Shores... Gems and Sapphire had some calm songs and I just liked em... Really helped me calm down but I couldnt let AJ go. We stopped at Twilight's castle and AJ and I got out leaving Big Mac with my car. AJ looked in as she just took my hand. "Just get on out of here. We'll be fine getting in."

"You just hurry up! Twi aint gonna be happy that you two are coming up unannounced."

"Well I aint gonna have a grown ass stallion keeping you up! Twilight has a spell to knock his ass out and let us both sleep! Now git!" Big Mac sighed and drove off before Applejack and I walked towards the castle. A couple of the night guards saluted as we came up to the door and walked right into the door. Neither questioned us or stopped us. Though Twilight will drill into them... yikes... AJ looked to me as we started up the stairs. "...Y'wanna tell me what happened there sugarcube...? Why did you scream like that..." I sniffled and whimpered a bit. "....Must've been somethin' about me considerin' you went and just latched on and didnt wanna even let me go... Right?" I nodded. "...Ah... well dont you worry... I aint going anywhere and neither are you... i'm gonna stick to ya like syrup on hotcakes..." We just kept walking up the stairs until we slipped into her personal room... Oh the memories in here... still cant believe I wet the bed and she just saw me in a puddle soaked and refused to leave me even after that.... Perfect mare... I could barely sleep after that nightmare so when AJ went to sleep I got up and just left her in the room alone just to wander the halls.

The guards I passed looked at me wondering what I was doing up. None asked me but I could tell they were wondering. I walked all the way to the TV room and started watching TV but... Couldnt find anything good. Didnt bother turning the lights on. Watched maybe two or three shows before I ended up passing out again. This time I slept soundly. I only woke up to someone nudging me. When I did wake up this time I found a blanket over me and Princess Twilight standing over me looking a bit worried and confused. She was wearing a violet night gown and her mane was tied up in a ponytail. "Oh uh... Good morning princess!" I said sitting up. "You uh.... you're probably wondering what I'm doing here right?" She nodded hesitantly. "Well uh....Why uh..."

I stammered over myself for a bit trying to think of what to say instead of the truth... I didnt wanna scare her but that was when I broke down and just leaned on her. "It's okay Ryder... You're here because something happened last night yet didnt call to let me know..." She said. "I understand if there's something wrong you'll go somewhere to someone that will help but you didnt get here on your own. Couple guards told me Applejack came up with you.... Definitely no problem between you now is there?" I hesitantly shrugged. "...Maybe something you're worried about?" I nodded. "You wanna tell me what it's about before we head into the dining hall?" I nodded.

"...I just.... I had a nightmare and.... I'm just... It has me scared of losing AJ in the worst way possible... I just... dont wanna lose her at all..." She sighed hugging me.

"If anything happens I'll be here for you General." She helped me up off the couch dropping the blanket off. I could feel the diaper I was wearing just sag a lot. "Is there anything specific that it was? Maybe something we could ask AJ about?" I latched onto Twilight as my heart dropped again.

"No! No we cant ask Applejack about that! She could get ideas and go through with those ideas!" She pried me off and sat me down holding my arms in place.

"Woah woah okay! We wont talk with AJ about it! But is there any way you can talk with me about it? I'm here for you... I'll keep it secret this time if its something bad you think about her!" Yeah... Secrets that everyone can know... But where else could I go at such short notice? Would I wait for an opening, run for Pinkie? Look panicked all through breakfast and fly to Dash or Fluttershy? Shy would just faint and Dash would freak out as much as I would. But I just sniffled and looked away.

"...M-my dream last night... I... I woke up on the couch and tried to get breakfast but... it didnt last long with Winona barking... she was upstairs trying to get AJ up but... something was wrong and she couldnt get up right away or something.... but... that wasnt the case when I went up... I just looked into her room and... and..." I just stopped myself before gaining my arms back. I used one arm to draw a circle around my neck and with the other I pulled an invisible rope choking myself. She gasped and just hugged me.

"Sweet Celestia I am SO sorry you had to go through that nightmare.... M-maybe we shouldnt talk with her about it.... Or maybe we could...." She made me look at her as she had her feathers ruffle behind her. "I don't know what to do! Help me here!" I sniffled a bit and got up with her.

"...Perhaps we should talk with Luna about it?" She nodded. She took my hand and used her magic before a door sprouted up in the middle of the doorway. It was a door marked with Luna's cutie mark almost like the doors on all the rooms around us. Even AJ's. We didnt bother knocking as we entered Luna's dream realm. It was dark but things started to appear. A few trees here, a lamp post there until we came to a city street in the night time. Think it was Manehattan. "How did you do this?"

"Luna taught me how to dream walk if she were ever unable to and Celestia taught me how to use doors but uh... if I'm ever made to bring someone to an afterlife I'm basically forbidden due to an accidental fault in my love for books. Best not to ask." We looked down the road and at the buildings around us. We heard the distant sounds of busy city streets but there were no cars in the road. I hummed.

"...Wonder where she is..." I looked behind us and just checked my corners. No sign of Luna anywhere. We stopped in the street. She looked around.

"Hold on... I wonder if..." Twilight looked to me. "Try calling for her. She might hear us if we at least try!" I nodded. I looked up to one of the sky scrapers.

"PRINCESS LUNA! COME OUT COME OUT WHERE EVER YOU ARE!"

I could hear my voice echo off the empty city streets and we just kept our eyes and ears out. Next thing you know a shadow comes down from one of the buildings and lands next to us just missing a street lamp's light. That shadow stood straight up and just walked into the light. There we saw what was obviously Princess Luna in a Maredowell costume. She tilted her hat a bit. "Greetings citizens it is I! THE GREAT MAREDOWELL!" She said. "What do you need help with?"

Twilight huffed. "Princess stop fooling around this is serious!" She snapped grabbing Luna's arm and demasking her. Her mane started flowing as she just gave a little grump face.

"Well you're no fun... Interrupting my dream time for work... What do you need?"

"It's not what I need Princess... It's what he needs." Twilight pointed to me and I just approached shuttering a bit. Luna pulled away from Twilight meeting me half way and hugged me.

"General... you're shaking... what is the matter?"

I held her close. "...I-it's about a dream or uh.... nightmare I had..." I said. "I-it was about Applejack... and... she just..." I was hesitating again. I didnt wanna say it. I pushed away for a moment and did the same action I showed Twilight. Luna gasped.

"... Y-you mean she... hung herself?" I nodded. "Oh my... I'm sorry... I shoud've sensed that but I didnt... But that's serious... Something I should be involved in." She shrugged me off. "Give me an hour and I'll be right over. For now just go about your day as normal and try and document anything you see Applejack saying or doing that isnt normal for her. If it's serious I will have her undergo a psychoanalysis and cleanse her mind of those thoughts. Sound good?" I nodded. "Alright now go. I need a few energy drinks before I can get over there so be patient." I nodded again and just ran off towards the door. Twilight followed closely as I teared up again crying. When we got out back into Twilight's TV room the door disappeared and I was on my hands and knees in full on tears.

Twilight pulled me to my feet and shushed me. "Hey hey hey no crying! I gotcha!" She said. She patted my flank a bit. "Oh you're soaked! Why dont we wake AJ and get you washed... I think I can get you some clothes from Dash's room... she still has clothes that fit you right?" I shrugged. "Well I hope so... dont have any other padding and I dont think AJ had a diaper bag... Cant really think about this much otherwise you're gonna get a rash..." She took my hand and we headed out into the hall. I now saw the daytime unicorn and pegasus guards looking at us as we passed. I was hurting by my nightmare so much it was visible on the outside. I was crying, I'm pretty sure I had dried drool on the side of my face, not to mention I'm wearing a sopping wet diaper that at any moment could be loaded to hell given the right circumstances.

I couldnt stop crying... not even after we got to Applejack's room even having to dry heave a few times. When we got to her room Twilight opened Applejack's door and there we saw her sleeping peacefully. I broke off and just dove into bed with her holding her close. She did wake right up but only turned over to comfort me. Her mane a bit messy still but it was cute when it wasnt in her pony tail... She shushed me. "There there... I'm alright... it's mornin..." She said. She looked to Twilight. "What's wrong with him Twi?"

"He's just tired is all... and wet... Found him mumbling to himself on my couch." Twilight replied as if nothing were wrong. "He looks like he was up half the night." AJ sighed as she climbed out of bed lying me down.

"Well he kinda was... woke up screaming like a banshee and cried for a while... had to drive him around like he was a damn baby... He even tell you what the matter was?" She shook her head. AJ sighed and looked back at me. "Alright... see if you can scrounge up some clothes for him to wear... I'll get him to the showers to wash him down..." Twilight nodded and just teleported away leaving me with Applejack. She picked me up off the bed and just took my hand just before we walked back into the hall. "What has gotten into ya? You've been fine for the last week or so but... what made ya freak out like that?" I didnt answer. Felt something in my throat but I ignored it the best I could. Right when we got into the bathroom I went straight for the toilet and just threw up chunks of an apple I had after dinner and bile. It tasted HORRIBLE. Applejack grabbed me and just held me close after I flushed.

Applejack had to hold me and wash me while we were in there. She even had to call Big Mac to bring a pack of diapers for me... she didnt want me to wet my pants that werent even mine... Had to wear Dash's sweat pants and one of her shirts Twilight had to resize. This shirt was just a plain white one that Dash never wore... nice fit and cooling though. Guess Big Mac didnt wana give me my clothes because he didnt wanna wash them... Anyways after the shower we went to Twilight's dining hall. Spike was just sitting by the stove making pancakes. Had his red button up on, brown jeans and off white socks. Twilight was now dressed in blue jeans, bunny slippers and a black teeshirt. AJ wore a tied red flannel shirt and a pair of Fluttershy's bell bottom jeans... Sexy. Even wore her boots that Big Mac brought by... Didnt even bring my shoes but that's okay. I stole his slippers. Karma. What ever. But anyways I was just sitting at the table next to Applejack just with my head on the table. Twilight sat on the other side of an empty chair next to me leaving it for Spike. He always liked to sit next to me. Spike huffed as he got the last pancake off the griddle. "There... Twelve pancakes. Two laced with Apple sauce, four with blue berries and the rest plain." He said. Twilight used her magic and brought the plates over as well as a bottle of syrup. I picked up a fork and knife just digging in. I needed to get something in my stomach after that. AJ sighed.

"At least his appetite aint shot... that's a good thing... Just be careful eating there sugarcube. I dont want you to toss that up or choke on it... Aint gonna like it if I gotta get you to a hospital now..." I just gave a nod shoveling chunk after chunk of pancake into my mouth. God the syrup and blue berry taste almost made me forget what I saw... But it didnt wipe it all away... Spike came over with a tray with a tea pot on it and a few tea cups and set it on the table before sitting next to me.

Twilight grabbed a tea cup and started to pour a cup for me and AJ. She set it out for us and the first moment I got I grabbed the cup and just held the warm cup in my hands... Sipped at it a bit. "This tea is a calming mixture." The Princess said. "Zecora made this mixture from tea leaves and berry juice as well as the tiniest bit of citrus juice for a tang over the sweetness of the berries. It shouldnt put anyone to sleep but just lower ones stress levels and calm the mind." Applejack looked to Twilight.

"Hopefully it doesnt mess with his bowels or bladder some...." She then looked to me. "I love ya sugarcube but I dont think i'd wanna spend my whole day changing you and I'm not gonna wanna have you be freaking out every time you sleep." I just looked at my plate of now half eaten pancakes. I honestly just wanted to be done with breakfast.

I didnt even finish it before taking the cup, chugging it and putting it back on the table before getting up and walking out. "...If you need me I'll... be around..." I said. As I walked out into the hall I just shoved my hands into my pockets, crinkling as I walked I heard chairs behind me shifting away. I didnt stop even when I heard Applejack try and call for me. Sounds like she was just shut up by Twilight. I walked until I was downstairs at the front steps. The morning sun was bright but it didnt effect me. The guards out there stood a couple yards from the door. Both unicorn. I just sat behind them on the steps. Didnt have my phone but I just looked to the sky. Clouds passed by, birds flew around. Just the fresh air and sunlight relaxed me kinda. Didnt have real shoes to go out with but I was comfortable with what I got.

One of the guards looked back at me. "General? What are you doing here?" He asked. "Nobody told us you were here." I huffed looking at him.

"Nobody really knew I was here until this morning when the Princess found me. I just wanted to come out here and just sit back waiting for Luna if she's gonna be here soon... talked with her earlier but I'm not sure how far out she is..." I just looked at the sky. Then back to the guard. "Say you got a phone I can borrow? I need to make a call." The guard nodded and looked to the other giving a whistle. The guard looked back.

"General needs a phone. Need yours!" The other guard looked a bit nervous. I looked to him.

"C'mon. You're not gonna get in trouble. I just need it for a moment. If there's something bad on the screen you dont want anyone to see just set up the touch pad for me." I saw him just pull his phone from his pocket before turning the screen on, swiping a few times and tapping at the screen before giving me the phone. I looked at the phone pad and started tapping away until I had Luna's number.

As I hit the call button I looked to the guards and just snapped my fingers and they went back to their post. I listened to the phone buzz until I got an answer. "Hello? Who is this and how did you get this number?" I heard Luna ask sounding a tad tired. "If this is MythicPin288 I admire your tenacity for trying to frighten me but I can sure as hell trace this call back you little twat!" I huffed.

"Princess it's Ryder. I'm just wondering where you are... I had to use one of the guards phones to make sure everything is okay there." She gasped.

"Oh Ryder! I'm sorry about that. I've been dealing with some hacking son of a bitch on one of my war games.... Four perks and seven different attachments and one that contradicts with another! Are you that bad at the game you have to cheat stuff in like that?!" She sighed. "Sorry sorry... it has me in a tizzy... what did you need?"

"I was just wondering where you were... you said you'd be here right?"

"Well I did say that now didnt I...? I'm actually kind of stuck in Canterlot for the moment and wont be out for a while... Celestia has me brainstorming for our diplomatic visit to Griffonstone and we're wondering how many guards to take and who we should speak to... and how much bits to take...." I sighed.

"Is there any way we can come to Canterlot? Me and AJ alone? I dont care if we take transport or chopper I just want this fixed and cleared up..." I heard her huff.

"Alright... I'll allow transport but.... before you do come please let my sister know about your problem and your arrival. Maybe talk your problem-"

"Princess... I'm not talking about that with AJ.... I think it's too uh... influential for her to even talk about... I dont want her to get ideas...."

"Ryder she wont get any ideas... if she does and doesnt tell you about it I'll find it when I root around in her mind without her knowing.... I promise everything will be alright. I'll let Twilight know your plans but have her make up something for Applejack. Make it seem like you're being called for official business or something but you wont go without AJ. Show your care for her. If anything say you'll take her to dinner here and I'll give you the bits to do so. Maybe a gift. That is something we can talk about. Now go. Delete my number from whoevers phone you're using. I'll speak with you later."

"Alright but... might have to stop by the orchard. Gotta get my clothes...."

"By all means. Do what ever is needed before making your way here. Now go. Any longer and someone is going to suspect something. IE my sister knowing I dont have any ideas for the Griffonstone visit..."

We just hung up without another word. When I took the phone away from my face I saw a very raunchy photo of the guards wife or marefriend or something... I did like it even though I went and deleted the whole call log from his phone. Hope he didnt need any of those extra numbers. Anyways i gave his phone back and went back upstairs. Once I got back up I found Twilight and Applejack sitting in the TV room watching a talk show. I knocked on a little side table right to the right of the door... cant necessarily knock on the door frame of a crystaline wood castle now can i? They looked back at me. AJ couldnt help but hop over the couch and just hug me. "Dammit sugarcube ya had me damn near pissin' myself worryin' about you!" She said. "Where'd you run off to? Please tell me you didnt vomit again!"

I sighed. "Relax AJ... I just needed to take a walk and breathe..." I said hugging her. "I didnt puke so dont worry about that..."

Twilight sighed as AJ sat me down in between them. "Well you're glad I stopped her Ry. She was gonna get up from the table and have me force feed you those pancakes. Speaking of which you might need to apologize to Spike. He made those pancakes special for everyone and you just not eating that much and leaving without saying anything kinda hurt him." I looked to Twilight as I went and cuddle with AJ.

"I'll take him digging for gems soon. It's the only way he'll accept my apology." I was gonna continue my thought but that's when Twilight's phone started to ring. She quickly dug into her shirt blushing slightly and pulled her phone out sighing slightly. She looked at her phone.

"Hold on a moment." She swiped at her screen and tapped at it for a moment. "Hello? Princess? Where are you?"

I heard Luna sigh a bit. "Twilight I know I said I would be there but my sister had other ideas." She said. "I'm going to be tied up for a while and I'm trusting you to get to Canterlot. I need you to get Ryder. I've been calling him but he isnt answering his phone! Is today a work day for Applejack's family?" Great hiding it. She's never gonna believe that... Twilight looked to me and I gave her a slight nod hidden as a snuggle for AJ.

"I think so... I'll give them a call and let them know Ryder is needed. You just keep working. Maybe I'll send you a few ideas on what to do. Just be patient. If I cant reach them I'll just send some guards there with a convoy."

"Thank you Twilight. Now be on it. Ryder needs to be here and we need him immediately!" I prayed to Celestia's mother to just let AJ be so engrossed in the TV show she spaced out and didnt hear ANY of that after Luna hung up. Twilight looked to us.

"Well... I guess you're needed in Canterlot Ry. What for I have no clue but it sounds important."

I glanced up at Applejack who was just too distracted with the TV... I mean... More than usual. Basically like... Well Scootaloo when she's pissed off at me. Just stares at something without saying something to at least acknowledge you. I nudged Applejack. She looked to me. "What's wrong? Cant get comfortable?" She asked.

I huffed sitting up. "Not when duty calls in Canterlot." I said. "Luna called- and I'm kind of surprised you didnt shush us or something but I'm needed in Canterlot. We gotta get home so we can get dressed!" She sighed looking back at the TV.

"I aint going back home yet. Sides I already started watchin' this here show again! It's a day off for me!"

"But... it's wednesday isnt it? Today is supposed to be a sales day! You should know it's a sale day!" She sighed.

"Sugarcube I love ya but cut that shit right now! Big Mac and I agreed that we'd take a break after our last visit to Canterlot. Work aint gonna be a thing until monday. Besides I wanna stay here with Twilight. Barely spend any time with her anymore."

Twilight's phone gave a notification. She checked the screen and sighed. "Says here Fluttershy wants to talk with me... alone..." She said. She looked to me and Applejack. "I'd say you can stay AJ but it's best if you go with Ryder and I'm not taking no for an answer... Not to mention Ryder can have the guards 'help' you out. I wont even object to it. He's got the go ahead to do so."

I looked back at AJ. "Hope you heard that Applejack... I will bring the guards in to carry you out in cuffs if we dont go home now!" I snapped. "So what's it gonna be? Go home and get ready for Canterlot? Or do I have the guards force you out and keep you cuffed until we get home?"

Applejack looked to me a bit mad. "...You wouldnt..." She said. I just stared her dead in the eye. Didnt say a word. You know what she did? She forced my hand. She grabbed the blanket I was covered in and wrapped herself up in it. I huffed and hopped back over the couch and walked out the door. I whistled to a few guards. Both unicorns. "Got a situation in here! I need some cuffs, a gag and leg wraps. Maybe someone to help to hold on tight..." One nodded and gave me his cuffs and the key to them. The other one made his horn spark a bit. Note here: some unicorn guards are allowed to use their magic for muzzles and leg wraps. Mostly because they're strong enough and still gentle with it. The one guard followed me while I twirled the cuffs on my finger.

"Alright AJ... since you wont come naturally.... We're gonna come home. You dont kick and scream and we're good but.... you do and my friend here will hold you down until we get home. Understand?" She said nothing. Didnt even grunt or anything. I glanced at Twilight. "You mind helping me here?" She nodded and just used her magic to tear the blanket away from her and toss it aside. I had to jump over the couch and bring her to the floor as carefully as I could while still getting her into cuffing position. I got one arm but had the guard help me with the rest.

Eventually we got home and I just apologized every moment of the way. Once we got home I uncuffed her and gave the cuffs back to the guard and he released his magic on her before we exited the truck. Oh how good it felt to feel the grit of Apple Orchard dirt under my feet again. We waited until the truck drove away but as it got far enough down the road Applejack punched me in the arm and made my knee buckle. "THAT'S FOR CUFFING ME YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!" She yelled. She just pushed me over and pinned me under her foot. "You do that again and it aint for loving I swear you're gonna find yourself tied to a tree by the road, diapered up, pacifier locked to your face and a big sign pointin' to ya saying 'HEY! LOOK AT THE DAMN BIG BABY WHO LIKES TO WET HIMSELF WHILE CONTROLLING THE GUARD!'" I huffed

"Okay! I admit I fucked up... b-but I just... I want to spend time with you!" She got off me and started towards the house. I got up and followed.

"We always spend time together sugarcube but you act like you just havent seen me for a god damn year!"

"Okay I know I spend a lot of time with you but uh... m-maybe I can take you out to dinner tonight? I can ask what restaurants are good around Canterlot! Just please come with me! I promise what ever day we decide to start selling I'll be there to help sell! I'll even handle everything!" She straight up ignored me as she walked into the house. When we walked in Big Mac was on the couch watching TV looking a bit tired. I sighed. "C'mon AJ what's it gonna take for you to come with me to Canterlot?!"

Again she didnt answer. Instead i kinda winced in pain feeling my chest kind of lock up when I breathed in. Big Mac got up as I collapsed onto the side of the couch. He pushed me over onto the couch and rubbed my back. "Gotcha in the weakpoint huh?" He asked. I nodded wheezing as I tried to breathe. "Well what ever you did must've really pissed her off. And what's this about Canterlot?" I coughed a bit gasping for air.

"...G-got called into work at Canterlot... tried inviting her along for a dinner but... fuck..." His massages worked a bit but it still kinda hurt.... How did it take that long to hit me? Nevermind that. Big Mac huffed and looked up at the bedroom door just as it slammed.

"APPLEJACK! APPLEJACK YOU GET DOWN HERE THIS INSTANT!" He looked to me. "You wait here. I'll get her down whether she wants to or not." I watched as he hurried up the stairs to the door and started banging on it. "DAMMIT AJ YOU GET YOUR FLANK OUT OF THERE! DONT MAKE ME BREAK THIS DOOR DOWN! AND YOU KNOW I WILL!" I huffed and sat up.

"Dont d-do it in a way I have to fix it! Or just make it easier to-" I was cut off by Big Mac charging the door before just busting it down... Off the hinges I might add. I could hear Applejack scream before some more yelling I couldnt hear. Then some thumps and grunts before I hear Big Mac call out.

"RY GET UP HERE! I GOT HER BUT I DONT HAVE HER FOR LONG!" I got up and waked up the stairs hearing more thumps against the wall. I faltered a bit and just hit the wall and leaned on it before going and leaning on the door jam. I looked in and saw Big Mac struggling to keep Applejack pinned. I hobbled over and knelt down in front of Applejack.

"Applejack! Look at me here! This isnt you! You're hitting me and refusing to go somewhere with me and you're fighting with your brother! You almost never fight with your brother! What is going on with you?!"

Applejack looked to me just with a pissed look. "YOU'RE MY DAMN PROBLEM! CUFFING ME AND TREATING ME LIKE SOME SORT OF DAMN CRIMINAL!" She snapped.

"AJ! You have the count of three to calm down before I get your rope and drag you to Canterlot with Big Mac running security! ONE!"

"FUCK YOU TWO! LET ME GO!" She kicked Big Mac a bit but he didnt get off.

"Two!" She headbutted Big Mac. Still didnt give up but then she turned her sights towards me and spit in my face. "OKAY THAT'S IT! I AM GETTING THE ROPE!"

I got back up on my feet just trying my hardest not to stomp on her. I'd never do that but she's got me to where I almost want to. I walked over to the closet and she struggled more from what I heard even when I opened the door. I had to climb up on a step stool we have in here (mostly because of time outs for both Applebloom and Scootaloo sometimes) to reach her rope and when I grabbed it and pulled it down my heart dropped almost like in that dream. The rope was tied into a noose... I slowly stepped back shaking and looked to Big Mac who was looking at me. "What are you waiting for?! Toss me that damn rope before she gives me a broken nose!" He said. I looked back at the noose in my hands. From his angle all he saw was rope but... I was hesitant on even doing what I planned on doing. I just dropped it and fell to my knees tearing up slightly. I could see Big Mac put his hand on his sisters head holding it down as well as holding her hands behind her back with the other. "Dammit Ryder! What the hell is wrong?!"

"...N-no... this cant be happening..." I mumbled to myself. "This cant be... this cant be happening... Th-this is a dream!" I said that part a little louder before springing to my feet just rushing out the door. "LUNA! LUNA GOD DAMMIT SHOW YOURSELF NOW! I NEED HELP!" I grabbed on to the banister just shaking vigorously. I started to panic more not hearing any of AJ's grunts or Big Mac's yelps of pain fade or see anything around me breaking. Luna says if she's in dreams things will deteriorate or break apart if in a very scared or panicked state. Even says things are given breakaway points if they are supposed to break before you even know they do. Anyways I just backed up into the room and fell back onto the bed sitting down just holding my head. I looked over at Big Mac who was just staring shocked at the noose on the floor yet still having a damn good grip on his sister. He looked back at her and released her head.

"AJ... I'm gonna ask you something and I want some damn answers... WHAT in Granny's good name is THAT!?" He pointed to the noose.

Applejack growled and struggled more. "IT'S A DAMN LASSO! NOW SHUT UP AND LET ME GO!" She snapped.

Before Big Mac could fire back I stood straight up and looked at Applejack both pissed and worried. Tears were streaming down my face at this point. "GOD DAMMIT AJ THAT'S A NOOSE IF I'VE EVER SEEN ONE!" I yelled. "WHAT IS IT DOING IN THE CLOSET AND WHY THE FUCK DID YOU FUCKING MAKE IT!?!" I fell to my knees in front of her. She stopped struggling and just looked up at me mad.

"BECAUSE OF THAT GOD DAMN DINNER! GRANNY, MAMA AND DADDY! I WANTED THEM BACK AND I DIDNT GET ENOUGH TIME!" She broke down crying. "...I jus.... I just miss em so much... they were t-taken too soon...." I looked to Big Mac and I didnt have to say a word before he just got off of her. I picked her up and held her tight.

"AJ... this is what we're gonna do... we're gonna go to Canterlot and get help from Luna... But... I just want you to know this is why I was crying and screaming last night.... I'm afraid to lose you..." I pushed her off my shoulder and looked into her teary green eyes. "...that nightmare I had... I was on the couch and.... Winona woke me up... I went to get you for breakfast and you were... you just..." I whimpered a bit trying to hold back my tears. She held me close sobbing.

"...M-my god.... I'm... I'm sorry... this just.... god what am I thinking...?!" She looked to Big Mac. "...B-Big Mac.... Find Winona and.... And take us to Canterlot... Ry's car... I... I need help...." Big Mac nodded wiping his eyes and ran out the door. It was then we just started getting dressed. We both shook so our manes looked like shit after we did get dressed. Me in a gems tee that actually fit me, my own black jeans and canvas sneakers and AJ in a jean skirt that was barely covering a diaper we had agreed she'd wear and one of my tee shirts to hide the waist band of it poking from the top. Even wore her boots. Before we even left I took out a knife from a drawer downstairs- Serrated and sharp- and proceeded to cut up her rope. Even told her it was for the best.

About twenty minutes later we were off on the road in my car. Big Mac was driving and me and Applejack were in the back seat cuddling away. She kind of shivered and whimpered a bit as I held her. Shushed her and kissed her forehead showing i was there for her. "...You're lucky I can drive Applejack...." Big Mac said. "This scared the living daylights outta me... We're just lucky Applebloom and Scootaloo werent home to see that rope of yours... they probably would've clung to ya more than your lover there...."

Applejack held me tighter. I even think her nails were digging into me too. I glanced to the front seat. "Big Mac. Cut it out!" I snapped. "She's heard enough and you're not making it any better for her!" Big Mac didnt even break his attention from the road.

"She's gonna hear this from me until we get to Canterlot! That girl hid that from us and never said anything and scared us half to death when we found it!"

"Just shut up and turn the radio on! I dont have to listen to this shit and neither does she!" He huffed and did as I said and turned the radio on. Just a commercial at first and then they played some songs by Tumbling Rocks and a few parody songs by Cheese Sandwich. Doesnt only do parties but he's just awesome. Even made me and AJ chuckle. Funny songs. Only did that because I guess he was a guest DJ. We listened to the radio the whole time there. Some songs were loud enough where I could sneak a quick tease here and there until AJ nodded off. She nodded off closer to Canterlot and just cuddled with me not even wanting to let go. When we got to the gate I sat up as far as I could as Big Mac waved a guard over. Once he was close I called out. "Clearance code Seven Five Alpha Charlie!" I could see the guard glancing in at me. She gave a quick salute. Couldnt tell if she was pegasus or earth pony- and yes- Celestia does employ earth ponies to the guard. She was nice enough to let us in. The car lurched forwards a bit for a few seconds until Big Mac huffed.

"Alright were here now get up and get out! I'm heading back home."

"The hell you are! Help me get her out and inside! I'm not the strongest one here! Now get out and help me with her!" He huffed and rolled his eyes at me before getting out and going around the car. Once on the passenger side he opened the door and slid the seat up before grabbing her feet and sliding her out before just propping her up onto his shoulder. She didnt wake up and just clung to him whimpering a bit. He sighed.

"Aand she wet herself... Hope you have extra diapers..." I squeezed myself out and huffed.

"And I hope she doesnt leak on you. Now give me my keys and MOVE!" He dug into his pocket and tossed my keys at me and turned to walk up the stairs. I shut the door and tossed the keys to a valet guard. Trusted them with my car any day. Anyways I followed Big Mac up the stairs and into the castle. I looked to the guard at the door. "Can you get Luna to the foyer? I wish to speak with her immediately!" The guard nodded and went to his earpiece. I went into the castle doors and just walked to Big Mac who was just trying to keep his sisters padding hidden from other guards passing by. I rested a hand on his shoulder. "Anyone says anything they're gone. Now uh... We're gonna have to wait for a bit... Luna might be busy."

That she was. Took ten minutes for her to get with us. Once with her we were walking down the hallway together. She was wearing her pajamas- sweat pants and her classic game controller shirt and even wore some flip flops. She huffed as she looked to me at her side. "...So you found an actual noose in the closet huh....?" She asked.

"Yes Princess... I even cut the rope up just in case this doesnt work.... You... will be able to fix this right Luna...?" I looked to her worried. She stopped outside of a door giving a smile.

"I will fix it but if I cant... know I tried my hardest... Yet that chance of me not fixing it is very minimal." She used her magic and took Applejack from her brother. He looked a bit hesitant to let go but he gave her over to him anyways. "Now you two can either wait in the room or do something else around Canterlot. Your choice but for now is there any other information I should know?"

I almost shook my head but looked to Big Mac. I huffed and just nudged him a bit seeing him just kinda pouting a bit. He looked to me and I pointed to Luna. He grunted. "Alright fine..." He said looking to the princess. "Princess... I just...." He averted his gaze for a moment. I saw tears building up in his eyes. "C-c-can I ask a favor....?" I looked to Luna seeing her nod.

"Anything for you Big MacIntosh... after what you saw and heard I will grant you this favor...." He sniffled wiping his nose on is sleeve.

"...I just... I just wanna see our family one last time... I'm just hurting... not as much as AJ but... it just hurts to see our family incomplete...." She brought him in for a one armed hug and shushed him.

"Now my young stallion.... Thou can only see your family under one condition... This condition being only to promise thy life will not end early due to your own actions... I do not wish for my sister or myself to oversee a service for someone involving our wondrous heroes..." He looked to her as tears started streaming down his face.

"....Cross my heart... hope to fly... st-stick a cupcake in my eye..." He just broke down here. Luna smiled and looked to me.

"Alright... now thou shalt go with your friend.... I will contact my sister and she will escort you into the afterlife and I might just meet you there with Applejack..."

Before Big Mac broke off of Luna I kinda blushed a bit. "Um... Maybe we can distract AJ's mind while you work?" I asked. "Surely something can go wrong whilst doing your job right?" Luna hummed as I just tossed my arm around Big Mac.... Barely got his other shoulder. ...WHY AM I SO SHORT COMPARED TO HIM DAMN!?

"You're right... Now a question... Do you wish to enter her dreams via a door or mind link? I'm good with either. But it's your choice." I looked to Big Mac and then Applejack.

"...Maybe a nap is needed... I was kinda crying hard before we left the house... and... I kinda am already padded... but we gotta do something with this big lug too." I patted Big Mac's back making him blush a bit. Luna smiled a bit looking at us.

"Well not to worry. All will be padded, changed and woken when needed... now all we need is a bed big enough for everyone so this is easier to do." And with that we all moved into Luna's bedroom and both her and I made sure that her spider terrarium was secured and all were accounted for... I may have soaked myself during that.

After me and Big Mac lied down we just instantly fell asleep. I found myself in the house at Sweet Apple Acres. I was right where I landed in my nightmare... Balcony was still busted and I even flew upstairs but I was relieved to see no sign of what I saw. I landed back down and walked outside only to see Big Mac and Applejack hugging it out. "...L-lord I'm sorry big brother... I just... I got weak..." I heard Applejack say. "I just hate it that we only had ma n pa around for just a day.... same with granny and.... I just wanted more time with em and... I guess I just didnt wanna leave it at one day..."

Big Mac huffed. "Well dont be doing that again... I just dont wanna lose another one here... especially if its my lil sis who I swore I'd protect and love until my end... and... I just wanna say that wont be anytime soon..." He said. I stepped on a twig that was tossed right in front of me and I didnt notice until.... well yeah. He looked to me. "...And you Ry? You wanna say anything?"

I walked up and took Applejack's hands. Even looked into her still teary eyes. "...Applejack I.... I just..." I averted my gaze. "Since we met I've been worried I'd lose you somehow... I've just been trying to protect you whether it was inadvertently or where you knew I was protecting you... This time... I just wanted to protect you from yourself and... I hope I've succeeded in that... Losing you would be more than losing my parents and my baby sister... seeing you in a pine box before me isnt gonna do any of us good... Same with it vice versa.... We dont wanna see each other going any time soon... I'll protect you from anything and even yourself... If there's anything you dont wanna say around your brother or our sisters just call or text me... I'm there for you...."

Applejack wiped her eyes just looking away. "...I should listen to you two more often... all it's been lately is fighting between us and... it just made me with things were better..." She said. She looked back to me. "...When you had that dinner with our families together.... I saw how things were better... before the murders, before granny went and... well... kinda before AB was born but... she was a gift that I honestly didnt want when I was younger... now... now I just see it was my mistake... she's a blessin' and so are you sugarcube..." She held me close resting her head on my shoulder. "...I love you sugarcube..." I smiled a bit after kissing her.

"...I love you too..." I guess Big Mac couldnt help but shed a little liquid pride and hug us both.

We heard a sigh and broke the hug only to look to the tree line only to see Luna come out. "Seems there is some regret for what was had?" She said.

Applejack nodded. "...y-yes princess... I just dunno what I was thinkin..." She said.

Luna came up and hugged her. "Well its a good thing we made you realize what you were doing before it was too late...." She said. "A life lost to their own actions are unforgiven throughout the afterlife. That means you'd be wandering aimlessly for who knows how long... neither mother nor father would let you into their domains..." She released Applejack and looked to us. "Speaking of domains what say we take a visit for some parental guidance? Hm?" Applejack took my hand as well as her brothers.

"...I'd object but I think that's kind of a good idea..." She looked to me. "...Can you uh... can you at least... help me start the conversation....? I dont think I can admit to my parents I had those thoughts..."

I huffed. "As long as I'm not doing all the talking I'll do it." I said. I looked to Luna. "We're ready when you are Princess."

Luna gave a nod and closed her eyes. "Alright everyone prepare yourselves! This is going to get a bit weird!" She said. I motioned to Big Mac to close his eyes as AJ dug her face into my chest. I closed my eyes and heard everything around us start to change. It sounded like a whirlwind up rooted trees and broke branches yet didnt touch us at all. After about a minute of that we heard Luna sigh. "Alright... you can open your eyes now..."

We opened up our eyes hesitantly and looked around. We now found ourselves in Heavens Light's Domain. Big Mac just looked around just a bit awestruck. "...I swear if it werent for Luna being here I'd swear I was dead..." He said. He looked to me. "...H-how come you aint shocked by this sight...?"

I huffed looking to Luna. She nodded and I looked back to him. "...Because I've been here before Big Mac..." I said. "When my parents died... I was distraught that I nearly shot myself... Shining brought me from the cell I was held in into a gun range and... I nearly shot myself... I saw the footage of that day... I was shaky aiming down the range but... I stopped and just started to put it to my head only to be tackled to the ground getting the gun knocked out of my hand and sent into the range under one of the barrier counters. Even saw Shining start to cry as other guards came in to haul me out only to have Celestia go in and comfort him... From that day Luna and Celestia have taken pity on me which uh... I feel is a good thing? Dunno but... I've gotten chances to see my parents in the afterlife along with Scootaloo to make it seem like they're still there to care for us even if it is from afar."

Luna pried Applejack off of me and took her hand as she looked on to the cloudy horizon. "And this is what we'll do for you today." She said. "You and your sisters have lost someone at a young age and since both Applejack and Ryder have gained our favors by being heroes of Equestria my sister and I are to do things for you we can not do for any normal pony. Only you and Scootaloo being that exception. Now lets find mother... She'll lead us to your parents and possibly give her own input on this." Big Mac and I nodded while AJ just sniffled whimpering as she averted her gaze.

We walked through the clouds for... a couple minutes maybe until we came to a door. Big door. Rose wood finish with apple etchings. Applejack looked up and gasped. "...Th-this door.... I... I recognize this door..." She said breaking away from Luna. She traced the etchings with her finger and backed away. "...This was the door that we had all over the house before daddy hung himself... Granny and Big Mac had to get new doors put in to replace these on account of my little freak outs... kept on wetting myself at night and screaming whenever I had to go near their room...." She looked to Luna. "...Th-this is their door... I know it..." She looked to it and looked back. "...Sh-should we knock...?" Luna gave a hesitant nod and pulled Applejack back from the door. I came over and grabbed her hand.

"I'll knock Applejack... you stay with Ryder until we get this answer. Alright?" Applejack nodded before Luna turned to the door and knocked a bit. She backed up but watched the door closely. A moment passed before the handle jiggled a bit and opened a bit revealing Heavens Light wearing her bright white dress. She looked onto us with a somber look. We all bowed to her. Even Luna did. Luna rose before us and looked to her mother. "Greetings mother... I suppose you know why we're here?"

Heavens Light stepped out of the doorway and nodded. "Yes Luna... I saw everything and just hoped I wouldnt find her appearing in front of me..." She said. "They dont know... I just hid it as a visit to see how everything is..." She looked to Applejack as we approached with Big Mac following behind us. "...At least you're here not on your own... Shows you have emotional support through this time?" She nodded. "Well I hope you see what you'd've left behind if you had gone through with it... so many times i've seen souls come here and plead with me to go back only for me to let them wander the abyss between domains. They may regret what they've done but not many are granted to go back... for most their bodies are too damaged to even get back..." She stepped aside. "Why dont you go in there and speak with your family? I'll stay out here and wait."

We nodded and took deep breaths before walking through the door. Inside we found Bright Mac (Applejack's and Big Mac's father) who was wearing jeans and a white tee shirt sitting next to Pear Butter (Their mother... not doing this anymore...) who was wearing a similar outfit but with short shorts.... and right here if you cant tell I'm trying my hardest not to have a hard-on for a dead mare. Their faces lit up as we entered. Pear Butter got up as soon as Applejack broke off and went to her. "Oh my stars... Applejack!" She said.

Bright Mac got up and hugged Big Mac. "And lookie here! Mac! How are you doing?" He asked.

Big Mac kinda stammered and just squeezed his father. Applejack didnt bother lifting her head off of her mothers shoulder. I sighed noticing Luna come to my side putting her hand on my shoulder. "Mr. and Mrs. Apple... I hate to say this but... your daughter has had some... impure thoughts.... Not uh... birds and bees talk... it's uh... to join you... permanently...."

Both her mother and father gasped. Her mother turned and tossed her back onto the couch. "APPLEJACK! Is what he's sayin' true?!" Pear asked. "Yknow what I dont care if it's true or not YOU ARENT LEAVING YOUR BROTHER AND SISTER ALONE DOWN THERE!"

"Seriously dont fuck up the same way I did!" Bright Mac snapped. He sat down on the coffee table in front of her. "Now you listen and you listen good! If I catch you up here before you look like granny I'm gonna tan your hide before you go and stay in your own damn slice in this place. I almost didnt get here because of what I did but I was only let in because of your mother pleadin' for me to stay here! I left you down there and did I regret what I did... I even saw you walk in before I was dragged here and.... I just... I wanted to get back down there, hug you and hold you and apologize for what you saw..." I saw tears building up in Applejack's eyes as well as her fathers. "...That dinner with you guys? I just wish that was just something we could do every night.... Just to be a full family again... I mean look at whatcha got! You got a job you love, you got a stallion who loves you, you even got a brother who's watching out for every move you make and helping you do your job so you dont hurt yourself!"

Big Mac stepped up and sat next to Applejack as some sobs escaped. "...Sis... I know I act like dad too much down there but... you saw what didnt need to be seen...." He said. "...I love you and I wantcha to keep on living... this aint one of my games where you just hit a button and there ya are right next to your bed! Losing you is just one thing I dont wanna see... You know how I was with Winona and Granny... Loved em both but you? I got a bond with you that I dont want broken... not by fighting not by loss... hell not even by what family we got out there... and not even because of that idiot you call a colt friend...." He looked to me. "No offense Ry but... y'kinda are a bit numbskulled...."

I sighed. "None taken you messy diapered dunce." I said cracking a grin. Big Mac looked to me blushing hard with a shocked expression.

"...What... in Celestia's good name did you call me?!" He quickly turned from shocked to furious. "I THOUGHT WE WERENT GONNA SPEAK OF THAT AGAIN!" I chuckled a bit.

"Oh come on. Daddy's little dumper cant admit he's messed himself a few times as an adult?" I'm definitely gonna get it when we wake up.

His father chuckled a bit making him blush harder looking even more pissed off. "Well now I gotta say that is damn true..." Bright said. "Boy's been leavin' manure in his drawers since he was in diapers!"

Luna huffed. "Alright that's enough! We're getting too off topic here!" She snapped. Everyone looked to Luna a bit frightened. Even me. "Now everyone... we are here to show Applejack that death is never the easy way out. Not joke about who has their messy accidents. Focus!"

Applejack sighed and stood up. "...I get it now Princess..." She said hanging her head. "...None of my family wanna see me up here and none of what I got now wanna see me buried in a casket... I admit I had those thoughts and... I just threw em out the window thinking nobody cared... but... I see that everyone does... even those lost to time... And... I'd like to say I'm sorry everypony..." She looked to her parents. "...Sorry to you mama... papa...." She looked to her brother. "Sorry Big Mac...." She started to tear up looking to the princess. "...Sorry Princess Luna..." Then she looked to me. She walked over to me and hugged me tight. "...And... I-I'm deeply sorry to you Ry... I promised to not let you slip into what you were after the murders...and.... I'd've been the one to shove ya back into it.... probably woulda gone and had you leave your sister with my brother or your cousin.... I just... I wouldnt forgive myself if that happened..." She broke down crying in my arms. I shushed her as she cried.

I looked to Luna. "...We should probably get going soon.... AJ has been through enough dont you think...?" I asked.

Luna looked at Applejack as tears ran down her face. The princess sighed before looking back to me. "Alright. A few minutes more with this visit and we'll have you wake up." She said. "I'll be outside with mother and let her know she saw the light... I'll get you when time is up alright?" I nodded and went to sit on the couch with Applejack.

Pear Butter sat next to us and sighed brushing her fingers through her daughters mane. "...Don't cry now little sugarcube.... mama's here...." She said. "....Sorry for shoutin' at you AJ... I just... I just dont wanna see you leaving anyone you love behind... Applebloom grew up to be a sweet lil filly and... she'd be ruined if you just up and did something like that... Not to mention that stallion y'got your grip on... Pretty sure he'd be right there with your little sister..."

I sighed looking to her mother. "...I had a nightmare about this... It's weird to say but... it hinted at this stuff in a dark way..." I said. "...I was freaking out so much I didnt wanna let her go... dont even wanna let her go even after this..."

Bright Mac sat on the other side of me and huffed. "I wouldnt let her go... Breakin' her heart aint gonna be good..." He said. "When she was younger I said I'd do something for her class but something came up, I forgot to tell her and she just didnt talk to me for a week... Lucky for her we made up and I got to baking some fritters for her whole class to make up. But since she's older... gonna take a lot more than fritters to make up for what ever the hell you did..." He patted my back.

Big Mac came over and just knelt before us. "Yeah. Break her heart and you'll have to answer to me before you can try and make up with her!" He snapped. "Oh and.... for that embarrassment... I'll see you back at home...." He grinned before patting my leg, getting up and walking out of the room.

After a few minutes Luna entered with her mother both with smiles on their faces. "Alright I'm sorry to say but time is up here..." Heavens Light said. "My daughter was glad enough to help fix this and now you must leave... My apologies that this couldnt be a longer visit."

Applejack sniffled a bit. She was more calmed down now after that episode. "...Th-that's fine now..." She said getting up along with me. "I'm just glad this was a temporary stay... Aint wanting to make this permanent until the real time comes..." She looked to me and smiled. "You wanna say your goodbyes to em first or you want me to?"

I sighed thinking for a moment. I even averted my gaze to Luna and then looked back. "You first. I actually wanna stay back and have a chat with Luna here before we wake up. Something more personal that I trust her with. You understand dont you?" I asked. Applejack nodded and turned to her parents.

"I guess this is goodbye again... I uh... I'll see ya around....? I just... I dont really wanna say goodbye... gonna make it hurt more than it already does...." I watched as her parents hugged her holding her close between them.

Her father sighed. "...You be a good girl now.... Your mom and I will be visiting soon... You'll know when we do..." They hugged for a moment before looking into each others eyes. I saw tears in their eyes but smiles on their faces.

"I... I love you guys... we'll get with Uncle Orange soon to visit your site... We aint forgetting you any time soon and I'll be making sure of it."

Her mother sniffled a bit. "You tell your uncle I miss him...." She said. "...And... Have Big Mac help you with this but... there's something in the attic I wanna get back to him... I'll leave a note with Princess Luna because the more I talk the more I aint willin' to let you go...."

Applejack kissed both of her parents on the cheek before letting them go and running out the door. I sighed and had my heart skip a beat. Luna rested her hand on my shoulder. "Is everything okay Ryder?" She asked. "Usually you'd be right by her side when leaving..."

I sighed a bit looking to her. "Yeah... I do usually do that..." I said. "But... I've got some business of my own to do..." I looked back to her parents. Even approached them hesitantly. "Um... Mr. Bright and Mrs. Pear? Can I ask you both something?"

Bright Mac smiled. "Well... Sure son... whatcha need to know?" He replied. I got a tad flustered trying to choose my words carefully. I just looked between them and took a deep breath before giving a hefty sigh.

"...Is uh... Is there still a-a w-w-way to uh...." I blushed a bit averting my gaze.

Luna came to my side and faced me to her. "Is this something truly important or can it wait?" She asked. I glanced back at AJ's parents and back to Luna. "...Okay.. it's important... Since you're a bit tongue tied do you wanna tell me what's on your mind? I'll ask for you if it's too much to bear." I huffed thinking of no better option. I pulled her in and whispered into her ear.

"I uh... i wanna get his blessing...." Princess Luna gasped and looked to me shocked. I just nodded smiling nervously.

"Thine questions will be asked but uh... do you wanna mention this to Big Mac or keep it secret?" I just put my finger over my mouth. She nodded and looked to the Apple parents. "Mr. and Mrs. Apple speaking on the Generals behalf since this is a difficult question to ask for him he requires an honest answer and an important one at that. Ryder here would like to have the blessing of his marefriends father to take Applejack's hand in marriage."

Both Pear Butter and Bright Mac gasped but Pear just fainted back onto the couch. Luna and Bright went to her side and fanned her. Luna looked to Bright and nodded towards me while she fanned his wife. Bright Mac looked to me with an expression that said nothing of his answer... I stood there shaking before he opened his mouth. "Now son... it aint an easy answer..." He said. "My daughter... she's my little darlin' and parents just hate to see their little ones grow up fast... o'course... we havent seen our family grow up until that dinner... sure we got that occasional glance from our TV but... that's only when we have Granny with us... she's just off in her own slice a few doors down... but.... We've seen what our daughter has become and the ponies who's gone and set her straight including you... you've got the ties, you've got the motive... I'd say that earns more than just the blessing... that earns you a spot in this family.... Y'all are gonna be considered my son-in-law from now on...." I smiled tearing up a bit. Even went and shook his hand but he pulled me in for a big hug. I almost couldnt take it before I was dragged off by Luna who was ecstatic. She walked me from the Apple family slice to the dream scape again. The dream scape was empty now. No orchard, house or anything. Just her and I. She looked to me and smiled.

"You're lucky I had both Applejack and Big Mac wake up.... That surprise would've been spoiled for the both of them and.... I must say I'm happy you're getting these thoughts Ryder.... I wont be expecting the decision but... I want to know who you'd want to officiate this ceremony once it comes."

I sighed smiling a bit. "...That decision hasnt been made yet..." I said. "...all signs so far point to you or Celestia but you have my favor in this.... you've done so much for me and I've gave you all the praise I could give you and even more.... You showed you cared for me when my plane went down and even visited me while laid up... " She smiled and slung an arm around me.

"If I am your choice it would be a great honor. But this is your choice... I wont be mad if it's my sister, Cadence or even the mayor of Ponyville.... Anyone you choose is who will officiate and we ill be invited... right?" I nodded.

"I wouldnt let you miss it for the world. Not you, not Celestia and not even Shining or your mother even.... They're gonna be invited as well... Big Mac might as well just be the best man as well... Shining one of my groomsmen... I dont know how i'm going to do this and who to invite...." Luna chuckled a bit.

"The time will come for this. But For now we should get you up... Big Mac seemed a bit ticked when he woke up." And that he was. When I woke up I was next to AJ... in just a diaper... Apparently Big Mac stole my pants, lied his way to get the key from the guard and took my car home... I hope he doesnt scratch it... he scratches that I'm taking his radio antenna... Anyways we had to get me a guard uniform from the storage area. I chose one from 1944. Way back but still looked good after so many years. It was a khaki green fatigues uniform with black combat boots. Felt a bit stiff for staying in one spot for years at a time. Best thing about it was that I could wear the service shirt open with a white one underneath and have the sleeves rolled up. A few guards even asked what I wanted to do with Big Mac but... he'll get it in time...

Cold Snap, Hot News

Well today kinda sucks... Not because it's snowing... It's just I... I may have caught some trouble for being snippy with Applejack at home, Twilight and some of the guards. Only reason for Twilight and the guards was I got booted out of the house in the afternoon and had to go to Twilight's castle and I guess while I was there I was taking a nap, a few guards woke me up and just yelled at them. I tried getting back to sleep and couldnt. Ended up going to Twilight's library and bugged the hell out of Spike and he told her I needed to go. This is apparently my assignment. Take a break from Ponyville, work and she even told Celestia to have me denied at the gates of Canterlot AND her summer home for a week. They pulled out the stops there... Now apparently Rarity is going to Las Pegasus and I'm gonna be going.... Why cant I go elsewhere? Dash is in the hospital again after breaking her leg, Pinkie is with Fluttershy trying to keep each other company while the cakes are out of town and I'm gonna choose to stay away from them because they're sensitive and if I yell at them, Pinkie will cry, Fluttershy will hide from me for a week and Angel... he's gonna bite my ass. Like no joke last time I made Fluttershy mad that little bunny of hers snuck up behind me when I was sitting down and bit me right on the butt. Anyways I pulled up in front of Rarity's boutique with a bag set up in the passenger seat. Bag was packed with three sets of clothes, phone charger, phone, a few changes of underwear and even a diaper or two just in case... AJ packed it. Doesnt trust me outside of the house and it's either piss or be pissed with me. Enough beating around the bush. I huffed as I grabbed my bag and threw it over my shoulder as I stepped out of the car. I was wearing a Celestial guard coat gifted to me by Celestia herself. This one had an extra layer with the fuzz that makes it warm. Also wore my boots and a pair of jeans. I huffed a bit as I shut the door and alarmed it. My breath was like a thick fog in the cold cold air. "Let's get this overwith... Fucking sick of this place and all of these fucking idiot ponies..." I said to myself.

As I walked up to the door I saw curtains to the left and right just flutter a bit. I stopped at the door and knocked once before Rarity opened up the door. Why knock? This side is her house door and it's built right into her shop. That door is on the exact opposite side. Rarity was wearing a white puffy snow coat and matching snow pants and even boots... Compared to me she was almost invisible if she went and hid in the snow. Rarity smiled. "Well I'm glad you can join us Ryder." She said. "Come in come in you must be freezing darling!" I sighed entering into the warm home. It felt good but we've had so much warmth these past months. I was actually enjoying the cold and I'm also glad I didnt have to experience cold and somewhat rusting prosthetic wing. Eh.... Still glad to have my wing even if it's a gift from an evil deity. "So I hear from Applejack and Twilight that you're a bit stressed out and snippy with other ponies. Correct?" I huffed as I walked into her kitchen setting my bag by the door.

"What doesnt get to you through everyone we know?"

"Oh a little bit of everything. Applejack tells me this time you've gone and wet yourself in front of Twilight and threatened to slap some guards when they saw you leak and laughed at you." I huffed sitting down at her dining table.

"Word travels fast it seems... Should be careful what I say to and around AJ... Same with what I do..." She giggled slightly sitting down next to me and taking my hand.

"To be honest Ryder I might hear the occasional gossip from around Ponyville, some stories just have their direct lines while others seem to come from random sources. I know I shouldnt be saying anything but have you heard that Rainbow Dash might just be using Fluttershy to tease Gilda into having a threesome? I mean you've had your share of Gilda havent you? Hasnt she seemed a bit hot under the collar when it comes to having Fluttershy and Dash around??" I looked to her slightly enthused in this story.

"Really now? How do you know this?" She smiled getting up again and going to a tea kettle on the stove that was beginning to whistle and took it off before going to a cabinet to get some mugs out.

"Gilda came in the other day to get a jacket of hers fixed. Told me she ripped it when Dash lifted up Fluttershy's skirt only to show her she wasnt wearing any underwear. Fluttershy being embarrassed proceeded to fix her skirt and act like nothing happened only to 'accidentally' trip and get back at Dash by showing her a thong she supposedly got from Spitfire during our last visit to the training facility in Cloudsdale." I shook my head trying my best not to pop a boner thinking about that.

"...Of course Dash did that... I think she did the same thing to Applejack but instead just asked. Tried to get her any way she could until I told her to back off. Hell I think she's even asked me to do it a few times out of desperation for a threesome." Yeah... I almost took it up but that was until I thought about the potential risks. Accidental pregnancies, the now irrelevant incestuous weirdness (like she'd even let my dick near her) and shit like that. Not to mention what AJ would do to me if I even slipped a pinkie into either of their panties.

I honestly would've gone and said more but we were interrupted by a yell. "RARITYYYYY!" We heard Sweetie Belle yell.

Rarity sighed shaking her head as she started to pour some tea into the mugs. "I'm in the kitchen Sweetie!" She called back. She huffed. "I swear it's like she doesnt even bother to come look for me..."

"C-can you just come up here Rarity? I have a little problem here!"

I looked to Rarity as she came back with the mugs of tea. "Should we check on her?" I asked. "If I've heard Scootaloo and Applebloom call out because there's a problem it's usually something they cant hide and need you to help with.... say a wet bed or she got something stuck somewhere." She looked to me confused. "Applebloom got one of her toys stuck in the hinge of the door and jammed it a bit. Had to climb in the window, fix the door, and save her toy. If you were thinking differently you might need to rethink your life." I could see her blush a bit.

"I wont admit a thing but you might be right..." She set the mugs down and beckoned me. "C'mon. Let's go check on her." And I dont know if checking on her was a good idea or a bad idea because when we went up to her room her whole room was a mess, smelt of stale urine and uh... like she just messed herself which she kinda did.... she was standing in the middle of her room with clothes and toys spread around on the floor, her bed was a mess and so was her dresser. Sweetie stood in the room with her dress hiked up a bit in the back. As much as she tried to hide it from me I could see the little bulge in her purple underwear. "Sweetie? What happened?"

Sweetie Belle blushed averting her gaze. "....I uh.... I had a little gas but trusted it too much..." She said. "And why is Ryder here? Is Scootaloo with him? I could use her help...." Rarity huffed.

"She's not here and Ryder is coming with us to Las Pegasus. Princess Twilight's orders you see." She looked to me. "Why dont you go downstairs and get one of those mugs of tea? Honey is in the cabinet to the right of the sink bottom shelf." I nodded and left the room just kinda worrying about Sweetie Belle. I sat at the dining table with my tea after grabbing a bottle of lemon juice from the fridge and squirted a bit into my tea. Tasted good. Why was I worrying about Sweetie Belle? Well... she's my little sisters best friend and if I'm right she hasnt been around her often since the house burned down. I might need to have a talk with her... That took maybe of about ten minutes before Rarity came back into the kitchen with Sweetie on her arm wearing the same dress yet smelling of baby powder and blushing a bit. "There we are! Cleaned and powdered and ready to go! Are you enjoying the tea?"

I nodded. "Yeah it's pretty good. Hope you dont mind I used some of your lemon juice from the fridge. Not much of a honey kinda guy." I said. She smiled sitting Sweetie down next to me.

"Oh it's fine darling. My home is yours as long as you keep your nose clean." I sipped my tea rolling my eyes as I closed my eyes. Made it seem like I was actually enjoying the tea more than I was. Rarity sighed again. "I'm SO ready to head to Las Pegasus... Of course even though this is business I still want to have some sort of fun along the way..." I glanced over to her as she was looking out the window. "The city of lights and the city that never sleeps! Town of chance and the mistress luck watching over all. A price at the tables could mean being set for life or ruined beyond repair..." Yeah that's what I could say about my career if I continue to snap at Princesses and other guards... demoted straight back to a fucking recruit... Back to basic training and I'd have to work my way up.... back to what I am now. Anyways she looked back at us. "If I were you I'd finish that tea and have a quick potty break before going. Sure there are toilets on the train but we need to get this one out before it starts to snow and clogs up the tracks." I nodded and just chugged the rest of my tea. Ooooh it tasted so good but it kinda burned on the way down. Wasnt really that bad though.

Sweetie Belle sighed a bit. "Can I at least get dressed first? It's cold outside and I'm still in my pajamas!" She said. Rarity rolled her eyes.

"Alright but hurry. We need to leave soon and I'm not going to miss the train!" I looked to Sweetie Belle and she got off her chair running out of the kitchen and upstairs. We sat there for about five minutes, gave me time to run to the restroom and use the toilet real quick. Tea went right through me. As I came back down I saw Rarity ready by the door with Sweetie Belle and a few suitcases... Two to be exact. Two big ones. Sweetie Belle's was small... I kinda made a noise of hesitancy. Rarity looked to me. "Is something wrong Ryder?"

I nodded a bit. "Uh... yeah... I dont think those are gonna fit in my car...." I said. "Not even gonna help if one is in the trunk..." Yeah these things were as big as my body going from hip to hip and as tall as my
lower stomach even with the handle down. Rarity pinched her nose.

"...Well we certainly are not taking my truck... I'd call Pinkie but she's busy and she's the only one with a big enough vehicle for everything...." She looked to me. "You better have something to help us get to Las Pegasus because we are going to miss the train!"

I huffed and dug into my pocket pulling out my phone. "Well I know Twilight isnt gonna let me get a guard escort to the station and we are not gonna be walking... I know I'm gonna be the one pulling one of those bags as well as mine...." I said. "Just give me a minute and I'll-" Just then my phone vibrated. I looked at the screen and saw a text from Soarin! I looked to Rarity while I unlocked my phone. "One sec!"

I looked back at my phone as it pulled up his text. 'Hey Ryder you ready to train on your flight today?' He asked. 'We wont go too fast or too high. Not good with the cold winds today.'

I started to text back. 'Actually on assignment right now. Gotta get outta Ponyville for a few days and actually wondering if you can do me a huge favor since you're coming. You've got a big SUV right?' I waited a moment.

'Not today. Got Spitfire's car. She's heading to Las Pegasus today and she needs the comfort of that. I've got her sports car. Y'know the one with the flames on it. I know you love that one.'

'Okay that's actually perfect. Is there any way she can swing by and get me and a couple friends as a favor to call in? We're actually on our way to Las Pegasus too and to my friend its a business trip and we dont exactly have the room for her bags...' I waited a moment and crossed my fingers. Rarity looked at me tapping her foot. This moment felt like hours but I finally got my answer.

'Okay I asked and told her it was a favor for me. Now that i've done that you've dodged the bullet of cleaning the bathrooms.' I looked to Rarity and just pumped my fist silently. My phone vibrated again. 'DODGED THE BALL NOT BULLET SORRY GENERAL!'

Rarity huffed. "So? What's going on with what ever you're doing?" She asked. I smiled shoving my phone back into my pocket.

"We just bagged ourselves a ride to Las Pegasus...." I hummed a bit taking my phone back out. "Uh... I need to get your address to our ride I just realized...."

"I swear if it werent for your connections you'd be a bigger idiot than Pinkie when she does something that hurts her twice in a row after we tell her not to do that again!"

"Good because I just booked us a ride from Spitfire. She's heading to Las Pegasus and agreed to pick us up."

Sweetie Belle gasped. "Spitfire?! She's taking us to Las Pegasus?!" She asked. I nodded. "No way! You're awesome Ryder thank you!" She rushed up and hugged me. I smiled hugging her back slightly. Even picked her up and sat her on my arm being a bit weary of her horn. She kinda looked to me worried next. "But... if I have an accident doesnt that mean... Spitfire will see my diaper...?" I sighed.

"Unfortunately yes but think of this: Celestia and Luna have seen Scootaloo diapered. Spitfire is amazing yes but compared to Celestia she's pretty much nothing but dont tell her i said that." She gave me a warm smile and giggled a bit blushing.

Rarity smiled and walked into the shop part of her building. It was a door just to the right of the entrance. Fabric, dresses, suits and ties were everywhere. Tables, displays and such. "While we wait why dont we watch some TV to pass the time? There are certainly going to be some delays with this snow and on the train." She said. And we honestly wouldnt have made the train anyways. Apparently it was stuck in between here and Appleloosa due to a chunk of ice blocking the path. Where did this ice come from? A rock formation above the tracks and no one can get a snow plow to it until it warms up a bit. Or if someone isnt too lazy to contact a fucking service to resume thiers. Seen it happen too many times before with the mayor didnt schedule a team of snowplows and it fell right back onto Twilight who made that decision. Ever wonder why Ponyville has a princess and a mayor? Because guards answer to the princess while the mayor does all the planning for Ponyville and stuff. Twilight steps in only to rectify some mistakes the mayor makes.

Anyways it took about a half hour to get anything from Soarin or Spitfire but after the end credits of a cartoon show me and Sweetie both like (apparently...) the doorbell rang. Sweetie belle gasped. "That must be her!" She said. "Hurry! Get the bags! I wanna meet her now!"

I sighed getting up. "Calm down Sweetie." I said grabbing her hand as she sprang up from the couch. "Spitfire doesnt like it when someone she's meeting goes a bit crazy. Makes her uncomfortable."

Rarity hurried for the door and took a deep breath before opening it. There at the door was exactly who we needed. Spitfire. She wore a jacket like mine except it was wonderbolts colors and she wore thick looking wonderbolt blue snow pants as well as combat boots. She smiled seeing me. "What's going on General?" She asked. "Heard you and a couple others were heading to Las Pegasus. Even better for you I've got an extra bed in my room. Random upgrades are the best!"

Rarity laughed a bit. "Well that's good to hear." She said. "My sister and I already have a room booked at the Twelfth Gate casino and hotel. We had it booked by my good friend who needed my services for a gala dinner event."

"The Twelfth Gate huh? Seems we got the same hotel. Now c'mon. Let's get a move on. Las Pegasus waits for no pony!" We nodded and grabbed our bags. Sweetie Belle hid behind me she was a bit nervous. I just patted her back as we started to the car.

I hopped into the front seat after stuffing all the bags in the back including my own. Sweetie Belle and Rarity sat in the back, Rarity behind the drivers seat and Sweetie behind mine. I sighed just stretching as much as I could. "It's not every day I go to Las Pegasus... What's good to do there?" I asked. Spitfire gave a chuckle.

"What cant you do? Gamble, have a drink or two and hell why not come with me to a show? Sapphire Shores is there and since who I was supposed to go with canceled I have one extra ticket. You are welcome to come if you want." I reclined my seat a bit knowing Sweetie Belle was a little ways away from the back of my seat.

"Maybe.... For now I just kinda want a little nap... wake me when we stop somewhere for food or something..."

"Go right ahead and nap. We'll be on the road for a while but we will stop for food and a quick potty break if needed." I gave her a smile and just closed my eyes.

I was out for a good two hours before we stopped to get food. Stopped at a McHoovians and everyone there was kinda making us nervous. Lucky for us I always carry my badge just in case. Set that thing right out on the table in full view and EVERYONE just backed off. Sure Spitfire got to sign a few autographs for the kids but it was making Rarity and Sweetie uncomfortable. When we got back on the road this time I was in the back with Sweetie Belle as Rarity took the front seat. That was when I pulled out my phone and just started to text ponies. Texted Big Mac and AJ even though I wouldnt get an answer. Just said 'hey hope you guys are being nice to Scootaloo while I'm out.' Even went the extra mile to just be a dick to Dash and took a pic with Spitfire to send to her. She just replied with a middle finger pic with Gilda mooning me. And in the hospital room nonetheless. Oh well kinda keeping this for the ass. Rarity sighed. "I cant believe Las Pegasus is just hours away!" She said. "First thing is first we need to go for the gala even location and get the outfits set for it!" She glanced back. "Tonight is just preparation for the gala event but tomorrow is the actual event! Everyone is going to be there including you and I Sweetie!"

Sweetie Belle gave a slight smile. "I am glad to be included in this but is there anything else we can do while we're out there?" She asked. "There has to be something we can do together that doesnt involve going to that gala or stay in our hotel room." I could see Rarity start thinking.

"You are right Sweetie... Not much a filly can do without someone watching her and I certainly do not want you sitting around our room bored out of your mind while I'm on the floor having my fun...." She glanced back. "Perhaps Ryder can find something to do with you. A lady needs to treat herself after a days work."

I shook my head and looked to Rarity. "Rarity I'm not here to foalsit!" I snapped. "You need to spend time with her and not ditch her after your work is done! That would be like me taking down a criminal or protecting Celestia and right when I get home just have a night on the town with Applejack leaving my sister home with Big Mac and Applebloom! When I get home after a long day of work all I want to do is dedicate my time with Scootaloo! DO YOU NOT KNOW HOW MANY TIMES I ALMOST LOST HER?!" Rarity looked at me scared. Same with Sweetie Belle. The truck was dead silent. I wiped my eyes tearing up before looking out the window. "Sorry... lets just.... lets just listen to a bit of music...."

Spitfire huffed. "Yeah... Music sounds good right now." She said. "How's about some big band music? LP is known as the start and soul of big band. Helps ponies stay calm under the pressure of the threat of losing their bits at the tables. Here. Some Fat Queen Jewel." For me I'm kinda surprised as Spitfire loaded in a CD with songs from my favorite video game. But overall I was still pissed off at myself for yelling at Rarity in front of Sweetie Belle about my sister nonetheless and how often I've nearly lost her. Not even a minute into the song I feel Sweetie Belle tug on my sleeve. I looked over just to see her scoot over into the seat next to me, buckle back up and just lean on me.

I took my phone out and pulled up the notepad. Started to type one handed. 'srry I said those things. stressed out and sorry if i scared you.' I said.

The closely cuddled filly took my phone and deleted what I wrote and started to type something out herself. After she was done she showed it to me. 'It's alright. I forgive you but Rarity does need to spend more time with me..." She said. She started typing more. 'She's been ignoring me for a couple weeks now... she has been making me food and stuff when needed but other than that its just all work and sleep for her! No time with me whatsoever!'

I sighed and just patted her back a bit. We listened to that Fat Queen Jewel CD until Spitfire changed it to False Saturn. His music is some of the best with Indecidable, Something to Give and much more. I even started to sing one of them. Anywho we pulled into the Twelfth Gate Casino and Hotel and both Sweetie and I were in awe at the sights. Even though it was broad daylight the Twelfth Gate shined brightly. Golden arch on the doorway, the whole building looked like a gate to heaven and there was a golden carpet at the valet. Spitfire sighed as we got out of the truck and went around back. "Well that certainly was an interesting ride there dont ya think?" She asked. "And to think I would've been driving here all by myself. Good to have some company."

Rarity sighed as I opened the back hatch and started pulling the bags out. Tossed mine over my shoulder, gave Sweetie Belle her bag and Rarity hers. Spitfire grabbed her duffel tossing it over her shoulder before checking inside making sure nothing was left. "Yes it was an interesting ride but a loud one at that..." She said glancing at me. "I dont suppose they have any aspirin for my head now do they?" Spitfire looked to her.

"Always worth a try. Now why dont you go and take your sister there and head on up? We'll be there to grab our room in a bit." Rarity nodded and started towards the hotel dragging her bags behind her. Sweetie followed closely. "So kid that just leaves you and me. What do you say after we throw our bags into the room we get a drink to unwind from that hell of a ride?"

I huffed. "Not much of a drinker since I got my guard gig. Guess I'm not one to drink because of my baby sister..." I said. She rested a hand on my shoulder as she handed the keys to a valet.

"Well that's a good thing I guess. Dont want her to pick up a bad habit from watching her brother. Anyways I wanna say I think I know why you're getting a little snippy with us. You're hiding something from someone you cant afford to lose and it's getting stressful to do so. Work also being a factor in this stressing.... and fear? I mean... why else would you start yelling about your sister? Am I right?" I hesitantly nodded as we entered the hotel portion of the building.

"...Well... you're kinda right there... I'm hiding something big and it's got me nervous as hell... What if things dont go right? What if things arent right when the thing is done? So many questions and so many things that go unanswered until the time comes..." Spitfire and I stopped just before the desk. She looked to my eyes.

"Look at it this way: It's gonna go off if things are hitting the shitter or flying high. I'll give you some advice because I have a feeling I know what this thing is.... Just give me a sec before we talk. One of us has to get the keys to the room." I nodded taking a breath as she started to talk to the concierge. Took a few minutes for us to get the keys but I kept the thought in my head the whole time. I was thinking about how I'd propose to Applejack and where to do it. But you know me when I think of the location I think of all the bad stuff that could happen. The beach? Someone could fall in the water or get taken out by a rip current. Nice restaurant? Bad service, terrible food and what not. As Spitfire came back keys in hand I sighed.

"I'm thinking I could use more time with my choice... That advice may or may not make it any easier." She rested a hand on my shoulder as we took our bags and made our way towards an elevator.

"Kid, that is the kinda talk that makes you get cold feet and then nothing will be done. My advice is take it slow. Make sure this is what you want and where you want it and what you want to happen. If you can help me here tonight I might be able to pull a favor later for you in this thing. Think you'd be up for that trade?" I hummed as we hit the button for the elevator.

"Sounds good. What do I have to do for you?" She gave me a smile as a door to our left opened up and went inside.

"All you have to do is two things. One is try not to snap at anyone else. And the other: Follow my lead through this. What we're doing besides a Sapphire Shores concert is just... well..." She averted her gaze for a moment. "Well... it's my brithday... nobody ever remembers with everyone at the Wonderbolts Training facility... Every year I have to remind them and they act like I'm either joking or everything's okay if they say sorry... Nobody surprises me with gifts, nobody says happy birthday unless I remind them and I just have to go out, buy dinner, a bottle of booze and drink myself to sleep almost using a cake as a pillow most times...." I sighed and hugged her.

"Been there before but every year? That sucks.... Well... Happy Birthday Spitfire...." She hugged back holding me tight starting to sob slightly. Something about this felt... weird yet in a good way. No it's not my wings. Granted ever since I got my wing back I have felt weird being hugged or laying on my bed this isnt one of those times. I've been getting better with that. Anyways we went up a good ways... twenty floors and it didnt even stop once on the way up. She had enough time to situate herself, calm herself down and make it seem like she wasnt crying at all. We looked for our room which was pretty big. Mini fridge fully stocked, 55 inch flat screen TV, a GRAND view of Las Pegasus (which I wasnt too thrilled about) and a full bathroom. Only problem? One queen sized bed. Spitfire and I looked to each other both blushing a bit.

"You uh... you wanna go back down and ask if they can make this a two bed instead of just the one?"

"Only if you want to... otherwise this is fine.... I'll just do some prebedtime prep if it's not gonna be awkward...." I blushed even more. She closed the door after setting our bags to the side and looked to me again.

"....is it bad i know about the diapers?" I blushed extremely hard hiding my face with my wings. She brushed my wings away wiping some tears that came to my eyes. "It's okay... I understand... Your little sister told me while you were gone... after an earthquake you guys had we had to slip her into some fresh ones after she wet herself after a nightmare. Poor thing didnt like it when we had to go find pants for her to wear... she kept crying for you or the princesses to help... I told her it was alright and told her... I uh..." She averted her gaze. "...I've had accidents at her age and I still do sometimes... had a firework come too close to me when I was flying one year and pissed myself when it went off nearly taking me out of the air." My mind flashed to the gunshot when I was flying out above the compound. My scar even throbbed a bit. "If you want I'll uh... pad up for you like you did for your sister..."

"...Sh-she told you that...?" I asked. She nodded. I just hugged her tight. "...Thank you... I just.... I had them in my bag and almost forgot about them until we got in here..." I looked away for a moment then looked back. "...Will it be awkward if I ask for you to change me?"

"Only if you'll do the same to me." I nodded and sniffled a bit. "You're okay... I gotcha Ry... I gotcha.... Just let it out and take a deep breath...." I couldnt help but start to sob. She brought me over to the bed and sat down with me. She held me close stroking my mane. After maybe a few minutes of crying I shuttered trying to take a deep breath. "There we are.... are we feeling better now?" I hesitantly nodded.

"...It just.... I just hate it that I'm just.... under so much stress... I dont mean to snap at anyone... It's just that... so many things just go wrong and most of it is aimed at me...." She wiped my eyes and broke the hug with me just holding up a finger as she got up from the bed and grabbed a tissue box on a nearby dresser bringing it back. I took one and blew my nose into it. "Thanks...."

"Stress isnt something that anyone likes... I yell at everyone at the facility but that's because I've got the weight of making everything perfect. The positions, the areas, the recruits and even some of the veterans like Soarin. He's such an idiot sometimes I dont know why he's up there in our ranks." I took another deep breath this one being more steady.

"I could say the same thing about myself... My rank was only given to me as a fuck up from someone even higher... Princesses even... I dont know what I'm doing and with the way I act? I should just be put in a fucking nursery boot camp! Padded patrols and hourly diaper checks...."

"Now dont go saying that! You're doing your best and that's everything there... Even when I screw up during a performance everyone knows I'm doing the best I can. Hell I can say that Rainbow Dash girl had us try that damn rainboom and Thunderlane put himself in the hospital trying to recreate that. Woulda been worse if he hadnt pulled up at the last second." I blew my nose again just giving Spitfire a smile.

"...My cousin is kinda one to impress everyone... Even if it ends up having someone get hurt.... Yours truly tried to race her and ended up waking up in a hospital bed with a concussion." She kinda chuckled a bit tussling my mane.

"Alright what's say we freshen up and head to meet Sapphire Shores? Maybe we can get your friends in on it?" I shrugged.

"Up to you. They've already met Sapphire Shores a while ago when Rarity had to make something for her." I huffed getting up. "I'll let you think on this while I hit the bathroom. Long car ride from the restaurant and my large drink is just starting to kick in." Large hayburger combo, fries salted to hell and my Senor Salt. Went right through me. Spent like a minute in the bathroom before we headed out. We did end up getting Sweetie and Rarity before heading off. This time Sweetie Belle sat in front and Rarity and I sat in the back with Spitfire driving.

Rarity gave a sigh as she stretched a bit. "You are just going to LOVE Sapphire Shores darling!" She said. "She's very nice and just about as generous as I am!"

Spitfire gave a laugh. "Yeah she's awesome! I almost never miss a concert!" She said turning at a light. "Only time I missed one was when I was performing for it. Today thankfully isnt one of those days!" We started to pull into a back entrance of a hotel and casino. Seems this one was imperial themed. Red and green shingles on top of white pillars making gateways as we drove in. To the right was a big hotel. Could even see ours just beyond it. This hotel was imperial like and even looked somewhat like a slot machine. Even had a handle that was actually a shop too. Only could be accessed by elevator. Place is popular so everyone that wanted to go up would have to wait for at least ten ponies to come down. To the left was a clear view of Sapphire Shores tour bus. Blue sparkling letters that read her name with that HUGE diamond on the back of the bus oh god I know this isnt my normal car but I'd fuck this bus if i could. Good thirty feet front to end. We drove right by it as we parked at an open spot just next to a gate.

As we hopped out a few security guards came over from the gate. Black security shirts, ball caps, sunglasses. One mare and two stallions. "Hey! You're not allowed to park here!" The mare said. "I'm gonna have to ask you to move this out of the way and find another spot." The firey maned mare huffed.

"Password is Ruby Nights. Got three guests too." The mare security guard sighed as she went to her ear piece.

"Sapphire. Got some visitors. Password holder and a few guests. One's a filly. Want em all in?" We waited a moment. "Yeah... Uhuh... Yes ma'am." The security guard looked to us. "Alright. You're cleared for entry Miss Spitfire. Your guests must stay close until you meet Sapphire. My colleagues here will lead you to her. Am I clear?" We all nodded. "Good. Now c'mon!"

We followed. I turned around and picked Sweetie Belle up sitting her on my arm. Yeah I know I'm a fucking hypocrite when it comes to having Rarity hold her but we know she wont. Helps us go faster with me carrying her. When we walked in I put Sweetie onto my back having her grip me with her arms and legs. Just as an added precaution I held her with my wings. Little known fact: When pegasus mares are mothers they will hold their kids like this. Same with their fathers and our wings are strong enough to hold up to the weight of a three year old foal. Me? Dad got a video of me trying to get on moms back when I was two and I dropped like a rock back onto the couch. My wings are stronger... I think because of Hellfire? Dunno. Wont question it. As we entered the mare broke off and one of the stallions ran in front of us. Spitfire walked along side me and Rarity behind. Rarity sighed. "It has been a while since I've listened to Sapphire's music... I hope she kept the outfit I made for her." She said. She looked to me and Sweetie. "Everything alright Sweetie? Not hungry or anything?"

Sweetie Belle blushed a bit. "Um... I may have forgotten to use the bathroom before we left the hotel..." She said. "Can we ask to stop and use a bathroom please....? I uh... I dont wanna have any accidents.... Especially in front of Spitfire... and Sapphire...."

Spitfire laughed a bit. "Aint nothing I've seen before from your little friend kiddo." She said. "Give me a moment." She looked to the security guard in front of us. "Hey is there any way we can stop for a bathroom break? Got a little filly who's gotta use it!"

The guard looked back at me. Sweetie hid behind me blushing. "Trust me dude. It aint fun having a crying filly and large piss stain running down your back." I said. "So unless we're stopping this is all on you bud." He rolled his eyes and we went towards the bus door. Rarity carefully got Sweetie off my back and pushed through me and Spitfire.

The security guard stopped us all at the door. Even Sweetie who looked as if she were just gonna lose it right there. "Alright. Everyone stays out here and the filly comes with me!" He said. I put my hand on Sweetie Belle's shoulder.

"Nope. Not happening. It's gonna be you, her AND me!" His eyes just lock to me.

"You and what army is gonna make me allow that?" I reached into my back pocket and pulled my wallet flashing my badge.

"How about the ENTIRE Equestrian Royal Guard? Do you wanna challenge me and my badge?"

Spitfire got in between me and the Security guard. "If I were you I'd just let him and the filly in!" She said. "He's supposed to be on Vacation and he's not gonna be happy if he has to call up Celestia herself to run you into the ground after you've had us forcefully removed from here! Not to mention possible firing from your job after I tell Sapphire what happened!" He looked to her and then back to me as she moved out of the way.

The security guard snorted. "Alright! You're lucky punk!" He said. "You can go in with her but next time you flash that cereal box badge each one of you is getting thrown out and that truck of yours is getting TOWED!" Oh I wanted to just cuff him to the fence while I took Sweetie in to use the bathroom but I couldnt. No cuffs and I dont wanna lose my temper with him. Might result in a little blood. I looked to Rarity. She looked a bit scared and let go of Sweetie and we followed the guard onto the bus. We walked all the way to the back and I stood outside the bathroom door while the guard watched me three feet away. Tense as the air was at least someone got relief.

Took a few minutes before we were back out of the bus and on our way to meet Sapphire. Sweetie Belle just held Rarity's hand right next to Spitfire now. I fell behind a bit just walking faster than the other guard. I honestly hated that I had to pull my badge on him. Yes he's doing his job but I'm not really in the mood to let him be alone with my little sisters friend.... for all I know he could've held his 'gun' to her... My mind raced with thoughts of rage and regret. As we now walked down a hallway we started to hear music the further we went in. At the end of the hallway the guard in front of us looked to Spitfire and whispered into her ear. She nodded and looked to Rarity before whispering in her ear. She looked to me as Spitfire took Sweetie's hand. "Alright we can go in after she's done in there." She said. "Ryder you are just going to love her! She's even planning to do a colab with DJ P0n3 from what I heard! Arent you excited?"

I nodded hesitantly. "Yeah but... may I talk to you real quick?" I asked. She nodded and pulled me over to the wall. We leaned on it together as Sweetie Belle and Spitfire were just having a little chat by the door. "First off... I wanna say I'm sorry for losing my cool in the truck... You know Scootaloo means the world to me and for nearly getting us thrown out when Sweetie had to go to the bathroom.... I just... I might not feel like being a foal sitter when it comes to Sweetie Belle but... I care about her, Applebloom and Scootaloo... they're best friends and seeing them get hurt in some way is making me failed as a guardian of both my sister and princesses alike... and besides... I want this to be fun for me... Yeah this is business for you but judging by what I've seen so far today... you need to spend more time with Sweetie. She's had an accident and even tried to cuddle up with me in the truck. You're her big sister. There's something to do out here that you'd be able to do with her! I'll even pay for it! Even if it means it takes my whole bank account and have to rely on hotel bathroom candies!" She looked at me confused.

"...Okay... First I forgive you for yelling... Second I will use my own bits for what Sweetie Belle wants to do and third... I'm not trying to be mean but those arent candies... they're soap... You didnt eat one already did you?" I shook my head.

"Nope. I didnt. I was gonna bring them home for Scoot and AJ... guess I'll be using them in the shower later." Yeah I'm seriously a danger to myself. How I havent hurt myself by my own idiocy thus far I dont know.

Anyways after we met Sapphire I did end up buying a few shirts after she gave us all one for free. One for AJ and Scoot and even got her to sign a CD. We hung out backstage for a bit and I even met DJ P0n3 or Vinyl Scratch if you were wondering what her name was. Guess Rarity was right. And yes because I'm that asshole I took a picture with both Vinyl and Sapphire to send to Dash. I had to turn my phone off after that she spammed me so much. Anyways after a couple hours we went back to our hotel room. Spitfire took us out to dinner and well... I decided to surprise her with a gift. We had to stop by a guard post for it but I got her a Las Pegasus guard jacket. Had to clear it with Celestia and uh... take a cut to my pay check for next week for bothering her but it was worth it. When we got upstairs to our room I sat down in my bed rubbing my eyes. The dimly lit room was lit up by the lights from outside on the strip. Spitfire sat down next to me sighing. "Ryder... Thank you for such a great day!" She said. "I'm kinda glad I told you about my birthday... it was certainly a surprise for the jacket... I actually thought you were called in for a little local work but I was wrong..." She cuddled up to me. That Las Pegasus jacket (being a red and white jean jacket with LPUG in cursive on the back) rolled off one of her shoulders revealing a loose shirt under it. I could uh... see her breasts... No bra... just like Pinkie except flat like Dash. I blushed and faced her towards me.

Our eyes locked and I felt like.... Like I was with Applejack. My pants bulged a bit and we both kissed each other. I started to take the jacket off of her. She just slipped it right off and cast it aside as she unbuttoned my pants and slipped her hand in. I gasped feeling her grasp my cock... Just as she was about to pull it out a loud knock came to our door. I pushed her off and fixed my pants as she scrambled for her jacket and put it on zipping it up fast. Even used a pump of lotion on her hands to get rid of my musky smell before going over to the door. She opened it and there at the door was a courier dressed in a blue suit. Male unicorn, black mane tied in a pony tail. "Spitfire?" He asked.

"That's me! Uh... How did you find me here? I was sure this room was top secret!" He pulled an envelope from his empty looking bag and handed it to her. I could clearly read the letters spelling out URGENT in big red letters.

"I went to deliver this to you at Cloudsdale but someone told me you were staying here in Las Pegasus. I needed to give this to you TODAY. Otherwise I'm back to the sorting room." He reached into his bag and pulled out a clip board and flipped to a second page and pointed right into the middle of it with a pen. "Sign here so that doesnt happen!" Spitfire huffed and gripped the envelope in her teeth as she signed the clip board. He took his pen back and looked at the clip board.

"Dont think of that as an autograph asshole! I'm on vacation and I've got a guard in here to book you for trespassing! Get out of here!" She turned and slammed the door in his face before sighing as she came over. "I swear if someone complains about that I'm complaining to management about that mailpony... Dunno who back home said anything about me being here but I'm making EVERYONE do pushups until I get a damn answer..." She looked at the letter as she sat next to me again. "Who do you think sent this anyways...?"

I hummed taking the letter inspecting every detail of it. No return address. Just 'Spitfire' and the address of the training facility in Cloudsdale. Zipcode too. "Dunno..." I said. I looked to her. "Want me to open it just in case there's something hidden under the paper?" She shook her head taking the letter back.

"Nah. Pretty sure your kind check it before it goes off to important or famous ponies like me... If it were laced with anything or there were a small amount of explosives in it this would've went off or got me already... Put it in my mouth when I signed that damn paper... Kid looked legit though.... I hope he's not gonna turn into a stalker."

"If he does you just call on me. I'll scare the shit outta him... Now maybe open it? If it's urgent it might need immediate attention." She nodded and got up from the bed grabbing her bags and digging into em. She pulled out a comb with metal teeth and dug em into the flaps before tearing it open. She pulled out the paper and I just watched every movement she made. Tossing the comb and torn envelope onto the bed she looked at the paper. It was quiet for a solid few minutes before her wings just exploded off her back ruffling up gasping. She glanced back at me with a worried look on her face.

"Uh Ryder... What uh... What's your last name?" I raised an eyebrow.

"....Wheeler... Why...?" She came back over and handed me the paper starting to shake. I took a look at the paper and started skimming through it reading bits allowed. "Miss Spitfire we would like to inform you about a DNA match.... Information may not be correct..." I stopped seeing an address. My parents address. The address in ashes. Then I saw it. My name.... clear as day. Right next to my name... Relation: SON! I dropped the paper starting to shake. I looked to her. "Wh-what is that....?" She looked to me tearing up.

"...I uh... I took a test to check something a few months ago... it was a DNA test to see if someone who I wanted to reconnect with after so many years was even doing well or... alive... and... You... you're that someone.... my... my son..."

"...H-how... how is that possible...?" She sighed sitting back next to me. Didnt even meet my gaze now.

"...Years ago I was just joining the Wonderbolts. I've just gotten through the cadet schooling and I was excited and celebrating.... I made the mistake of hooking up with a stallion who decided no meant yes... He violated me and impregnated me... and... my moral compass decided to say keep you until you're born and put you up for adoption... Four months into my pregnancy i had to take a maternity leave when the 'bolts wanted me to come on as a recruit.... I was honestly freaking out.... I had no clue what kind of mother I would be or how I would juggle raising a kid, traveling and even training and performing if I kept you... two months after I had to go out to Ponyville for my mother who was ill at the time... I ended up meeting two ponies who kept on trying and trying to have a little foal of their own but... the mare... she was almost infertile... Kept taking placebo pills thinking they were fertility drugs.... damn doctor scammed her out of money she needed. I agreed to pay for it if you were adopted by them and they agreed.... You were born in October and.... when I laid eyes on those blue eyes I almost kept you.... I fed you until you needed a bottle to feed and formula.... that's when they took you... said I could visit you anytime... but I couldnt... I vowed to stay away because...because..."

"...Because you were afraid of taking me away from parents that could show me more love than you could while you were flying in the sky making everyone else have the time of their lives seeing you perform... Right...?" She looked to me and nodded.

"Yes.... When I saw on the news about that murder I was scared... The address fit to what I remember... the house and everything around it looked the same... And when I saw your sister... God dammit I was almost in tears... your mother ended up having a little filly of her own after all... even had practice with you first... She told me you were in jail for a crime but... i d-didnt want to believe it...." Tears built up in her eyes. "...now that we've came this far I can... I can finally say I'm a mother who's... who's proud of her son for what he's become...." She latched onto me and I just stared at the wall trying to process everything. "... But... Can my son even accept it to call me his mother after i've neglected him for so long...?" I hesitantly hugged her. Flinching at when my hands made contact. Then I've just given her a full embrace and held her close and tightly.

"...Yes... Yes... I forgive you... m-mommy...." She looked to me and I started tearing up. I looked away. "...Sorry i just..." She shushed me and rested my head on her shoulder.

"No... It's fine... call me mommy... Call me your mother...." I sobbed softly and lied back onto the bed with her. "Oh there there... mommy's here.... mommy's here... she'll always be here from now on.... and what we just did.... I'll let that slide...." Not only was I crying because I had a mother that would be there when I need her but... because Scootaloo only had me and Dash... we arent even close to parents. I sniffled and looked to Spitfire... mom... I dont know what to call her yet. I looked to her and had my lip quivered.

"...M-mom I... I have a favor to ask... it's.... it's an important one to me...." She wiped my tears away.

"Anything for you sweetie... What is it...?" I sniffled and held her close.

"...I... I want you to adopt my little sister... she's... she's my life.... she's everything to me and.... i-it'll crush her to know th-that her brother has a mother but... n-not her... I want her to be happy... happy knowing she's got someone to watch her if.... if something happens to me... or if i'm busy... I just want her to feel loved and know someone's there for her...." She gave a bright smile and nodded.

''...Yes... yes I will... I want her to be as happy as my beautiful bouncing baby boy...." She averted her gaze and looked back to me. "Can... can we call her up and tell her what we're going to do...? I bet it would make her day!" I smiled and sat up again.

"How about we up the hype and video chat? Your phone hooked up with CloudChat?"

Spitfire nodded and dug into her pocket. Had to get my charger because she forgot hers at the WBTF. Gonna try to shorten it to that from now on. Keyword try. She kept it on the charger for a moment as we washed our faces off in the sink before going back over to the phone. Had to input Applejack's screen name before leaning the phone up against a tissue box having the camera aimed at us. I hit the call button and shuttered a bit. I went and rested my wing on my mother's back just giving her a quick nuzzle before resetting myself and looking to the phone. Perfect timing too. The video came on and Applejack was there in a black tank top just hanging off of her shoulder. She smiled a bit but it disappeared when she saw me. Her mane was just let down and it looked like she didnt have time to untangle it. She huffed. "Alright I shouldnt have answered but just give me ONE good reason to not hang up!" She snapped. My heart jumped a bit and I got into the camera.

"Aj! Dont hang up please! I'm sorry okay?! I just... I've just been distracted with work, the idiots there and that note I found about my parents not being my parents.... It's all just stressful..." I winked a bit when she gave me a confused look. She smiled and winked back.

"Well.... I am sorry for what I did as well... I was just worried that you'd make our sisters cry... you know how sensitive they are.... Now all we gotta do is take you to Canterlot under lock and key and see what it's gonna take for Celestia and Twilight to forgive ya.... Apparently you made one of them guards cry... Might have to do something special for him...." I sighed sitting down.

"Well I will.... Now uh... can you get Scootaloo for me please? I wanna say goodnight to her..."

"Well since you got your little friend there I guess I'll go and wake her up. Only been out for five minutes... hope she dont mind...." She got up and I swear for the shortest glimpse I saw her in my favorite pair of red panties. I looked to Spitfire who looked nervous.

"Do you have the paper about the test? It should make it more believable! I want this to happen!"

Spitfire looked around and scrambled to the other bed to grab the paper. I put my hand up hearing a door shut on the phones speaker. Spitfire stopped and I just watched Applejack sit back down on the bed and have Scootaloo crawl over to sit in her lap. She was wearing a Wonderbolts onsie that Soarin got for her after the dinner. It's even got little plush goggles on the hood! Scootaloo rubbed her eye smiling a bit at me. "Hey Ry.... Got me when I was already asleep..." She said. "...Had too much fun today...." I chuckled a bit and gave her a smile.

"That's great Scoot. Wish I was there to have fun with you but uh... yeah... Guess Applejack told you I got kicked out again huh?" I saw Scoot nod. "Well... Dont worry. I'll be back soon. But right now... Got someone who wants to see you." I beckoned Spitfire and she sat next to me again.

Scootaloo's face lit up as Spitfire laughed a bit. "Hey kiddo how ya doing?" She asked.

"Doing awesome! Can we hang out again soon? I wanna do some more flying with you!"

"Sure we can. After I get back with your brother we can head out and do something but... I just... I have some news for you real quick..." She looked to me and I just rested her hand on my shoulder. "I uh... I took a test the other week...." She looked back at the camera. I swear AJ had a scared look on her face. "I only took it because... I had a foal long ago... before I became a Wonderbolt... I had to give that foal up to fulfill my dream of flying for fans... Later in the years I started having regrets for what I did and... I just had to look for them..." I glanced over and looked into her eyes. She had tears building up. "...I just got a letter in not too long ago and... and...." She covered her mouth and sobbed a bit.

I sighed and took the paper before looking back at the camera. "...I was that foal...." I said. Applejack and Scootaloo gasped. I motioned to AJ to hug Scootaloo. "...Shocking isnt it...? It just... I didnt wanna believe it but... I saw this..." I held up the paper. Unfolded it the best I could. "...Scoot... remember what happened when we found out we werent blood related...? You were crushed and I know this is going to crush you as well but... Just know I love you... Let me read this paper..." I took a deep breath and looked down at the paper. "Miss Spitfire... We would like to inform you we have taken your DNA and ran it through our system. This information is ninety nine percent accurate after we've ran multiple samples from that blood. And just as you asked we have located your missing foal who turns out to be a stallion in his late twenties and your DNA matches his. This stallion is named Ryder Wheeler. He lives at...." I glanced up a bit at Scootaloo's face which was still shocked but not as bad as it was. "...Our old address... And he's living with his loving family consisting of his adoptive parents... Mom and dad... and a little sister." I set the paper down and started to console Spitfire. "...So... I'd like you to meet my mother... Spitfire..." I looked to the phone and saw Scootaloo hiding her face in her arms. "Scoot...? Arent you happy...? Your big brother is related to someone you love!"

Applejack looked down at my baby sister and back to the camera motioning she was crying. Then Scootaloo just threw Applejack's arms off of her and tried running. AJ was quick enough to grab her again and hold her tight. "LET ME GO! LEMME GO!" She snapped.

"Scootaloo! Scoot calm down it's okay!" Scootaloo looked back at the camera and I saw the pained expression she wore. Tears streaming down her face and all.

"NO IT'S NOT! ITS NOT OKAY! HOW COME YOU GET TO HAVE A MOMMY AND I DONT?!"

Spitfire shot up and looked at the phone. "Scootaloo! Scootaloo please!" She said. "Please dont do this... Ryder isnt only going to have a mother! You both are!" Scootaloo sobbed a bit. Applejack looked like she was about to faint. "Y-yes! You heard that right... Not only will I have Ryder there to be my son... I want to adopt you as my daughter! I promise I wont do anything to change you unless... unless I'm watching you and you have an accident but... Your brother will watch you, I'll drop by to see how you're doing every once in a while and you can have someone to call mom or... mommy or what ever! I will allow you AND your brother to call me mom! If you dont want to that's fine but... I will be by after we are done here and I'll go pick up some adoption papers for you... I promise I will be a great mother like yours was.... and... I'm sorry for bringing them up.... I saw how broken you were without them and.... I wanna fix those still small bits that are broken.... Will you let me mend your love for your parents....?"

Scootaloo sniffled a bit. She was frozen. I couldnt tell if it was from rage, sadness, shock or what but she didnt wanna say anything. Applejack nudged her. "...Scoot... What do you think about that?" She asked. "....Ryder found his mom and she's takin' you on as her daughter... Can't you at least say something to your new momma?" I braced myself a bit hugging Spitfire in anticipation of my sisters answer. Suddenly she looked to the ceiling and SCREAMED at the top of her lungs. Applejack jumped a bit releasing my sister and she just started to jump on the bed. Not even a moment later I heard AJ's bedroom door swing open and slam against the wall. AJ looked to the door and put her hands up. "WOAH WOAH BIG MAC IT'S OKAY EVERYTHING IS FINE UP HERE! Scoot just got too excited!" She scrambled to her phone and looked at us. I couldnt help but tear up. "Call you later sugarcube! Love you and I know Scoot loves ya a hell of a lot more! Bye!"

And just like that she hung up on us with a screaming filly, a scared older brother and possibly younger sister. I closed the app and locked Spitfire's... Mom's phone... Never gonna get used to that. I looked to her. "...So... now what?" I asked. "Are we gonna talk about things...? Catch up and maybe find the guy who wronged you...? The one who raped me into you...?"

Spitfire smiled and wiped our eyes away. "...Thank you but... As much as I'd like to find him he's already jailed..." She said. "...They got him before you were born... got a few fillies and a colt... For now... let's just go to bed... too many tears and emotions..." I gave a nod and got up from the bed slowly bringing her up with me. I glanced back at her as I grabbed our bags and set em on the bed.

"Uh... Do you wanna do the same bed or separate....? If we're in the same bed beware I'm a cuddler!" She smiled a bit and chuckled as she grabbed some Pajamas from her bag. "....What...? What's so funny?" She sighed.

"Does my little colt have something he's hiding in his pants?" I blushed and looked down only to see I was rock solid... Blushed even harder when I looked back at her. "Why dont you just hit the bathroom and I look the other way while you accidentally leave the door open while I change." I hope it's not weird to wanna fuck my own mother even though I just found out she was my ACTUAL mother! To be honest this day was a ride from hell and I'm just glad things worked out in my favor. And uh... may have left a little cream on the toilet seat... found that the hard way... Spitfire used the toilet and uh... had her fun.... Sat right in it but didnt clean it up until she finished. Did call it out though. After that she padded me up before we got into our PJs and cuddled before just passing out. Guess she just looked the other way and allowed it because when we woke up I found myself fondling her. Had to text AJ to let her know to have the girls and her brother not to tell Dash about this. I wanted to surprise her myself. They agreed not to tell her. We did however let Rarity and Sweetie Belle know as well and sweet freaking Celestia Rarity laughed thinking it was some sort of joke. Sweetie Belle kinda hesitated but laughed with her.... they did until we showed them the paper and I swear Rarity was going to faint. Had to get her a little drink to calm down. Nothing alcoholic for Sweetie Belles sake. From there we just had a day of fun.

Calm Before The Storm

Okay today is the first day back home. I felt great knowing Spitfire was my biological mother... quite a shock but... to think all these years I've just been watching my mother perform and never even knew until Las Pegasus... City of Chance and Luck... my luck scored big time. And YES! I did get all my weird feelings for wanting to have sex with her out of my head. Just had to uh... think of granny smith naked.... almost got sick one of the first few times. When we dropped Rarity and Sweetie Belle off they admitted they had a great time despite the little snaps I had. I did get them little gifts saying I was sorry about that. Sweetie got a few shell necklaces from Silver Shoals and Rarity got a little imperial shrine from that hotel and casino Sapphire Shores was playing at. She was amazing to meet by the way. Moving on we were driving down the road towards Sweet Apple Acres. I was in my car (Felt good to be driving it again after being driven around by mom in her truck for a while) and Mom... Spitfire? Okay this is just gonna fucking trip me up for a while.... She was basically following me in the truck. Had her on speakerphone too to talk to her. "You ready on this Ryder?" I heard her ask.

I sighed pulling around and parking by the family truck. "...You know... this feels so similar to when I first came back home to the ponies you gave me up to a while ago..." I said. "Except this time I'm not heart broken.... If anything I'll tell you that story later... But... yeah.... I'm ready...." I turned my car off and hung up my phone before stepping out. Spitfire pulled up to the opposite side of the road. The snow glistened with what ever light came through the clouds. Flakes still fell around us but it was good to see some familiar surroundings. I honestly grew to love this place and accept it as my home as I did before with my parents place... I walked towards Spitfire's truck as she hopped out and went to the back. My bags were still in her car. Said i needed the room for all the love I carried with me. I heard the snow crunch under my feet with each step and it seemed like an army was behind me. That army was the love beating in my heart and the timed steps of each soldier inline with mine. That army died down as I approached the truck. Mom looked to me and smiled as she handed me my bags.

"Here. You're gonna need everything that's in here." I smiled taking my bags and just giving her a quick hug. Cant get enough hugs from her. She chuckled and pried me off of her. "Alright hold the hugs until we get your sister in on em. Maybe save the special ones for your little wife-to-be!" Yeah.... Told her about it when we had our alone time while Rarity and Sweetie Belle were getting us some food the morning after I found out about Spitfire being my mother. She promised to not say ANYTHING until the deed was done. I smiled.

"...Ma... I know you're a busy mare and I'm not sure where that's going on.... But one thing I do know is I want you and Soarin to be there... I mean... if you can make it..." She froze a bit and gave me a bright smile.

"Sweetie I'll always make time for you and when ever that happens just let me know before slipping that ring on and saying your vows. I'll even drag Soarin along even if he doesnt know you're gonna be there.... Maybe make him think it's a night out or what have you." She nudged me out of the way and closed the hatch to the truck. "For now lets just head on inside before we catch a cold. I smiled and gave a nod before starting for the front door.

Again the crunch of snow below my feet matched the beat of my heart. Though my heart just beat to a slow rhythm as I came closer and closer to the door. My mind flashed back to the first day I was home with my parents... dad opening the door, pissed beyond belief that I was another mouth to feed in his house. I didnt bother knocking. Just dug into my wallet, grabbed my key and unlocked the door before slipping inside the warm domain. It was dead silent inside. Still kind of early. I took my boots off and tossed them aside before closing the door and just going upstairs. I opened Applejack's door and peered in seeing Scootaloo and Applejack both cuddled up asleep. Applejack dressed in sweat pants and one of my hoodies and Scootaloo in a similar fashion. Both black hoodies and greyish sweat pants... ish being just a tad bit off. Slowly i crept in and sat on the bed looking at them. They both looked like they were up half the night. I was hesitant to wake them but I nudged Scootaloo knowing she would be the easiest to wake up. She looked to me and I shushed her as her face lit up. Had to pry her out of Applejack's arms and hug her. "You're back!" She whispered. "Did you bring me anything from Las Pegasus?"

I gave her a smile. "Yes but you'll get that surprise later." I said. "For now why dont you go downstairs? Someone's down there waiting for you but be quiet when you see her. Dont wanna wake anyone up!" She nodded and motioned to her mouth like she was putting it under lock and key before I released her and having her cute little wings carry her out the door only for me to hear her feet hit the floor a second later. Nothing but a light thump. I looked back to Applejack and saw her mane down and in her face partly. I fixed it the best I could getting it out of her face before leaning down and kissing her on the cheek.

Applejack grumbled a bit. "....C'mon... lemmeh 'lone Mac... slepn..." She said. I took my jacket off and climbed more into the bed and lied down. "...Mac.... jus... go sleep in your bed.... better not've let Winona out..." I smiled and gave a sigh.

"Yeah... she wont be ruining this moment sweet heart." I wrapped my arms around her waist and felt some crinkly padding through her pants. She turned back and opened her eyes and I couldnt help but get lost in the green fields of her eyes. She smiled and kissed me. I couldnt help but kiss her back for a moment. When we broke the kiss she flipped over and cuddled up to me.

"Mornin' sugarcube... Take it you werent feelin' so good about snappin' at everypony huh....?" I shook my head. "Well... I forgive ya..." She looked around some. "Where's Scoot...? Coulda sworn she was still in bed with me..." I huffed sitting up with her.

"She was in here. Had her go meet our new mother..." I shuttered a bit. "...Still feels weird to say that... I just.... I cant believe that out of everypony in Equestria... the parents that I swore I was born into adopted me from Spitfire... The most famous of Wonderbolts... and she is my real mother...." Applejack scooted over next to me.

"I'm sure it was a lot to take in... To be honest Scoot was excited to hear that she'd be adopted by Spitfire... messed up my sleepin' with her having screamed like that... 'Bloom kinda freaked but went back to sleep and Winona... let's just say someone had to clean up some 'mud' and get some news paper and a few cans of air freshener for his room.... But as for Scoot... after her excited side calmed she started getting worried about stuff... Would Spitfire like her? Would she change her if she had an accident? And the most important one that I think you should hear.... Are you gonna keep her here or are ya gonna send her off somewhere...?" I gasped a bit. "Yeah... she asked me that.... I told her we'd keep her here even if we had to tie her to her bed.... Even said that you'd never let her go ever again after what you've been through...." Honestly.... I was stunned. Why would Scoot say something like that? I know its something that always comes up but... why now? Why with her new mother? Aj sighed and took my hand as she got up off the bed. "C'mon... gotta go see her and make sure things are alright...." Honestly she just dragged me along like I was almost a rag doll almost being I was still on my feet.

I looked downstairs and saw Spitfire and Scootaloo just cuddling on the couch. It hurt just seeing Scootaloo act like nothing was wrong... like she wouldnt think I'd find out... Spitfire looked up at us as we came to the bottom. "There's my baby boy!" She said giving a bright smile. I couldnt help but blush as AJ laughed a bit. "Scootaloo is getting so much better with her flying! Arent you proud of her?"

I huffed. "I am but... right now I need to speak with Scootaloo... alone..." I said. Scootaloo looked to me and just cuddled up to mom. "Scootaloo now! This is serious!" She grunted a bit. Spitfire looked down at her.

"Scootaloo do what your brother says. This isnt much of a first impression for your new mother..." The little filly clutching her moaned a bit as she got up and came around the couch with her head hung. I grabbed her hand and started walking upstairs. She didnt hesitate on following closely as we went into the bathroom. I closed the door and she hopped up onto the close toilet lid. I looked to her and knelt down.

"Scootaloo.... Is what Applejack telling me true? That you'd think I'd just give you away like that? Like I didnt even love you any more?" She hung her head and nodded. "....Scoot... I do love you... I love the ever living shit out of you.... if I didnt love you do you think I'd've come home that day I was booted from my apartment? Do you think I'd save you from that guard that tried taking you? Would I have even brought up the idea of adopting you so you'd have a mother to love you too?" Scootaloo hung her head and teared up a bit. I went and hugged her holding her close. Felt some swollen padding under her pants. She started to cry into my chest a bit as I held her. "It's okay... just let it out.... and dont worry... I'm not mad at you... Just please... please please PLEASE! Dont do that again.... dont ever say I dont love you.... dont ever say I'm giving you up... I've saved you too many times to count and... th-this is all I ask...." I was tearing up as I said that. I pried her off for a moment and wiped her eyes away. "Scoot... tell me.... what makes you say these kinds of things? I think it's just every time I leave or get something to happen in my life you just.... you say these kinds of things... Why?"

Scootaloo looked to me and averted her gaze. She sniffled. "I just.... I'm afraid to lose you...." She said. "....I'm afraid to be left alone..." She looked back to me. "...I.... I saw mom and dad after they were shot.... I saw you get carried away by the guard... I watched you as you walked away leaving me with Celestia and Luna.... I.... I thought you were gonna die when they told me you got shot.... and.... the plane crash... Luna... she... she was as scared as I was when we saw you walk through the door.... I went and had an accident I was so scared.... I thought I saw you die when you fell down..." I sniffled and hugged her holding her close.

"Scootaloo.... I can tell you now that it's gonna take a lot more than all that to keep me down... I'll fight for you and everyone I love... Anyone puts you in danger you bet I'll be there faster than you can even say my name... Just promise you'll tell me if someone's hurting you okay?" She sniffled and nodded. "Alright... now lets get you cleaned up... you feel more soaked than a sponge sitting in the sink...." It took a good five to seven minutes to clean Scoot up. Had to calm her down, get diapers and powder, lie her down and reassure her everything would be okay.

After we were done we met Spitfire outside of the door. She gave us a smile and took Scootaloo from my arms. "Aw I knew I heard somepony crying..." She said holding Scootaloo closely. "... Don't worry... everything's gonna be okay..." She looked to me stroking my sisters shaky wings. "...Anything you need while we're here? We gotta head into town to fill out the paper work!" I huffed.

"Let me get something warmer to wear and have you help Scoot change into her snow clothes. The Princess should've gotten her some new ones after our house burned and they should be in her closet. I'll bring a change just in case." Spitfire nodded and went into Scoot's room. I walked over to AJ's room- it will always be her room even though I just live in there too- and went inside. Not long later I came out in a two layer fleece lined hoodie and my jeans and boots. Even had a Ushanka hat on to keep my face somewhat warmer. I walked over to Scootaloo's door and knocked. "Everything okay in there?" I waited a moment. Heard nothing. I knocked again. "Scoot? Ma? You in there?" I turned the knob and hesitantly went inside. When inside I saw Scootaloo and mom on the bed sitting there cuddling. Scootaloo was now wearing her snow suit. Orange and red pants and thick jacket with a hood fuzzy enough to make Winona. "You two okay?"

Scootaloo just cuddled up to Spitfire more. "....Just... just a little nervous is all..." She said. I went and knelt down next to them.

"Aw why sis?"

Spitfire looked up at me. "She's worried about what she's gonna tell her friends and her teacher when parent day comes up..." She said. "Says the kids are gonna be mobbing her to meet with me or come over to have a sleep over." I sighed.

"This is gonna be another Princess moment.... You can either say nothing at all or tell them and let me lay down the law with them. As much as I dont like it it's gonna have to come out eventually... How about next time we drop you off at school I let Cheerilee know about what's going on okay?"

Scootaloo nodded a bit. "Sounds alright but... what about Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?" She asked.

"No amount of money is worth it sis. Unless mama Spitfire wants to do a meet and greet nobody but Sweetie Belle and Applebloom are to see her if she's over here and unless I'm the one watching you three." I looked up at Spitfire. "...Alright with those conditions?"

Mama Spitfire gave me a smile. "Sounds about right." She said. She looked back at Scootaloo. "And if I do that meet and greet I want your brother to be there for backup just in case things get a little too rowdy."

Just as I was about to say more I heard Applejack call out. "Sugarcube! Hope ya aint stuck up there!" She said. "If I were you I'd get movin' before a blizzard comes in!"

I looked back at the door. "Just a minute AJ!" I called out. I looked back to Scootaloo. "To cut that short if mama Spitfire is there I'll be there no doubt. I wanna keep you safe and I'll keep everyone here safe. Now I guess finish up here and meet me downstairs. Gotta have a chat with AJ for a bit." Scootaloo nodded and just cuddled up to mom. At this point I think calling mom 'mama Spitfire' kinda felt right to me. Felt good with being able to call her mom and not feel weird about it. I got up and walked out of the room and over to the stairs where I looked down at AJ. "You said something about a blizzard?" Applejack nodded getting up.

"Eeyup. Aint gonna be good if you get caught out in it. Says its supposed to come in soon!" I started thinking about it as I started downstairs.

"Okay knowing how bad the last blizzard got I think we might need to get out of the house and find some sturdy shelter. Say Twilight's castle?" I saw her think for a moment and look at the door. She looked back at me and smiled a bit.

"Well... Guess I can agree there... You hurry on now. I'll get Mac and AB ready for it. Even get Winona some food and call Twilight and make sure it's okay we do that. Don't think she'll like it if we show up unwelcomed but before ya go I got something to ask..." We were interrupted by Scootaloo coming down the stairs stomping a bit as mom followed her.

I looked to mom. "C'mon Ryder!" She said. "We gotta hurry! Clouds started rolling in and knowing the way Pegasai make their snow storms!"

I huffed and got up looking to AJ. "Just hurry and get everyone up AJ!" I said. "Ask me later. Okay?"

She sighed and hung her head a bit. "Yeah... Alright sugarcube..." She said getting up. She hugged me. "Be safe out there..." I nodded and followed Scootaloo and Spitfire out into the snow. A breeze picked up a bit. Saw dark clouds rolling in from the east. I looked to mom as we started for her truck.

"Hope we have four wheel drive on this thing... We're gonna need it..."

As we hopped into the truck I used what signal I had to send AJ a text to pack me and Scootaloo a bag for Twilight's and even have a padding bag ready just in case. After we left the orchard I heard Scootaloo sigh in the seat behind me. I looked back and smiled. "...I can't believe Spitfire's gonna be my new mom..." She said. She looked to mom. "...Am I gonna have to call you mom or something...?"

I looked over at mom and saw her glance in the rear view mirror. "You don't have to if you dont wanna Scootaloo...." She said. "But if you do... I'd kinda prefer what your brother called me when we were in your room." She glanced at me and I just gave her a confused look. "You know Ry. Mama Spitfire? Gives you the right to call me mom and still acknowledge me as someone who you've only known from a distance for so long... Honestly having a stallion I only know through this little cutie in the back seat and Celestia... What ever those parents I gave you up to taught you... you turned out well... Kinda jealous that I didnt raise you myself... Yet if I know time travel movies if I did that I'd be living in a one bedroom apartment regretting my decisions." She glanced over at me for a moment. "...Glad you're back in my life now kiddo."

I just glanced back at Scootaloo who was just hugging herself excited. "And I'm glad she's still in mine..." I said. "Wouldnt know what to do without her... And now that she has someone she can call mom again... makes our little family whole again..." I just felt a wave of warmth shoot over me. It felt good knowing that. Honestly I couldnt help but lay my seat back and just take Scootaloo's hand only to feel her shutter with excitement. The wings cant contain it. I couldnt help but give a shutter as well. Kind of a violent one where I just had it shoot up my back and make me shake my head.

It didnt take us long to get to the Town Hall. Nopony on the road, mostly green lights and some red lights i decided to overlook when mom ran em. Pulled up right out front and hurried inside to get away from the cold. Only one we saw in there was a secretary putting files away. Had to kinda argue with her for a bit because she was trying to get out but convinced her that it'd be fast that we sign the papers and such with the adoption and legal guardian stuff. She thought about it and she knew we were right. Spitfire signed the papers, I did too and Scootaloo wrote her name too. But just as we put the finishing touches a few guards came in having snow and wind sweep in. "EVERYONE OUT NOW! THE PRINCESS ISSUED THE EVACUATION OF ALL HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN THE PONYVILLE AREA! GET OUT NOW!" They both said. I looked to mom as Scootaloo jumped into her arms. I looked back to the guards dressed in thick parkas bearing the colors of both Celestia and Luna.

"You guys get this mare out of here! She's been unwilling to leave!" I looked to the secretary and mouthed 'i'm sorry' as she put things away under the desk. I dont think she was mad but she kinda went with it as to show her loyalty to the mayor just in case she was questioned.

Anyways Scoot, mom and I hopped back into the car and followed the guard truck to Twilight's castle and we parked in the garage before they closed the garage door and sealed it with sandbags. When we got out into the garage after parking the car I looked over and saw the apple family truck with a tarp over the back of it. "Look! Applejack and the others are here!" Scootaloo said. I sighed giving a smile.

"Good... Got worried there they wouldnt make it here..." We started grabbing the bags out of the back when I heard the Elevator open a ways down over the somewhat howling wind above.

I looked back down the way and saw Twilight and Applejack walking towards me, Applejack in a thick flannel hunting jacket and jeans with her boots, Twilight with a black long sleeve, slippers and jeans. Twilight looked a bit ticked.... "RYDER!" She yelled. ...and sounded ticked too... "Ryder! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!" I huffed as Scootaloo ducked behind mom.

"Getting away from the damn blizzard princess! Why else would I even be here?" She huffed.

"I mean why are you here after i specifically said not to comeback after a week? That's SEVEN days numbskull! Last I checked it's only been four!"

Applejack put her hand on Twilight's shoulder. "C'mon Twi it aint his fault he HAS to come here!" She said. "If it aint for me it's for his little sister and Celestia knows you'd never wanna deny that filly a thing!" Twilight looked to Applejack and I could see her just fighting herself in her own mind. Every detail and every possible outcome. I could tell there was maybe just one where she could kick me out of the castle. Yet that one could only end in regret and a funeral. One with me near an oven. Twilight looked to me as he feathers kind of ruffled.

"Okay! Okay fine! You can stay but you take any orders I give you AND the others give you and you do them without questions! Understood?"

I sighed as mom picked Scootaloo up. "Understood Princess. What are my first orders going to be?" I asked. She smiled a bit as Applejack started helping mom with the bags we had.

"First off I need you upstairs to apologize to Spike. After you snapped at him he was hurt and didnt come out of his room all day! He's still in his room right now trying to read his comics and stay warm. I'd hurry before he wants a nap!" I nodded.

"Yes Princess." I replied like I was a robot. I looked to Scootaloo and gave her a smile. "Dont worry. I'll come find you when I'm done apologizing. Just keep near mom or Applejack okay?" She nodded and hugged me from moms arms. It felt as if she thought I was in trouble or something. I broke the hug and started walking. Applejack walked past me and brushed her hand up against mine as if she were going to hold it. As I passed Twilight I felt her tug on my jacket. I looked to her. "Something else Princess?"

"Uh... yeah..." She replied quietly. She looked back at Spitfire and the others. "You said something to Scootaloo about 'staying close to mom'.... What uh... what did you mean by that?" She looked back at me. I kinda gave a hesitant smile.

"Well... while on leave I met up with her with Rarity and Sweetie Belle and we went to Las Pegasus we uh... we got a letter that was urgent... definitely gave the hotel manager hell for the disturbance but.... apparently that letter was a DNA test for Spitfire and.... low and behold that's my real mother...." She gasped. I nodded. "Yeah... I was the same way... finding out my parents werent my real parents and that... Scootaloo and I werent blood related but.... we just finished signing the adoption papers before we had to come here.... Scootaloo and Spitfire are now mother and daughter.... makes us feel better about our situations...." She hummed a bit.

"So... You're pretty much a natural born Wonderbolt... Dash isnt gonna like hearing that.... You havent told her have you?" I shook my head. "Alright... I'll let you in on something.... Going to Spike's room is a trap and he was gonna burn you with his fire breath. He was gonna be hiding, told nobody else to go in there and once the trap was set it was gonna rip your clothes off and he was gonna burn your flank with his breath." I sighed.

"Good... I know I would HATE to hurt Spike again but if that happened I probably would've nailed him with a punch or two but I know that wouldnt end well. Would've probably ended up with handcuffs, me and Scootaloo screaming and me looking like a Rotwing in one of my post apocalyptic games." Expose time. A Rotwing in my game is basically a pegasus (And in one case an alicorn) that absorbed too much nuclear radiation and basically become immortal with the side effect of falling apart almost like you were made of glass that was cracked. If you stayed strong your mind would stay as it were before the radiation. You broke? Your mind went feral and you turned cannibal. Fucked up I know. But anyways she huffed.

"Yeah... Definitely dont want that but I still want you to apologize to him. Dont worry I'll text him and make him take the trap down. But as for your punishment it still stands. Instead of having Spike burn you you're gonna reveal how Spitfire is your mother to Dash and what ever happens... happens. So if she wants to hit you to the point of knocking you out I'm looking the other way and so are the other guards. But I will intervene if you start bleeding. Dont worry about that." I sighed and nodded. "Alright now hurry. Last I saw Dash was when she was trying to keep Fluttershy calm about the animals caught out there. If she asks they're all fine." I nodded again and just started towards the elevator. I was going in alone and as I said before I hated these... Mom got stuck in one with Scootaloo and ugh... Even went and made Scootaloo wet herself while she was stuck in there. I just did some deep breathing on the way up. Didnt take but a minute before I was in the princess' living area.

I came out into the hall giving a sigh. Even though the wind was howling I heard nothing from outside. I started down the hall to my right. I kept my ears and guard up just in case the other guards were around and decide to rush me. As I walked down the hall I heard laughter. This almost felt like a horror game. I'm walking around and next thing you know a jump scare. That jump scare? Pinkie running at me full force from behind and tackling me to the ground. "RYDER! Ryder Ryder Ryder!" She said squeezing the hell out of me on the floor.

I struggled a bit before managing to get one of my hands free and tickle her. She snickered a bit and busted up laughing after a moment before releasing me. I got up sighing. "Nice to see you too Pinkie..." I said looking to her. She was dressed in her Pink feetie PJ's and if I'm not mistaken she's padded up under it.

"I heard you and Twilight got into a fight! Did you hit her? Did you get fired? Did you come here to get your job back by force?" I huffed covering her mouth before she went off.

"No Pinkie i didnt lose my job. I didnt hit Twilight and if I did lose my job I'd look for something else or plead with Celestia to get my job back. I'm here with AJ, Scootaloo and someone else to get away from the storm." She looked at me surprised.

"Who is that other pony?"

"It's someone we know but... I'm not gonna reveal until the time is right. But if you see who it is before I can say please please please PLEASE keep it a secret from Dash!" She smiled at me wagging her pink poofy tail a bit.

"Cross my heart hope to fly stick a cupcake in my eye!" She said putting her hand over her eye. I smiled back.

"Good! Now uh... Kindly point me in the right direction to find Dash?"

"Last I saw she was in Fluttershy's room! I was headed to my room for a nap anyways! Wanna tuck me in?" I sighed.

"If I can find Dash there sure... But uh... if things escalate to a nice milking please keep it a secret..."

"From Applejack?" I nodded. "Oh dont be silly last time we did that I told her and she said she'd allow it as long as she could be milking you afterwards." I blushed a bit.

"I guess that would be okay... just gotta... make sure we can sneak away without being noticed... hopefully I can take that offer up tonight maybe... Just be sure to get AJ first... Dont wanna do anything without her knowing...."

"Oh I know she hates it when you dont tell her things! Last time you did it was when you didnt tell her about the anniversary of uh.... you know...." I glanced at her as we started walking and I saw her averting her gaze. I sighed.

"Pinkie... It's okay... I'm over it now... I really am this time... But... I know... she was hurt when I didnt say anything about the anniversary but that's because I had my mind on that... You know this you were there..."

"Oh right... The party... but she did give me an earful after she woke up. I know I talk a lot but she wishes you would come to her with your problems more often... She has the element of honesty for a reason. Being honest makes her be more trustworthy and she'll help you! I mean.... when I borrowed her favorite pair of panties because I didnt bring a change during a sleep over I had a bit of a messy accident... didnt have time to change before being called down by the cakes and I was smiling despite my heart racing because I was afraid i'd get caught by someone wanting to buy something or the cakes if they had even noticed it.... Long story short I had to throw the panties out and apologize to AJ after that... she was kinda sad that I ruined her favorite underwear but more than happy I was honest with her... had to buy her some new ones for her." I huffed as we turned a corner towards the girls bedrooms with their cutie marks on the doors.

"I dont know what kind of questions I wanna ask now... first might be about why you couldnt tell the cakes you had an accident and need to clean up or that you even had an accident in the first place."

"Well... I hadnt went to the potty for a few days, took some laxatives and a tummy ache made me do it... lucky it was solid...." I looked away and swallowed feeling myself about to gag. We stopped outside her door. Paint and confetti all on her door. "Anyways... my stop here... I know I asked you to tuck me in but... I think I just wanna do it myself... You got more important things to do with Dash right?" I nodded and just gave her a kiss on her forehead before nudging her gently into her room.

As she closed her door I looked at both Fluttershys door and approached slowly before putting my ear up to the door. Didnt hear anything dirty going on. I knocked and waited a moment. Heard some movement and knocked again. "...Hold on hold on... I'm coming just.... give me a minute...." I heard Dash say. I waited a moment more and to be that asshole I knocked once more before the door flew open a bit and there in the doorway in a dark room I saw Dash in just a bra and track pants looking tired. She rubbed her eyes and looked at me kinda surprised. "Ryder? What the hell are you doing here? And why did you wake me up?" I sighed.

"Any chance we can go to your room? I kinda need to talk with you alone." She glanced back into the room and back at me before coming out and closing the door gently.

"You're lucky Flutters sleeps heavily after crying for an hour straight...." She grabbed my hand and led me over to her door. "If you're looking for someone to cuddle besides AJ, Gilda has a room somewhere around. Just keeping her here because of me. Didnt wanna leave her out in the cold..." She opened her door and flipped the light on. Her room was Wonderbolt themed. Wonderbolt bedsheets, a few posters on the wall and even- get this- a fleece onsie flight suit. Mom was gonna love this. "Alright what'd you wanna talk about?" We sat down on her bed.

"Well... I uh.... I got some good news and I got some bad news...?" She looked at me confused.

"What's the bad news? Best way to deliver it." I thought for a moment. Nope. Not gonna work that way.

"I'll uh... I'll start with the good news first... You know how we had that dinner a while ago with mom and dad....?" She smiled and rested a wing on my back.

"How can I forget...? I was happy seeing our parents getting along... Even postmortem with yours.... it's like we were back together before shit went down.... Glad we made that happen...." I averted my gaze.

"Not sure if I told you but... apparently they arent my real parents... I was adopted...." Dash looked to me a bit shocked.

"You serious?" I hesitantly nodded.

"They told me themselves.... in front of Scootaloo too... She cried hard.... thought I'd hate her or something as always when something is wrong..."

"Oh man... That must've hurt... did they know who your real parents are?" I shook my head.

"Nope... they said they left a letter somewhere in the old house.... but... you know what happened to it..." I looked to her.

"Damn... If I were you I'd get a DNA test and see who are your parents.... Maybe they'd be able to meet with you and Scoot... make her feel loved again by a parent..." She pulled me close. "So... what was the good news? I feel we got a bit off topic."

"Not really there... The good news is that we did find my parents... well... one of em..." I sighed slightly. "...Apparently one of em is... hopefully in jail because he did... some things to the one parent..."

"You mean..." She made a motion with her hand that meant sex but.... made it looked forced. I nodded. "Shit.... Hope that fucker is jailed who ever they are.... and by that explanation its your mother who you found." I nodded again.

"Yeah... and now for the bad news... you're gonna hate me..." She gave me a confused and kinda worried look.

"...I swear if you say that my mother is your mother I'm gonna flip out... both at you and my mom for even doing something like this...."

"It's not Aunt Misty... that would be fucking awkward but... No... It's not that situation.... But... my mother... it's uh..." I mumbled moms name.

"Who?" I mumbled again. "....I still cant hear you. Speak up! You're worse than Fluttershy like this." I took a deep breath and sighed.

".... Dash... my mother is Spitfire... y'know from the Wonderbolts....?" I looked to her. She had a blank expression on her face. I felt a sense of relief but... the air felt tense still. She snickered a bit before just falling back laughing like a maniac. She made me blush a little bit as she kept laughing for a minute. As her laughter died down she looked to me wiping a tear from her brightly smiling face.

"Oh sweet Celestia... THAT was a good joke! There's no way in hell she could be your mother! With that body there's no way she ever had a kid! Hell if she's your mother I'd suck a stallion off no questions asked!" I thought for a moment and wondered should I make her Pinkie Promise this or not but i decided against it. The rainbow flag she flies is what she strips on and theres no bending that sexuality back towards the other end. She coughed a bit and looked to me a bit worried. "Why arent you laughing? You love laughing at your own jokes! Your stupid jokes but this one was the best one! Someone's been learning form Pinkie." I shook my head slightly and huffed.

"Well if I've learned something from Pinkie it's that jokes are meant to be funny and that wasnt a joke...." Her happy smile turned back to neutral and slowly turned to shock.

"....Y-you're serious....?" She asked. I nodded hesitantly as she sat up. "NO WAY! HOW THE HELL?! HOW DID YOU KNOW?!" I shushed her because of Fluttershy.

"Dash quiet!" She huffed. "I only knew because some idiot at the hotel we stayed at sent a courier that wasnt even supposed to know where we were up to our room and just gave her a letter... She opened it and... low and behold I'm her long lost baby boy who she had to give up to pursue her dream of being a Wonderbolt.... Why? It's because I was a reminder of the stallion who shoved me into her forcibly.... if it werent for her good morals I wouldnt be here...." Dash started to take deep breaths and try and calm herself. If I could feel her heart beat it'd probably be the pace of a fully automatic gun. Energy drinks included. She then quickly turned to me and just slapped me open handed and not just once. Once with the palm and the next with the knuckles... that one hurt. "What the hell was that for?!" I asked after groaning a bit.

"That was for not telling me sooner... And this..." She hugged me squeezing me tight. "Is me being sorry and feeling happy you have such an awesome mom...." I sighed and hugged her.

"...Apology accepted but uh... any chance you can act pissed off for Twilight? She's only willing to keep me here because of Scootaloo and that you know about mama Spitfire...." She looked to me and smiled a bit.

"Mama Spitfire?!" She started laughing again this time and I guess I kinda chuckled too.

"Well it was the only thing I could think of to call her so it wouldnt sound weird... Still does but... it feels kinda right..." I got up from the bed and brought her up with me. "Now c'mon. You might need to get back to Fluttershy after we get you to meet the new family.... You should've seen Scootaloo's face when Spitfire said she was going to adopt her..." Dash's laughter died down and she stopped hugging me throwing an arm over my shoulder.... so lopsided with how short she is.

"She adopted Scootaloo too?" I nodded shrugging her off and throwing my arm over her shoulder.

"Yea... just got done signing the papers before heading here. Scoot even thought I was just gonna give her away because I didnt love her any more... I cant ever stop loving her no matter what..." I opened the door and walked out with her. "....I know I dont like talking this with anyone but.... if I did... get hurt badly.... would you take care of Scootaloo?" She huffed.

"You know I would... I'd give up anything and everything just to see her happy... I'd give up my house, bike, my weights and even my own blood and guts to keep her happy...." I looked to her and just gave her a hug.

"Good.... but dont go to the point where you cant take care of her... she needs you as much as she needs me and Mama Spitfire...." I broke the hug and looked to her. "Now get back to Fluttershy and show her a good time if she needs it. I'll make sure nobody bothers you." She smiled and averted her gaze for a bit.

"Alright but... Just for the record I was serious about that stallion thing...." I gave her a bit of a shocked and somewhat confused look. "I know weird for me to say but... lately Pinkie has had me doing Pinkie Promises one after another and... I've just come to keep my promises automatically even if i dont say I Pinkie Promise..." I blushed a bit hard as she met my gaze again. She was blushing a bit hard too.

"...Never would I ever have thought you would say that you would EVER get your mouth around a dick.... Especially one that isnt a strap on that's attached to Fluttershy or Pinkie.... Or even Gilda for that matter..." She sighed.

"I just...." She broke away from me and leaned against the wall. "...My mom has been getting suspicious of the way I've been acting around Fluttershy and AJ... At the dinner she said I should ask Soarin out because he seemed like a nice stallion and yeah... but... I just played it off like I wasnt even interested in a pegasus.... then she pointed to Big Mac and I told em it would've been awkward to have him as a coltfriend while you're dating his sister and... told them you were like a brother to me..." I went and sat next to her.

"So you've been rethinking your life to make them drop suspicion and still be with them and have them not hate you like they did my uh... parents..." She nodded a bit and leaned on me. "...Well... if you wanna hear my advice... just keep to your sexuality.... it's gonna make you happy and sure it's gonna stay hidden from them but... if they ever did find out just know that you have those around you that love you... if I need to I'd go and talk with Aunt Misty and Uncle Red just to tell them what they've done and give them time to call me if they regret their choices... but if i've learned anything it's to not throw away what makes you happy... do it and just hide it from them... I dont wanna see you like everypony in the news reports...." She sniffled a bit.

"...I wont... I just... I love my parents.... they love me... but... they wont love the me I am hiding from them...."

"They will if given time... Now just get back in Fluttershy's room... we'll talk later about the uh... circumstances...." Dash nodded and just gave me a kiss on the cheek before standing up with my help. I nudged her gently into Fluttershy's room before I closed the door.

I hurried back out into the hall. This time away from where I came. I followed the laughter down the hall. It sounded like multiple ponies yet... Only one pony I know wouldnt be walking around. Rarity. But what was she doing? I walked all the way down the hall. Just a few minutes after I left my cousin I came upon the entertainment room. I peered inside and saw Rarity sitting on one of the chairs watching a stand-up comedian. Looked to be a Las Pegasus setting. I huffed as I entered. Rarity looked back at me and smiled. She was wearing a grey long sleeve shirt, black yoga pants and fuzzy slippers. "Ryder! What are you doing here I thought you were banned from the castle!" She said getting up and giving me a hug. I sighed as she sat back down.

"Yeah... but had to have somewhere to go with Scootaloo so she felt safe... Where's Sweetie Belle?" Rarity sighed as she paused the video and reached over punching the arm of the chair making a cooler pop up between us and the screen. I grabbed a soda out of it while she grabbed a tea.

"Sweetie had another little accident after getting home. Had to pad her up, this time she didnt fight me on it and now she's taking a nap with Applebloom... AJ tells me Applebloom stayed up half the night. How's Scootaloo doing with her new mother?"

"Doing good but... I have something to ask you that is just... important to me... and I'm not talking important document i need for work... I'm talking about personal life importance...." She hummed as she drank her tea.

"This is either a question about Scootaloo or Applejack... and considering you didnt ask me while we were on vacation it's about Applejack am I right?" She glanced at me. I nodded. "Alright so what do we want to ask here?" I hesitated a bit. I looked to the door and back at her.

"...Is there any way you can get Twilight and the girls together later? Minus AJ of course... it's something I dont want her to even find out about..." She gasped.

"You arent doing what I think you're doing.... Are you?" I blushed a bit and averted my gaze.

"...What is it you think I'm doing...?" She hummed slightly.

"I think it has something to do with a diamond ring, a beautiful white dress and accent colors on a tuxedo and a ceremony of two joining in holy matrimony also known as a wedding... Correct?" I just hid my face internally freaking out and nodded. She gasped. "Oh! Yes yes yes yes! I will help at any cost just fill me in on the details and what I can do to help other than fit your clothing for everyone involved." I nodded and we went back to watching what she had on as I sipped my soda trying my best not to just break down. To be honest I was so happy I just about wet myself but where I was sitting... not the best idea... Twilight's special seat. Cloth seating, memory foam and some back massaging equipment built in. Memory foam not only remembers the shape it was in but it also remembers scents no matter how long gone you think the stain is.

Later that night I was just in my underwear laying on AJ's bed waiting for her to come and cuddle. My wings twitched with excitement as I tried to hide how much I just wanted to get on my knee and propose then and there. But I want it to be right. I want it to be perfect. As I lay there I imagined where to do it, how to do it and even who I want to be there- which is pretty much everyone including AJ's friends, Princesses, and even Shining Armor and Big Mac. Even Soarin and my mom... Maybe call in a favor from Gems I dont know. But as I lay there thinking that my thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Before I could answer the door opened a bit and Applejack poked her head in. "Hey there sugarcube..." She said in a seductive voice... If words could make me cum she'd be the one to speak em. "...Y'all decent in here?"

I gave a bit of a smug smile and ditched my underwear. "Now I am..." I replied.

"Good..." She replied grinning. "...Because I got a little somethin' in store for you..." She opened the door even more and there she was with Gilda both in sexy see through lingerie but... something caught my eye... Something BIG with both of them. Huge. Fucking. COCKS! My jaw dropped and I just got rock hard looking at them both saunter in, Gilda flicking her tail about and Applejack just fondling herself. "Courtesy of a little spell Cadence taught her sister in law..." I couldnt help but just stare at their fully equipped crotches. I swear Applejack's almost matched mine if not made mine smaller.

Gilda crawled on the bed and grasped my cock stroking it. "What's the matter dweeb?" She asked. "Cant get any words out?" Before I could even respond she just licked me, balls to tip and I just shuttered. AJ chucked a bit waggling hers in my face.

"Maybe we should give him a chance to see who's on which end... dontya think?" They both looked to each other. I only saw that because I was too distracted by the musk of my marefriends thick dick.

"Nah.... I think you get his mouth and keep it shut... His tailhole looks loose and I feel like he can take a knot down here." At the rate my heart was going I dont think I could care what they did to me.

"Alright now... Wanna open wide for me sugarcube?" I did as she asked and opened wide like I was a child ready to eat. She slipped right in and down my throat like it was nothing. Gilda licked her claws and stuck them up my ass and they slipped right in without hesitation.

"Oh yeah... primed and ready back here... Hope you dont mind walking weird for a while!" Even if i could say anything I dont think I would've. She took her fingers out and flipped me over onto my side and proceeded to just prod at my ass. I swear I wanted it badly because she just slipped right in. Applejack moaned a bit.

"Wow... so this is how it feels on the other side... Feels nice..." She looked down at me and I just met her beautiful gaze. Kinda got distracted by her breasts but oh well. "If ya need air feel free to let me know. If ya start hackin' I know you'd love to see Gilda here get a bit cream filled... Especially with me doing the creamin'." I grabbed her hip with one hand having her go deeper before going to fondle her sack. Gilda gave me a light spank as she gave me a nice dicking... and I mean really nice. It was like she was using an extremely lubed and warmed strap on that grew the deeper it went.

"You like that slut? Being a naughty cockslut feels good to you doesnt it?" I could see AJ grin and look over at her.

"O' course he loves it! You see him complainin'?"

Both Gilda and Applejack chuckled as they went on spitroasting me. I dont know if it was me just being a horny fuck or just craving dick that badly but I was just in pure ecstasy feeling their throbbing cocks inside of me. They moaned loudly as they thrusted. So sensitive dicks for them I think. AJ couldnt help but go deeper giving me a chance to taste her sack. As she thrusted I heard the door open and gasped a bit but that ended up making me just start hacking and coughing nearly choking on Applejack's dick. She quickly pulled out and knelt down seeing I had a hard time breathing. She locked lips with me and blew as if she were performing CPR on me. Gilda just didnt care she was so far gone as she fucked me. AJ looked to the door and her jaw dropped a bit. I looked over past Gilda and saw... Rainbow Dash... standing there in the doorway in just a pair of panties. She looked a bit embarrassed but a bit desperate to get off by the look of the stain I saw forming. "...Uh... Mind if I join....?" She asked. Applejack huffed.

"Now what in the hell has gotten into you? First you wanna wait out in the snow and now you're wanting to make this threesome a foursome and with your own cousin too?" Dash sighed averting her gaze even more.

"Well... I made a stupid promise.... Told me about his mother, thought it was a joke, yadda yada...." She looked back at AJ. "Can I join in or what? I'm so soaked i might need a diaper to sleep in tonight...." Applejack looked to me and I gave a hesitant nod. She looked back at Dash.

"Alright but if you see me and Mac going at it at any time you got no right to say shit about it! Alright?"

"...y-yes AJ...."

"Good now just ditch what you're wearin' and close the damn door. Cold air plus a stallions seed spreader aint good!" Dash closed the door as AJ looked at me. "You gonna be okay with Dash in here?" I nodded. "Okay but... just tell me if things get awkward and I'll ask her to leave." I nodded again as AJ walked around behind Gilda as Dash came up along side the bed and faced away from me before taking a breath and pulling her panties down kinda mooning me a bit. To be honest this was kinda hot. Seeing my cousin naked and having her toy loving pussy in my face. I felt the heat from a foot away of how embarrassed she was for this. She looked back at me as Gilda gave a moan.

I looked over and saw Applejack groping her breast thrusting into her. "...Oh... damn Ry.... AJ here might be giving you a run for your money...." She said. She glanced at Dash. "Oh mama's little carpet muncher coming to join in the party with her cousin? Why not? Go on and eat AJ's ass while she fucks me!"

Rainbow Dash looked to me and then at Gilda. "...I've got other plans here... But not a word to ANYONE!" She snapped. "Not even to Fluttershy!" I watched as Gilda kept thrusting but gave a shocked look as Dash got up on the bed putting her feet on either side of my face and she squatted down as if she were about to just shit right on my face. Then she got on her knees just shoving her pussy in my face before she started to lick the tip of my dick. I had to be re-positioned onto my back with my legs up for her to do anything. A surprise neither she or AJ came yet. I could feel Dash's hot breath on my balls until she up and deep throated it. I gasped a bit feeling her go all the way down on it. And with her pussy in my face? It would be a crime not to start licking.

"...What... the fuck... am I seeing?" Gilda asked.

Applejack huffed. "I dont know but you better focus on fucking him! Otherwise I'm having Twilight do this again and with no lube when i shove it up your ass!" She snapped.

"Oh boo fucking who bitch! That's a dream to me! Bet your brother cant even tear me let alone your stallion!" And that set AJ off. I heard her grunt and the slapping got louder as the thrusting got more vigorous. I swear we were all lost in pleasure because not even seconds after that Dash cums in my face, squirting me, I cum just covering her face, Gilda creams inside of me and AJ just keeps going grunting before she stops and grunts loudly holding back a scream as she unloads every ounce of her cum into Gilda. Dash fell to the right side almost falling off the bed and I see Gilda just looking both shocked and filled with pleasure with her eyes rolled back some and her stomach bulging and Applejack squeezing the hell out of her breasts. Applejack released Gilda and she fell forward onto me before just having her eyes just meet mine as she panted.

Just as AJ was about to say something she collapsed to her hands and knees. I panicked a bit and pushed Gilda off a bit before jumping off the bed to my left and rushed to Applejack only to glance at the damage done to Gilda. She was just oozing cum like someone cut open a can of whipped cream. I looked to AJ as her cock vanished. "AJ! AJ C'mon speak to me!" I said giving her face a gentle slap.

Applejack's eyes snapped open and she looked at me wheezing a bit. I ended up having to do a little breathing kiss on her to even out her breathing. Once done she coughed a bit and looked to me. "...Th-thanks sugarcube..." She said. She looked to Gilda. "....I over did it didnt I...?" I huffed.

"Yeah... Just a bit.... Hope she doesnt get pregnant off of that...." She looked back to me as Dash started trying to get Gilda to snap out of it.

"She wont... things might work like usual but... Twi also used an infertility spell just in case something like this happened... You wanna help get Gilda up? I gotta get my clothes and find us a new room to sleep in....think we fucked up my sheets good...." I smiled and nodded before giving her a kiss and helping her up. She was a bit wobbly but she made it out the door just fine.

I walked back to the bed and looked to Dash who kinda looked a bit scared. Then i just gave Gilda a nice open palmed slap on the ass causing her tail to frizz out and her to just whip up and narrowly miss her with her claws. She huffed as Dash grabbed a hold of her from behind and held her arms down. "...G-god dammit... I felt like she wasnt ever gonna stop...." She said. "...Almost made me pop like a balloon...."

I sighed and pointed to Dash. "Before you do go and wash up with her I'd suggest giving a nice big push to get all that spunk out." I said. "It's either that or do you want me to push near your bladder and make you piss yourself? I know how big that bladder of yours gets during sex!" She hesitated a bit but opened her legs wide. But knowing me and my pervy nature i couldnt let her push all of that out. I just put my hand on her bulging belly and pushed down. She gasped and whimpered clenching her eyes shut as all that cum came rushing out onto the bed and a stream of piss spray out everywhere.

"...Y-you asshole..." She opened her eyes a bit and looked to me. ".... I'll get you for this dweeb!" She gave a grin as she teared up a bit. "...Just get dressed again and leave me and Dash here.... We'll be fine dont worry." I nodded and grabbed my underwear putting them on before leaving the room. I had to clench my ass she came so much just to keep it from staining my underwear badly. Had to waddle myself to the bathroom just a few doors down from the girls and cleansed myself a bit. Dont really remember much after that other than tiredly stumbling to the new room AJ got us. She changed into sweat pants and a sweat shirt. Even had to get some of Twilight's resized before having to wear them. Passed out and fell hard just cuddled closely with AJ's chest. Felt so good to be cuddled up to her. And yes Twilight always has a pack of diapers for Pinkie, herself and me.... and Dash and Fluttershy for obvious reasons. Had to wear one. AJ wasnt gonna take chances after that and neither was I but oh well.

Heart to Heart

It's been a week since the blizzard. I had a lot to think about being stuck inside the castle for a day. What I'd do for the proposal, what I would say, who would be there and where it would be done. Everyone will be there and I'd have to play it off as to not tip it off. The where...? Not sure... I needed help. I had to have Twilight call me in for work but just fake it. I left the house at Sweet Apple Acres and listened to some Gems to calm my nerves. I was wearing a black hoodie, a metallicolt teeshirt, grey jeans and my black and white skate shoes. As I drove my phone rang. I lowered my music and glanced at my phone and saw it was Rarity. I answered. "Hello?" I said.

I heard Rarity clear her throat. "Ryder? Where are you?" She asked.

"On the way to Twilight's castle. Why?"

"Is Applejack with you?"

"Nope. She's at home." Rarity sighed.

"Good... Dont have to ask you to model a suit that didnt exist... AJ knows how bad I am at lying... Especially when I ask you where you are... That's my give away. Speaking of away how did you tell Applejack you were off to Twilight's?" I turned down a side street passing by the old house. They're making headway trying to build it again. Almost done with the framework. I huffed seeing just a flash of the night.

"Got a bit excited knowing that thing was happening and almost told Scootaloo and Applebloom... and Big Mac... but knowing them they cant hide secrets for anything. Scootaloo and Applebloom would be talking about it, Applejack would walk in catching them in the midst of that conversation and they'd spill the beans knowing they cant lie their ways out."

"And what about Big Mac? He's gonna have to know about this sooner or later." I chuckled here as I turned towards the castle.

"Well here's a funny story. Big Mac made a Pinkie Promise one time about having to keep a secret about Pinkie being padded and it slipped. Exactly why she cant diaper up at home any more and has to do it when ever she's with us. Otherwise she's risking washing her sheets or leaving a puddle on the floor like Scootaloo did at her birthday party I missed."

"Oh... She told you about that?"

"Yeah... Should've told Celestia surprise parties arent her thing but too late now. Didnt think she'd get so scared she would pee herself..."

"Yeah... poor thing was so embarrassed she ran off after she was empty. I felt so bad I nearly got her a full new wardrobe. Waterproof pants and all. But I'm glad I didnt. Probably wouldnt be fun if she filled her shoes when she wet her pants now."

"Definitely not. But I got a question for you. Everyone there?"

I heard the phone rustle a bit. "You know it Ry!" I heard Dash say. "Got me, Fluttershy, Rarity, Twilight and Pinkie and yes we had EVERYONE and I mean everyone, guards and all Pinkie Promise to not say anything to AJ if they overhear anything. And you know the shit you know about me and can do to me if I say anything. Now hurry your ass up and get here!"

Before I had a chance to answer she hung the phone up. I huffed shaking my head and turned up my music again now coming back to an eighties power ballad and I gotta say it was pretty good. Kept my mind off of what ever was going on for the most part and I was singing all the words.... Or at least what i think were the lyrics... What ever. A few songs after (and a snack stop at a corner store) I came to the castle and pulled into the parking garage. After I parked I just sat there in my car, radio now turned off. I was kinda nervous about even talking about this with everypony. As I sat there a motorbike rolled up a few spots down. I grabbed my phone and got out of my car and alarmed it before walking over to see Gilda in tight jeans ripped by the knees, combat boots, a black leather jacket studded around the shoulders and a grey striped shirt under that. She looked to me and grinned as she killed the engine. "What up dweeb? Not gonna get me for not wearing a helmet on my bike are you?" She asked.

I sighed. "Now that you're off the road no but I'll look the other way this time. You just be careful alright?" I said. She gave a nod getting off the bike leaning it onto its kickstand.

"So what's the general of the guard doing here on a day off?"

"How can you tell its an off day? I usually wear this stuff when working so I feel comfortable." She walked up to me and just outright grabbed my crotch and squeezed a bit getting a crinkle out.

"Only a big lazy baby wears his diapers on an off day. You gonna wet em and ditch em or you gonna try and keep em dry until you have to?" I blushed averting my gaze and slapping her hand away.

"...Keep em dry until I have to... And not so loud... these chambers echo and someone could be nearby hearing this...." I brought her close and whispered. "Not to mention....I'm not trusting my gas today..." She looked to me.

"Backed up?" I nodded a bit. "Well tell me when you feel something coming on and if it happens I'll change you. Hope you've got a few spares with you."

"Alright now... lets just get up there before the Princess questions me..." And she does question me for the slightest things like being a second late but I can do nothing. It's either I answer with something like traffic or waiting for the elevator or I end up doing some mundane task as a punishment. Mostly some math questions. Some days its best to do the math questions.

Gilda and I got in the elevator not too long after and me being me I just had to go and fondle her breasts. She knew how I felt about elevators and just let me do that to calm myself. Even let me get a little feel under the shirt since we were alone. After we got out of the elevator we immediately headed towards the throne room. Once we were there we saw the girls talking amongst themselves. Twilight was wearing blue jeans and a Canterlot themed tank top, Rarity was wearing a white fifties style dress with a black ribbon tied around her waist, Pinkie was wearing a tight cotton candy blue shirt and jean shorts... I swear if anything were tighter on her it would look like a bra that was too small and a thong. Fluttershy was wearing her bellbottom jeans and a buttoned jean jacket with beaded tassels on the hem of the sleeves and Dash was wearing a wonderbolts jacket, a cloudsdale baseball jersey under that, skinny blue jeans and her blue sneakers which she just had on top of the table in the middle. The first one to notice me was Pinkie and her face lit up. I braced myself as she hopped over the side of her seat and charged me. "HE'S HERE!!!!" She screamed. Gilda got behind me and backed me up as Pinkie nearly tackled me hugging me. She did squeeze the heck out of me as the others congregated onto me.

Twilight smiled as she came close. "Welcome General!" She said. "We're glad that you've chosen us to help out with making AJ a happily married mare!"

I gave a smile as Pinkie released me. "I wouldnt have picked a better team to help me." I said. "I just... I just hope with everything we plan it goes off flawlessly."

Fluttershy stepped close. "We helped Twilight set up her brothers wedding and we'll help set yours up too!" She said. "Any animals you want singing your wedding song?"

"I uh..."

I was cut off by Rainbow Dash. "Are you gonna let me set up the spectacles and make it awesome?" She asked.

Before I had a chance to answer Pinkie chimed in. "Ooh! Ooh! How many party cannons do you wanna go off when you walk down the aisle with AJ? Ten? Twenty? Four?" She asked.

And then Rarity. "I've got outfits and designs for the after party all handled!" She said.

Then Gilda. "Woah what? You're getting MARRIED?!" She said shocked. To be honest everyone kept going and talking over each other... Except Fluttershy because she's quiet. I just couldnt help but just bury my head into Gilda's chest hiding from all of the chatter.

Then I hear Twilight speak up. "Girls! Girls girls please stop!" She said in a firm loud voice. "Cant you see that you're scaring him? Quiet down and let him speak!" Gilda nudged me off and turned me about only to see each mare looking sorry for themselves. Twilight looked a bit worried. "Alright Ryder. You've got the floor. Just tell us what we're doing. Take a moment if you need to."

I took a deep breath and sighed heavily. "...Okay..." I said. "First off... Twilight is gonna help me plan this out and run me through things once she has a rough draft of things. Dash, I know you like spectacles but what I want you to do is find some locations and themes we can do for the wedding. Fluttershy is handling the animals for the wedding song and possibly bringing in the rings but I'll have to think on that. Pinkie... No party cannons but you can throw us the biggest reception that anyone has ever seen and send out invitations and I know you're good at that!" I glanced at Rarity. "And Rarity is going to be tailoring my suit and Applejack's dress. I will allow it to be a semiformal wedding but maybe with some pursuading it could be formal depending on the location as well. Now are we all clear on what we're gonna be doing?" Each and every mare gave a nod and a noise of agreement. "Good. Now go start planning. I know each of you will be doing something great for us and I thank you for everything that you've helped us with." I saw Fluttershy and Rarity blush a bit when I said that. As everypony dispersed Twilight approached me, even as Gilda walked off with Dash.

"So Ryder have you thought about where to get the ring and how to propose to Applejack?" I nervously averted my gaze and acted like a child who hadnt done his homework before the due date. "...I'll assume that as a no.... Why's that?"

"... Well... I just... I've got ideas but none of them sound good in my head... and you know the way I think... One idea i have is proposing at the beach but then there's the possibility I might kneel down onto a sea turtle egg making Fluttershy cry, I could be just about to do it and Scootaloo starts drowning in the water, I could have AJ riding her ATV through the sand and crash putting her in a hospital for many months and so on and so forth... and none of it makes me feel any better no matter how hard i try thinking of other ideas to replace the idea that was ruined..." Twilight hummed.

"...Hm... I'd have options for stuff like this but... With the way your mind works I'm kinda afraid to say anything..." She looked away and thought for a moment. "...I think this is actually the first proposal I've been chosen to help out with... I dont think I'd know how to handle these kinds of things...." She huffed and hummed before gasping and looking to me. "But I know someone who can help! Follow me!" She took my hand and started leading me through the halls.

We ended up walking all the way to her study just a few doors down from her room. As we entered she had book shelves along every wall and a desk in the middle with books stacked on either side of a laptop. She quickly turned on the computer and signed on. I couldnt help but grab a book off the shelf and skim it. Not much of a book I understood other than that it was called.... Fuck I dont know. Anyways she beckoned me over as she started calling someone on a video chat app. I saw a familiar name on the screen below a picture I knew all too well. The name? Princess Cadence and the picture of her kissing Shining. I dont know why I didnt think of this before but it's brilliant. I gave her a pat on the back and a thumbs up. The computer buzzed a bit mimicking the sound of a phone call waiting to be picked up on the other end. Suddenly the screen lit up with us in a little box in the corner. "Twily? What are you doing calling?" I hear a familiar voice ask. Twilight sighed and rolled her eyes.

"Shining! I thought I told you not to call me that in front of my friends!"

"That better be a friend there or I'll keep calling you what ever I please!"

I lowered my face into view and huffed. "I'd stop calling her that before I come and kick your ass!" I snapped.

Twilight looked to me and grunted. "You better not hurt my BBBFF!" She looked back at the screen. "Don't mind Ryder! He's having a little trouble and needs to talk to Cadence."

Shining hummed. "You sure Twilight?" He asked.

"Yes and turn on the camera! I wanna see my favorite foalsitter and my big brother!" I heard Shining sigh.

"...I'll get Cadence for you guys... I'll have her turn on the camera.... Not in the best state at the moment."

"...No pants?" He hesitated a bit. "I'll take that as a yes.... And hope you have some underwear on because I dont wanna have a remake of that time you drunk video called me!"

We heard the computer rustle a bit and footsteps walk away. I looked to Twilight. "So uh.... I'll take any punishment for this but.... What are we talking here with Shining?" I asked. She reached over and gave me a slug to the thigh and then in my side. Didnt knock the wind out of me but it did hurt.

"...That's for asking.... and because you asked...." She pulled out her phone and went into her images. I dont know what I was expecting from this but... Turned out the picture she showed me was kinda funny. All i saw was Shining on his hands and knees on a bed blushing with a pink pacifier in his mouth wearing a pink and yellow dress and under the dress was a pair of pink striped panties and a diaper bulging out under that. "This is what he gets for making you even think about asking. Twenty bits and i send it to you so you can taunt him with it." I paid right up. Best twenty bits I ever spent.

We waited for a few minutes and heard the sound of high heels through the computer. I could see Twilight's face light up as she heard the poof of a seat as someone sat down. The screen kinda glitched slightly a moment and a picture slowly brightened up replacing the picture of Twilight's brother kissing his wife only to be replaced by his wife- Princess Cadence- herself. She was wearing a black hoodie from Las Pegasus. Cadence smiled brightly seeing Twilight. "Twilight! What a surprise its so good to see you!" She said. Twilight laughed a bit.

"I know! IT's been so long! I wish we could do our little sunshine dance but right now I've got someone who need your help in particular...." She got up from the seat and offered it to me. I hesitantly sat down and looked at Cadence's face.

"Well what do we have here? Is that Ryder I see?"

I smiled a bit and gave a wave. "Hey Princess... How are things with you?" I asked.

"Oh I'm doing well! Shiny has been a bit bored here. You two need to get together here soon!"

"Definitely wanting to plan something but... this isnt what I wanted to talk to you about..." I averted my gaze.

"Oh? Is this a problem that Twilight needs to leave the room for or is this something you can talk about in front of her." I looked back at her.

"It's something I can talk about but... I'll be sure to bug Shining to talk to you again if need be but... I just would like to let you know I've planned to propose to Applejack but... the problem is I have no clue how to go about it... I always shoot down my own ideas when I get them.... I just need something that will help me not be so paranoid with what ever choice I make... I'm just so nervous...." She sat back in her chair and hummed.

"...Well this is definitely a problem with love... I admire you wanting to take this huge step in your life but what ever thoughts cross your mind make it difficult for me to help... especially through a computer.... But I could probably bring you out here to me! It might take a while but I have my train refueling just outside of Canterlot. I'll even contact Celestia and tell her to send a chopper to pick you up. It's going to take a good part of the day and night for you to get here so I suggest finding someone who you can share the ride with. It can be with anyone you want. Even Twilight can come!"

Twilight got into the picture and nudged me aside on her chair. It spun me around a bit. "Sorry Cadence.... Ryder already has me and the girls planning stuff out for him and we cant let anything get in the way of this..." She said. "Anything else you'd like to say to Ryder before we cut this call?" I saw her nod on screen.

"Ryder I want to let you know we've had some problems with the train being exposed from the inside online. Dont worry, no cameras on board but do try to keep your cellphone out of sight of the guards around and tell who ever you are with! I dont want to see or hear of any trouble with an allied country guard. I'll have Shining meet you at the train station tomorrow morning after my train stops there. I'll see you soon! Bye!" I saw her turn away before the camera cut out. "SHINING! GET IN HERE AND EXPLAIN WHAT THIS SHIT IS ON THE SCREEN?!"

"Uh.... Cadence....? Call still going!" Twilight said. We heard her scramble and then the computer made a noise of the call ending. Twilight looked to me blushing. ".... I'd use that picture to your advantage for me. If he says anything about you having it just tell him it's gonna cost a bit for you to delete it and the source to be deleted as well." I gave a nod and got out of the chair returning it to the front of the computer. "So who are you going to take with you to the Crystal Empire? You could go alone but she did say it would be better for you to have someone to talk to on the way there."

I sighed as I turned my back to her messing with the computer with a few clicks. "I cant really take Applejack... I dont want her to find out and ruin everything..." I said. "Scootaloo has school tomorrow and Big Mac has to take them...." I looked at Twilight again as she stood up closing the computer. "Do you think Cadence would let Gilda come with me....? I mean... she's the only one that I can be with that I know doesnt have anything to do and wont spoil anything unless she gets a laugh out of it...." I averted my gaze a bit. "...That's exactly why I dont ever wanna speak to her after she sees a movie i wanna see.... Wont even talk to her before watching a movie I need to watch." She hummed a bit.

"I guess Gilda it is...." She looked back at me. "You wanna go grab something to eat and wait until I speak with Gilda about that?" I huffed.

"Sure but hurry.... Cant tell if I'm getting excited or nervous about this...." Like no joke I started shivering and my heart was racing. She gave me a thumbs up and proceeded to just put her books away using her magic standing near the desk.

I left the room and wandered the halls feeling my heart just pounding. The first domino in this life changing event is now being tipped. I walked all the way back to the dining hall and just grabbed a can of pink lemonade before just cracking it open and drinking it like I was dying for a drink. About half way through the can- which was about just a swig- I realized something that might be a problem. How the hell am I gonna get out to the Crystal Empire without Applejack knowing? And without Scootaloo freaking out or wanting to come with me? I quickly sat down at the table alone and swallowed what lemonade I had in my mouth and it went down like a fucking rock. I pulled my phone out and went into my contacts and went to Shining's number before calling him. I put my ear up to my phone and just listened to the rock tone he had to replace the buzzing. Not even a moment after I heard the music stop and a little rustling on the phone. "Dammit can this wait Ryder?!" I heard Shining ask. I huffed.

"First off no it cant wait. I know I was invited by Cadence to head out there and that you secretly use her computer for porn but I need a favor from you." He sighed.

"Fine but leave me to my business after this. Cadence hasnt been in the mood lately and I'm dying for this moment. What did you need?"

"Well... since this is something I dont want AJ to find out about I need it covered up. I had Twilight call me to her castle for a work thing but I just need something to help cover that.... Like an Escort mission or something.... Something where Applejack wont get suspicious or something.... I just dont want her catching wind of anything I'm doing and ruin anything...." He huffed.

"Okay since I can ask Cadence what the hell you're doing I can tell AJ you're needed here for something important. I wont disclose what but it should help. Now let me get back to my thing here!"

"Thanks Shining! Anything you need it's yours! Even a little help with your problem there... Pics or some physical contact with yours truly... Cadence does approve of you sleeping with others right? Princess of love and all?" He sighed.

"...Yes... Now go on and do what ever you need to to get ready for here. That means clothes, toiletries and what ever else you need. I'm not sharing anything from my closet again!" Before I had a chance to answer back he hung up. I gave a sigh and went back to drinking my lemonade. I got up and left the room, drink in hand. I was calming down as I sipped my sweetly sour drink. Walked down the hall all the way to the lounge room. This room brought some memories I didnt want to come up. First day on the job ring a bell? Rings like I'm the one chiming the damn bell... Hope Shining still regrets it.

Anyways in the lounge they were just talking together, Dash was cuddling up to Fluttershy on the recliner, Rarity was on a few new bean bag seats with Pinkie and Twilight. Twilight got up seeing me and smiled. "There you are!" She said. "Where were you? I was just about to call you!"

I showed her the can of lemonade. "Just raided your fridge for something to calm my nerves. Hope you dont mind." I said.

"I dont mind at all. I told Gilda what she'd be doing and had her get some clothes together before running to get stuff for you. Hope you dont mind."

"That's fine. Had Shining set something up to contact AJ and cover this little trip up as something important. Hopefully she doesnt question Gilda about it...." And once thy name has been spoken they shall appear. My phone started to ring and when I saw the screen I had a little heart attack seeing Applejack's name on the screen. It's like she heard me or something. I showed my phone to Twilight and she quieted everyone down for me to answer it. When I did I put it on speaker phone just having it a little bit away from my mouth. "Hey AJ can this wait a bit? Kinda busy tinkering with something Spike broke!"

I saw Twilight choke back on a giggle because she knew Spike breaks a lot of stuff. "Alright I'll make it quick." She said. "Shinin' texted me and told me that you need to get your flank up to the Crystal Empire. Didnt say what or why but just said it's guard business and that you're the only one he trusts with this sorta thing."

"Really now? I'd think he would've talked with me first... Guess I was in a dead signal part of the castle. I'll give him a call and send Gilda to get my things. Should be out on the town if I read what she texted me earlier."

"Alright now you go on and have fun. Maybe bring home a little souvenir for the girls. I'll tell Scoot you had to head to work but wont be home for a few days or how ever long that trip is gonna take. And... Just call or text me when you get there. Alright?" I saw Pinkie just give me a bright smile.

"Alright AJ.... I'll call you when I get there. I'll see what I can get for the girls if Shining doesnt drink me under the table." She laughed a bit.

"Okay now... I gotta get going. Girls should be offa school here soon. Love ya sugarcube." I blushed as everypony just looked at me, Dash making a little kissy face... smart ass...

"Love you too AJ... Later." I hung up and as soon as the little 'call ended' sound they all gave a loving 'aw' making me blush even harder.

Rarity got up and came over to me giving a laugh. "Sorry there darling but hearing that just makes us happy that something like this is happening in our own friend circle." She said. "We've gone and helped Princess Cadence with her wedding and that was something special. Though we did have to fight changelings it was a great wedding after we had fixed everything... my mane included. But now that we know someone is wanting one of our friends hands in marriage this one is going to spectacular! Do you know who is going to be officiating the ceremony?" I shrugged.

"Not sure yet but... I have time to choose and hopefully whoever I choose will do a great job. Now... How about we relax and watch some TV before I get choppered out?"

Everyone agreed to that idea. Twilight even had the guards get drinks for us and some snacks. Felt weird having my own underlings do stuff for me like this. We watched a good two and a half movies before a guard came in with Gilda and my things. She had her duffel bag stuffed and mine stuffed with everything... Even diapers... "Sorry to interrupt princess but the chopper is here for the general and company." He said. I got up from my seat and sighed stretching as Twilight got up.

"...Guess it's time to go..."

Twilight sighed and smiled as Dash got up. "Guess so...." She said hugging me. "Good luck out there General..."

Dash huffed joining in on the hug. "Yeah good luck there Ry." She said. "Don't worry I'll keep Scoot safe and keep her distracted while you're gone."

Rarity came over and joined in on the hug. "Do tell us everything that goes on wont you darling?" She asked.

Fluttershy came over and hugged us as well. "Wish I could go with you but I have my animals to take care of." She said.

Then I just watched Pinkie come over with her head hung and mane kinda drooping a bit. The girls broke off of me and let me hug Pinkie by herself. "Don't worry Pinkie. I'll bring something back for you and I'll make it extra special!" I said. "Just keep that chin up and smile smile smile!" And that was when she squeezed me and cracked my back. To be honest she's kinda better than a chiropractor. My back was feeling a tad stiff after being in my seat for so long. Dash and Rarity had to pry her off of me so I could head up to the chopper (and ditch a soggy diaper in the garbage in one of the restrooms on the way up.).

About an hour and a half later Gilda and I were on a train bound for The Crystal Empire. This was Cadence' new train fit with three cars, one for dining, one for loving and the other just for relaxing. Yes. She has a car just for sex but that is just a bedroom and she allowed me and Gilda into her uh... stash of toys... Dildos, lube, paddles, ropes and costumes. Even some diapers. A few guards were there. Two in the dining car along with a chef and two in the caboose, a TV, a game console, wifi that is fit with passwords, a DVD player and an assortment of movies ranging from movies for kids to teens, and some raunchy adult flicks too. Too bad they were locked up. Saw some good ones and I was surprised to see some of my favorites... I've only seen the trailers but those are fucking tell all. Anyways the car we were in we were in the sleeping car. Two cabinets sat at either side of the bed holding toys and outfits ready for who ever wanted to wear them... mostly looked dominatrix style. Black latex straps everywhere and large dildos and such. Gilda was laying on a heart shaped bed in her white tank top and a pair of ripped jean shorts. She had her boots off to the side next to our bags just to the right of the bed. I changed into a pair of shorts and one of my cut off metallicolt shirts. This one was the Bit Puncher album. Red wings coming out of a unicorn skull with the horn broken and METALLICOLT written in fire. She looked to me as I browsed the large, almost baseball bat sized dildos. "Doesnt it make you think?" She asked. I glanced over at her.

"What do you mean?" I asked. She got onto her knees on the bed and stood up before hopping off next to me.

"I mean getting married. Tying the knot, getting the ball and chain and a lasso to rope you up and pull you back if you try to get away? Doesnt it make you think what you could lose when you do this?" I looked back at the cabinet.

"I'm not losing anything. If anything I'm gaining something.... a life bond with someone I love and who I know will take good care of my sister if something ever happens to me..." I opened up the cabinet and just took a large red one out. Thing weighed a good bit and made me feel a bit insignificant. "I'm not saying I'm thinking of anything to just... y'know but... I'm just thinking about my job and what could happen if something went wrong... I get caught in a shootout and backup doesnt show up in time... things just change there for Scoot..." Gilda took the dildo out of my hand and just slapped me across the face with it twice. Once one way and then another to make it even.

"Dont you ever- EVER- think like that again!" She snapped shoving the toy into my chest. She went back to the bed and sat down ."Not only will your sister be losing you if an 'accident' occurs but then there's Dash, Applejack, their friends, the princesses, and what ever guard friend you have but...." She hesitated averting her gaze. "...I'll be included on that mix...." She sniffled a bit. "....Ever since you saved me from myself I just... I wanted to change my ways... I wanted to be nicer.... Some things never change like my attitude but... that's only because I take it out on myself for being so stupid... When I accidentally gave food poisoning to an elder back in Griffonstone I was distracted on a few things... my body being one of them... I starved myself for a few days which didnt do me any good... Got distracted, forgot to clean the oven from any residue and what ever burnt onto the pan I used it basically stuck onto the fresh scones I made and... It caused my shop to get closed down... I almost didnt come out here if it werent for the promise of you being there to make me feel better..." I saw tears scroll down her cheeks as I sat down next to her. "...if it werent for Applejack letting you take your rage out on me... I felt like I was gonna be empty but... with you just drilling me it makes me feel whole.... makes me feel safe from myself.... But now that you're getting married I just...." She looked to me. "...I feel like I'm going to lose your touch... lose your new wifes approval and I'm just gonna be left with a toy in one hand, a rope in the other and an option of where to fucking hang myself!" She hugged me and cried into my shoulder. I shushed her.

"...Dont cry Gil... I'll always be there for you.... even if AJ doesnt give her approval I'll make sure you feel like I'm always there... I told you before and I'll say it again.... No matter what time it is, no matter where I am, no matter what I'm doing... if you are having trouble just call me... Losing you would be like losing AJ... I dont think I'd make it long enough to get over it... even worse I'd see Dash all broken up because she lost her best friend... Cant forget that..." I kissed her on the cheek. "...I love you Gil... as... not as a coltfriend but... as someone who you can trust... always..." I held her close as she sobbed softly into my shoulder. "...Wanna get something to eat in the other car? Could probably have a drink or two to fix us right up." She looked to me and gave a smile.

"...I love you too y-you dweeb... dont ever leave me... and a drink does sound nice..." I wiped her eyes away and kissed her cheek before helping her stand up before helping her to the food car.

The food car was a formal one. Single table, four chairs, little kitchen area off to the side with the chef cleaning his areas. He was a brown coated earth pony with a dirty blonde mane wearing a white chefs shirt and black pants. "Ah! There you are General! I was expecting to meet you sooner. Hope everything is to your liking so far." He said. "And who do we have here?" He looked to Gilda smiling a bit.

I smiled a bit. "This is Gilda. She's my travel companion for this trip." I said as Gilda hugged me hiding her teary eyes. "I wouldnt mind her too much. She's just kinda going through some personal things. And dont worry I got her cleared with the princess herself so if she does anything just tell me and I'll correct it."

"Will do. Now what can I get you both?"

"Just something as simple as Pasta sounds good with alfredo sauce for me and maybe some tomato basil for my friend here. And any menu for drinks?" He nodded and dug into a little drawer pulling out a full sized menu labeled 'drinks' in fancy cursive.

"You're lucky that even the Prince and Princess have trouble choosing what to drink. Also have a menu fit for what to eat but what you ordered was just perfect. One of the guards on here is also a bartender on the side so just let me know what you want and I'll have him get started on the drinks." Gilda and I both nodded and went and sat at the table together just looked over the menu together. Ended up getting some mixed drinks that were pretty strong... After dinner we walked back to the bedroom and boy were our heads swimming. Mostly Gilda's. I was good and only had one... and a half.... with a few shots... Yeah... had to be cut off after a few but I can hold my liquor somewhat well. Somewhat meaning if I would've had one drink more (or even a shot more. Still trying to figure that out) I'd be passed out on the floor.

Anyways we both hobbled to the bedroom and drunkenly put a few diapers we found on. These were definitely the ones I saw Shining wear in the picture. These were kinda cute. Had Cadence's cutie mark on the butt of it, sparkles on the crotch and the little colored waist area was a bright pink. Neither of us cared what was on them because we just up and pissed ourselves. She was laying on the bed and I had to kneel down. Kinda felt the room spin a little. Either that or maybe we were taking a turn. Those drinks just went right through us like nothing. And jeez these diapers held a lot. Full force and it didnt even leak a bit. She sighed heavily and I looked over at her just to see her start rubbing her swelled nappy. I may not have pissed since after I got to Twilight's and I had to go badly. Surprised I didnt pee my pants- wait. Getting off track. Gilda moaned as she rubbed the swollen crotch of her diaper and ooh I was getting a bit hot under the collar. I kicked my pants off and just stripped down to just the diaper before jumping on top of her. She gave me a surprised look as she quickly brought her claw to my hip. We just looked into each others eyes and within a moment we were both naked, diapers strewn aside and I was just pounding away at her pussy. Even though one of us smelt like rum (IT WAS HER I SWEAR) I couldnt help but kiss her deeply squeezing her breasts. She broke the kiss and looked to me. "F-FUCK ME HARD DWEEB!" She yelled over how violently we were slapping together. "LET ME BE YOUR FUCKING TOILET! LET ME BE YOUR FUCKING SLUT!"

I honestly dont know what happened there but something sparked in me and I picked her up off the bed, facing away from me and I had to have my wings help me fuck the stuffing outta her. She was screaming so loud I could swear the guards would've gone and rushed from both sides of the train even with how loud the tracks were thumping. "YOU LIKE THAT YOU WHORE?!" I asked. I dont think she even could answer because all I heard were her moans. I dont even know how she did it but she managed to twist herself around, bring a leg over my head and just hug me nearly digging her talons into my back as I fucked the brain out of her head because in that time she turned herself around her eyes were just rolled back into her head. She was that lost in the pleasure. I felt something brewing and I'm not talking dinner coming back up. That didnt happen I swear. Not even just a little. I felt something in my loins just grow as I just fucked her. She wrapped her legs around my waist and just squeezed me tight and her talons dug into me just a bit more and it just made me release, shooting load after load of hot steaming cum into the now loudly moaning griffon. She even came hard just making it even harder for me to not be able to pull out. I came so hard my legs kinda gave out and I fell to my knees gripping her tightly.... May have peed in her a bit too. Neither of us could tell until we got up on the bed. I pulled out and immediately she started leaking massive amounts of spunk.

Even though that happened, neither of us bothered to go and turn out the lights before passing out. To be honest I dont think I've slept so well in my life. I felt so content, so tired and just... comfortable. I had no dreams but uh... this is where I freak out. I heard no doors open, no windows opening or anything. All I heard was a gasp and I jumped. I panted and looked to Gilda who was still passed out and serene looking. And then I looked to the other side and yelped quickly covering myself up with a pillow. Why? Because not even three feet away, holding my boxer shorts in her hand was Princess Cadence. She was wearing capris jeans, a flowing bell sleeved white shirt and high heels. "What.... is the meaning of THIS?!" She asked tossing my boxers to me. "You're the GENERAL of Equestria and you're doing this kinda shit!? Yes I allowed you to bring someone with you for the ride, yes I can look past you using the stash of diapers I had and your clothes all over the floor but THIS?!" She walked over to Gilda's side of the bed and reached between her legs just scooping a glob of my cum out of her. Gilda jumped feeling her dig inside. Cadence let some of it fall onto the bed as Gilda gasped sitting up and covering herself huddling at my side. "You are fucking LUCKY this car has an enchantment so everyone inside is temporarily infertile otherwise she would've been the beginning of the end for you! I'm willing to hide this from your soon to be wife but this is something I wont tolerate! Now get dressed and get to the food car! Shining is there waiting for you... I need to have a word with your little friend here..."

I said nothing and got out of bed quickly grabbing every article of clothing I could find of my own. My pants, my underwear but uh... shirt... not mine. I quickly crossed the cars and slammed the doors behind me. Lucky me it was only Shining in the dining car. He was in the cooking area wearing a white tee, camo shorts as he stood over the stove as he was making pancakes. He looked back at me after I closed the door behind me and leaned on it. My heart was thumping out of my chest. "Well good morning there General. Sleep well?" He asked. I huffed and just went over to the table and sat down facing away from the door. Not even an answer. "Everything okay there Ry? Thought you'd be happy to see me at least..."

I looked to him sighing. "Hey now can you get me a drink dude?" I asked. I looked down at the table. Four place settings, forks and knives for everyone. I heard Shining open up a little fridge that was just out of view i think. Grabbed a few glass bottles and brought them over to the table, clanging with each step. He set a bottle in front of me and I saw it was orange juice.

"Okay... you're lucky Cadie loves her OJ and that I'm in a good mood.... What's got you beat? And I mean other than applying yourself to the ball and chain." I grabbed the juice and cracked it open.

"...I just... Well... Lets just say I got a bit drunk and slept with my travel companion and this travel companion is someone you know and well... she helps me when I'm either nervous, frustrated or just... violent... or if I feel like I might get violent with AJ when I dont want to... And when Cadence came in and saw us together, her just stuffed with... my stuff... she flipped out at me and I never got a chance to say anything to help my case... I feel like if i step out of line for just a second your wife is gonna rip my balls off before mine does!" Shining huffed.

"It's okay dude. She's very strict when it comes to this kinda stuff. I mean... that's nice that AJ lets you do that sorta thing and not get in trouble. Not only is she the princess of love but she doesnt like seeing others cheat on their partners ESPECIALLY in your relationship. She doesnt wanna see anyone hurt by a broken heart.... She is gonna be mad at someone who is doing the things because..." He glanced at the door and sighed. "...Because she doesnt wanna see anyone end up like her parents... She told me this a while ago and... Her father cheated on her mother and things happened to get her orphaned.... Celestia adopted her and... did somethings she wasnt proud of and gave Cadence her cutie mark and her princesshood to keep her silence... I want you to NEVER mention this to ANYONE! Not AJ, not Cadence and not even Celestia! They dont want word to get out, have controversies arise and riots ensue. Understand?" I nodded.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." I glanced back behind me. "You should probably get everything plated before they come out. I'd rather have my mouth glued shut with syrup than forced shut by a gag." I looked to him and he nodded.

I went back to sipping my drink just minding my own business. Sat there for a few minutes just waiting for them to come out. They did eventually with Gilda now looking a bit scared wearing skinny jeans, one of my shirts, (This was a Gems N Tulips album. Cant rightly remember what one.) and her boots. Cadence was behind her looking serene as if nothing had ever happened. She sighed as she closed the door behind her. "There we are!" She said. "Good morning everyone! I hope the train ride wasnt too boring!" She looked to Shining as Gilda sat next to me at the table. "Breakfast almost ready?"

Shining gave a little chuckle. "Almost done sweetie. Just plating it up now." He said. "Anyone want some fruit with their breakfast?"

I raised a hand looking back at Shining. "Blue berries if you have em please." I said. Honestly as we ate Shining and Cadence were the only ones talking. It was mostly about things going on around the Crystal Empire. Love Fest here, CrystalCon there. Even a concert or two. Nothing I wanted though.

After we were done we left the train, bags slung over our shoulders. Shining and Cadence were up ahead of me and Gilda a bit. We just stopped outside to take a breath and look at our surroundings. The Castle towered over the brightly shining city. Ponies walked everywhere you looked. Guards kinda surrounded this train station, alternating from unicorn to pegasus back to unicorn and so on. Four guards on this side of the tracks, four on the other. As we left the station Gilda grabbed my hand clutching it tight. "....Next time we sleep like that together... Do NOT let any mare stick their fingers there unless that mare is horny or hungry for their breakfast like that..." She said sounding kinda scared. "...Do you wanna know what she did? She didnt feel me up, stick anything in me but... she cleaned me out with her magic! I dont know how she did it but it felt so weird I was scared of what else she could do! I-I dont even think I can piss myself i'm so scared!" I shushed her just using my thumb to rub the back of her claws.

"It's okay. I'll talk to Shining if I can about that... Did she at least give warning what it was gonna feel like?"

"She did but.... it just.... It felt so weird... it didnt feel like anything she described...." I could see her feathers kinda frizz out a bit.

"Hey hey it's okay... just take some deep breaths. When we get back to the castle I'll see if we cant speak to either of them and telling them you felt uncomfortable with that. For now just hold on to me. I gotcha Gil..." Gilda nodded and just latched onto my arm. I didnt wanna let her go. As we walked she started to calm down. I could only tell because she let up with her grip. Still was hanging on to my arm.

When we got to the castle Gilda and I had to be split up. I got my own room and so did Gilda. We got our rooms right next to each other though. My room was pretty big. Large circular mattress in the middle of the room, dressers on the wall behind it, TV mounted to the wall and a book shelf opposite that. As I unpacked I called Applejack. Phone buzzed for a bit before she answered. "Well good mornin' sugarcube!" I heard her say. Honestly just warmed my heart. "I was wonderin' when you would call! Scoot was worried when you didnt call last night before bed! What happened?" I sighed.

"...Had a little too much to drink last night. Kinda ticked Cadence off when she found me with my head in the toilet and I'm just now feeling better...." I heard her hum a bit and it isnt good when she hums.

"...I believe the drinkin' but why would Cadence be mad atcha for gettin' sick? Think it's about what ever that job you're doing there?" I gave a silent sigh.

"Dont think so... Job isnt until later and I'm pretty sober for the most part... Only had two drinks last night at dinner. Coulda been something in the food that made me do that but... doesnt matter now. Any chance I can talk with Scoot or is she at School?"

"She's here. Poor girl didnt wanna sleep until she knew you were alright but passed out at about two in the morning... decided just to keep her home... No accidents but I'll go wake her if i can. Just give me a minute." I started putting things away in the drawers just listening to the phone just rustling away. Heard a door open too.

I huffed as I closed the drawer and went to sit on the bed facing the TV. Thirty Two inches of 1080p resolution. As I sat there I heard whispering through the phone before a gasp and shushing. "R-Ryder?! Ryder is that you? Are you hurt?" I heard my baby sister ask.

I smiled a bit hearing her voice. "Yeah I'm alright sis." I said. "Sorry I couldnt call last night. Something came up and I couldnt call. You doing okay over there?"

"....mhmm... Just very tired.... missed school I stayed up so late...."

"Well even if I'm not calling or texting just know I'm gonna be okay. I'll call when I get a chance if it's during the day or at night. Might not call or text for a part of the day since I got a job to do here. Not really allowed to tell anything but it's very important. But if you need to just text me. You still have your own phone dont you?"

"...I got it taken away at school and was afraid to tell somepony... Miss Cheerilee took it from when I was showing Sweetie Belle something... You think Big Mac can get it from her for me?" I huffed.

"Okay I'll have AJ ask him but remember not to take it out during school again. I hear that your teacher took it you lose it for a week okay?"

"Alright Ry... I love you big brother!"

"I love you too sis. Now either get dressed or go back to bed."

I heard AJ sigh. "And she's back under her covers... Might need to check her if she's wet...." Applejack said. "Why dont you get back to your work. I got things covered here. You just keep me informed of things okay?"

"If I can AJ. Love you Applejack."

"Love you too sugarcube. Careful out there and dont forget to bring something back for us!" I smiled a bit clutching my chest as my heart warmed me up.

I didnt get another word in before she hung up. I sat there thinking of how happy I'd be with her. Every day we'd spend together either working the orchard, sleeping in bed or just hanging out with everyone else. I sat there for just a few minutes just loss in the bliss of love. And this was love. Lust is the urge to fuck anything and everything in sight. I knew that feeling when I was pent up. AJ, Big Mac, Pinkie, Rarity and uh.... maybe even Dash... Yes even if she was thinking it was Fluttershy with that spell Twilight used on AJ and Gilda.... and holy shit that felt amazing. But getting too far off track here. As I was sitting there thinking all those thoughts I got a knock at my door. I looked to the door as it opened and Shining came in. "Knock knock! Hope you got pants on!" He said.

I chuckled a bit as I got up and put my phone away. "Sometimes I think that's the opposite with Cadence." I said. "Just go into a room and hope she'll be there with her panties around her ankles." He chuckled a bit and closed the door behind him.

"Yeah... Just between you and me we have done it during on the balcony while we had choppers flying by. Even when we had guests in the room behind us. Told them we needed a little time to breathe outside or a smoke or something... Couldnt remember what we told em but we started and finished without them noticing. May have had to do a little clean up afterwords but she hid it well. Even when it started running down her legs." I laughed like an idiot blushing hard.

"Dude! As hot as that is that's a bit too much!" My laughter died down a bit as he gave a chuckle. "So what's the plan?" He smiled a bit.

"Well good news is Cadence has calmed down from the train mishap. Everything will go along as planned and we might have just enough time tonight to game and have ourselves some guy time! Sound good to you?"

"As long as we can go for a while with a drink and snacks? Promise for no accidents!" He sighed turning back to the door.

"Well the drinks maybe but it's a no on the snacks. Cadence banned me from having late night snacks after she found me on the floor in the dining room, cookie crumbs on my face, chocolate on my hand and forehead and a spilled soda in the corner. That was a fun day after I woke up.... Had to shower and clean the dining room and uh... be punished by many guards and Cadence..." I chuckled a bit and drew my phone again feeling a bit mischievous.

"Hope it doesnt come to that...." I said swiping away at my phone to find the picture Twilight gave me. Took a few pictures with Gilda in the back of our transport. Kept the divider up and Gilda and I did start to get a little naughty. She flashed me a bit, I took a few pics and teased her. Probably what lead up to us going at it like drunk idiots. When I came up on the pic I sighed. "But... we still better have a fun night. Otherwise I'm gonna show the guards this pic here...." I showed him the phone and gasped. I pushed him against the door with my foot as I flew up keeping my phone out of reach. "Oh does the widdwe shiny not wike dis pictuwe his wifey took of him?" He blushed a bit.

"Dammit Ryder delete that picture right now! I cant let the guys see that! Do you know what they can tell Cadence and have her punish me more... even in front of some of our private citizens..." I hummed looking at my phone landing.

"Okay okay I'll delete it.... for forty bits!" Double what I paid. Make a profit. He huffed.

"Fine! Forty bits! Now just delete that picture!" I laughed and deleted it for him to see... only thing that i didnt want him to see was a picture of Gilda getting finger fucked by me... because that's what my phone does. It shows a previously looked at picture after deleting another. I quickly hid it even though he saw it.

"Pictures gone but I can get it back with a few words to someone... Wont say who until I get my money..." He huffed opening the door and walked out with me behind him.

"Fine.... Gonna kill who ever sent you that picture.... Or yell at someone depending on who they are...." Damn he was livid. Gave me my bits, demanded to have me tell him his sister gave me that picture, had me call his sister and have her delete it and what ever pictures she gets like that to delete them. Scared Twilight good because she started crying on the phone. Had to apologize for him but she knows he'll say he's sorry and get gifts galore to make up for it. And as soon as it was time my heart started to race because I didnt know what i'd be in for with Cadence.

Change of Heart

I was given a bout an hour of rest after getting to the castle. Gave me a good time to relax, get to know the layout of where Gilda and I were staying. Two stories to the living area with a few guest rooms, one marked for Twilight and others unmarked. It was a bit of a weird experience being here. Strange place I've never been to, being this far away from home yet not in combat. I just dont know how to explain this. But as I was unpacking a guard came to my door to get me. My room was a pretty good sized room. Queen sized bed, black and white sheets, a set of drawers with a TV on top of it and a book shelf stocked with books. Room was made out of a nice crystal material that I guess didnt break no matter what. But yeah just as I packed the last of my shirts away from my bag.... only like four shirts, two pairs of pants, a few diapers and some underwear. But as I packed them away in the dresser I got a knock at my door. I looked back at my door closing the drawers. "Come in!" I called out.

The door opened and the guard I was talking about entered. This guy... hoowee.... this guy I never liked... known him for a while like Shining... This was Flash Sentry. One of Princess Cadence' guards that she trusted with everything. Back story? We met each other when different schools were going to a campsite out near the Foal mountains. He pushed me in the lake, tripped me on a hike, took a hay burger or two from me at lunch and told a few other campers I was a bed wetter and always put me on a bottom bunk... Either that or pushed me onto the floor. Always got the bunk back. Even proved that it was a total lie that one. Hell he laughed so hard the last night we were there and peed his pants! But anyway back to the story. Flash Sentry was a pegasus guard. Orange coat, blue mane, bluish silver armor. "General Ryder sir?" He asked hesitantly.

"The one and only! What do you want Flash?" Did I mention he was scared of me when he heard my general status pop up around here? He huffed.

"We have a problem here. Our sensors in the area have detected a changeling presence but there's no telling who it is or where they are. We need you to come into the throne room right away!" I started towards him as my heart dropped a bit.

"Changelings?! How the hell did changelings get anywhere near here?! I thought you had this figured out by now!" He may have flinched a bit but I didnt care enough to tell him it was okay.

"We dont know! That's the thing! The sensors have been set off a few times in the past month and we're trying to figure out if there actually is a changeling around or if some wasps ended up making a nest in the area of the sensors again. We're checking each and every area thoroughly to make sure and that means testing citizens blood samples, oral tests and even exposing them to concentrated love magic and so far nobody around the areas have tested positive. Right now we need you in the throne room for an oral quiz that Prince Shining Armor had set up in case you ever visited and this happened! Answers and all are tailored to fit you!"

"And what about my companion I came in here with?"

"Gilda Griffon? She might be an ex con but she's clean. Tested her blood, exposed her to the love magic and no change in her. The only thing she complained about was the princess invading her personal areas but in our investigation it was necessary for Cadence to do that in order for her to perform any cleansing actions. Helps if there's something important the Princess needs to get to an important meeting and the Prince is feeling a bit pent up... or if a rape victim needs some help... Always seems to work either way. We have some guards who already passed our tests sitting outside of her room making sure no one gets in and will issue tests for someone to get in. Now enough stalling we need to get this done now!" I huffed.

"Well as long as she's safe I'm good. Lead the way Flash." He saluted me and we left the room together. As we walked down the hall we saw guards rushing past us going this way and that. I was kinda paranoid going through the corridor even with someone I somewhat trusted. I've never experienced a changeling attack before. From what I've heard through Shining, Changelings can hypnotize you and feed off your love and nearly destroyed his relationship with Cadence... Thank goodness Twilight stepped in. Would've lost my best buddy.

Not long later we came into the throne room. Princess Cadence and Shining were huddled close together with guards at their sides. A few other guards were sat aside at a table with a glowing box and a few clip boards. I was stood right next to Shining and Cadence. Shining looked to me. "...Glad you could join us Ryder.... Sorry it had to be under these circumstances!" He said scared.

A guard glanced back at us. "No talking until these tests are done!" A unicorn guard said. "Need I remind you if I have to say anything twice arrests will be made even IF you are royalty!" Ah.... Good ol' rule seventy five. In times of crisis, whether it be natural disaster, enemy invasion or other forms of emergency Royalty and other high ranking officials may be arrested for not following protocol and endangering the unit of guards tasked to protect them. That means if I were to just screw around while I was out at war and our base was being invaded I'd be detained and not let go until we could go home... granted I was freaking out quite a bit when I was out there.

Anyways we had to sit in silence for a good few minutes as the guards that were at the table finished up. They were so quiet I couldnt really hear anything. Though by the way he was hauled off screaming he must've failed. Kinda had me scared. At the table were now a pegasus guard stallion and a unicorn guard mare. "General Ryder? Step forward!" The mare called out. I stepped forward a bit hesitantly. They had me stop just next to the seat. "State your full name and birthdate please."

I took a deep breath and calmed down. "Ryder Wheeler, Birthdate is October twenty eighth." I replied. They hummed a bit.

"Alright... Everything is good so far... It's a fact that you dont like to state your middle name and your birth year..." Yeah... Not saying what my middle name is but it got me bullied for a while. I dont say my birth year out loud because it makes me feel old and also just kinda makes ponies think I'm lying about it. "Alright you can sit down." I did as I was told.

The stallion opened the box and a bright pink light shown out onto me. "Alright general... Got a few more questions to ask you and we should be all good." He said starting to flip through a clip board. "Okay... first question... Favorite genre of music?"

"Classic Rock, hippie rock and heavy metal."

"All acceptable answers. Next question... your favorite drink?"

"Senor Salt."

"And why cant you have it around your marefriend?"

"She's allergic to it. An ingredient in it makes her throat close up." They started writing stuff down which kinda made me nervous. Still kept my cool.

"Okay... and one more question.... What do you call your own personal vehicle?"

"The Dominator and my baby. Had that thing for as long as I can remember and I keep that thing in top shape!"

They started writing more down again and I couldnt help but hold my breath. "Ooookaaay.... You're all clear General." The mare said closing the box. "All questions answered, no flaws. Guess we're lucky we got the real you here. Could help the captain scout out the changelings after his test. Send him over would you?" I gave a nod and got up from my seat. I walked over to the throne again and looked to Shining.

"Shining. You're on. I'll keep watch over the princess." He gave a nod and gave Cadence a kiss before breaking away from her. I walked past him as he stopped at the seat with his arms behind his back.

I knelt down at Princess Cadence' side and rested my hand on her shoulder seeing her shutter a bit. She quickly shrugged me off and pushed me to the side. "Don't touch me!" She whispered. "I dont wanna be touched by you, you cheat! I don't know where your hands have been since you went to your room and I dont care if you've washed them in acid!" I shushed her.

"Princess I'm sorry! I just-"

"You just what? You wanted to get away from someone who I know you're supposed to be loving only to fuck someone else?! Why should I accept your apology?!"

"Because I'm willing to change and learn the ways of love from you! Why else would I come out here on YOUR train?! If I wanted to fuck and run I'd've done it before I went to war! Please princess! Give me another chance!" She quickly grabbed onto my wrist as the guard separating us from Shining looked back at us. She looked a bit worried that her hubby was actually a changeling. The guard looked back and she leaned over.

"I'll help you only if you work with me and do as I say! Understand?" I gave her a thumbs up as I saw Shining Armor get up.

The guard looked back at us again and I released Cadence's hand the best I could without making it look like she was holding on nervous. "Alright Princess. You're up." He said. "General why dont you and the Captain go out of the room so we dont leak any unnecessary information." And that means Cadence' questions are so personal only her and her guards can know them. Not even her husband can know.

As we left the room I looked to Shining. "Okay... So you're the real Shining... that's good..." I said.

He smiled. "And you're the real Ryder. That's even better too...." He said. "Even though this is a recent event and I know you came on the train it's still good to check EVERYONE! Even new arrivals. You can't trust anyone when a changeling is around!" I huffed.

"Yeah... I also have a question for you... Why doesnt Cadence like anyone sleeping with others?"

"Well uh... it's kinda hard to say but... between us... Cadence doesnt like that sort of thing because of something that happened a while ago... Parents left her alone when she was small... Guess she found out from Celestia that her father cheated on her mother and hung himself when he knew he made a mistake and her mother followed when she was gravely ill and ended up being adopted by Celestia. She doesnt like to talk about it but when she does she gets either mad or sad and even either of those options will get you yelling and a slap to the face for even having her talk about it." I huffed

"Guess I got off lucky... she kinda snapped at me but agreed to help me if I listened to her." We turned a corner going back towards my room.

"Well... I suggest you do listen. Otherwise nobody is gonna be happy. Not you, not Glider and not even me." I looked to him a bit confused.

"Glider? Who's Glider?"

"Oh! Not Glider! Gilda! Glider is a new recruit we just brought on. Spent all day yesterday showing him around and show him the ropes. Dont worry I didnt do to him what I did to you. Job isnt in danger there."

"Well... good to have them on the team. But how did you confuse Gilda with Glider?" He looked to me as we passed my room and Gilda's. Two guards stood at her door saluting us as we went by. I nodded to them as Shining sighed.

"Look I'm a bit tired and sorta pent up... I could think something one moment, disregard it the next and say something completely different. Not only do I need a nap, I need something to fuck."

"Hell I'd offer but I've got a feeling we'd both be screwed if that happened." We stopped outside his door.

"Maybe you but me? I've got a special thing going with the princess. She trusts me to sleep with anyone I want and still come back to her." I gave him a shocked look.

"Okay! What the hell?! I get yelled at and nearly booted from the castle and possibly the guard yet you sleep with someone and she still loves you? That's a bit of some fucked up logic!" He rolled his eyes.

"I guess she trusts me more than you. She doesnt know what you get from your soon to be wife so she just considers that cheating. Now do you think you can wait out here? I got something I need to get in here."

I nodded and leaned against the wall before he went inside the room. To be honest I was kinda pissed that he got that treatment while I got my balls in a vice grip. As I waited I took my phone out. Zero service. No bars what so ever. Lucky I had internet connection. Got the password from a guard as we came in. Just scrolled on some social media. Didnt see anything from anyone I know. Not Shining, not Cadence, Pinkie, Berry Punch, Derpy or even Twilight. Lot of Dash flexing and showing off her abs and sports skills. Couldnt help but comment on one of her pictures. Told her to show these to Aunt Misty before showing off. She took the picture down. That was all in about a few minutes before I see a chat bubble pop up. It was Gilda. 'Dweeb! Why are there guards stationed at my door?' She asked. 'Did they hear of some of my past?! WHAT DID YOU TELL THEM??'

I had to text her back. 'Gil, dont freak out but those guards are there for your safety.' I said. 'There are changelings somewhere in the empire and everyone is being tested. You got tested didnt you?'

'...Yeah... took my blood and exposed me to some stupid glowing box. Dunno what that was but when they said I was done I just went back to my room and took a nap... woke up scared with those guards at my door... Do you think they'll lead me to a bathroom and not make me have an accident?'

'Just ask them, mention me and what I can do if anything bad happens. They question it, call me and I'll set them straight. Also... see if you can get a hold of AJ and tell her to text me. Kinda want a status update there. See how my baby sister is doing...' A few guards passed by going towards the throne room. Stood there just watching them both as they passed. I think one of them even met my gaze. He just went along his way. I looked back at my phone.

'Alright. Texted but wont get a signal unless we head outside. Heading to the can now.... Shoulda kept one of those diapers and kept sleeping....'

I gave a smile and put my phone away just as Shining opened up the door again this time wearing a blue button up shirt and a pair of blue jeans with some flip flops. "Alright Ry c'mon in. Got something for ya!" He said. I nodded and entered his room. I followed him in and he beckoned me over to the bed where I saw his nightstand open. He sat down next to the open drawer and patted the bed next to him. "Dont be shy dude! C'mon and sit down!"

I rolled my eyes and reluctantly sat down next to him giving a sigh. "Alright what is it that you need to give me?" I asked. I watched as he dug into the open drawer and pull out a small black box.

"Well... This is something my grandfather gave to me before he passed... Said it brought who ever held it good luck with who ever is their love of their life. I've gotten the best luck of being able to marry a princess and one that i've known since I was a colt... Said I could pass it on to anyone as long as I'd know they could use it to make themselves happy and well... I'm giving that to you. I've seen the shit you've been through and thought you could use some luck." He opened the little box and revealed a golden ring with an emerald gemstone in a black satin cushion. To be honest it was an awesome looking ring but it just didnt feel right to take it from him. I looked to him and smiled a bit.

"You sure dude? I mean... I'd take it but... that's your dead grandfathers ring.... taking that from you would be like Applejack taking my fathers lucky lighter." He gave a smile.

"I'm sure Ryder. I know you're going to be a damn great husband to such a beautiful mare and I want you to feel lucky while proposing to her. My grandfather passed a while ago and we did a lot to remember him... Could always do it again with the family." He handed me the box and just patted me on the back as he set it in my hand. "All yours my friend. May everything go right with your proposal to your new wife and to your new life as a married stallion!"

"Wow... Thank's Shining.... I dont really know what to say...."

"You dont need to say anything. You do enough to show you are worthy of this ring. And let me be the first to say this... Congratulations general." He stood up and saluted me. I stood up and put the ring away saluting right back. We both went at ease at the same time. I felt a bit strong but more nervous than anything.

We spent maybe about a half hour after that just having a drink to calm my nerves. Dont worry it was something non-alcoholic so I didnt drink myself into a tipsy mess. Yeah I did do that last night but only because I was just excited and Gilda may have goaded me into having another drink to help ease me up... felt like butter when she just completely soaked that diaper.... I'm getting a bit off track... always fucking happens thinking about that curvy griffon ass. Okay but onto the next. Cadence. I had to go back to the throne room for my aide with getting married. I entered alone as guards stood at the door, saluting me as I walked in. I looked to Cadence as she looked back at me like I was just some kid looking for an apology. She was wearing a pair of blue jean capris pants with a pink button up shirt that had a view of her uh... endowments and a pair of flat sensible shoes. I swear I wasnt looking! "So.... You finally show up for your lessons on being a good stallion who's ready for marriage?" She asked. "You're lucky I'm willing to give this chance to you.... Anything you do from here on out is something you have to live with if you fuck up. You're gonna have to listen to me and if you do anything as even look at another mare I'm going to make this hell for you. Understand?!"

I saluted standing in attention. "Y-yes ma'am! What ever you say ma'am!" I said. I saw a grin on her face that I honestly didnt like. But well I pretty much had to go along with anything and everything she said.

"Good.... First lesson... Respect. Mares need respect and need not be treated like your slave or personal whore! If the mare wants sex, you give her sex but you do not go sleeping with anything that moves! You're even lucky I'm keeping your griffon 'friend' here after your little escapades in my train!" I sighed.

"I understand mares need to be respected but my marefriend-"

"Your mare friend is a mare you need to show some respect to and show you want her and ONLY her! If I have spies follow you and tell me you've been sleeping with other mares that arent your 'soon-to-be wifey' be ready for a visit from me to show you what happens when somepony does these kinds of things! Now be quiet!" I nodded, scared to say a word more. Felt as if I were going to just pee my pants with even an empty bladder. "I want you to show me what you would do and say to your mare and hold nothing back. I have the eyes of a hawk and if you so much as hesitate in the slightest I'll see it!" Slight hesitation? I was fully hesitating. I was scared to even TELL her about what I do and say to AJ let alone show her! What do i do here? Have her get up, smack her ass and cuddle with her like I never even hit her? I just stood there frozen. Cadence huffed face palming. "Okay.... This is either you dont want to tell me or this is what you really do to her... dont talk, almost ignoring her and just stare her down. I'm going to assume it's the first one... That's fine. Totally fine but you do realize this is only the start of what I have in store for you... Instead of telling me what you do with your marefriend why dont you tell me your routine in the morning?" Okay... this was something easier to talk about. I took a deep breath and calmed myself slightly.

"...w-well... First thing is first I get up and use the toilet and brush my teeth before taking our sisters to school. She'll sleep through the toilet flushing, me getting out of bed and her sister complaining but what does is usually her brother getting her out in the orchard to work... After i'm done with taking our sisters to their school I come home and eat breakfast." She raised an eyebrow.

"And who cooks breakfast?"

"Her brother does most of the cooking. Though she bakes apple pies from time to time for sell days. I'm not much of the cooking type... Tend to burn things easily. And trust me i've tried multiple times with the simplest of recipes like pasta, instant noodles and even toast!" Yeah... no joke. I burnt toast. Only because I thought I fixed the toaster... nope... had the dial on wrong and turned it up high... glad i didnt start a fire. Ended up scrapping that thing, saved the parts. Not sure what I'm gonna do with them but I'm doing something. She rolled her eyes.

"Okay... this is obviously boring. I'd ask more about your personal life but I feel like i'd be treading inside a minefield with a ninety eight percent chance of stepping on something that's gonna gross me out. You obviously are pretty much respecting her by not bothering her or harassing her at all..." Yeah. Lets just go with that. Certainly not slapping her flank while she works and teasing her with her brother nearby. "What say you get Shining and we take a walk? Seems like we could use some fresh air. But have Shining get a few other guards.... changelings could still be out there...."

"Yes ma'am." I nodded and saluted before just rushing out of the room.

After a while we were outside in town. Ponies watched us from afar as six guards made a circle around me, Shining and Cadence. I could see checkpoints on roads where lines of ponies stood for testing. Other guards were about ten or so yards away from each other. It was kinda weird to see no form of vehicle around the castle. Shining told me a few miles from the castle is a classic car show and he said I should bring my Dominator to show off. Not saying I wouldnt but I'm not sure if I'd drive it all the way out here... definitely not having it shipped out here either risking more damage than anything I could imagine. I looked to my phone and smiled seeing a text from Applejack. 'Hey sugarcube! Gilda told me ya missed me...'. That was all I could read. Had to open up my messages to read the whole thing. 'Hey sugarcube! Gilda told me ya missed me and I thought I'd check in with ya. Scoot had a bit of an accident during the night and had to stay home again... Poor girl is coming down with something. I'd call ya but she's restin' after she lost her breakfast... Got her padded and I'm a bit padded too just to make it feel okay for her. I'll let her know you're worrying about her. Call ya later and give Gilda a hug for me. Might act like an asshole sometimes but she's got a heart of gold under that harsh exterior.'

I couldnt help but sigh sending a text back. Told her she'd hear from me in the next hour. Still was 'busy with the VIP'. Shining looked to me as I put my phone away. "Someone missing home already?" He asked.

I shook my head. "Nah... Just wondering if this is some stupid dream I could wake up from or if it's one I could sleep through forever." I said. He chuckled a bit.

"Trust me I've had that feeling before. Sometimes ya just wanna wish the best things dont stop but it's like one of Pinkie's parties. Fun doesnt stop until everyone passed out." And he is kinda right about that. Someone passes out at a Pinkie party it shows they had fun, others pass out, it was awesome and if she has passed out herself it was a really super awesomely fun party. Though in this case the term passing out that means something way darker. I... think.... But he's saying love the moment while it lasts and enjoy the memories once it passes. I smiled a bit.

"Yeah.... Gotta just enjoy it while I got it otherwise memories are all I have... I know that all too well..." You know already. Already relived the bad ones too many times in my head.

As we kept walking Cadence hummed a bit. She glanced over at Shining. "Shinyboo? Why dont you and the boys find a place we can rest.... these shoes are killing me." She said.

I saw Shining nod. "Alright! You heard her!" He called out to the other guards. "Resting point! Look for one! Coffee shop or otherwise!" Even though he was telling his on duty guards I was looking as well for some spot to sit down and rest. Following orders is all. One of the other guards found a small outdoor cafe we could sit at. Found a small round table for three and Cadence sat down at one of the chairs as onlookers were just amazed that she would sit down here. She looked to one of the guards that stood four feet away from the table. "Might I ask one of you to order us a light snack to share between the three of us? Can be anything! Just... allergies you know?" The guards she spoke to nodded and went towards a cart with an open window right behind it on the restaurant building. Cadence looked to me.

"So Ryder... Tell me... how are you liking everything in the Crystal Empire? Shining tells me its your first time here!"

I just looked off at the castle, towering over the center of everything. Even though we were walking for a while it didnt seem to get any smaller the further we were away from it. "...It's nice here... Way different from living on a farm or just a small suburb but... I like it." I said. I sighed. "...Mom always did wanna vacation here.... Dad always told her it was too much money to even fly out here and they both didnt want Scootaloo to freak out from the heights..."

"My condolences General... If they were here today I would've treated them with the utmost trust and on your level of respect. They'd be proud of you if they saw you today..." I sighed.

"Yeah.... yeah they would...." I looked out at the clouds around us. Saw a patch of clouds in the shape of a heart. Either some pegasai are feeling nice and doing this for everyone in the empire or this was actually mom and dad saying they loved me and were proud of me. Going with the latter. I looked to Shining. "So... When's the next visit to Ponyville? You and I gotta hit up that arcade over there!" Before Shining could even answer Cadence put her hand over his mouth.

"Hold on there Ryder... Now that you're becoming a married stallion you're going to have to save your money and buy lovely gifts for your wife. Not throw them away in those bit biting mindless video game machines!" I gave her a confused look.

"Seriously? Just because I'm gonna be married doesnt mean I cant hang out with my friends when she hangs out with hers!" Cadence sighed as the guards brought us a tray of pies. All chocolate cream pie slices. Shining and I both took a slice as Cadence' just sat there looking at me a bit mad.

"Friends will be there to join you for dinner out at a restaurant if you dont feel like cooking but fun and games are just for the kids when they come along or even that little sister of yours. Speaking of which how is the little darling?" I just dug my fork into my pie and took a bite of it. Didnt answer until the thoughts I had were swallowed with my pie.

"She's fine. Had to stay home from school today but she'll be fine once I get home... still doesnt like me being far away from her after I was at war.... She still cries every time I mention the plane crash." Cadence gave a sadden aw.

"Poor thing! Remind me when you leave to give you something for her! I'd hate to see her all alone and scared..." I sighed a bit.

"...Same here... I still freak out about that damn crash... everyone bailing out at once, my chute not opening... I just... i thought I was dead...." Shining could tell what was about to happen. I could feel myself tearing up. He quickly grabbed me and held me close.

Shining shushed me and patted my back. "Hey hey... You're okay... you're alive.... you're walking..... Just take a deep breath, calm down and finish your pie.... You're gonna be fine.... nothing's gonna happen..." He said. I just took some deep breaths and sat back down. I wiped away my tears with a napkin and shuttered.

"God.... I nearly lost it there.... I just...." I looked to one of the guards. "C-can someone get me a water please? The guard I asked nodded and went off towards the cart again. I just sat there, hands on my head, elbows on the table just trying to calm down. I glanced up at Cadence just shaking a bit trying to avert my emotions to my wings. "P-princess... I apologize for how I'm acting right now...th-that crash really messed me up.... Just... just give me a moment...."

Cadence gave a warming smile. "Don't worry. Take all the time you need General." She said. "I can definitely say that crash messed us all up even if we werent there firsthand.... Seeing you walk through those doors was a relief..."

We sat there for a good half hour as I calmed down. Guard brought me a soda instead of a water which was good. Root beer. Well... more sarsaparilla than root beer... same difference. Tasted good but made me burp a lot. Tried to hold it back in front of Cadence but she caught me a few times and I excused myself those few times. After we were done I paid my way for the stuff we had. Shining paid for him and Cadence. As we walked again Shining patted me on the shoulder. "All good now dude?" He asked. I nodded taking a deep breath. "Good... dont want you to go and freak out like that again... some citizens are still kinda paranoid about a weird paranormal thing that happened... someone was possessed by a spirit and needed to be bathed in holy water... Dunno how they did it or why but they were pretty freaked out by it."

I huffed. "Yeah... and when I freak out it gets bad... one time we had to have Big Mac hold me down, cuff me and wrap me in a blanket until I passed out... That was just a few days after the hospital visit...." I said. I glanced over at Cadence. "Thought I was over it but... guess not... My mind has yet to purge that memory... Apologies if I seem a bit down from here on out..."

Cadence sighed. "I suppose it's alright... after all it is a tragic event for you...." She said. "I do want to get these lessons done and over with for when you're ready to go back home and propose. How about we find a shop to check out for those gifts I talked about?" I sighed.

"I did promise to bring home souvenirs for the family... Might as well get them out of the way now before I forget." I looked over at her. "Wanna show me where a shop is? Sports or souvenir shop?" I saw her roll her eyes and shake her head.

"Oh no no no! This will not do! You wifey is not going to accept little trinkets or sports paraphernalia. She deserves designer clothes, jewelry and shoes!" Shining quickly leaned over and started whispering in to her ear. She looked over at him. "...You're kidding right? An apple farmer?" He shook his head. She looked over at me. "Okay then... because of that information seems we're going for jewelry instead of clothing or shoes.... cant buck a tree with heels it seems." I stopped dead in my tracks and looked to them wide eyed.

"Are you kidding me?! I dont have money for anything other than the fucking ring! Yeah Shining gave me his grandfathers ring but I dont want to use something that is gonna take away from my best friends memories of a relative that passed away!" They both looked at me kinda surprised. I huffed and turned around and started to walk off. "If you guys need me come find me at the castle... I'm done here." They didnt follow me. I just walked for a block or two and just started to fly away. I was getting better with my heights. Still was a tad shaky at ten to fifteen feet but I was good. I can thank Mama Spitfire for that.

Maybe after an hour I was back at the castle and just sitting in my room clutching a pillow to my chest sitting in the dim lighting of an overhead lamp. I was sitting there for about a half hour or so just thinking up my own plans to propose and how to do things for the marriage. Nothing came to mind even when I sat in silence. No texts from AJ, nothing from Shining, and not a thing from Celestia.... Like I was expecting it. A knock came to the door breaking the silence of the room. I sat up and waited a moment before the door opened. In came Gilda looking calmer than she was but still a bit frizzed out in the wings. "...Hey dweeb... you okay?" She asked. I shrugged. "Guards said you went out with Shining and Cadence but only you came back. Something happen?" I hesitantly nodded as she lied down with me. "....Alright just tell me what happened..." I huffed.

"...I know I came out here for Cadence's help with a marriage proposal but... she's no help at all... telling me she's the only one I can sleep with, telling me that i'm no better than a fucking servant to Applejack... I just.... I just think Cadence thinks I'm like Shining... coming from a rich family, important guard job and willing to do anything for AJ.... She's right on one of those things and that is I'm willing to risk my life and more for AJ.... But I'm not rich.... I'm not really that important of a guard... at least I dont feel like an important guard..." Gilda sighed wrapping her arms around me.

"Oh come on now.... you're the General for fucks sake! Last I checked that was a high rank in the guard so you're just that damn important! You've got private audience for Princesses and can make anyone do anything you want- within reason of course. I mean... I watched you plummet out of the sky and live through that." My heart sank a bit. I looked back at her.

"...y-you're kidding right?" She shook her head releasing me and sitting up getting on the edge of the bed.

"....that day you were supposed to come home I was flying around giving some thought onto buying something for that sister of yours and I just stop seeing a plane starting to plummet out of the sky smoking from the engines.... I didnt ask anyone about your homecoming or anything but... I knew that was you on there... That plane hit the mountain and I wanted to shit myself screaming.... Dash heard a couple hours later when I was in my room trying not to throw up.... We had to spend the day with each other making sure we stayed calm and planned what to do with your sister... we know she would've had to come to Dash... basically would've stayed in Dash's home.... either that or would've moved into your parents place and taken care of her... even keep a close eye on her just in case things went wrong... but... when Luna called Dash about you... I thought I was dead.... I thought I passed out and was dreaming... Told us you were alive and in intensive care.... told us about your injuries... we questioned how you survived but.... Luna didnt know..." I could hear her voice weaken a bit and whimpering start up. I threw the pillow I clutched aside and sat next to her putting my hand in her lap.

"...I survived because of my promise I made to Scootaloo... telling her I'd be back to get her... that and some pain killing berries.... I was only injured because I bailed as soon as the plane crashed and exploded... flames hit my back, lit my wings on fire and destroyed my chute.... had to land on my back to either cushion the fall, kill myself faster or just put out the flames.... that second one was kinda true because if i severed my spine in the right place I'd die instantly.... I didnt wanna feel pain but... i endured it...." She latched on to me.

"...glad you didnt dweeb.... I.... I'm glad you didnt...." She started to sob lightly. I held her close and shushed her stroking her feathers.

Suddenly a knock came to the door. I didnt take my attention away from the crying griffon. I heard the door open behind us and the sound of boots and clanging armor approach before stopping. "Oh uh.... Is this a bad time General?" I hear a guard stallion ask. I turned back and saw a unicorn guard clad in silver armor looking at me and Gilda. I shook my head. "...Well uh.... when you do get a chance... The princess would like to see you in the throne room..."

I gave a nod and watched him leave the room. I looked back to Gilda and sighed. "...Here... lie down and I'll be right back..." I said. "You'll be okay... I'll be okay.... dont worry...." Gilda sniffled and nodded scooting back onto the bed as I let go of her. She hesitantly lied down and cuddled up with a pillow kinda sucking on her thumb like a foal. Cute. I got up and just slowly walked to the door. Once out in the hall I closed the door and looked at the guard who came in. "Can you stand guard here? The griffon in there needs some rest and you need to make sure of that until I get back okay?" The guard nodded. "Good... Now if you'll excuse me I need to get going..."

The guard saluted me and I saluted back before walking off down the hall. The things I thought of that could happen. Cadence chews me out, Shining making me apologize for making his wife cry or both of them chewing me out, banishing me from the empire.... the list goes on and on. But what I wasnt expecting? Shining tackled me against the wall pinning me and covering my mouth. "...I'm sorry..." He said. I watched his eyes glow green and a puff of green smoke come from his mouth and engulf my head. I started coughing and hacking into his hand unable to breathe. Felt myself getting light headed fast. Next thing you know I passed out. Didnt know how, why or even the what of it.

When I did wake up everything was blurry and I couldnt move. Even tried but nothing would give. "Well well... the little pest woke up finally...." A feminine yet somewhat raspy voice said. "...I still love it how you came even when 'Cadence' wasnt acting like herself...."

I grunted a bit lifting my head up weakly. Saw a dark shape in front of me but couldnt make out who it was. I heard a deeper voice that sounded just as raspy. "....Hold on my queen... He still seems a bit out of it...." They said. Next thing you know I get sprayed with water which made me flinch. "Hold still! I'm not trying to hurt you!" The more feminine voice grunted and I felt something hard hit me on the side of my head.

"Dammit Drone! We need him to wake up NOW! Not get him wet!" I felt someone grab my face. "Now look at me! OPEN YOUR EYES AND LOOK AT YOUR QUEEN!" I did as I was told knowing I'd probably be hit if I didnt. In front of me I saw two figures.... One looking like abug pegasus pony and the other a bug alicorn mare. The bug alicorn looked at me grinning widely... fangs and shit that creeped me the hell out. "So.... My new little play thing has been running from me... Denying all of your.... 'Princesses' advice..."

I struggled a bit. "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU?! WHO ARE YOU?!" I yelled. "WHERE THE FUCK AM I?!"

The drone looked to me and gave kind of a warming smile... fangs are still off putting. "Don't worry! You're still in the castle!" They said.

The alicorn bug smacked the drone. "SILENCE!" She snapped. "You arent supposed to tell him where we are!"

I glanced around. Saw Cadence's throne, some of the wall lights covered and some heart emblems on the floor all covered in... something stringy yet strong. I looked back to the bug alicorn. "...Uh.... I can already tell we're still in the castle..." I said. "Throne room to be exact... you just covered everything in.... what is this shit?" She looked to me as the drone went and hid behind the throne.

"What covers this room and ties you up is hive fiber! This is just the start of the new Changeling hive! And you? You're going to be my egg incubator!" My heart dropped slightly.

"Wh-what? Y-y-you're changelings?!" The changeling before me grinned.

"Yes! And I am the queen known as Chrysalis! I already know a lot about you General... my drones have been watching you since we sensed a more powerful love... Something we havent sensed since the two imbeciles that live here were getting married.... I wont say when but we've been watching for a while... You just havent seen us hiding in plain sight...." I started to struggle hard.

"DAMMIT LET ME OUT OF HERE! GET ME THE FUCK OUT OF THIS!" Chrysalis started to laugh crazily.

"Struggle struggle my little pony! You wont ever get free!" I grunted giving up.

"You bitch! You wont get away with this! My companion will come looking for me!" Chrysalis sighed a bit walking past me and grabbing my ass.

"Please... this whole castle is locked down due to my actions here.... My drones are on their way to take over... More drones on their way when I impregnate you.... Lets hope you dont burst like the last one!" Impregnate me? Burst?! God I started freaking out a lot. Struggling, screaming. Thought I was going to pass out. Suddenly Chrysalis used some sort of magic to web my mouth shut.

"....There... annoyance dealt with... Of course I'm used to this... my new little fucktoys usually scream but... not until after my young start hatching.... that is if they're lucky to live through it...." I kept struggling as my eyes started to tear up.

I saw the drone run from behind the throne and get between me and the queen. "My Queen! Please stop!" They said. "I-I know you're probably going to hit me again but.... Hear me out!" I saw Chrysalis roll her eyes grunting slightly.

"FINE! You have one minute for this!"

"I've studied this stallion for a while and I know that he will fight when backed into a corner like this, even when his life is on the line!" Chrysalis and I both looked to the drone confused.

"How do you know this?" The drone stepped away and a green flame brightened up the room for a moment and dissipated just like that and I just about shat myself. There in the drones place was SHADOW! MY FUCKING SQUAD MATE! Full lunar gear, dark purple mane and the lighter purple coat.

"...It's because I was with him during the war... followed him like you wanted. But I couldn't speak to anyone at all.... Any time I did I nearly blew my cover and at the end I nearly died in a plane crash! Only because YOU sent others to take it down so you could kidnap any survivors!" I honestly couldn't believe what I was hearing. Not only was a changeling drone defending me but... that drone was one of my best soldiers.... Hiding in plain sight, at my side, lurking around every corner ready to kidnap someone.... Makes me think that out there somewhere either dead or kidnapped is the real Shadow.... or... maybe he was just a changeling the whole time. I looked to Chrysalis as the drone changed back.

"You take pity on this..... this fool?" The drone just stared at her and glanced at me once. Chrysalis grunted stamping her foot. "FINE! I'll set him free but if he does one thing to hurt us I'm tying him up again, killing you and defile BOTH OF YOU!" Chrysalis looked to me and used her magic to cause me to drop down from my position onto the floor. I quickly scrambled to the drone and hid behind it. It was kinda weird holding on to a bug pony.... Changeling.... It was like I was holding onto a full suit of armor. The drone looked to me and snapped their fingers making the web substance disappear from my mouth.

"Don't worry. You work with us, we'll work with you! Take a few deep breaths, ask a question or two but follow orders.... okay?"

I took a few breaths calming myself down as much as I could before hesitantly coming out from behind the drone. "...M-my apologies for s-s-s-speaking out of turn my queen but...." I said swallowing the lump in my throat. "....Why are you here....? Why choose me?"

Chrysalis huffed. "I'll go ahead and look the other way for speaking out of turn since you called me by my title..." She said. "We are here to take revenge for being banished to the outerlands of Equestria... Desert and sand as far as the eye can see.... My drones have gone back to the hive while we followed the princess and her husband.... We decided to steal their belongings, passports and frame them as changelings and get them arrested! We've been here for a few weeks and you? We chose you because we sense a great love within you... It almost matches the love from your superior on his wedding day... First I feed off your love, next I impregnate you with my offspring and leave you to rot as my young burst from every orifice forcing you to feel extreme pain as they make their way out! But before that happens..." I saw her horn glow and felt something slip out of my pocket. The ring. "I need you to put this ring on.... be my husband so your love comes forth easily!" I had to take a double take.

"What? Like hell I will! I'm spoken for another!" Chrysalis grinned and swept my leg with her magic making me kneel down.

"That wasnt a question! It was a demand! Put this ring on now or else your love is useless!"

"Nope! You want me to put that ring on you can suck my dick!" That toothful grin grew wider.

"I'm not above menial labor but.... since you said that...." She pushed me over and held me to the ground using her magic and knelt down starting to unbutton my pants, yanking them down revealing my sheathe and sack. "And since we know your one true love and weakness...." Green flames quickly engulfed Chrysalis. It was so bright I had to look away. But when I looked back... holy shit... there I saw Gilda in Chrysalis' place, naked, huge tits and some tattered wings... Not perfect but.... That started something. "And.... since I know this just wont work...." She quickly jumped up and kissed me on the lips but blew into me. She quickly backed away and I started coughing up some sort of green and pink smoke. "...Pheramones... these should get you hornier than anything.... I want you to beg me not to stop!" I could feel myself just.... starting to pant and sweat.

"F-fuck... NO! M-must... must resist!" She laughed grabbing a hold of my cock as it became fully erect.

"TOO LATE! You're going to break from this! You're going to wish I was your wife!"

Before she could do anything an explosion rocked the room, sending smoke and debris everywhere. The drone hurried to our side and kicked Chrysalis off of me as she changed back, stunned from the blast. I have to say I was kinda stunned too but it wasnt that bad. The drone dragged me to the wall and hiked my pants up before darting behind the throne hiding away scared. I watched dazed as guards rushed in and surrounded Chrysalis only for her to be engulfed in her green flames and disappear. I tried covering myself best I could as a familiar face came running in towards me. Shining. The real one this time. He was wearing black kevlar riot gear. He looked to me shocked as he ran for me. "Ryder?! The hell are you doing here?!" He asked.

I held onto him panting and sweating profusely. "...H-help me.... s-s-so... horny..... it hurts....." I said. He huffed.

"Dammit...." He looked back at the opened hole. "....GOT ANOTHER PHEROMONE ATTACK HERE! NEED THE ANTIDOTE, A CAGE AND COLD WET TOWELS!" He looked to me. "Hold on Ryder you're gonna be fine!" I saw a guard rush to the throne seeing the drone. I did what I could and pushed Shining away just as the guard aimed a pistol in the drone's face.

"W-wait! Stop! Dont hurt em!" I stumbled a bit getting between the drone and the guard. The drone just latched on to me scared. "Drop the gun! P-please!" Shining grabbed the gun and aimed it away from us. He looked to me.

"Ryder! Get away from that changeling! It's dangerous!"

"It's not dangerous!" I snapped back. "Th-they saved me... f-from... being... a fucking... changeling eggsack...." Shining stared at the changeling and to me again.

"Okay... If that thing so much as does anything but help me get you to a room, I'm cuffing them with those magic resistant cuffs! AND I'm locking your ass up as well!" I didnt question it because I was just using all my might to not cream myself. Shining brought my pants up all the way and fastened them but.... yeah... came myself so hard just because of the friction. That left a nice thick, sticky, wet stain on my pants going down my leg a bit. Oh the awkwardness that followed. He had to strip me down, wipe me off, put cold towels on my junk and on my body and even one on my forehead to cool me down. Next thing you know I was stuck with a needle right in my neck. After about a half hour he took the towels off and put me in a chastity cage. Tight around the balls but it definitely kept me from touching myself. Even if I was extremely horny. They had to leave me alone in my room with a towel under me just in case I did cum again.

After about an hour of isolation and profuse sweating Shining Armor came in with Cadence. Shining Armor was now wearing blue jeans and a red tank top. Cadence was wearing capris blue jeans and a purple long sleeve shirt. She came to my bed side and sat next to me. "General I am SO sorry you were tricked into coming here..." She said. "...Did the changelings hurt you? Did they steal any of your love essence?"

I shook my head hesitantly. "...They knocked me out and just hit me with pheromones that made me hornier than Shining when you're around..." I said. Shining's face turned red when I said that. Cadence giggled a bit.

"Well it seems someone is still in the mood to poke fun at their friend. Now tell me why did you come all the way out here? It wasnt to see Shining was it?" I shook my head.

"I came out here for you Princess.... I need your help with something..." She looked at me a bit confused.

"Me? Why would you be here for me unless...." She thought for a moment staring at the wall. She glanced back at me for a moment and hummed. "....You wouldnt be here unless you have a problem with love.... Are you?" I averted my gaze for a moment.

"Not exactly.... It's more of a problem approaching something to do with love... like... wanting to just...."

Both Shining and Cadence gasped. "Tie the knot....?" Shining asked. I blushed and smiled at them. Cadence laughed a bit and clapped before just getting on top of me. Shining clapped and cheered a bit. "YEAH DUDE! That's what I'm talking about! My boy is getting married!" I looked to Shining kinda wincing a bit from my cage.

"Uh... Shining.... Can you uh...tell Cadence to get off of me? It's kinda getting awkward for me..."

Cadence giggled a bit and got up off of me. "Sorry! Got a bit carried away!" She said. "Does your marefriend let you show yourself off to a lot of mares or are you just a one trick pony?" I shifted a bit wiping some left over sweat away.

"I'm... I'm kind of afraid to answer.... so many different answers I've gotten, including a few hostilities from Chrysalis I'm just confused....." Cadence smiled at me.

"It's okay if you're sleeping with someone on the side if you still come back to home. I know that feeling and it's the best feeling you can get." She glanced back at Shining who blushed hard. I gave a sigh of relief.

"Good.... I was afraid you'd bite my head off for fucking someone that isnt my marefriend.... And uh... if.... if she asks... tell her about some escort thing I had to do... I dont want her finding out I was doing this proposal help...."

"You have nothing to worry about. Your secret is safe until you do it. Right now we should probably get you into a shower... could still be a bit weak from the pheromones from Chrysalis so I hope you dont mind a guard being in there with you helping you wash up!" I sat up and huffed.

"Kinda do mind with that.... I actually have someone else here who can help me with this..." I gasped as my heart dropped. "Wait.... We gotta check on her! I left her stuck in her room for hours!" I looked away for a moment. "At least I hope it was hours... Otherwise I'm getting yelled at..." I beckoned to Shining. "Here... Help me get up and get dressed in something to cover me." Probably the worst thing I could say. Not even a few minutes later I was hobbling down the hall in nothing but panties Cadence had stashed in her back pocket. Pink and frilly. Lucky that cage helped things stay in place. Had to even hold on to Shining to walk I felt so weak. We then came to the door to the room Gilda was in. The guard in front was nowhere to be found. I knocked at the door. "Gilda! Gilda open up! It's Ryder!"

We waited for a moment. Nothing. Shining leaned me onto Cadence and pounded on the door. "Gilda! By order of the guard open this door right now!" He yelled. We waited again. Nothing. "Dammit Gilda! Ryder's hurt! Open the door! We need to get inside!" And nothing again. He huffed and started digging into his tail only to pull out a key. "Alright... didnt wanna have to do this but time to pull out the master key...." He quickly started unlocking the door and once that lock clicked open he pushed the door revealing a dark room and a lump on the bed under the covers.

We entered the room and I broke off from Cadence and collapsed onto the bed. I stripped the covers off to reveal Gilda, naked, asleep and looking stressed out. I nudged her a little bit. Nothing. I shook her more. Nothing again. Just because I was getting impatient and just slapped her ass. This time I got a reaction. Before I could pull away she gasped sitting up and backhanding me. She hit me so hard I fell right off the bed. She panted and looked around quickly covering herself back up. Cadence shushed Gilda as Shining came to my side. "Hey hey! You're okay! It's us! The real us!" She said.

Gilda shuttered a bit holding the blanket around her. "...w-what do you mean...?" She asked. "What do you mean by the REAL you....?"

I got up onto the bed rubbing my face. "Gilda... Changelings were in the castle posing as Cadence and Shining..." I said. "....They nearly used me to bear their young and feed off my love essence... which... I think they may have done with you when we were on the train...." Gilda's eyes widened and her jaw dropped. She curled up into a ball shuttering as Cadence rested a hand on her shoulder.

Cadence huffed. "I am SO sorry they did that..." She said. "...For their heinous act against you I grant you anything you desire. I'll give you time to think on it but the offer is open if you choose not to take it at this moment in time... But right now I have a favor to ask... can you help Ryder with a shower? He got hit with some powerful drugs and we're afraid he's gonna hit his head."

Gilda hesitantly nodded. "...Y-yes... Just... just let me get my clothes together...." She said. Just as she crawled out of bed there was a knock at the door. We all looked and Gilda just screamed her head off diving for cover on the other side of the bed. Right there at the door was the changeling drone.

It kinda looked frightened. "...Um... Is this a bad time?" It asked.

Shining huffed as Cadence got up and went to Gilda's side. "Nope... you're fine uh... what's you name again?" He asked. The drone looked away as it entered.

"...I should have one but... the queen doesnt like to use it so I did away with it...I've just been called 'Drone' for a s log as I can remember... The last thing I remember being called was Rocky... I think..." She looked back to Shining and smiled a bit.

"Well... I guess that's what we'll call you then... Rocky... So... you're fine Rocky... Just scared Gilda here..." He looked back at Gilda and Cadence. "Is she alright Cadie?"

Cadence sighed as Gilda sobbed slightly into her shoulder. "...Not really... Got scared into having an accident..." She said. "Get a mop and maybe change the sheets... Pretty powerful stream with her....." Shining looked back to Rocky.

"You mind getting one of the guards in the hall down here? I need em to...." I saw him avert his gaze and look back just moments after. "On second thought... why dont you stay here and speak with everyone here.... pretty sure the General here would like to chat with you, show his friend and my wife you dont mean any harm anymore."

Rocky nodded and came in as Shining got up. They sat next to me. I couldnt help but blush and cover my legs. "...So... Rocky..." I said. "...I uh.... I wanna... thank you for saving my ass there with Chrysalis... and... saving my ass more than once as Shadow...."

They sighed. "...I was glad to serve under you...." They replied. "...You were such a better leader than Chrysalis was.... you asked how I felt, showed compassion and love to me and.... I never once tried to steal it from anyone..." I looked at them a bit curiously.

"Really? How did you survive out there then?"

"With the food that was cooked it provided enough love to be stable enough to live on...." I looked back at Gilda who clung to Cadence. Cadence smiled nervously.

"Dont worry! She's fine!" I looked back at Rocky. "You... you dont mind being called a she do you?" She shook her head.

"I actually like turning into a mare more often than i do a stallion... I dont know why but... it just feels right..."

I smiled as Cadence sat on the other side of me while Gilda sat by her puddle. "Well... I guess it's nice to meet you Rocky..." The princess said. "...F-forgive me if I seem hesitant... I havent had the best run-ins with your... leader... But... I trust you wont be any trouble... will you....?" Rocky shook her head.

"I wont... I promise..." I could see tears building up in her eyes.... her weird compound eyes... I hugged her. She hugged me back. "...I... I'm so sorry..... " She started to sob into my shoulder. I felt so bad for her. I looked back at Cadence.. Didnt say a word before she cast a calming spell on us. Almost immediately Rocky stopped crying and I felt relaxed. Rocky looked at her. "....Th-thank..... thank you...." I shushed her and lied her down, covering her up. I looked to Cadence and Gilda.

I got up and took Gilda's hand as she came to my side. She was still shaking as if she were cold. She was now wearing just a pair of panties and a bra. I looked to Cadence. "...Please... I ask you to watch her while any guard is in here." I said. "Tell them not to be afraid, have her change form into something if she must.... Just... I dont want anyone to hurt her... She obviously feels bad for this..."

Cadence nodded. "You have my word General..." She said. "Now go... your shower awaits... Use the master bath. Big enough for two and can take anything you throw at it if you wish." I smiled blushing.

"I would but... I'd rather keep this cage on for a bit... I feel like we've had some experiences today that we wish to not freak out about if it happens once more...." She nodded and let us get on our way. To be honest I didnt know how to feel about this changeling Rocky... She's a bit of a wildcard... I've seen what can be done but... she seems more docile than the others... probably because she trusts me and everyone she has met here. I do hope she gets treated right. But way after the shower Cadence went and taught me a few things. To breathe if I'm nervous. Practice beforehand if needed and do it where she has no choice but to say yes.... but if I know AJ she no matter where I propose I know she'll say yes.

The Proposal (Part 1)

It was late at night. I couldnt sleep and sat on the roof in a white tee shirt and basket ball shorts. It was a pretty warm night but not warm enough to keep me up. What kept me up was my mind. Thinking about the wedding. I could barely keep my mind quiet with only one thought. Proposing. The other thoughts? You guessed it. What could go wrong. I could spill my drink and look like I pissed myself, I could lose the ring, I could hide the ring in her drink and she chokes on it. It goes on and on. I lied back on the roof and looked up at the night sky. The stars were glistening. Moon was just starting to form kinda. Nice crescent from Luna's gorgeous moon. I gave a sigh as I imagined mom and dad both looking over me. Part of me thought they knew, another said they didnt. If they knew are they proud of me? If they dont are they gonna be mad when I tell them? I honestly didnt wanna think about anything anymore. I got up and flew out to the treeline before flying back to the house through the open window to mine and AJ's room. I landed softly as to not wake her. But just as I was about to slip back into bed I heard a scream come from Scootaloo's room. I sighed as the crying started up and as Applejack started to wake up. "Don't bother yourself with it AJ... Just keep sleeping..." I said.

She mumbled something I couldnt really make out. I left the room and went over to Scootaloo's room. I could see the light on under the door. Before I could even open it the door swung open and out came Scootaloo running full force into me hugging me. She was wearing a night gown Princess Celestia got for her when she stayed in Canterlot during my deployment. "D-DONT LET THE BEARS GET ME RYDER! DONT LET EM GET ME!" She yelled. I grabbed hold of her and shushed her.

"Hey hey... no mean ol' bears gonna getcha Scoot..." I picked her up and we went inside her room. I sat her on the bed and closed the door. I knelt down and looked at her in her teary eyes. "....did someone scare you with a stuffed bear again Scoot...?" She hesitantly nodded wiping her eyes on her sleeve.

"....S-snips did it.... he... he just surprised me with it... growling.... pretending to attack me.... I told Ms. Cheerilee but... she didnt do anything about it..." I huffed.

"...I'll have a talk with Cheerilee when you go back to school... Right now how about we get some warm milk, a diaper and crawl back into bed?" She nodded and hugged me. I picked her up again and walked downstairs. Had to flip on the light on a side table so we didnt knock anything over trying to get to the kitchen.

"...Hey... Ryder...?" I looked to her as I set her down on the couch.

"Yeah...? Something wrong sis?" She looked away.

"...Can.... can we call Princess Luna....? I wanna talk with her..." I gave a little smile.

"Sure... what did you wanna talk with her about?" She didnt answer. "...Is it about mom and dad...?" She blushed a little bit wiping tears from her eyes.

"...Maybe..." I sighed.

"...Okay... I'll allow it but...I dont want you to keep doing this Scoot... I know we both miss them, I know it's been so long since we've heard their voices.... but... I wanna move on from being all sad and mopey around them... I'm afraid you're gonna cry and scream about them tomorrow.... either that or I'm going to.... I dont want Applejack to see us like we were after they.... you know...."

"....You know you can say it.... I'm... I know they died... they were murdered by... Her...." I smiled and rustled her mane.

"...Good thing you kept away from her name.... I dont wanna hear it either... For now lets get on with this stuff. You stay right here and I'll be back." She nodded and I went upstairs and tiptoed into my room to grab my phone. It made a little beeping sound as I took it off it's charger. Made AJ kinda shift a bit. Couldnt help but kiss her cheek before leaving the room.

Grabbed the diapers and stuff, yadda yadda yadda do you really wanna listen to this shit? No. No you dont. Anyways we both padded up and I went back upstairs with Scootaloo after she finished her milk. Had to have a glass myself too. As I called Luna on my phone Scootaloo clung to my arm. I sighed a bit thinking about if I should even ask about the wedding or something but I didnt have time to choose before the buzzing ended and we heard a little click. "General? Is everything okay over there Ryder you never call this late!" We hear Luna say. I sighed.

"Yeah... things are okay here... Just... just calling in to pull a favor for a certain little filly who had a nightmare...." She gave a sad aw.

"Poor thing! Is Scootaloo with you right now?"

I looked down at Scootaloo who smiled a bit. "Right here Princess..." She said.

"Hey Scootaloo! Is everything okay down there? Need me to come down there and scare somepony for hurting you?"

"Nope... Not today Princess.... But... Can I please ask something Luna...?"

"I suppose so.... But before you do I have a feeling this has something to do with your mommy and daddy.... Right?" Neither Scootaloo or I answered. "I'm going to assume that's a yes.... I'll go ahead and do this for you... I kinda wanted to visit my mother too... More... personal reasons than I would like but... I'll bring you two along for the ride."

I sighed seeing Scootaloo start to nod off. "Thank you Princess... I just wish there was something I could do in return for all you've done for me and Scootaloo here..." I said. "We are forever grateful for having be a part of your life." I heard her giggle.

"I'm happy to do this for you general. Your sister is the sweetest filly I've ever had the chance to know. And you general? You're not only a great choice for general, you're the kindest and undoubtedly the best friend I've ever come to know...." I smiled a bit as I lied Scootaloo down in her bed.

"... Wow... thank you Princess... You just made this old beat up stallion feel like new..."

"Glad to do say. Now I'd get to sleep here if you wish to see your mother and father."

"Alright... see you soon Princess..." I wasnt sure who hung up first but all I know is after I turned that light out I climbed in bed with Scoot and I was OUT!

Not even a few minutes after I was out in a field of flowers sitting atop a hill with an Apple tree giving me shade as I looked up at a gleaming red apple. One I knew was special and that I never wanted to eat. I was dressed in a white tee shirt, my camo bandana tied around my head and a pair of blue jeans with my red sneakers. "RYDER!" I hear a certain little filly call out. I looked out to the field. All I saw were red and purple tulips with a path cutting through them leading up to this tree. On that path I saw Luna carrying Scootaloo. Luna was wearing a pair of jean shorts and a tank top with some slippers. She had Scootaloo sitting in her arms wearing her PJ's just barely hiding the diaper I put on her. I got up and flew over to them quickly landing and hugging both of them.

Luna smiled as I took Scootaloo into my arms. "Are you ready for this General?" She asked. I nodded. "Good. And uh... By the way your sister here told me about her little predicament... I'm making sure that colt doesnt scare her like that again!"

I huffed. "Thank you Princess... Coming from you it's gonna sound more like you're just going to tell his mother while if i say it it's gonna sound like I'm going to put him in jail or something." I said. "I dont wanna scare the kid... best if you do it... Now I say we get going. Mom and dad await." Princess Luna gave a smile and gave us both blindfolds. I saw Scoot's form first before mine blinded me. I could feel the floor under me move a bit as a rushing wind blew past us. As the wind stopped to a light breeze I heard Luna sigh.

"Alright you two blindfolds off! We're here!" We took our blindfolds off and crushed them into cloud. The landscape around us was just endless white clouds now. I looked to Luna as Scootaloo started to fly out of my arms and around us.

"Alright... lead on Princess... and thank you again for this...." She smiled.

"You're quite welcome." She looked out to clouds. "Mother! Thy favorite moon bunny is here!" She blushed a bit as Scootaloo and I started to snicker a bit. "I am her little moon bunny while Celestia is my fathers little ray of sunshine!"

Before we had a chance to answer back the clouds in front of us started to swirl and come up into a column before opening up revealing Heavens Light wearing her white dress. We all bowed to her as she stepped out of the now dissipating column. "Well hello there!" She said as Luna ran up and hugged her. She looked to Scootaloo and I as we rose... Well as I rose and as Scootaloo straightened out. "Ah! If it isnt my favorite siblings! How are you two?"

Scootaloo giggled. "I'm getting better with my flying thanks to my big brother!" She said just flying around me.

I sighed grabbing her again. "And she's been helping me things here and there..." I said. "Even helping me keep my head straight when I'm in a bit of a mental pickle."

Heaven released Luna and plucked Scootaloo out of the air giving her a little boop on the nose making her just laugh a bit. "That is just great!" She said. "Judging by who you're here with I think it's time to visit your parents. Correct?" Scootaloo nodded. Saw heaven smile a bit. "Ah wonderful. They've honestly seemed a bit down since your last visit with them.... mostly because of your brother's actions..." Ah right.... the way I flipped out at them after they told me I was adopted. At least... I think that was my last visit with them. I blushed a bit as Scootaloo and Luna looked to me. Didnt have anything to say to them. "Perhaps we should go on with this before someone here has second thoughts..." Luna came over and took my hand. Her mother released Scootaloo to fly at her side as she turned and started walking.

I sighed hanging my head. Luna rested a wing on my back as we followed our family members. "Don't worry Ryder...." She said. "...I'm here for you if you're a bit frightened.... Would'st thy like to talk?"

I glanced at Luna. "...Maybe later... I've got something on my mind but it's something I wanna keep secret..." I replied. "I hope that's alright..."

"That's fine Ryder. I'm wanting to help you here. Not hurt you."

"I know princess... what I have to say is... it's just something I dont want Scootaloo to hear..." She stopped me right in my tracks and grabbed a hold of me looking me right into my eyes.

"...Please dont tell me you're having those... dangerous thoughts.... are you...?" I shook my head.

"No princess. If I were thinking those thoughts I would've come to you, Celestia, Twilight, AJ, Shining and... well... anyone I trust to talk about those things with." She smiled and hugged me tight.

"Well dont ever scare me like that.... I dont want to lose a friend...."

"Neither do I princess... Now lets go before we lose your mother and my sister." We broke the hug and she nodded.

We went and hurried off to see my mom and dad. As we came to the door Scootaloo turned and looked to me. "Don't worry Ry. Mom and dad arent gonna be mad!" She said. I sighed.

"I hope so... But you know they dont forgive easily..." She rolled her eyes and turned back to the door. She looked at Heavens light who stood at her side.

"Can I knock on the door please Miss Light?"

Heavens light smiled as Luna rested her hand on my shoulder. "Why of course little one!" She said. "You deserve it for showing my sweet daughters the value of the common folk. Celestia seemed so happy when she was connecting with everypony like she was just a plain old unicorn." She looked to Luna. "Please dont tell Celestia I called her old!"

Luna smiled as Scootaloo knocked on the door. "Dont worry. I wont tell her until her birthday so she'll think that's a joke!" She said. Yeah that's gonna go over well... Ahem.... prank war where I had the shit scared out of me quite literally.... Need I say more??

Anyways we waited there for a moment before the door opened. Mom and dad both smiled brightly seeing Scootaloo hugging them laughing away. Mom was wearing a white dress while dad was rocking the white suit. "Scootaloo!" Dad said. "How are you? Is your brother treating you well?"

I huffed bringing my presence to them. "Treating her well Dad...." I said. He looked to me as he passed my sister off to mom.

"Oh surprise surprise he called me DAD!" He looked to mom. "You wanna bring Scoot inside? I wanna have a word with Ryder here...." Mom nodded and brought Scootaloo inside. Luna patted my shoulder and pushed past me and my dad going inside. Heavens light stayed with me outside as dad approached me. "What in Celestia's good name are you doing here?! I thought you didnt want us as your parents!" I huffed.

"Look you raised me, you specifically treated me like shit because I broke a signed record, and berated me in front of Scootaloo when I first came home and just because all that happened doesnt give me the right to call you my father? And what about mom? Is she not my mom because she grounded me when I did bad things? Is she not my mom for putting me up in the only place I had left to go in my time of need?" He got in my face. I was about ready to clock him if our fucking godess wasnt watching over us.

"YOU ARENT OUR SON BECAUSE OF THE WAY YOU YELLED AT US AT DINNER AND MADE YOUR FUCKING SISTER CRY! Where ever your real mother is I hope you can fucking tell her that you pissed off your 'so-called' siblings parents and got exiled from the family! You dont even deserve the Wheeler last name!"

Heavens light pulled him away. I just stood my ground knowing nothing good could come of it if i moved. "Please you two! I understand this is a family squabble but can you not see that your anger is tearing you apart?"She said taking glances at both of us. "I understand that you both have done things you werent proud of but they were forgiven!" She looked to my father. "You forgave him for breaking your precious music disc and other things that happened but you gave him your word that you'd care for him and protect him since the day his birth mother showed up at your door!" She looked to me. "You did apologize after that dinner, but from what was said he doesnt know if it were sincere or not. Now I'd suggest you both apologize before things get entirely out of hand and i am forced to banish one of you." My dad huffed and looked to me.

"...It wasnt right the way you yelled at me and your mother like that.... that news is shocking yes and we had thoughts of telling you when you got up here but.... we had the chance and we took it only for you to do that.... I was even shocked to hear that our home burnt down... Heavens Light here even showed us what happened... Glad you got out alright though... And... I'm sorry for yelling at you there... sorry for everything i've done and told to you my entire life.... You're my son and I accepted that when you were born..."

I sighed as well looking to him. "....I'm sorry I flipped out like that at dinner. I just... If I had known earlier before the house burnt down I'd be reading who my mother was...." I said. "...I'd be hunkered down with Scootaloo in bed, reading it to her.... She'd be hurt hearing that I was adopted thinking like she did that night of the dinner but.... she would've loved to know when we found my mother she'd accept Scootaloo as her own and keep two siblings together...." I felt tears starting up. "....I know who my mother is and... i hated that you kept it from me for so long... but you had your reasons.... if I had known Spitfire of the wonderbolts was my real mother I'd go and either make a fool of myself or something but.... At least she knows now that her baby boy grew up and is the general of the royal guard.... Bet you didnt see that coming either did you?" He smiled and shook his head hugging me. I hugged back starting to cry a bit.

After that we both went inside and I talked with mom. Apologized about how I flipped out and told them about Mama Spitfire. They did kinda laugh on why I call her that but... they were glad I found her. Didnt tell them what happened for that but... yeah. After things were said and done Luna gave a sigh standing up from the recliner we used to have. "Alright... I'm sorry to say but I need you two to wake up now." She said. Scootaloo groaned a bit. "I know but I'm sorry Scootaloo. You can have more time later but right now I need to get you back to your own dreamscapes!"

Scootaloo whimpered a bit as mom and dad both hugged her. "Dont cry my little flyer...." Mom said. "We'll see you again...."

Dad sighed taking Scootaloo from mom hugging her. "It'll be okay Scoot... Just go on back with your brother and be nice to him..." He said. "...We love you Scoot... nothing changes that EVER!" He set Scootaloo on the floor and she went to Luna hugging her close.

I sighed getting up. "Princess? Can you wait outside with her for a moment? There's something I need to say here..." I said. She nodded and picked Scootaloo up before carrying the now sobbing filly out the door closing it behind her. I looked back at mom and dad.

"Everything okay Ryder?" Dad asked. "You dont normally hesitate to leave with Scootaloo like this...." I sat down in the recliner and huffed.

"I'm fine dad... I just.... I wanted to ask something here.... It's something I dont wanna ask in front of Scootaloo because she's been terrible at keeping secrets lately and I dont want this surprise to be ruined...."

Mom and dad both looked at each other curious. Mom then looked to me. "What did you wanna ask...?" She asked.

"Well....." I hesitated. Started to scratch my neck and took a deep breath. "....Wow this is harder than I thought it'd be...."

Dad groaned a bit. "Oh come on Ryder dont tell me you're having a kid and having second thoughts!" He said. Both me and mom looked at him. Mom shocked, me confused. He looked at both of us blushing. "Uh... I can explain?"

Mom huffed. "Later... Right now lets just hear what our son has to say!" She said. They both looked at me.

I took another deep breath and gave a deep sigh. I then looked to Dad. "Dad... how did you feel when you were going to propose to mom....?" I asked. Both dad and mom gave a hefty sigh of relief.

"....Sweet Celestia Ryder dont scare us like that! I swear you were having a kid!" I huffed.

"Dont worry... I'm not dad who wanted to abandon you after you got me. I stayed for Scootaloo and I'll stay for my own.... But... Just tell me what you did to prepare for that moment.... I'm gonna be proposing to Applejack... I know what to do, how to do it but... I'm nervous... what if I mess up? What if she says no?"

Dad sighed. "If she loves you enough she wont say no." He said. "But what you're feeling is normal. Happened to me, happened to your grandfather maybe even your great grandfather." He took moms hand and looked to her. "...But with your mom.... when I took her out to her favorite park I was nervous. Told her to wait on a bench while I went to the can. I thought about running but then I'd go and make my favorite mare in the world hate me, I'd be out on bits for your mothers ring and I'd be leaving you without a father.... What I did in that restroom is something I dont regret."

Mom chuckled a bit. "He jerked one out, made me smell his hand and caught me in the bushes with my pants down!" She said proudly. Dad laughed a bit while I didnt need to see that image... EVER.... though now I wont be able to not see it again.

"Yeah... No... Not that... Do NOT do THAT! Well... Unless she's into that sorta thing but I doubt it." Oh you'd never know. "But what i did was splash some water on my face, look into the mirror, stained with graffiti and such but I told myself.... If I didnt do this someone else is going to and they're going to ruin her life. Not to mention you'd be ruining her own. If you did something that you'd regret you'd never get the chance to fix it. Now I want you to listen and listen good. I want you to make Applejack the happiest mare ever. I know you can son.... I mean.... you've made us happy the entire time we had you...."

I looked at him confused. "But... after the record... what about that?" I asked. He huffed.

"Please... I know I was pissed off about that but... that didnt change how I felt about you... You were a good kid... or at least you tried to be but... Guess we raised you right. Now... I think you should go. The more time you spend here with us, the more you're gonna make us cry wishing we were down there with you..." I nodded and got up. Gave both of them a hug before hesitantly leaving through the door. There I saw Luna holding Scootaloo who looked a bit ticked off.

"Ready to go?"

Scootaloo grunted crossing her arms turning away from me. Luna sighed looking to me. "....Guess she doesnt see it was fair you spent more time with your parents after I said we had to go...." She said. "... I hope you dont mind this but next time someone asks to visit this place you arent coming.... I'll talk with you in your dreams but that's as far as I go. Understood?" I nodded and walked along side Luna. As we returned to the dreamscape we found ourselves in the middle of a now dead field of what once was my dream. I sat down next to the tree I sat under. Damn thing was dead. Leaves all gone showing off a sky of grey. "Is something the matter Ryder?" I looked to Scootaloo. She did as well. "Oh... right... she's a bit mad at you..." She sat down next to me. "Alright. Say it." I huffed.

"I'm sorry if I stayed longer Scoot... I just... I had to talk with them about something extremely personal..."

Scootaloo glanced back at me before looking away again. "Did you talk about how you cant go one day without hiding in the bathroom to handle 'business' as Big Mac calls it? I'm sure they LOVED to hear about that!" She snapped. I blushed.

"N-now Scootaloo I wouldnt-"

"DONT 'NOW SCOOTALOO' ME! I WANTED TO STAY WITH MOMMY AND DADDY LONGER BUT NO MY BIG BROTHER HAS TO HOG THEM ALL TO HIMSELF!" I huffed.

"I didnt mean to-"

"DIDNT MEAN TO? BULLSHIT!"

Luna gasped while I just froze up. "Scootaloo!" The princess snapped. I saw Scootaloo quickly cower screaming a bit.

"I'M SORRY I'M SORRY! DONT HIT ME PLEASE!"

I sighed and took my sister from Luna's arms. "...Dont worry nobody is gonna hit you but you watch your mouth okay? Next time this happens you're getting soap in your mouth and I dont care if it was said in a dream or outside a dream. Got me?" I asked. She nodded sniffling. "Good.... Now just... just let me tell you why I stayed back there.... But I know you and you spill secrets like there's no tomorrow!" She sniffled and looked up at me.

"...H-how was I supposed to know she would tell Shining about that time you wet your pants while taking me to school...?" Luna giggled a bit making Scootaloo blush a bit more as she looked at me blushing a bit. "...S-sorry...."

"It's fine... it's done and over with but... . what I want you to do is Pinkie Promise you wont say ANYTHING about this to ANYPONY! You do and Pinkie's gonna know about it." And that made her just wet herself. Glad she was padded. To clarify, she made a pinkie promise to Pinkie about having to keep it secret that she used to take a cupcake and hide it when baking and snack on it, but she got a bright idea and tried to sneak one of Pinkie's cupcakes which ended up getting them both in trouble and since she broke that pinkie promise Pinkie, Pinkie decided to scare my little sister with the approval of mom and dad, I helped out, Dash helped and her friends but the only ones who didnt approve were Fluttershy, Twilight, Rarity and AJ. What we did? We didnt do anything bad but we ambushed her with water balloons filled with food coloring, her friends pushed her in the mud, I 'sold' her favorite toy to Dash so she could give it to Fluttershy for one of her animals, and Pinkie decided to have mom and dad trick her that she didnt live there anymore... Most of us.... me mom and dad.... said sorry for doing that because she started to cry saying she'd never do that again. Anyways she sniffled.

"C-cross my heart... hope to fly... stick a cupcake in my eye..." I huffed.

"Good.... Now... I decided a while ago that I'd do something that would change my life... and maybe yours forever... and before you say anything no we arent moving, we arent selling anything and nobody is going away. But... I wanna tell you that...I wanna marry Applejack... that'd make you and Applebloom sisters kinda... I dont want to ruin this surprise. And I only stayed back with mom and dad to ask them some advice on how to approach... I'm nervous..."

Scootaloo smiled as Luna sighed a bit. "Ryder thy dream of marriage will be a grand display." She said. "I want you to feel comfortable when you do it. I can even suggest a nice restaurant that I can pull a few strings with and give you a free meal at. One problem being up in the Canterlot area. Would you want to come all the way up here for that?" I smiled.

"For this... I'd like to make that trip. I'd send word to Applejack and make it seem like it's a nice gesture for something. Make something up if you can." She smiled back.

"Dont worry. I'll do something and I'll make it good. Just make sure you're ready for this okay?" I nodded. "Good. Now time to wake up. Cant sleep forever." I'd say watch me but I hate sleeping in past noon.

Both Scootaloo and I nodded before we waved goodbye to the princess. When I woke up I found myself alone in Scootaloo's room... and even more freaky I was on the floor half way out of my pajamas. Shorts were half way down my legs and my diaper revealed looking a bit soggy with.... a red stamp on the crotch. From what I saw it said 'property of Applejack' and... Gotta say I do NOT remember her getting anything like that. I blushed a bit getting up. Even pulled up my pants around my padding and left the room. As I left the room I caught the faint scent of blue berries coming from downstairs. As I went out I looked down and saw everyone downstairs having breakfast and watching TV. Scoot and Applebloom were in their pajamas on the couch with Big Mac who was in a tank top and his sweat pants while Applejack was still at the stove making pancakes. And my favorite! Blueberry pancakes! AJ was wearing a red tank top, jean shorts and an apron to cover her front. No pancake batter to lick off her this time. As I came down the stairs Applejack looked at me smiling. "Well G'mornin there sugarcube!" She said. "Sleep well last night?"

I huffed going around the couch into the kitchen. "Kinda... found myself on the floor when I woke up..." I said. I got close to her as she finished plating a few pancakes for me. "But... did you happen to stamp me?" AJ gave me a confused look.

"Stamp you? Like.... stamp on your chest or something?" I shook my head.

"Like an ink stamp and stamping my diaper..." I whispered back. Again she gave me a confused look.

"I didnt do anythin' like that.... What made ya think that?" I pointed down at my waist and pulled out my shorts a bit revealing the stamp as I blushed a bit. "...What the...?" She looked out to the living room. "Big Mac! Get over here!"

The red stallion huffed and got up from his seat placing his plate of pancakes down on the table. Just where I saw Winona pop her head up and start sniffing at the pancakes. He looked back at the pup. "No!" He snapped. Winona whimpered and sat back as he came over to us. "What AJ? What do ya want?" She pointed down at my crotch.

"You do this?" She asked. He snickered a bit as he looked at the stamp.

"You think I did this? Aint me sis. I was still passed out before you woke up remember?" Applejack huffed.

"Scootaloo did you stamp your brothers diaper?"

Scootaloo huffed. "It wasnt me Applejack! I dont even have any stamps!" She said not even breaking her concentration from the TV. "Yeah I had to struggle to get out of his arms but I didnt do anything like that! And I had to wake Applebloom up for you remember that?"

I huffed. "Explains why I ended up on the floor...." I said. Scootaloo kinda glanced over.

"What? You were still on the bed when I left the room and I dont think anyone heard you even fall off!"

Applejack hummed a bit looking back to me. "...Come to think of it I dont think I heard anythin' like that either... Not to mention if you fell off of Scoot's bed you'd definitely feel it..." She said.

I looked to Applejack. "Yeah... But if nobody did this.... who did it?" I asked.

Probably the wrong thing to ask because of a laugh that just came out of nowhere, scaring the piss out of me, scaring Big Mac back to the couch to hid behind Applebloom and AJ to just cling to me. "Are we placing bets to find out who made the General wet himself?" A familiar voice asked. I just grabbed at thin air and I caught who it was. They gave a grunt. Next thing you know a puff of smoke engulfed my hand and it revealed I was grabbing the muzzle of none other than the draconequus known as Discord. His twisted body floated in the air.

"DISCORD!"

Applejack growled a bit. "Dammit Discord! Celestia is gonna hear about this!" She snapped. I huffed and looked to AJ.

"No need... I've got this...." I started off towards the stairs with his muzzle still gripped in my hand. He did kinda try to pry me off of him but no luck.

"Careful Ry dont hurt him!" I looked back at Applejack.

"I wont I wont... I just wanna talk with him!"

Though I did kinda lie there.... I was pissed more than the diaper I wore. After we came into my room I tossed him aside and the before he could even say anything I gave him a punch to... I dont know his chest? Stomach? I've got know idea from his anatomy. He grunted. "What cant you take a joke?!" He asked.

"I dont take jokes lying down! Especially yours Discord! Last time someone played a joke on me without my knowing I loaded my pants out in public and since then if there was a joke it would be a funny one! Now start telling me why you're here before I have Twilight turn you back into a rock for Pinkie's sister to fuck!" He sighed dusting himself off.

"This is what I get for messing with militant hotheads...." He looked to me. "Celestia told me to come tell you that you're needed.... she only did this because of private information that she's unable to spread through prying ears.... I got here through a window you left slightly open and hid in your sisters room... You really need to learn not to talk in your sleep loverboy!" I blushed.

"You keep what ever I said to yourself and I wont shove you into the dirtiest toilet I can find! Now is that everything?"

"...I'm sorry for stamping your soggy pants... GENERAL...."

"You're forgiven... but if I catch you in here without an invite again-"

"Yes yes I'll be in some trouble and possible pony excrement.... Now call Celestia but keep it on the down low...." I nodded.

"Alright... Now get out before you scare my little sister's friend even more!" He huffed and snapped his fingers just turning himself into paper and folding himself up until he disappeared. He is just... weird.

After he just folded himself to nonexistance I grabbed my phone and started to call Celestia. Sat down on the bed as it buzzed in my ear. After a moment it stopped and clicked. "Ryder! I assume Discord told you to call me?" I hear Princess Celestia ask. I huffed.

"Asshole scared the hell out of everyone here.... Hope you dont mind but I gave him a huge bump on the nose to make sure he doesnt do that again...." She sighed.

"I'll have a word with him about that.... Hope he didnt scare Scootaloo like he did before."

"Nope... Scared Big Mac and Applebloom though... And.... maybe me but... I wont get him for any dry cleaning....."

I heard a stallion laugh a bit. "Your diapers shouldnt leak but you're glad I didnt make them stick to you!" I heard Discord say before having a loud slap happen in the background.

Celestia sighed. "That shut him up.... But seriously if anything goes kooky with you tell me what happened." She said. "But other than your accident that our.... associate caused.... How's everything?"

I sighed and lied back on the bed. "...Tonights the night I finally propose to Applejack and.... I just... I love her too much to let this go on even longer." I said softly. "...I had Luna take me to our parents after a request from Scootaloo but... I had to ask some advice because I'm so nervous.... I mean... what if she says no?"

"I'm sure she's going to say yes Ryder... But... Is there any way you'd be able to reschedule?" I took a quick double take at my phone.

"W-wait what? Why?!" I asked.

"Well... Take my word for this because this just came up but.... one of the most powerful allies I have is coming to Equestria and he wants to meet you. He's heard a lot about you from the stories I've told him and would like to meet you. Only problems here are... well your time with Applejack and uh...."

"'Uh' what? You sound like Scootaloo when she's in trouble with someone...."

"Uh... Well... Guards informed me of a plot for an attack on this ally of mine.... Nobody knows who they are and when this would take place but you may have to be on look out when out and I cant deny him rights to see you!"

"Why not? You realize how important this moment is in my life! Can we not do this another time?"

"I'm afraid not.... He's been in Equestria under the radar for a few days and he refuses to stay in the castle. He wants to meet you AND go out to a dinner which he will pay for. You deny his request it might be an issue for our alliance.... He's a man who can be hard to deal with if he's in a bad mood... and if he's in a bad mood bad things happen.... Trade agreements go down, tensions rise and if someone says a wrong thing war could break out..." I sighed.

"Can I not weigh my options here? Please?"

"Dammit Ryder you need to do this! I cant lose this ally!" I stayed silent for a moment. Somewhat mad but scared. She sighed. "...I'm sorry for snapping Ryder... I just... This has a lot on the line for me... He's got.... he's got items of value Equestria needs with weaponry... Dont worry nothing that's gonna destroy a huge section of a populated area but... these things are needed. I dont get these it could be disastrous for the next war. We do not know with what weapons the enemy will wield but it'll sure as hell be like we'll be wielding nothing but wooden spears and rocks!" I sat up and looked out the window.

"....Well it definitely seems I have no choice.... But with this in mind I want compensation for this.... My night is basically ruined with AJ...." She hummed slightly as I got up and watched as Applejack and the girls went out to the trees.

"Well if it makes you feel any better my sister has just given me an idea... Bring Applejack along to this dinner and not be a third wheel to this ally and his wife. Details will come through a letter I've sent to Twilight with EXPLICIT instructions not to read but deliver to you. If my timing is right you should see Twilight or one of her guard trucks coming up to Sweet Apple Acres now." I looked out to the road and saw a vehicle. Not a guard truck. Sports car. Rag top. Not my kinda car but it is Twilight's.

"Perfect timing.... Just know I'm not a happy colt right now with what you've put in front of me and are forcing me to eat. And if you think I'm bringing Applejack to meet who ever this is she's gonna think I brought her out there for nothing because I'm talking to someone we have never even met!" I huffed and hung up without giving Celestia another word. I couldnt believe it. My whole night ruined, plans I've had taken and trashed and adding more problems to what I've already had.

I tossed my phone aside and changed out of my pajamas and into black cargo shorts and a cut off Gems and Tulips tee shirt. Had to throw on my sneakers too without socks. As uncomfortable as it was I left the room and went downstairs. Big Mac was still on the couch. He looked to me as I went for the door. "Everything okay?" He asked. I just left without saying a word. Didnt wanna give him my bad mood.

I went towards Twilight's car as it pulled off away from AJ who I saw starting to walk towards us. Twilight smiled at me as she got out of her car. "Hey Ryder got a letter from Celestia for you!" She said handing me the letter.

I took the letter and huffed. "Twilight.... We need to talk. NOW." I said.

"Wh-what? Why?" I looked up and just started flying towards a cloud. I looked down and saw her shrug to Applejack as she flew up after me. I sat down on the cloud and looked out towards Ponyville and her castle. She came up and floated in front of me. "Alright what's going on now? You dont do this unless there's something wrong!" I sighed.

"Celestia just ruined all our hard work...." I replied. She gave me a confused look.

"What? How did she do that?"

"I dont know how much I can say but let's just say it has to do with babysitting someone I dont know... Didnt even consult me before hand just said 'you're doing this'. And before you say anything yes I know I'm a high ranked guard that cant help but to listen Celestia and Luna... and you and even Cadence but... there are things where I have to draw the line... and that's one of them... This was the perfect night and she basically ruined it.... Maybe this is a sign I should just not do the proposal...." Twilight slapped me before holding my shoulders.

"Dont give up! It's too late in the game for that! If you couldnt get a plan that EVERYONE agreed on, EVEN THE PRINCESS OF FUCKING LOVE HERSELF then YES. YOU COULD GIVE UP BUT NOW IS NOT THE FUCKING TIME!" I stayed silent. She released me and sighed sitting next to me. "...Sorry.... I just... I dont want my friend hurt because you couldnt go through with proposing to her.... I just cant allow that... and all that work Cadence did...? She'd feel hurt knowing it was all for nothing." She looked to me. "...Still sorry that I didnt tell you sooner that Cadence wasnt even at the castle...." I sighed.

"It's fine... Stupid jammers.... I just hope Rocky is doing alright...." Before I could even get another word out Twilight's phone rang. She held up a finger and took it out of her pocket before answering it.

"Hello?" I waited a moment. "Oh Celestia.... This isnt really a good... yeah.... But... Uh... Okay but.... oh so you know already.... Okay here. I'll give my phone to him." She handed me her phone and I sighed taking it and putting it up to my ear.

"What?"

I heard a bit of sniffling. "...R-ryder... I apologize for dumping this on you.... I just had no other option...." I hear Celestia say. "I know you said I ruined your proposal... but... I just..." She grunted. I heard her talking kinda unintelligibly for a moment. Even heard the phone kinda shift a bit. "...Okay... I might as well just tell you what's REALLY going on.... I trust you enough to know the full details of what's going on.... This ally that needs to meet with you? He's actually an Official with Saddle Arabia and he's got a price on his head. Guards have told me there have been attempts by various assassins who have tried and he has come to us for help. I agreed and wanted to appoint you to this knowing you'll know what to look for but my approach with it wasnt as what I expected.... Please do this for me.... Please take Shady Sands and his wife on a double date and I promise you that we'll have guards set at each entrance, exit, rooftop and have them pat down guests with some hiding among the diners armed and ready. You'll be armed too and I expect you to protect him at all costs.... If done this will mean great things for our countries relations and I promise my sister and I will grant you what ever wishes you have on your wedding day. You name it! It's yours!" I sighed.

"That makes me wanna do this less! Princess you have to get someone else for this!"

"No Ryder I cant! He specifically asked for a high ranking official and you are the highest I have! If he goes with anyone under ranked he's not going to have any protection at all! Please! Saddle Arabia is going through some things and if we dont show our power, war could break out and you could end up on the front lines! Yes you are my top strategist, yes you have a sister who would hate to lose you but.... It would be horrible for this to happen. Losing my ally who has come to us in our time of need would be disastrous, losing you would be disastrous and starting a war with an empire that matches our own in strength is disastrous.... Please Ryder... I beg you to do this for me." I huffed.

"I want plain clothes guard inside watching over the inside of the building sitting around us ready to pounce when and if shit hits the fan.... Not to mention hidden armor on every one that's with the guard or important. Send Rarity a spell for this if you have to or have someone trusted for this... I want AJ to be safe if this is done..."

"You'll get a spell that is bound to clothing but doesnt make it seem suspicious. I'll send it over to Twilight so she can meet Rarity for the dresses. And once again THANK YOU general... You've always been of great assistance to the guard and myself... You have my thanks and my mothers blessing upon you..."

And just like that she hung up. I sighed handing Twilight her phone back. She looked to me confused as she sheathed it in her pocket. "...Ryder... what was that about?" She asked.

I huffed. "I tell you you cant worry, you cant tell AJ and you cant tell ANYONE!" I said. "Understand?" Twilight nodded. I huffed. "Alright... Pinkie Promise."

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."

"Alright... I told you I was babysitting someone I didnt know thanks to Celestia... Though she left out some details.... Apparently the guy I'm watching out for is a foreign dignitary. Didnt ask anyone else or even me about this because apparently he's got a price on his head and is expecting me to keep him safe. She knew of my date with Applejack because of Luna but invaded anyways..... She suggests to me that I take AJ out on a double date with the dignitary and his wife. I suggested she stayed back but... I want this to go through and she still thinks she should go... I'm going to end up having hidden armor on both of our clothing to protect us..." Twilight gasped a bit.

"W-what?! You cant! She cant! Why THAT with THAT SITUATION?! SOMEONE COULD GET KILLED!" I grabbed Twilight and shushed her.

"Hey! Dont act like that! Everything is gonna be fine! Just get back to your car, say nothing to Applejack, talk to Celestia and calm the fuck down! Otherwise - and I'm sorry for saying this- but I might have to have Shining get down here and pad you up and watch you the entire time this is going on! He owes me after that visit I had..." She huffed.

"....You're lucky that I wont do anything to affect you or your job when you bring my brother up.... and him doing that especially... and he KNOWS Cadence would let him, even if it werent me wanting it in the first place...." I sighed.

"Sorry but... I want this to happen.... I want to propose to Applejack even if I have a gun on my side and a kevlar vest... I'd do it even if I had a fatal hole in my chest and a sword coming out of it.... I've just done so much to protect everyone and... I want to be bound for life to the princess of my dreams as your brother is bound to Cadence.... She makes me feel whole.... she makes me happy.... she just.... completes me...." She just tried to find the words to help describe what I said. I could tell by looking at her that was a sweet thing I just said, knowing I'd die for someone I love, like I'd die for a princess. To me AJ is my princess and I've gone and done a lot for her and she's done a lot for me in return. I just feel it's right. Even if it means I'd leave the most important part of my life behind and yes.... it means Scootaloo. She's important to me more than my love for AJ.... Sorry but if it meant I had to choose between my sister and my soon-to-be-wife... I'd choose my baby sister.... Anyways Twilight took a deep breath and sighed.

"You're right..... You should be happy.... you're going to have other guards around you helping protect her.... She'll be fine.... But.... I just..... I hope Celestia will let me give my input of guards, plain clothed or not in some unexpected places but I'll talk with her about it when I get back home... For now just get back down there, clean up and get your head in the game."

I gave a nod and flew down with her back to her car. Applejack was off at the door to the house and I could see that the family truck was driving off down the road. I just helped Twilight into her car and closed the door for her before watching her drive off. Just as she wasnt even a third way down the dirt road I turned around to see Applejack coming towards me. I smiled nervously as she crossed her arms stopping just feet away with a questioning look on her face. "So.... Ya wanna tell me what the hell that was?" She asked.

I had to think quick. What was I gonna say? "Well... uh.... I had to uh..." I said. Thinking and talking at the same time is not my best trait.

"You had to what?"

"Well... I just had to talk with her about some uh... work stuff.... something she's got planned and a few problems I had with it. I offered to help her with it but she wanted to change it on her own but.... guess she was grateful for it because she suggested we go out on a date night and get someone else on the plan for tonight." I hope she bought that. She just looked at me looking a bit mad and questioning things. "Seriously AJ she even told me where I could take you! Even said that Princess Celestia would help out with the bill! And I swear she owed me a favor last time I did something important for her!" She hummed.

"...So.... If I call Celestia right now she'd say she'd take it on herself to get our meal for us... what ever we ordered.... Right?" I gave a nod. "Why dont you just head on inside and make sure Discord aint in there.... Cuz if you're lying.... I'm gonna whoop your ass so hard he's gonna wanna show the princesses that.... And I aint gonna make it look like an accident...."

I didnt even answer before nodding and heading back into the house and hurrying upstairs where I grabbed my phone and texted Celestia AND Luna to vouch for me that I have a favor and that Celestia to not mention anything about a wedding, marriage but lie to make it seem like we're meeting with someone who could pay. Basically dont let her know its a job and not just a double date that was preplanned. AND JUST DONT MENTION ANY GUARDS! After I was done texting Celestia I got a call from Big Mac. Quickly answered it. "Hey hope ya dont mind but I dropped Scoot off at Rarity's place with Bloom. Didnt ask ya cuz I couldnt find ya!" He said.

I grunted. "I sure hope that was a good idea... otherwise someone's got some explaining to do...." I said. I quickly slapped my mouth realizing i let something slip.

"Wait what? Is that a yes for you do mind dropping the girls off there?" He huffed. "Fine... lemme turn around and get em..."

"JUST LEAVE THEM THERE!" I snapped. I slapped myself again.

"Jeez Ry you okay? Discord didnt piss in your cornflakes too did he?" I stayed silent. "Uh... forget I said that... Can I just ask why you're acting so strange? Swear I wont tell AJ if one of her things broke inside ya!" I blushed a bit.

"...You're lucky I've only had that happen once and it was an easy fix..... But it's not that... If I tell you you have to promise me you're gonna keep your cool, not spoil anything and I swear to the mother above if you so much as say a word about it to AJ I will feed you to Winona and the timberwolves!" Holy shit that was dark for me to say but... I said it.

"...Is... is this some sort of work thing...? Someone put a price on your head?! Dammit if they did lemme drive ya out of there and get you somewhere safe!"

DAMMIT STOP ASSUMING STUPID SHIT!" I grunted a bit covering my red face. "I swear it's like arguing with a tub of lard!" I huffed. "...Okay first off yes this kinda has to do with work and no.... I dont have a price on my head... at least I hope not... Third I need you to Pinkie Promise me that this stays secret with you! AJ can NOT know!"

"Cross my heart, hope to fly stick a cupcake in my eye!" I huffed.

"Good... Now I'm gonna be going out to dinner with Applejack later but it's with some foreign diplomat... During that dinner-" I stopped and looked out the window at Applejack over at the trees bucking em. Damn her legs looked fine.

"What are you doing at dinner again? Couldnt catch that!" I sighed.

"This is what I dont want you freaking out over... I..... I want to propose to Applejack and make her my wife...." I heard him gasp as I sat down on the bed.

"....You're kidding right?" I stayed silent. "...shit... you aint... I just.... But... I..."

"I got your father's blessing one night when visiting my parents through Luna... Asked for his blessing and accidentally made your mother faint.... Sorry.... But... yeah... i want to marry your sister.... but please... dont ruin the surprise.... I want the time to be perfect!" He stayed silent for a moment and i heard him take a deep breath.

"...Right... I just... I had to pull over here just to... just to collect myself... I'm just... surprised that you'd do something this fast...."

"I know I know... it's only been a few years after we started dating but... I just... I've been thinking lately and... I know AJ and I have been through a lot together and she's stayed by my side through thick and thin.... I want to be there for the rest of our lives Big Mac.... basically be bound by our love and maybe bring some happiness into Scoot's life.... She feels like something bad always happens... she's just been sad lately and I wanna show her she's got hope with a new family on the way..." I heard him sigh. "...Yeah... Scoot's been talking with me a few times... thinks some things are her fault like uh... that night.... and some other things but... talk to her if ya wanna know about those... and I know you've said time and time again about-" Ooooh I had a heart attack because I wasnt keeping an eye on Applejack and there she was coming into the room. Just shoved my phone under the pillow.

Applejack looked a bit happy but.... something about her grin made me a bit uneasy. "...So.... you're lucky Celestia AND Luna vouched for your story...." She said. "So... anything you wanna do before tonight sugarcube? I can sense a pent up stallion ready to blow...." She pulled down her shorts a bit teasing me with her bright red panties. I reached under the pillow and hung up on Big Mac before setting my phone aside. I just froze up a bit as she came over dropping her shorts to her ankles and kicking them off before sitting on my lap, wrapping her arms around me. "...C'mon sugarcube... let's fuck...." Oh and how could I deny I wanted her ass? I just started kissing her as I pulled her panties aside and started rubbing her. She moaned a bit as I slipped into her panties. She was hornier than a.... Okay I cant think of anything but she was fucking horny as hell. She pushed me off and lied me back and stripped herself naked. I was so stunned she just had to help me out of my clothes.... didnt even bother taking my pants off until she got a feel of what I was packing... To be honest I havent gotten off at all for a while... Gilda didnt even tease me at all or even want me to go to town on her. Think the last time I got off was when I was on a train with Gilda and AJ running it.... Damn good few months. Applejack put her bare ass in my face as she pulled my pants right off and I just couldnt help but get the first taste... Home made apple pie.... She couldnt help but shutter before grasping my cock. She then just about suffocated me with her ass trying to suck me off and god her mouth felt HEAVENLY. Her warm maw just gulping down my dick. Hilted me even. I gasped feeling her lips at my base before she bobbed up and down. I went back to licking tasting her sweet flavor for a few moments. Didnt even say a word before giving my face a little drip of her cum. She turned about and straddled me, teasing herself. Jeez this was just.... I couldnt control myself. I just grabbed at her tits and thrust into her making her cry out. Her insides were on fire as she danced her sweet cunt all over my cock. Grinding, slamming and all full of pleasure. "C'mon sugarcube! Make this cow pony scream!" I grinned and brought my legs up a bit before just slamming her from below.and she rode me like a dirt bike on a bumpy road with the seat having a vibrating dildo on it. She cried out as I sped up as much as I could. I felt her cum a few times during that while I was still going strong. "C-c-c'mon sugarcube! Cum! Cum with me!" That's when I stopped thrusting and tossed her to the side and just mounted her like a fucking dog and just started railing her hard, banging the headboard of the bed against the wall. She wrapped her arms and legs around me and held on for dear life as I kept going, just thrusting into her deeply. When I came there was no fucking warning and I just exploded inside of her. Pent up was an understatement I was just a dam about to break and flood everything. I filled her so much it shot out onto the bed before I ended up collapsing on top of her panting heavily. "....Th-there it is.... there's what mama was lookin' fer..... hell one of these days you're gonna end up getting me pregnant....." I huffed and pushed myself off letting my dick slump out of her.

"...Hopefully... you dont... now... just... just clean up if you can please... I just...." And I passed out then and there hard. All my energy spent on that orgasm. Applejack did try to wake me back up to help her clean up but I didnt budge. Just slept. Even felt her get up from the bed but I dont remember much after that. Though... the day is not yet over.

The Proposal (Part 2)

As I slept after that AMAZING sex I dreamt I was driving down the road in my car. I was driving on an empty stretch of highway. Had one of my favorite songs by Tumbling Rocks playing on the radio.... It was just a relaxing drive alone but... something didnt feel right. As I pulled off the highway I stopped at a red light. Still open road ahead of me and not even a cross road. My radio started glitching out as it changed stations. "Make.... It... or.... Break it...." It said in multiple different voices as it changed stations rapidly. "Start... it... up.... and... break... it.... DOWN!" And next thing you know something just hits my car and I go flying and rolling to the beat of... something... I couldnt make it out until my car ended up hitting a pillar and me waking up on the floor, head hurting and me still butt naked with my phone ringing. Had to change a few ring tones and I turned this one to a dubstep song that has a major bass drop.

I groaned a bit and got up onto the bed seeing Applejack half clothed and still asleep. She was wearing her red panties again and a white tank top. Mane was a mess but she looked beautiful still. I grabbed my phone and saw it was Rarity. I sighed and answered it. "...What do you want Rarity? I was asleep!" I snapped whispering.

I heard her huff. "Well sorry for ruining nap time Ryder!" She snapped right back. "Celestia gave me explicit instrutctions that I followed to the T that I get your suit ready for tonight and have it done by four! It's almost five! YOU'RE LATE!" I huffed.

"Well if she would've told me that I needed to be at your place I wouldnt have been fucking AJ's brains out and unloading in her." I heard her gag a bit.

"....I'll give you the benefit of the doubt but please.... be less descriptive... or not say anything at all about my soon-to-be-married friend getting plowed into next week... I cant stomach anything today since Sweetie had a bit of an accident last night..... Never feed Scootaloo bad cereal she insists is still good.... You're just lucky Sweetie Belle just has something from eating something bad and not a stomach bug... I would hate for Applebloom and Scootaloo to catch it." I sighed getting up from the bed.

"Yeah... I'll be right there.... gonna leave a note and let AJ sleep a little bit more... Maybe see if Big Mac's home and if he can wake her in a bit and meet me at your place... I wanna make sure I look good for tonight. And yes... bits are in store if you'll style my mane...." She hummed.

"Since this is a special night.... I guess i can waive the payment and have you model something for one of my clients.... it's a bit.... unorthodox for you but this client specifically wants it made to his specifications- and yes i did say that right. He is just about your body type, stature and all give or take in the... area.. I wont say what but... just meet me in a few days and I promise it'll be in and out with the modeling okay?" I sighed.

"Alright..... That's fine.... What ever it is I'm modeling i'll do it as long as nothing humiliating goes on.... I dont want a remake of last time...." Yeah... had me model something that didnt leave much to the imagination and Pinkie and Dash ended up coming up behind me throwing money on me while Applejack came out from somewhere filming it like i was some sort of stripper.... Dash did feel kinda awkward but I got forty bits out of it. Rarity huffed.

"Fine fine only you and me and the client! I'll just let you know he's important in my line of work and can make those who do a good job known to all of fashion and even the models! He could even create a suit better than I can."

"Rarity I'm coming over soon. Just have stuff ready!"

"Alright see you soon and... do be careful tonight..... I'm not sure what the spell Celestia sent me does but she had me cast it on your suit and Applejack's dress and... it has me worried...."

"Look everything's fine. Just let me get over there!"

Without another word she hung up leaving me to hop into what ever clothes I saw fit. My boxers, a white teeshirt and basketball shorts. Grabbed my sneakers too and just snuck out of the room. As I left the room I saw Big Mac coming up the stairs. He huffed. "...Knew you guys were up to something earlier when you hung up on me...." He said. "Glad I gotcha cleaned up when AJ passed out?" I huffed blushing.

"Yeah thanks what ever but... right now I got a job for you and PLEASE dont screw it up...." I grabbed Big Mac's arm and brought him down to where I could whisper into his ear. "I need you to wake AJ up in about twenty minutes and have her meet me at Rarity's so I can get ready for our date tonight. And I know how much trouble this could mean for me if she knew I willingly ditched her but just tell her Rarity called in a quick favor or something. Just please do this for me!" He huffed backing off.

"Yeah I'll do it... But you promise me something.... you make my sister the happiest mare I've ever seen and if you dont I swear you're gonna wish you were uh..... Make you wish that I...." He hesitated and huffed. "Damn... Cant be mad at you for making my sister a married woman soon.... Just bring her home and if you need a little liquid courage go for it just... dont drink too much that you ruin the moment. And make sure she doesnt drink so much she embarrasses herself."

"I'll make sure of it Big Mac. I've gotten this prepared for a while.... Screwing up now would mean no other attempts.... Now I gotta go.... Rarity's waiting."

He nodded and let me go. I grabbed my keys and hopped in my car before driving off. My heart was pounding with the beat of the drums that came from my radio. Fast and loud. I tried changing the station but everything else made me more and more nervous about tonight. Songs about screw ups, songs about marriage, divorces and event the occasional whore. Yes it was a rap song for that last one and I HATE rap... At that point i turned my radio off and just drove listening to the roar and rumble of my engine. Saw each turn I made, each sound of crunching gravel in the road when turning. Even turned down the road to where the house once stood. Now it was just an empty lot with a fence around it. No building supplies, no vehicles, not even any sign of 'for sale' for the lot. Bet it made the neighbors feel weird with me gone... Wonder what most of them thought that night.... Enough thoughts about that but soon enough I came right to the front of the carousel boutique. I parked my car in the lot next to it for her clients. Parked right next to her truck. I took a deep breath and got out. One step closer to my perfect night. As I got out I saw Rarity coming from the door to her shop. She was wearing a violet pants suit with frills on the white shirt. She smiled as I approached. "Ryder! So good of you to come!" She said. "And here I thought you were getting cold feet from this!" I said nothing as I pushed past her going inside and started to pace around inside. She closed the door coming back inside her messy shop with my suit on a mannequin and Applejack's red sequin dress on one right next to it. My suit was a nice black suit, striped black tie, red shirt and a gun holster hanging onto it. "Ryder talk to me here! Please dont tell me what i think you're thinking...." I huffed and looked at her.

If you're thinking I'm gonna fuck something up royally then you might be right! I dont think I can do this! Its just... WHAT THE FUCK AM I GOING TO DO UNDER THIS MUCH PRESSURE AT THIS TIME?!" She flinched a bit and I just sighed and sat down on the floor a defeated stallion. "Sorry... It's just... Something about this damn dinner tonight that i do NOT think I can do!" Rarity hummed.

"...Something is wrong then and I should've expected something when I enchanted that holster to hide within the suit.... It's just.... I could swear that...." She shook her head and stamped her foot. "Ryder you tell me what the hell is going on right now!" I sighed.

"...I dont know how much I can say... its kinda.... just..." She huffed.

"I get it. Stress upon stress equals an unstable stallion who thinks he cant handle it. Now I wont make you say it but you're lucky Scootaloo is taking a nap upstairs with Applebloom in my bed and they were tired.... That yelling would've scared them more than you're scaring me with this secret hooey.... But I trust you enough to get this done. You can handle this. You're handling this better than you did when Shining faked his sisters kidnapping. You probably had more stress than this whilst at war am I right?" I thought for a moment. I kinda did...

"....Countless nights of no sleep, fixing guns, making plans and aiding to my squadmates.... One of which who was a changeling in disguise and who I trust with my life... I was shot, I've been poisoned and I've fallen out of a god damn plane, wings on fire and near death when I landed.... I had to chop off my wing and take drug berries that made me fly higher than the fucking mountain I was on and I didnt think I'd even see my baby sister again.... So much to take and I pulled through and this is as much as a challenge as that.... Maybe less... Maybe more.... you never know...." Rarity looked at me with sort of a shocked and disturbed face. I sighed getting up. "What part do you find the weirdest out of that? Finding out my squadmate was a changeling or lopping off my own wing to save my own ass?" She clenched her eyes and shook her head snapping back into reality.

"Well... all of it was weird but.... it's a shock you recalled all that with no hesitancy... Are you.... are you going to be alright in the future?" I gave her a smile and hugged her.

"Yeah... I'll be fine... if anything comes up I'll be sure to talk to you over a glass of what ever the hell you wanna drink even if it's something sweet and nonalcoholic..." As I released her I looked to her. "And between you and me... I've already put a gun to my head once... not again while Scootaloo keeps that safety on...." She looked to me shocked once more.

"When did...." She clenched her eyes and shook her head vigorously messing up her mane. "Nevermind! Right now you need to get your flank into that suit fast! I'll even do your mane free of charge!" I smiled and gave a nod before she had me strip down and get into my suit. She helped me a bit. Made adjustments as we went. Pulled a few pins here and there when I felt them and helped me with my mane after we had gotten my shoes tied. She basically cut it a little bit, spiked it up and slicked it back somewhat and even gave me a little gem lapel pin. A smoky red gem to add a little color. When she was done it just.... I looked amazing. I went from rock and roll headbanger to a gentlecolt in a suit and a look into the future when I'd be in a tux. The holster I had was a harness holster. Went on my torso and where the gun was lied right under my left arm. Rarity stood behind me and sighed when we were done. "There we are.... finished and... I must say you dont look like the stallion who I've known for years... I've always seen you wearing jeans and cut off rocker shirts and even bandana's around your head but... you clean up so well!" I huffed fixing my collar a bit.

"Like taking a fresh wet cloth and running it over Big Mac's truck after he was driving around in the mud after a rainstorm... I gotta say he's taking me wanting to marry his sister very well.... No yelling, no punches thrown.... just some words of encouragement." I looked to Rarity as I stepped away from the mirror. "...I gotta ask... What did you think when I said I was going to marry Applejack?" She took my hand and we walked over to her couch. She sighed as we sat down.

"...When I heard I could swear I was losing it... Things werent the best with me but... I could say I did have some objections at first but now i realize if i had said anything I'd be ruining the lives of two of my greatest friends, one who I'm willing to be there for him and his sister after what they've been through and one who I'd give anything to if it even meant giving up my own bed so she'd have a place to rest." I smiled.

"...Guess I can say the same.... I'd give anything up to make sure Sweetie Belle stays safe for you.... even make sure I'd stay awake the whole night here if it meant stopping someone who threatened you...." Just then the doorbell rang. We both looked to each other and smiled a bit. I sighed. "You wanna answer it? I kinda wanna check on Scootaloo... Make sure she's alright... Doozy of a dream last night with her...." Rarity nodded.

"Go on ahead. Wake her if you must... I'll be glad to keep her over night if needed. Gives time for you and AJ to be alone on this night..." I got up from the couch with her and went for the door to her living area as she went to the door.

As I stepped upstairs I heard the door downstairs open. I heard Rarity greet Applejack and vice versa. I just kept going upstairs until I reached the top. I went to the right. I knew Sweetie Belle's room was on the left right next to the bathroom and Rarity's was across the hall. Two bedroom and one bath. I opened the door to Rarity's room and peeked in only to see Applebloom cuddled up to Scootaloo just so cutely... Both of them had their clothes set aside wearing one of Sweetie Belle's sleeping gowns. Even could see a cloth diaper under Scootaloo's gown. I slowly stepped inside and up to the bed where I knelt down and nudged Scootaloo. She groaned a bit. "...Rarity.... five more minutes...." She mumbled.

I sighed and nudged her again. She jumped a bit and looked over at me rubbing her eyes. "Mornin' there sleepy head..." I said. "...Got a sec to chat sis? I promise you can go back to sleep after this okay?" She sighed sitting up.

"....Alright... what's up?" I huffed sitting on the floor.

"...I just... I'm looking for a few words of encouragement here Scoot... This is a big night for me and I'm extremely nervous it's not gonna go right.... I know it'd be a better idea to call Uncle Red and ask him but... I feel like asking you should do it..." Scootaloo yawned.

"Ryder.... there's nothing to be nervous about... it's just a question and knowing you you've kept a cool head through hot situations... I've seen you think on your feet and get through some rough things... you arent the general of the guard for nothing..." Yeah... right there Scoot. I sighed.

"Yeah... I guess you're right... I'm just paranoid is all... Just gotta take a little breath, splash some water on my face and just get on with it...."

"Yeah... It's all in your head... Just... do what ever you need to do to calm down and focus.... Now let me get back to sleep..." I smiled.

"Alright... I'll text Big Mac in a bit to see if he can bring some bags over for you and Applebloom to stay the night. You gonna be okay with that?" She nodded and lied back down. "Alright... I'll see you later Scoot... I'll even call Rarity to say goodnight alright....?" She just gave me a thumbs up before throwing her arm over her soon to be sister in law. I took my phone out and readied it up for a picture.

"Please dont...." The little filly mumbled. I sighed and just put my phone away before just leaving the room. I was just a little startled by it but what ever. It was cute. As I closed the door behind me I looked downstairs hearing Applejack and Rarity having a laugh. I took my phone back out and started to text Celestia.

'Have some cars come out here to pick me and AJ up. Almost ready here.'

Within moments I got a reply. 'Just sent them out. Once you get here we'll split you off from Applejack for a bit to give you your gun and your ring. And please.... make sure you dont pull the gun out instead of the ring....'

'I promise I wont. Ring on my left, gun on the right, down on my right knee and holding her hand in my left hand while taking the ring out with my right. I practiced with Cadence.... except not the gun part.' I really did practice this with Cadence. Had Rocky disguise herself as Applejack while Gilda did her voice (And she makes it sound almost exactly like her and it's PERFECT) and I had to keep things going for a while. The knee, the ring placement, everything.... Even uh... The after party... Though that was Shining's idea... Rocky sat this one out while Shining and I swapped a bit as we toyed with each others mares. Lucky both Cadence and Gilda take anal... Gilda didnt need another pussy pounding.

Anyways I started down the stairs after putting my phone away and took a breath as I turned into Rarity's work area. Just there I see Applejack in the red dress. It hung off her shoulder a bit and came from her mid thigh to her ankle on the opposite side. Her mane looked a bit messy but... she'd get that fixed. Rarity looked over at me. "I'll just be one more minute here at most Ryder!" She said. I could see Applejack glance over and smile at me. I smiled back. "I'm actually surprised that there were two clients who paid for their clothes yet never came to pick them up! I've gotten so many different orders that arent picked up in time but for the events for some were just pushed back while others were canceled but picked up anyways... I think Ryder's suit was meant for a gala dinner in Manehattan while your dress was meant for a family reunion... I think that one was canceled due to a little fued.... didnt pry too much into it and I did give half their money back for it and they were okay with that... Some might've wanted everything back even after I did all the work I've done but they did give me a little compensation for it..."

Applejack sighed. "Yeah... I know how it feels..." She said. "Damn stallion bought a cider from us one day, said it was tasting funny yet didnt know it was made with some semi fermented apple juice. He wanted his money back and a new damn cider. Big Mac stepped in there and told him he could get his money back but a new drink was too much and we even saw him talking with another stallion about it. 'nother customer came up and told us he was trying to get a free cider for his friend."

I chuckled a bit. "Guard told me last week a stallion tried pulling something like that at a store and he was caught with his pants down and his pockets full of rotten cheese sticks that he 'bought' and now he's banned from the store and spent two weeks in jail." I said. "Cant do much time for conning like that but every shop in Ponyville has his picture."

They laughed at that for a moment. I watched as Applejack got her dress finished and got her mane done- beautiful loose braid done by Rarity I might add- and even a little jeweled hair clip. It was awesome that this was happening. After she was done Rarity chatted with us over a little tea, had a little snack and we got to see Sweetie Belle up and about even though she still wasnt feeling good... Food poisoning if i've ever seen it. Told Rarity to give her some saltines and ginger ale and she should be fine by morning. How I got through the war after eating that tofu bacon. Even try a little soup later in the evening. After maybe about forty five minutes of waiting in her work area a knock came to Rarity's door. "Royal Guard Transport!" We heard a mare call out. I sighed getting up with Applejack's hand in mine.

"Well... Guess it's time to get going..." I looked to Rarity. "Thanks for everything here Rarity... The clothes, the hospitality... Hopefully our sisters arent too much trouble for you tonight."

Rarity smiled as she got up and walked to the door with us. "Nonsense Ryder. They're welcome any time, even if it's on short notice." She said. "I'd hate for something to come up and not being able to have anyone watch them. I know Big Mac is free to watch them after he works but I'm sure he doesnt wanna be put in the spot of a foal sitter."

Applejack and I gave a little laugh. "Yeah he has been getting a bit fed up with AB lately when she's under his watch but hey... family is gonna piss ya off more than anythin' if i've seen it." She said. "AB does anything you dont like just text me and I'll give you some instructions on how to discipline her."

"Will do. Now go. I dont think those guards are gonna wait much longer." Both AJ and I gave a nod before opening up and leaving Rarity's. We were met by the mare pegasus guard walked us to the truck waiting for us. She had a blue coat and silver hair.

I looked to the guard and took my key from my pocket. "Here. Make sure my ride gets back to Sweet Apple Acres safely. We'll follow to pick you back up." I said handing her the keys.

The guard mare smiled. "No need. I got a colt friend out here." She said. "Only hitched a ride down here after I was off the clock but that doesnt stop me from doing my duty here. I'll give him a call once I get there. You just go on ahead General." I smiled.

"Alright have fun. And be careful with my car!" She saluted and took my keys from me before heading off towards my car. I didnt even hesitate to get in with Applejack and sit in a lovely decorated interior. Cherry red seats, hearts hanging from the windows and a bottle of champagne in a bucket of ice with two glasses nearby. "Wow... Luna and Celestia really want us to enjoy this...." Applejack smiled as I grabbed the bottle of champagne. It had a note attached to it. I grabbed it as AJ took the champagne and carefully opened it grabbing one of the glasses.

I looked at the note.

'Dear General Ryder,

I'm hoping this note reaches you well with this complimentary bubbly that Luna picked out for you. Consider this a

special gift for what you've done. Applejack and You will be meeting with the couple who are paying for the dinner.

They'll be told to stick close to you while visiting from Saddle Arabia. They might be a tad nervous but they'll get past it

once this dinner is over. All they've experienced is blatant racism when it comes to being around the public of

Equestria and that was because of the war. They have come to me upon good faith that this is fixed and I have given

them that liberty. If all goes right then we'll meet up and address these racial problems with the Saddle Arabians. For

now just enjoy the ride and try not to drink too much.

Celestia'

I smiled as I took a glass from AJ and sipped on some champagne. "So what'd that note say?" Applejack asked.

"Well.... We're still going on that dinner date but.... this apparently isnt just a nice day away from Ponyville... Apparently we're just meeting with some important Saddle Arabians to keep some problems down with hardship after the war. Hope thats okay with you." She huffed as she swirled her champagne in the glass.

"Too many a day when I see our friends and neighbors being called names and hurt because of where they're from.... Hell I still regret when Zecora came out to get her groceries we were just the meanest sonsa bitches out there.... And I even yelled at her when she had Applebloom who went and showed we were just bein mean...."

"Dash told me you tried to blame her for the poison joke. Did that stuff really shrink you?"

"Eeyup... Made me small, made Rarity's mane all curly and puffed up her coat too, Pinkie got a numb tongue, Dash got crazy wings, Fluttershy got a deep voice and Twilight got a little 'failure to launch' as you like to call it when you're too tired."

"Limp horn?" AJ nodded. "And how deep we talking with Fluttershy?"

"Big Mac deep when he's doing his impression of that game character y'all like so much."

"Twisted Mane? Damn... That is deep..." Twisted Mane is a DLC character in my post apocalyptic Equestria game. He's the one who has the gas mask and the armored sleeveless duster in Equestrian colors depending on which side is chosen during your game. Luna if evil (Not sure why didnt even ask her) and Celestia's for good. Though he does have a faction alignment. But enough about him. I sighed as I kicked back and looked out the window as we started getting out of Ponyville. "...Is it bad to wonder what Poison Joke would do for me?" AJ hummed.

"Well... I guess so but then... I kinda guess not... Maybe we can getcha over to Zecora and have Twilight take notes on your weirdness.... I mean the joke not the .... You know what I meant...."

"Just uh.... anything I should know if i do that?" I sipped my drink. Felt good with the bubbles and the alcohol.

"Well... Nothin' happens right away but over a day to take effect... With me I went to bed that night and when I woke up I was sleepin' naked in my bra... damn things comfortable when you can fit inside a cup.... Had to wear one of Applebloom's doll dresses as clothes.... Even more embarrassing I had to wear part of a napkin as underwear..." I grinned a bit just thinking about that as I looked out towards the countryside. "Dont get any ideas Ry... I aint gonna be your little dolly for you to just cum on... Much as I like your spunk loads I dont wanna feel it movin' on me..."

"Not what I was thinking but now that you said that it sounds kinda gross...." I downed the last third of my drink and huffed setting the glass down. "Now what's say we just turn on a little music and cuddle?" She rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Alright but no funny business... Still feelin' a bit sensitive after our little escapade earlier..." I chuckled as I started toying with a little radio console hidden in a little compartment under part of the seat. Changed it from dead silence to country to a little classic rock, and set it on a station I found that plays a little fifties doo-wop. That was something we agreed on since we hear it all the time in one of my games. Cant remember which one. We did swap stations every two songs just to get a bit of variety and maybe I sang a bit. Both of us had a little singing to each other even if it were just some random song we knew the words to. After a while we just started listening to the classic rock station because nothing else good came on.... Some talk shows even on our favorite stations. Nope. Music over talk. Anyways we drove on the road for about an hour. Nonstop I might add which was pretty awesome. Regular guard transport with a little customization on the inside of it. Felt nice to just be cuddled up to the mare I loved even if we only had one drink.

When arriving at Canterlot castle there was a miltitude of guards. More than Celestia and Luna would have alone. AJ didnt question it but I knew the truth. As we stepped out we were immediately greeted by a guard who saluted. Stallion this time. Unicorn. Red coat, Lighter red mane with black specks in it. "Greetings General. Apologies for this turnout for the guard." He said.

I huffed. "It's fine. Princesses ordered extra protection and wants to be cautious. Something tells me it's a higher alert status huh?" I asked giving a sly wink hoping AJ didnt notice. He smiled a bit.

"Yeah. Just it right there. Someone from the warzone in Steurope threatened an attack in Canterlot and we're on alerts. Nobody knows from where the attack is going to be but we have the castle on watch from every angle."

"Good. So we need not worry then?"

"Yes sir. Now head on inside. Celestia wishes to see you."

I nodded and Applejack and I started up the stairs. Guards stood in attention at either side of us as we walked up to the door, every other one saluting. It was nice being respected like this.... Sure I've had my doubts about being General but... this was one reason i stayed as General after so many years of disrespect and hurtfulness. And honestly at the garage I worked at I may have been the best one there to fix cars but I was an asshole to my coworkers who just loved to take my tools... I hope they look at my car when I drive by and flip em off sometimes. Should pay a visit and show them what I became without them. Anyways as we walked into the castle we were immediately met by Celestia and Luna. AJ and I bowed in respect for them both. "Good afternoon to you two!" Luna said. "I normally wouldnt be up this late in the day but I needed to be here for our guests."

Applejack smiled. "Well we're glad you chose us to extend our hands in friendship to the Saddle Arabians." She said. I slyly gave a wink hoping one of them caught it. "I kinda feel bad for em being treated like that after the war! It werent their fault."

Celestia smiled. "Well we're glad for you to do so." She said. "They said they would even pay for your meal for doing this for them. Didnt even have to front them any bits. We even got a reservation for them at one of the best restaurants in Canterlot." She looked to me. "And yes Ryder they have your hayburgers as well. No need to be picky here." We had ourselves a little laugh. As the laughter died down Celestia sighed. "On that note I actually need to talk to Ryder for a moment about something I have planned later in the months coming. Would you excuse us AJ?" I looked to Applejack and she smiled.

"Go on ahead princess. I needed to speak with Luna about somethin' here." I gave AJ a quick kiss before splitting off with Celestia. Kinda watched as AJ went over to Luna and gave her a hug. Celestia sighed as I looked back to her.

"Ryder... I truly apologize for doing this to you!" I sighed.

"It's fine... And yes I know this probably will get me in trouble but this better be damn good pay...." We stopped at a hall opening.

"It will be and it will be out of my pocket personally. I just.... I just wish there was some other way.... This was such a shock to me I had to think fast for this.... My sister had no clue what to do and we just.... We couldnt call upon Shining nor could we do any other guard! After this is done you can have anything you wish within reason!" I thought for a moment of what I wanted. I had things I was happy to have. A good job, a roof over my head, my baby sister happy to be there with me. I just sighed and looked at her.

"When and if I need it... I'll ask... for now just... get me prepped on tonight.... I trust Shining gave you the ring I'm using to propose?" Celestia smiled and nodded cupping her hands together and using her magic to make the ring appear. Gold band, diamond encrusted and engraved on the inside saying 'I love you'. Cadence paid for it too.

"Of course Ryder... friends in high places if I must say... without us..... I'd say you'd be in a gutter drinking away while your sister is in Dash's care... And that filly probably would be entirely different if things hadnt gone in this direction.... I guess I've gotta say this is just.... And I'm sorry to say this but.... This was probably the best route you could've taken...." I sighed taking the ring and hiding it in my jacket quickly.

"...Yeah... I've seen what it would've been like if things went another way... Ended up with me hanging myself, Scoot being a delinquient and the world being lost to a fucking changeling army... Thank Luna for that one but... I'm fine after seeing that." She hugged me and sighed.

"I know but... if you ever need to talk I'm just a phone call away... if you cant call, text or have someone drive you up here... Door's always open and a bed waits just for you..." I looked up at her as she broke the hug.

"Thank you princess... I just... I wish there was something I could do to thank you for these opportunities you're giving me and just... just being all one of the best friends I could ever have...." I saw her smile a bit.

"You're welcome and... Everything you're doing is enough... I say it time and time again but you're doing great things for me and everything I do is to pay you back for your effort in the guard!" She saluted me smiling brightly. I couldnt help but salute right back. She sighed relaxing. "...Now get Luna and AJ... We gotta go meet your dinner dates." I nodded and went for them.

As I joined I kissed Applejack. Luna couldnt help but give a chuckle. "Well there we are! How was your talk with Celestia?" She asked.

I sighed. "Yeah... Basically talked future events like the Grand Galloping Gala and maybe an up coming concert that she'd pay for with Gems. Something I'd wish to see!" I said. Luna laughed a bit.

"I'm right there with you Ryder! If she does I'll be with you and why not bring Big Mac along to meet the band? He'd enjoy that right?" I nodded.

"Yep. But for now Celestia needed me to get you two. Gotta meet the ponies who we're helping make a connection with." Both Luna and Applejack nodded and followed me back to Celestia.

Celestia and Luna both walked in front of me and AJ as we held hands. My heart was pounding out of my chest with the way i felt with her. Applejack looked to me. "Don't this feel good sugarcube? Helpin' out a foreigner and makin' em feel welcome?" She asked. I nodded.

"Eeyup... I might've fought in their country but when it comes to this I wanna show that these ponies arent the enemy here.... Those radicals that supposedly 'speak for them' are. Why do you think they even got away from their country?"

"True enough... they've got lots of problems there... Sand everywhere, food being hoarded by the rich and the poor live out of huts. Aint gonna assume more than that..."

"Some of that's true... Food and sand... The poor? Where I was stationed I just saw hoards of beggars and some kids running around asking for money... Even gave up a few bits for a loaf of bread for a family who were just living out of an alley way... Father of two, mother dead and the kids scrawnier than anything..."

"Good on you there sugarcube... Hopefully someone'll do something there...." I glanced over at AJ.

"...Can I ask something...?" She glanced back at me.

"If it's time to mess around in the bathroom, no... But still ask away...."

"Well... Okay.... Wasnt gonna ask to do that but.... What were you talking about with Luna?" She sighed as we turned down a side hall.

"Well... Kinda had to do with my parents... Something in me is just kinda... hurting with them not seeing us.... Mac cried the other night when you werent home, 'Bloom cuddled up to me in bed and me? I just.... I just stared at my hat and wondered if my life would be goin' the way it is with them here..."

"And you asked Luna if she could show you what if your parents were here still and not.... yknow..."

"Yeah... Told me my life is the way it is and cant be changed once seen...."

"Same as me with my questionable dreams.... What if my parents were alive? What if dad died when my mom didnt? What about the opposite? What if I caught Berrie before she even came to my parents place?" She looked to me stopping in our tracks and holding me back.

"That last one I can say aint good for you! I asked Luna that while you were away after the earthquake and she showed me somethin' I dont ever wanna see again!" I looked to Celestia and Luna as they kept walking before looking back to AJ looking all serious.

"....What did..." I stopped myself. She sighed looking away.

"....Showed me leaving the house with Scoot but.... You uh...." I hugged her. I knew what she was going to say. She was gonna say I was shot instead of my parents. Still hope that bitch Berrie would've killed herself after since she 'loved' me so much....

"...I'm... I'm sorry I asked...." She pushed me off and took my hand.

"It's fine... Let's just go... cant keep em waiting... hopefully we can get a drink to forget we ever said anything...."

I nodded and just walked with AJ in silence. My wings were kinda twitching scared. Enough for me to feel but not enough for AJ to notice. As we caught up with the princesses we stopped just before the door to a meeting room. Luna looked to us as Celestia snuck inside. "Alright. Celestia will inform the two ponies of your arrival." She said. "For now do either of you have questions? I did notice you two stop but never let Celestia onto it."

Applejack sighed. "Princess... I just... I got a question for ya...." She said. "It's somethin' personal but... it's got to do with my parents... It aint to see em but... it's just.... I wanna know how things would be if they made it through what they didnt...." I rested my hand on her shoulder. She hung her head a bit. Luna smiled a bit.

"Well... I'll gladly show you but... Know I cant change things to what you want them to be... if need be I'll bring Ryder along in a dreamscape for you to hold if you need to cry or something... But... Might I ask that you come to me if you are ever feeling saddened by these things....? I just.... I feel as if something like that might push you to drastic things...." AJ sighed.

"I promise.... I had those thoughts before and my sugarcube pulled me out of it, cut up all my rope and I dont think I'll be having those thoughts again... but if i do... I'll come straight to ya no questions asked.... If I need to I'll say somethin' during my thing.... For now lets just get on with this.... Dont wanna think about mama n daddy no more than I gotta..." Luna brought her over and hugged AJ.

"It's going to be alright Applejack.... We're here for you...." Luna looked to me. "Ryder why dont you go in and meet everypony.... I need to make sure she'll be okay... I'll send her in once I'm finished okay?" I nodded and came over just to give AJ a quick kiss on the cheek. I saw a tear in her eye before going over to the door hesitantly and knocked.

The door opened slightly and I dipped in only to see Princess Celestia greeting me and two ponies behind her sitting at a table. One mare and one stallion. The mare was a pegasus pony. Long dark grey mane, light grey coat and her wings tapered off into jet black at the end. She wore a nice burgundy dress with golden inlays here and there. The stallion was an earth pony. Short sandy brown mane, regular brown coat and he wore a black tux with a red bow tie. "Ah! There you are Ryder!" Celestia said. "Is Applejack still talking with Luna?"

I nodded. "Yeah... she started talking family with Luna...." I said. I looked around her at the two ponies who just didnt meet my gaze for some reason. "So... Who do we have here?" Celestia looked back smiling.

"Terribly sorry where are my manners? Ryder this is Senator Dustland Winds and his wife Ebony Sands." I smiled and approached them giving a salute.

"Nice to meet you Senator Winds, Mrs. Sands. I am General Ryder of the Equestrian Royal Guard. It'll be an honor to be by your sides today!"

The Senator stood up and smiled at me putting his hand out. "Ah General... Celestia was telling us about you this morning... Glad you decided to protect me and my wife." He said. His thick Saddle Arabian accent almost drowning itself out. "We almost thought we had to go without a dinner in Equestria and still living in fear for when.... and if... we ended up going home...." He looked to his wife. "The uh.... ponies after us are the radicals you fought and well... I've heard one threaten me through a tape recorder they had dropped by with a courier.... They had no clue they were traitors to my country and that courier gave it to a guard, said to deliver it to me after inspection... Came up clean but.. the message was so bad I had it destroyed.... Sorry..."

"It's fine. I have a feeling what it said but dont worry. You and your wife are going to be safe tonight but uh.... I do have a favor to ask of you..."

"What is it that you need friend?" I took a deep breath and sighed looking back at the door.

"First off... Please dont say you're foreign diplomats. My marefriend thinks we're taking out a couple of foreign ponies who were wronged badly by some ponies who have terrible thoughts about the war that was just had. Another thing is.... I'm planning on making tonight special but with things going this way I feel like I might need a little encouragement to go through with it.... Maybe a little word of advice or something...." Senator Dustland smiled.

"Well what i did when I proposed to my beautiful wife I was very nervous. Shaking, sweating but one thing I knew always calmed me was one of my favorite songs. It is very old song yes but it was a peaceful one. If feeling nervous, take a deep breath, strike up what ever band plays in your head and sing a song you know!" I thought about it for a moment. It sounded like something I could do. I love music, I love my games. Could do some video game music or just something from my bands. I looked to the senator.

"Well Senator... Guess you've got something that might help." He smiled.

"Call me Dusty General. You're a good stallion. A friend I can count on since you helped restore power to my country."

Princess Celestia came over and pushed us apart for a moment. "Sorry to interrupt but I think my sister is done talking with Ryder's marefriend." She said. "Stay calm, dont let on that you're important." She looked to me. "If I dont get a chance to say it later, congrats, drinks are on me!"

I nodded and looked to the door just as it opened. In came Luna and Applejack, AJ looking a bit happier after that episode. "I hope we arent too late for anything here!" Luna said. "Applejack I'd like you to meet Dustland Winds and Ebony Sands. They've been through a rough patch since they moved to Equestria a month ago. Ponies keep using slurs around them and they have even gotten threatened by a pegasus pony who we are still trying to find. Right now we're sending you on a mission of peace to a restaurant here in Canterlot. We've given bits to pay for said meal to Dustland and his wife but if needed meals shall be free upon our word."

I gave a smile to Luna. "I'm sure it wont have to come to that but we'll make sure to tell you if it does." I said. "For now why dont we freshen up, fix our makeup if we need to and use the bathroom before we head out. No clue how long we're gonna have to wait for this restaurant."

Celestia smiled as well. "Splendid ideas general." She said. "Miss Sands? Applejack? Why dont you come with me so we can get your make up done. Luna can take Ryder and Dustland to deal with what ever they need to do." I gotta admit it was almost like Celestia was treating us like children but... I didnt complain. Neither did anyone else. I gave AJ a quick kiss and watched her and Ebony Sands walk out the door tailing Celestia. As the door closed I looked to Luna.

"So... Gonna help me prepare for this dinner? Wasnt exactly given my accessories with this suit!"

Luna chuckled a bit. "Fear not Ryder I've got just what you need." She said, her horn glowing a bit. A flash in the air happened and there floating in her magic was a gun. I recognized this gun. One of my favorites to use in my post apocalyptic games. Clip fed, fire paint scheme, semi auto and a custom leather and steel grip. Almost looked like a box that was too small to hold a revolver with the way the barrel was but it was the housing for the mechanisms. Del Fuego is what it's called in game and I swear to you this life is becoming a game with the shit going on in it. When I took the gun and checked the clip. Fully loaded, nothing in the chamber. "Custom made by the best gunsmiths in Equestria and I tested it out myself the other day... was planning on giving it to you as a birthday present but seems this is going to be a better time. You'll be provided with more ammunition after you empty the clip. Make it seem like your character is just pulling the clip out of his ass and getting it into the gun. Still you have about four to five clips and it only replenishes every twenty four hours." I opened up my jacket and slipped the gun into the holster. Fit perfectly and disappeared better.

"So technically unlimited ammo in a sense... Nice... And it doesnt stack up does it?" Luna shook her head.

"Tested it the day after the first test and yesterday. Still five clips." I nodded.

"Understood. Now for the men to prepare for the dinner?"

"To the restrooms and then to the transport?"

"Aaaand to get my badge? Cant do anything without that now can I?"

"Right right! That's not going to be good if a stallion gets into a shoot out and nopony knows youre in the guard someone is going to suspect you of assassination attempts on a foreign diplomat..." She turned to the door and walked out with us in tow. "Sure we might have guards there undercover but they're gonna feign ignorance about you even being a guard since they're trained that way. Someone could even put a number on your head demanding justice." It's understood there. Shining said after I got back from the war that ponies would try to make me look like the bad guy but they're not gonna go far with that. Only time I do put on a persona of a bad guy is in my games where karma makes the pony. Heh.... Still cant get over the shit i've done in my post apocalyptic game... Should I be worried if nuking Ikkebuckero brings me joy?

ANYWAYS getting off topic we did stop at the restroom, i got my badge and we met up with AJ outside at a transport vehicle. Celestia stood outside with her, the door opened behind her. I could see Ebony Sands sitting inside. I even watched as Dusty climbed in to be with his wife. Luna turned in to tell them something while Celestia came over to us. "Alright you two.... I wanna say thank you for doing this for us...." She said. "You're doing Equestria a big favor by showing them some kindness. After this is done gifts shall be in order. Ryder shall get what ever he wishes even if it is for him or someone he knows and the same goes for you Applejack. What ever you wish, for who ever you wish. Limits are there though."

I smiled a bit. "Thank ya kindly Princess..." AJ said. "...I just... I'd say I'd do this for free but... maybe I might take ya up on the offer.... Dunno fer what yet but.... I'll letcha know."

I sighed. "Same here Princess...." I said. "I'll say what I want but... Later... Maybe for Scootaloo more than me..." Celestia smiled at us.

"It's fine. Take as long as you need. For now get in that transport. I've put in a reservation for you four so you dont have to wait in line." Applejack nodded and went for the truck. I stayed behind, staring at Celestia. She sighed as AJ climbed into the truck. "Good luck General... I'll be waiting for your arrival... I have a room set up for you and AJ for when you get back.... If you get back...."

"Princess.... I've gone through a lot of shit worse than this.... More personal than I'd like but... hey... I'm still here arent I?" Celestia smiled.

"Yeah... I guess you are.... I just.... I really do wanna thank you for everything.... even if it meant screwing up your perfect night.... What ever you need it's done... I wont even go beyond.... doing things with you.... I'm just that grateful...." I blushed knowing what she meant. Give unto me what AJ gives the best of and I'm not talking about her cider. I smiled.

"...I'll... be sure to let you know what I want.... Just... Let me keep my mind on my mission alright?" She blushed a bit.

"Right right... Get going now... More time we waste, more time Senator Dustland gets impatient...." I gave a nod and saluted Celestia. Celestia smiled and saluted back before I broke away and headed for the transport. I glanced at Luna who just had a little sparkle in her eye as she watched me join Applejack on the seat inside. She closed the door behind us. I just couldnt help but turn up a little music as everyone talked amongst themselves. AJ about the farm, Dusty about his 'encounters' and Ebony making things up as they went along.

I stared out the window most of the drive. Listened to classic rock stations but nothing good came on. Only one song I knew and that's because Scoot played it too much on Bass Villain.... She'd be able to out play me on that game.... True shit. When we were getting close Applejack nudged me. "C'mon wake up sugarcube!" She said, snapping me out of my trance. "Y'alright there Ry? Spacing out again?" I nodded. "Well what ever's on your mind just keep it off your mind until we get done with dinner. I'm gonna question you about that later though so dont play dumb when I ask ya!"

I huffed. "Alright... Just feel free to smack me if I space out again." I said. "Just.... Scoot kinda made me worry when she woke us up last night.... Another nightmare about mom and dad n such... Had to call Luna to even help me calm her down..."

"....Hope she's okay.... Girl' saw something she shouldnt've... it's gonna stick with her for a while unless it's dealt with... Maybe ask Luna later to see what she can do while still keeping your sister the same.... Just lucky she aint me with my daddy...." I hugged Applejack.

"C'mon... she'll be okay... you'll be okay... wont you?" She smiled looking to me.

"....Yeah... I'll be fine... I've learned my lesson from last time...." She glanced out the window. "Guess we're getting to the restaurant.... Why dontcha just get ready to get out and we stop talkin' about personal stuff hm?" I nodded. I grew more nervous as the truck came to a stop. I could hear the guard driving get out and rush around the side. I could see the restaurant we were going to. Fancy place yet with a touch of cheap family places. Though this one had a bit of a dress code to follow. How could you tell besides the fancy wears we have on? Because there was someone bitching about this place to his boyfriend or husband. One was wearing a suit while the other wore a dress shirt, tie and jeans.... Seemed fine to me but I guess not for this place.... Hopefully I can eat my hayburger like I normally do... I got out first with AJ behind me. Then came Dusty and his wife. Couldnt help but look at all the ponies standing around because of the wait time.... Four, five and groups of ten (or so I thought).

I grabbed AJ's hand and we started walking with Dusty and Ebony behind us. We walked past groups and couples alike, some talking with each other asking who we even were. Wanted to flash my badge but I didnt wanna reveal anything. As we entered a doorman opened the door for us and we walked right up to a podium with a unicorn mare in a red dress. She smiled. "Party of four?" She asked. Lovely flowing Steuropean accent.

I nodded. "Yes. I think the princess put in for a reservation for us?" I said. "Not sure if she put it under Celestia or Ryder."

"Ah yes. Royalty seating. She requested drinks be free for you but food is paid by your party. Are we clear about that?" Everyone nodded. She grabbed a few menu's from a holder on the podium. "Alright. Follow me. Celestia must really like one of you to let her give you access to her personal seating." I gave a chuckle.

"Yeah... Princess asked for a few favors and I had to do my duty...." She glanced back at us.

"Guard eh? Well thank you for your service!" I smiled a bit as she took us through a crowd of ponies enjoying their meals. I looked around saw a few suits looking guard-esk. Somewhat of a royal look to it but nothing to give it away... Though they were similar in style to each other. The mare took us to a roped off section in the corner. Four seats, a bucket of ice with a champagne and wine bottle in it. She pulled the ropes aside and allowed us in giving each of us a menu as we passed her to our seats. "Your server will be with you momentarily. While you wait you have a nice Brut Champagne and a Chardonnay wine bottle in the ice bucket. Cork remover is right on the side of the bucket." I nodded to her as she roped us off. Might have been a corner table but I sat against the wall with Dusty next to me also looking out towards everypony. Applejack and Ebony sat on the other side of us looking in at us.

Applejack sighed looking at the menu. "Aint everyday we get to eat at some fancy place like this...." She said. "Shoot... Best I've had was a pizza from the local pasta bar in Ponyville..."

I took a deep breath looking at my menu. "Eeyup... I just... cant decide what to eat... Got... Some habanero hayburger sliders... Those look good..." I said... nervously. Applejack looked to me.

"Somethin' wrong sugarcube?" I hesitantly nodded.

"Yeah... just... I see a few ponies looking at us.... Feel like they're just judging us for being in this section...." She glanced behind us.

"Ah hell to them sugarcube. Once they help the Princess like you and I did they'd be sittin' here with the princess herself possibly." She looked to me. "Well maybe one of these days y'can get Celestia to take you here for a drink or two for your birthday."

Dusty grabbed my arm and stood me up. "Speaking of drinks excuse us... Need to use the restroom but uh... kinda not feeling safe walking through here without someone with me..." He said going for the rope. He lifted it and nudged me through with both mares sitting aside and saying nothing. Guess because AJ understood the lie. But I was questioning this. Why was Dusty taking me away from the table? I could only follow as closely as I could as he dragged me along through ponies glaring at us, some questioning us, most not even paying attention to us.

Though we were heading to the bathroom. It was just beside an open bar where you had ponies enjoying a few drinks. Some looking like they had too much and at the point where I should intervene but hopefully the bartender cut em off. As we entered the bathroom I shook the senator off of me and looked to him. "What the hell was that? Why did you drag me here?" I asked. "If you needed to take a piss so bad why didnt you go by yourself?"

"Apologies General but... I didnt want to freak the ladies out... I.. I saw one of them..." I looked at him confused.

"Who? Who did you see?"

"One of the assassins who are after me! He's after me! He and his men are! I saw the leader and where ever his men are they're going to kill us!"

Before we could even leave two stallions came from different ends of the restroom. One from the stalls and the other came in from the door. Both earth ponies, one blue coat and dark blue mane, other brown coat and darker brown mane, both in black suits and black tie like they were going to a funeral. Ours. The one at the door pulled a gun. "Damn right we're gonna kill you...." The stallion from the stalls said.

I got my back against the senator as the stallions started closing in on us. "Hope you're good hand to hand..." I whispered. The senator looked at me scared before I rushed the stallion with the gun knocking it away from us. It fired off against the wall making screams come from outside. I managed to wrestle the gun away from him and hit him point blank in the chest with a few rounds. Something I didnt wanna do. The other guy was fighting with the senator. I turned around and rushed them both getting the assassin off of him and curb stomping him, knocking him out. I helped the senator up shoving the gun into his chest. "Here. Should have a few rounds left but dont go firing it off willy nilly! Get in one of those stalls, lock it and try not to shit yourself!" He nodded as I pulled my own gun. Even knelt down and felt the knocked out guy up for weapons. Knife in his suit jacket. Sharp and serrated. Took it, slid it into the stall where the senator went. "Here. Just in case you run out of bullets like an idiot... Sorry sir..."

I could hear him cough a bit through his heavy breathing. "...It-It's fine... Just... go make sure my wife is okay!" He said. And gunshots from outside... great. "NOW!" I didnt even give him an answer as I opened the door and peered out. Few stallions were sitting behind barricades with pistols. They werent even wearing the guard suits so I knew I could fire at them. Nailed one of them in the head and missed the others but that's when I was being shot at. Bullets whizzed by me hitting the wall. My heart was racing. Not only because this was happening but because i didnt know if Applejack was safe. As I heard more gunfire coming from the other side of the restaurant I rushed out and dove behind the bar. Bar tender was hiding behind there clutching a bottle of whiskey. She was a pegasus mare. White coat, white mane that tapered off to a grey and black the longer it went. Had it in a bun. Wore a white button up with a black vest and bow tie. I dug into my pocket and flashed my badge when she looked to me and I motioned to her to keep her head down. Only popped my head up to see where the bad guys were. More focused on the other guards. I popped up and fired a few times. Missed but ended up legging a guy quite literally before going back down. Some gunfire broke a few bottles above me showering broken glass and booze on to me. Expensive stuff. Poked my head up once more and the last guy couldnt tell where to look. Couldnt tell if he wanted to look at me or look at the other guards. Three of them moved up out of the four that I saw earlier. I jumped the bar and aimed my gun at them. "LEMME SEE YOUR FUCKING HANDS RIGHT NOW!" I startled the one on the floor and he gave up right away. The other one was clutching his wound. "BOTH OF YOU NOW! HANDS WHERE I CAN SEE EM!" The guards at my side moved in guns drawn. I looked to the one closest to me. Stallion. Similar suit to mine, lime green mane, minty green coat. "Two in the bathroom, one dead, other unconscious but be careful! Saddle Arabian Senator inside! He's armed and scared! Dont hurt him but let him know you're there!" I hurried back to the table where we sat frantic. Table was knocked over, bullet holes were everywhere. Champagne bottle in the bucket was gone, wine was broken all over the wall. Looked behind the table and no AJ or Ebony anywhere. That's when I ran outside. Crowds of ponies were across the street hiding behind cars. I looked everywhere on the street for Applejack.

I looked everywhere and just sat down against a planter just as guard trucks came around. Sirens blaring. I felt light headed not knowing where AJ was.... She could've been hurt.... I was freaking out but... not as bad as that night... I keep going back to it but.... this just flashed me back to it. I killed again. Yes to save someone but... was it worth ruining a perfect night of my life? I hung my head as tears came to my eyes. Didnt really break down. Held it back as much as I could before someone came and picked me up hugging me. It was Applejack. She was crying. "...S-sugarcube... You're okay!" She said through her tears. Her makeup was running down her face. I sniffled a bit hugging her back.

"...I-Is Ebony Sands alright?"

"Sh-she's fine..." She looked at me. "...Got out as soon as we heard those shots.... god i just... I thought you were dead... Just saw you go in with Dusty and a stallion just follow you in... Then the shot.... Just...." I shushed her.

"...Dont worry... it's over... it's okay.... I'm alive..." I got up with her carefully and sat her in a nearby bench. "...AJ... I'm gonna be straight with you... this wasnt a mission of good faith... it was... it was a bodyguard mission... I was pretty much forced for this by the princess.... I just.... I'm sorry I-" She got up and slapped me.

"WHAT THE HELL RY YOU DID THIS AND BROUGHT ME ALONG?! I COULDA GOTTEN MYSELF KILLED IN THE CROSSHAIRS!" I grabbed her and held her tight. She fought to get away from me but I had her gripped. Waved a guard over with my wings. He rushed over and when he was a good distance away from me I pushed AJ over into his arms. As she stumbled it got me enough time to get into position to propose. She struggled to keep herself stood up as the guard struggled with her in his arms. She gained her balance just as I pulled out the ring and looked to the guard. "LET GO OF ME! DONT TOUCH ME I JUST-" She turned around and froze. Wasnt the way I wanted to do this but... I planned on this tonight... I didnt wanna let this go to waste.

"AJ... I'm sorry this night didnt go the way you wanted... the way WE wanted... but... I just... I've been wanting to ask you this for a long time.... I... Will you marry me?" I could see her mind just breaking. She didnt know what to say, staggering over her words. She stopped trying to speak and nodded with the biggest smile on her face. I couldnt help but get up and rush her hugging her tight. The guard gave me a thumbs up. I just smiled and nodded to the door of the restaurant. He rushed in. I was so happy the rest was almost a blank. Dusty and his wife were reunited, we got fast food after that screwy night and went back to the castle. Celestia was so happy for us she gave us a lovers suite she had all set up for if Shining and Cadence visited.

Heart bed, mirrors on the ceiling, normal canterlot room furnishings. There was a desk in there even with a computer. Hooked up my video chat account with it and called up Twilight with Applejack sitting in my lap. It buzzed for a moment before having Twilight's face pop up on the computer. She sighed. "Thank goodness you two are alright!" She said. "I heard what happened."

I sighed. "Yeah... scared the living daylights out of us both... me more because I had a gun in my face..." I said. "Didnt stop me from putting this on her finger!" Applejack flashed her hand on the camera. Twilight's face lit up.

"Yay! Congrats AJ! General!" She looked off camera. "Girls! He did it! He proposed!" We heard cheers from everypony else there.

Rarity came into view with Pinkie both just bumping Twilight out of the way. "Darling I hope that dress didnt get ruined there!" The white unicorn said.

AJ shook her head. "Might be a bit dirty from my make up but... Well worth it for this night..." She said.

Pinkie blew a party favor at the camera. I flinched a bit. Never liked those things. "CONGRATS! I'M GONNA THROW THE BIGGEST PARTY EVER!" She said. "CAKE, GIFTS, PARTY FAVORS AND EVERYTHING!" I laughed a bit with AJ.

"You always do no matter what... Job thing, birthday or even a weddin'..."

I saw Dash fly by and push them out of the way with her wings flapping at them. She landed with Fluttershy on the side of her. "Ry you might be a dork sometimes but you bagged yourself one hell of a mare!" She said.

Fluttershy smiled. "Big Mac's gonna cry over this! He's gonna be so happy!" She said.

I huffed. "Yeah... Just tell him but leave the part about the dangerous stuff that happened... Less chance of getting my ass beat when I get home..." I said. "But for now... why dont you girls just have a drink to celebrate and let us get on our way... gotta rest from all the adrenaline crashing..."

Twilight made a little magic bubble burst Flutters and Dash out of the way. She smiled nervously. "Sorry there... Girls were a bit over excited.... Think someone even went a little...." She said. She blushed. "But... You two have fun! Dont let us stop you!"

And we didnt. We didnt do anything big. Just teased each other and slept next to each other. Hell of a night, hell of a few months and just hell of a time.