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.