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...