As I slept after that AMAZING sex I dreamt I was driving down the road in my car. I was driving on an empty stretch of highway. Had one of my favorite songs by Tumbling Rocks playing on the radio.... It was just a relaxing drive alone but... something didnt feel right. As I pulled off the highway I stopped at a red light. Still open road ahead of me and not even a cross road. My radio started glitching out as it changed stations. "Make.... It... or.... Break it...." It said in multiple different voices as it changed stations rapidly. "Start... it... up.... and... break... it.... DOWN!" And next thing you know something just hits my car and I go flying and rolling to the beat of... something... I couldnt make it out until my car ended up hitting a pillar and me waking up on the floor, head hurting and me still butt naked with my phone ringing. Had to change a few ring tones and I turned this one to a dubstep song that has a major bass drop.

I groaned a bit and got up onto the bed seeing Applejack half clothed and still asleep. She was wearing her red panties again and a white tank top. Mane was a mess but she looked beautiful still. I grabbed my phone and saw it was Rarity. I sighed and answered it. "...What do you want Rarity? I was asleep!" I snapped whispering.

I heard her huff. "Well sorry for ruining nap time Ryder!" She snapped right back. "Celestia gave me explicit instrutctions that I followed to the T that I get your suit ready for tonight and have it done by four! It's almost five! YOU'RE LATE!" I huffed.

"Well if she would've told me that I needed to be at your place I wouldnt have been fucking AJ's brains out and unloading in her." I heard her gag a bit.

"....I'll give you the benefit of the doubt but please.... be less descriptive... or not say anything at all about my soon-to-be-married friend getting plowed into next week... I cant stomach anything today since Sweetie had a bit of an accident last night..... Never feed Scootaloo bad cereal she insists is still good.... You're just lucky Sweetie Belle just has something from eating something bad and not a stomach bug... I would hate for Applebloom and Scootaloo to catch it." I sighed getting up from the bed.

"Yeah... I'll be right there.... gonna leave a note and let AJ sleep a little bit more... Maybe see if Big Mac's home and if he can wake her in a bit and meet me at your place... I wanna make sure I look good for tonight. And yes... bits are in store if you'll style my mane...." She hummed.

"Since this is a special night.... I guess i can waive the payment and have you model something for one of my clients.... it's a bit.... unorthodox for you but this client specifically wants it made to his specifications- and yes i did say that right. He is just about your body type, stature and all give or take in the... area.. I wont say what but... just meet me in a few days and I promise it'll be in and out with the modeling okay?" I sighed.

"Alright..... That's fine.... What ever it is I'm modeling i'll do it as long as nothing humiliating goes on.... I dont want a remake of last time...." Yeah... had me model something that didnt leave much to the imagination and Pinkie and Dash ended up coming up behind me throwing money on me while Applejack came out from somewhere filming it like i was some sort of stripper.... Dash did feel kinda awkward but I got forty bits out of it. Rarity huffed.

"Fine fine only you and me and the client! I'll just let you know he's important in my line of work and can make those who do a good job known to all of fashion and even the models! He could even create a suit better than I can."

"Rarity I'm coming over soon. Just have stuff ready!"

"Alright see you soon and... do be careful tonight..... I'm not sure what the spell Celestia sent me does but she had me cast it on your suit and Applejack's dress and... it has me worried...."

"Look everything's fine. Just let me get over there!"

Without another word she hung up leaving me to hop into what ever clothes I saw fit. My boxers, a white teeshirt and basketball shorts. Grabbed my sneakers too and just snuck out of the room. As I left the room I saw Big Mac coming up the stairs. He huffed. "...Knew you guys were up to something earlier when you hung up on me...." He said. "Glad I gotcha cleaned up when AJ passed out?" I huffed blushing.

"Yeah thanks what ever but... right now I got a job for you and PLEASE dont screw it up...." I grabbed Big Mac's arm and brought him down to where I could whisper into his ear. "I need you to wake AJ up in about twenty minutes and have her meet me at Rarity's so I can get ready for our date tonight. And I know how much trouble this could mean for me if she knew I willingly ditched her but just tell her Rarity called in a quick favor or something. Just please do this for me!" He huffed backing off.

"Yeah I'll do it... But you promise me something.... you make my sister the happiest mare I've ever seen and if you dont I swear you're gonna wish you were uh..... Make you wish that I...." He hesitated and huffed. "Damn... Cant be mad at you for making my sister a married woman soon.... Just bring her home and if you need a little liquid courage go for it just... dont drink too much that you ruin the moment. And make sure she doesnt drink so much she embarrasses herself."

"I'll make sure of it Big Mac. I've gotten this prepared for a while.... Screwing up now would mean no other attempts.... Now I gotta go.... Rarity's waiting."

He nodded and let me go. I grabbed my keys and hopped in my car before driving off. My heart was pounding with the beat of the drums that came from my radio. Fast and loud. I tried changing the station but everything else made me more and more nervous about tonight. Songs about screw ups, songs about marriage, divorces and event the occasional whore. Yes it was a rap song for that last one and I HATE rap... At that point i turned my radio off and just drove listening to the roar and rumble of my engine. Saw each turn I made, each sound of crunching gravel in the road when turning. Even turned down the road to where the house once stood. Now it was just an empty lot with a fence around it. No building supplies, no vehicles, not even any sign of 'for sale' for the lot. Bet it made the neighbors feel weird with me gone... Wonder what most of them thought that night.... Enough thoughts about that but soon enough I came right to the front of the carousel boutique. I parked my car in the lot next to it for her clients. Parked right next to her truck. I took a deep breath and got out. One step closer to my perfect night. As I got out I saw Rarity coming from the door to her shop. She was wearing a violet pants suit with frills on the white shirt. She smiled as I approached. "Ryder! So good of you to come!" She said. "And here I thought you were getting cold feet from this!" I said nothing as I pushed past her going inside and started to pace around inside. She closed the door coming back inside her messy shop with my suit on a mannequin and Applejack's red sequin dress on one right next to it. My suit was a nice black suit, striped black tie, red shirt and a gun holster hanging onto it. "Ryder talk to me here! Please dont tell me what i think you're thinking...." I huffed and looked at her.

If you're thinking I'm gonna fuck something up royally then you might be right! I dont think I can do this! Its just... WHAT THE FUCK AM I GOING TO DO UNDER THIS MUCH PRESSURE AT THIS TIME?!" She flinched a bit and I just sighed and sat down on the floor a defeated stallion. "Sorry... It's just... Something about this damn dinner tonight that i do NOT think I can do!" Rarity hummed.

"...Something is wrong then and I should've expected something when I enchanted that holster to hide within the suit.... It's just.... I could swear that...." She shook her head and stamped her foot. "Ryder you tell me what the hell is going on right now!" I sighed.

"...I dont know how much I can say... its kinda.... just..." She huffed.

"I get it. Stress upon stress equals an unstable stallion who thinks he cant handle it. Now I wont make you say it but you're lucky Scootaloo is taking a nap upstairs with Applebloom in my bed and they were tired.... That yelling would've scared them more than you're scaring me with this secret hooey.... But I trust you enough to get this done. You can handle this. You're handling this better than you did when Shining faked his sisters kidnapping. You probably had more stress than this whilst at war am I right?" I thought for a moment. I kinda did...

"....Countless nights of no sleep, fixing guns, making plans and aiding to my squadmates.... One of which who was a changeling in disguise and who I trust with my life... I was shot, I've been poisoned and I've fallen out of a god damn plane, wings on fire and near death when I landed.... I had to chop off my wing and take drug berries that made me fly higher than the fucking mountain I was on and I didnt think I'd even see my baby sister again.... So much to take and I pulled through and this is as much as a challenge as that.... Maybe less... Maybe more.... you never know...." Rarity looked at me with sort of a shocked and disturbed face. I sighed getting up. "What part do you find the weirdest out of that? Finding out my squadmate was a changeling or lopping off my own wing to save my own ass?" She clenched her eyes and shook her head snapping back into reality.

"Well... all of it was weird but.... it's a shock you recalled all that with no hesitancy... Are you.... are you going to be alright in the future?" I gave her a smile and hugged her.

"Yeah... I'll be fine... if anything comes up I'll be sure to talk to you over a glass of what ever the hell you wanna drink even if it's something sweet and nonalcoholic..." As I released her I looked to her. "And between you and me... I've already put a gun to my head once... not again while Scootaloo keeps that safety on...." She looked to me shocked once more.

"When did...." She clenched her eyes and shook her head vigorously messing up her mane. "Nevermind! Right now you need to get your flank into that suit fast! I'll even do your mane free of charge!" I smiled and gave a nod before she had me strip down and get into my suit. She helped me a bit. Made adjustments as we went. Pulled a few pins here and there when I felt them and helped me with my mane after we had gotten my shoes tied. She basically cut it a little bit, spiked it up and slicked it back somewhat and even gave me a little gem lapel pin. A smoky red gem to add a little color. When she was done it just.... I looked amazing. I went from rock and roll headbanger to a gentlecolt in a suit and a look into the future when I'd be in a tux. The holster I had was a harness holster. Went on my torso and where the gun was lied right under my left arm. Rarity stood behind me and sighed when we were done. "There we are.... finished and... I must say you dont look like the stallion who I've known for years... I've always seen you wearing jeans and cut off rocker shirts and even bandana's around your head but... you clean up so well!" I huffed fixing my collar a bit.

"Like taking a fresh wet cloth and running it over Big Mac's truck after he was driving around in the mud after a rainstorm... I gotta say he's taking me wanting to marry his sister very well.... No yelling, no punches thrown.... just some words of encouragement." I looked to Rarity as I stepped away from the mirror. "...I gotta ask... What did you think when I said I was going to marry Applejack?" She took my hand and we walked over to her couch. She sighed as we sat down.

"...When I heard I could swear I was losing it... Things werent the best with me but... I could say I did have some objections at first but now i realize if i had said anything I'd be ruining the lives of two of my greatest friends, one who I'm willing to be there for him and his sister after what they've been through and one who I'd give anything to if it even meant giving up my own bed so she'd have a place to rest." I smiled.

"...Guess I can say the same.... I'd give anything up to make sure Sweetie Belle stays safe for you.... even make sure I'd stay awake the whole night here if it meant stopping someone who threatened you...." Just then the doorbell rang. We both looked to each other and smiled a bit. I sighed. "You wanna answer it? I kinda wanna check on Scootaloo... Make sure she's alright... Doozy of a dream last night with her...." Rarity nodded.

"Go on ahead. Wake her if you must... I'll be glad to keep her over night if needed. Gives time for you and AJ to be alone on this night..." I got up from the couch with her and went for the door to her living area as she went to the door.

As I stepped upstairs I heard the door downstairs open. I heard Rarity greet Applejack and vice versa. I just kept going upstairs until I reached the top. I went to the right. I knew Sweetie Belle's room was on the left right next to the bathroom and Rarity's was across the hall. Two bedroom and one bath. I opened the door to Rarity's room and peeked in only to see Applebloom cuddled up to Scootaloo just so cutely... Both of them had their clothes set aside wearing one of Sweetie Belle's sleeping gowns. Even could see a cloth diaper under Scootaloo's gown. I slowly stepped inside and up to the bed where I knelt down and nudged Scootaloo. She groaned a bit. "...Rarity.... five more minutes...." She mumbled.

I sighed and nudged her again. She jumped a bit and looked over at me rubbing her eyes. "Mornin' there sleepy head..." I said. "...Got a sec to chat sis? I promise you can go back to sleep after this okay?" She sighed sitting up.

"....Alright... what's up?" I huffed sitting on the floor.

"...I just... I'm looking for a few words of encouragement here Scoot... This is a big night for me and I'm extremely nervous it's not gonna go right.... I know it'd be a better idea to call Uncle Red and ask him but... I feel like asking you should do it..." Scootaloo yawned.

"Ryder.... there's nothing to be nervous about... it's just a question and knowing you you've kept a cool head through hot situations... I've seen you think on your feet and get through some rough things... you arent the general of the guard for nothing..." Yeah... right there Scoot. I sighed.

"Yeah... I guess you're right... I'm just paranoid is all... Just gotta take a little breath, splash some water on my face and just get on with it...."

"Yeah... It's all in your head... Just... do what ever you need to do to calm down and focus.... Now let me get back to sleep..." I smiled.

"Alright... I'll text Big Mac in a bit to see if he can bring some bags over for you and Applebloom to stay the night. You gonna be okay with that?" She nodded and lied back down. "Alright... I'll see you later Scoot... I'll even call Rarity to say goodnight alright....?" She just gave me a thumbs up before throwing her arm over her soon to be sister in law. I took my phone out and readied it up for a picture.

"Please dont...." The little filly mumbled. I sighed and just put my phone away before just leaving the room. I was just a little startled by it but what ever. It was cute. As I closed the door behind me I looked downstairs hearing Applejack and Rarity having a laugh. I took my phone back out and started to text Celestia.

'Have some cars come out here to pick me and AJ up. Almost ready here.'

Within moments I got a reply. 'Just sent them out. Once you get here we'll split you off from Applejack for a bit to give you your gun and your ring. And please.... make sure you dont pull the gun out instead of the ring....'

'I promise I wont. Ring on my left, gun on the right, down on my right knee and holding her hand in my left hand while taking the ring out with my right. I practiced with Cadence.... except not the gun part.' I really did practice this with Cadence. Had Rocky disguise herself as Applejack while Gilda did her voice (And she makes it sound almost exactly like her and it's PERFECT) and I had to keep things going for a while. The knee, the ring placement, everything.... Even uh... The after party... Though that was Shining's idea... Rocky sat this one out while Shining and I swapped a bit as we toyed with each others mares. Lucky both Cadence and Gilda take anal... Gilda didnt need another pussy pounding.

Anyways I started down the stairs after putting my phone away and took a breath as I turned into Rarity's work area. Just there I see Applejack in the red dress. It hung off her shoulder a bit and came from her mid thigh to her ankle on the opposite side. Her mane looked a bit messy but... she'd get that fixed. Rarity looked over at me. "I'll just be one more minute here at most Ryder!" She said. I could see Applejack glance over and smile at me. I smiled back. "I'm actually surprised that there were two clients who paid for their clothes yet never came to pick them up! I've gotten so many different orders that arent picked up in time but for the events for some were just pushed back while others were canceled but picked up anyways... I think Ryder's suit was meant for a gala dinner in Manehattan while your dress was meant for a family reunion... I think that one was canceled due to a little fued.... didnt pry too much into it and I did give half their money back for it and they were okay with that... Some might've wanted everything back even after I did all the work I've done but they did give me a little compensation for it..."

Applejack sighed. "Yeah... I know how it feels..." She said. "Damn stallion bought a cider from us one day, said it was tasting funny yet didnt know it was made with some semi fermented apple juice. He wanted his money back and a new damn cider. Big Mac stepped in there and told him he could get his money back but a new drink was too much and we even saw him talking with another stallion about it. 'nother customer came up and told us he was trying to get a free cider for his friend."

I chuckled a bit. "Guard told me last week a stallion tried pulling something like that at a store and he was caught with his pants down and his pockets full of rotten cheese sticks that he 'bought' and now he's banned from the store and spent two weeks in jail." I said. "Cant do much time for conning like that but every shop in Ponyville has his picture."

They laughed at that for a moment. I watched as Applejack got her dress finished and got her mane done- beautiful loose braid done by Rarity I might add- and even a little jeweled hair clip. It was awesome that this was happening. After she was done Rarity chatted with us over a little tea, had a little snack and we got to see Sweetie Belle up and about even though she still wasnt feeling good... Food poisoning if i've ever seen it. Told Rarity to give her some saltines and ginger ale and she should be fine by morning. How I got through the war after eating that tofu bacon. Even try a little soup later in the evening. After maybe about forty five minutes of waiting in her work area a knock came to Rarity's door. "Royal Guard Transport!" We heard a mare call out. I sighed getting up with Applejack's hand in mine.

"Well... Guess it's time to get going..." I looked to Rarity. "Thanks for everything here Rarity... The clothes, the hospitality... Hopefully our sisters arent too much trouble for you tonight."

Rarity smiled as she got up and walked to the door with us. "Nonsense Ryder. They're welcome any time, even if it's on short notice." She said. "I'd hate for something to come up and not being able to have anyone watch them. I know Big Mac is free to watch them after he works but I'm sure he doesnt wanna be put in the spot of a foal sitter."

Applejack and I gave a little laugh. "Yeah he has been getting a bit fed up with AB lately when she's under his watch but hey... family is gonna piss ya off more than anythin' if i've seen it." She said. "AB does anything you dont like just text me and I'll give you some instructions on how to discipline her."

"Will do. Now go. I dont think those guards are gonna wait much longer." Both AJ and I gave a nod before opening up and leaving Rarity's. We were met by the mare pegasus guard walked us to the truck waiting for us. She had a blue coat and silver hair.

I looked to the guard and took my key from my pocket. "Here. Make sure my ride gets back to Sweet Apple Acres safely. We'll follow to pick you back up." I said handing her the keys.

The guard mare smiled. "No need. I got a colt friend out here." She said. "Only hitched a ride down here after I was off the clock but that doesnt stop me from doing my duty here. I'll give him a call once I get there. You just go on ahead General." I smiled.

"Alright have fun. And be careful with my car!" She saluted and took my keys from me before heading off towards my car. I didnt even hesitate to get in with Applejack and sit in a lovely decorated interior. Cherry red seats, hearts hanging from the windows and a bottle of champagne in a bucket of ice with two glasses nearby. "Wow... Luna and Celestia really want us to enjoy this...." Applejack smiled as I grabbed the bottle of champagne. It had a note attached to it. I grabbed it as AJ took the champagne and carefully opened it grabbing one of the glasses.

I looked at the note.

'Dear General Ryder,

I'm hoping this note reaches you well with this complimentary bubbly that Luna picked out for you. Consider this a

special gift for what you've done. Applejack and You will be meeting with the couple who are paying for the dinner.

They'll be told to stick close to you while visiting from Saddle Arabia. They might be a tad nervous but they'll get past it

once this dinner is over. All they've experienced is blatant racism when it comes to being around the public of

Equestria and that was because of the war. They have come to me upon good faith that this is fixed and I have given

them that liberty. If all goes right then we'll meet up and address these racial problems with the Saddle Arabians. For

now just enjoy the ride and try not to drink too much.

Celestia'

I smiled as I took a glass from AJ and sipped on some champagne. "So what'd that note say?" Applejack asked.

"Well.... We're still going on that dinner date but.... this apparently isnt just a nice day away from Ponyville... Apparently we're just meeting with some important Saddle Arabians to keep some problems down with hardship after the war. Hope thats okay with you." She huffed as she swirled her champagne in the glass.

"Too many a day when I see our friends and neighbors being called names and hurt because of where they're from.... Hell I still regret when Zecora came out to get her groceries we were just the meanest sonsa bitches out there.... And I even yelled at her when she had Applebloom who went and showed we were just bein mean...."

"Dash told me you tried to blame her for the poison joke. Did that stuff really shrink you?"

"Eeyup... Made me small, made Rarity's mane all curly and puffed up her coat too, Pinkie got a numb tongue, Dash got crazy wings, Fluttershy got a deep voice and Twilight got a little 'failure to launch' as you like to call it when you're too tired."

"Limp horn?" AJ nodded. "And how deep we talking with Fluttershy?"

"Big Mac deep when he's doing his impression of that game character y'all like so much."

"Twisted Mane? Damn... That is deep..." Twisted Mane is a DLC character in my post apocalyptic Equestria game. He's the one who has the gas mask and the armored sleeveless duster in Equestrian colors depending on which side is chosen during your game. Luna if evil (Not sure why didnt even ask her) and Celestia's for good. Though he does have a faction alignment. But enough about him. I sighed as I kicked back and looked out the window as we started getting out of Ponyville. "...Is it bad to wonder what Poison Joke would do for me?" AJ hummed.

"Well... I guess so but then... I kinda guess not... Maybe we can getcha over to Zecora and have Twilight take notes on your weirdness.... I mean the joke not the .... You know what I meant...."

"Just uh.... anything I should know if i do that?" I sipped my drink. Felt good with the bubbles and the alcohol.

"Well... Nothin' happens right away but over a day to take effect... With me I went to bed that night and when I woke up I was sleepin' naked in my bra... damn things comfortable when you can fit inside a cup.... Had to wear one of Applebloom's doll dresses as clothes.... Even more embarrassing I had to wear part of a napkin as underwear..." I grinned a bit just thinking about that as I looked out towards the countryside. "Dont get any ideas Ry... I aint gonna be your little dolly for you to just cum on... Much as I like your spunk loads I dont wanna feel it movin' on me..."

"Not what I was thinking but now that you said that it sounds kinda gross...." I downed the last third of my drink and huffed setting the glass down. "Now what's say we just turn on a little music and cuddle?" She rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Alright but no funny business... Still feelin' a bit sensitive after our little escapade earlier..." I chuckled as I started toying with a little radio console hidden in a little compartment under part of the seat. Changed it from dead silence to country to a little classic rock, and set it on a station I found that plays a little fifties doo-wop. That was something we agreed on since we hear it all the time in one of my games. Cant remember which one. We did swap stations every two songs just to get a bit of variety and maybe I sang a bit. Both of us had a little singing to each other even if it were just some random song we knew the words to. After a while we just started listening to the classic rock station because nothing else good came on.... Some talk shows even on our favorite stations. Nope. Music over talk. Anyways we drove on the road for about an hour. Nonstop I might add which was pretty awesome. Regular guard transport with a little customization on the inside of it. Felt nice to just be cuddled up to the mare I loved even if we only had one drink.

When arriving at Canterlot castle there was a miltitude of guards. More than Celestia and Luna would have alone. AJ didnt question it but I knew the truth. As we stepped out we were immediately greeted by a guard who saluted. Stallion this time. Unicorn. Red coat, Lighter red mane with black specks in it. "Greetings General. Apologies for this turnout for the guard." He said.

I huffed. "It's fine. Princesses ordered extra protection and wants to be cautious. Something tells me it's a higher alert status huh?" I asked giving a sly wink hoping AJ didnt notice. He smiled a bit.

"Yeah. Just it right there. Someone from the warzone in Steurope threatened an attack in Canterlot and we're on alerts. Nobody knows from where the attack is going to be but we have the castle on watch from every angle."

"Good. So we need not worry then?"

"Yes sir. Now head on inside. Celestia wishes to see you."

I nodded and Applejack and I started up the stairs. Guards stood in attention at either side of us as we walked up to the door, every other one saluting. It was nice being respected like this.... Sure I've had my doubts about being General but... this was one reason i stayed as General after so many years of disrespect and hurtfulness. And honestly at the garage I worked at I may have been the best one there to fix cars but I was an asshole to my coworkers who just loved to take my tools... I hope they look at my car when I drive by and flip em off sometimes. Should pay a visit and show them what I became without them. Anyways as we walked into the castle we were immediately met by Celestia and Luna. AJ and I bowed in respect for them both. "Good afternoon to you two!" Luna said. "I normally wouldnt be up this late in the day but I needed to be here for our guests."

Applejack smiled. "Well we're glad you chose us to extend our hands in friendship to the Saddle Arabians." She said. I slyly gave a wink hoping one of them caught it. "I kinda feel bad for em being treated like that after the war! It werent their fault."

Celestia smiled. "Well we're glad for you to do so." She said. "They said they would even pay for your meal for doing this for them. Didnt even have to front them any bits. We even got a reservation for them at one of the best restaurants in Canterlot." She looked to me. "And yes Ryder they have your hayburgers as well. No need to be picky here." We had ourselves a little laugh. As the laughter died down Celestia sighed. "On that note I actually need to talk to Ryder for a moment about something I have planned later in the months coming. Would you excuse us AJ?" I looked to Applejack and she smiled.

"Go on ahead princess. I needed to speak with Luna about somethin' here." I gave AJ a quick kiss before splitting off with Celestia. Kinda watched as AJ went over to Luna and gave her a hug. Celestia sighed as I looked back to her.

"Ryder... I truly apologize for doing this to you!" I sighed.

"It's fine... And yes I know this probably will get me in trouble but this better be damn good pay...." We stopped at a hall opening.

"It will be and it will be out of my pocket personally. I just.... I just wish there was some other way.... This was such a shock to me I had to think fast for this.... My sister had no clue what to do and we just.... We couldnt call upon Shining nor could we do any other guard! After this is done you can have anything you wish within reason!" I thought for a moment of what I wanted. I had things I was happy to have. A good job, a roof over my head, my baby sister happy to be there with me. I just sighed and looked at her.

"When and if I need it... I'll ask... for now just... get me prepped on tonight.... I trust Shining gave you the ring I'm using to propose?" Celestia smiled and nodded cupping her hands together and using her magic to make the ring appear. Gold band, diamond encrusted and engraved on the inside saying 'I love you'. Cadence paid for it too.

"Of course Ryder... friends in high places if I must say... without us..... I'd say you'd be in a gutter drinking away while your sister is in Dash's care... And that filly probably would be entirely different if things hadnt gone in this direction.... I guess I've gotta say this is just.... And I'm sorry to say this but.... This was probably the best route you could've taken...." I sighed taking the ring and hiding it in my jacket quickly.

"...Yeah... I've seen what it would've been like if things went another way... Ended up with me hanging myself, Scoot being a delinquient and the world being lost to a fucking changeling army... Thank Luna for that one but... I'm fine after seeing that." She hugged me and sighed.

"I know but... if you ever need to talk I'm just a phone call away... if you cant call, text or have someone drive you up here... Door's always open and a bed waits just for you..." I looked up at her as she broke the hug.

"Thank you princess... I just... I wish there was something I could do to thank you for these opportunities you're giving me and just... just being all one of the best friends I could ever have...." I saw her smile a bit.

"You're welcome and... Everything you're doing is enough... I say it time and time again but you're doing great things for me and everything I do is to pay you back for your effort in the guard!" She saluted me smiling brightly. I couldnt help but salute right back. She sighed relaxing. "...Now get Luna and AJ... We gotta go meet your dinner dates." I nodded and went for them.

As I joined I kissed Applejack. Luna couldnt help but give a chuckle. "Well there we are! How was your talk with Celestia?" She asked.

I sighed. "Yeah... Basically talked future events like the Grand Galloping Gala and maybe an up coming concert that she'd pay for with Gems. Something I'd wish to see!" I said. Luna laughed a bit.

"I'm right there with you Ryder! If she does I'll be with you and why not bring Big Mac along to meet the band? He'd enjoy that right?" I nodded.

"Yep. But for now Celestia needed me to get you two. Gotta meet the ponies who we're helping make a connection with." Both Luna and Applejack nodded and followed me back to Celestia.

Celestia and Luna both walked in front of me and AJ as we held hands. My heart was pounding out of my chest with the way i felt with her. Applejack looked to me. "Don't this feel good sugarcube? Helpin' out a foreigner and makin' em feel welcome?" She asked. I nodded.

"Eeyup... I might've fought in their country but when it comes to this I wanna show that these ponies arent the enemy here.... Those radicals that supposedly 'speak for them' are. Why do you think they even got away from their country?"

"True enough... they've got lots of problems there... Sand everywhere, food being hoarded by the rich and the poor live out of huts. Aint gonna assume more than that..."

"Some of that's true... Food and sand... The poor? Where I was stationed I just saw hoards of beggars and some kids running around asking for money... Even gave up a few bits for a loaf of bread for a family who were just living out of an alley way... Father of two, mother dead and the kids scrawnier than anything..."

"Good on you there sugarcube... Hopefully someone'll do something there...." I glanced over at AJ.

"...Can I ask something...?" She glanced back at me.

"If it's time to mess around in the bathroom, no... But still ask away...."

"Well... Okay.... Wasnt gonna ask to do that but.... What were you talking about with Luna?" She sighed as we turned down a side hall.

"Well... Kinda had to do with my parents... Something in me is just kinda... hurting with them not seeing us.... Mac cried the other night when you werent home, 'Bloom cuddled up to me in bed and me? I just.... I just stared at my hat and wondered if my life would be goin' the way it is with them here..."

"And you asked Luna if she could show you what if your parents were here still and not.... yknow..."

"Yeah... Told me my life is the way it is and cant be changed once seen...."

"Same as me with my questionable dreams.... What if my parents were alive? What if dad died when my mom didnt? What about the opposite? What if I caught Berrie before she even came to my parents place?" She looked to me stopping in our tracks and holding me back.

"That last one I can say aint good for you! I asked Luna that while you were away after the earthquake and she showed me somethin' I dont ever wanna see again!" I looked to Celestia and Luna as they kept walking before looking back to AJ looking all serious.

"....What did..." I stopped myself. She sighed looking away.

"....Showed me leaving the house with Scoot but.... You uh...." I hugged her. I knew what she was going to say. She was gonna say I was shot instead of my parents. Still hope that bitch Berrie would've killed herself after since she 'loved' me so much....

"...I'm... I'm sorry I asked...." She pushed me off and took my hand.

"It's fine... Let's just go... cant keep em waiting... hopefully we can get a drink to forget we ever said anything...."

I nodded and just walked with AJ in silence. My wings were kinda twitching scared. Enough for me to feel but not enough for AJ to notice. As we caught up with the princesses we stopped just before the door to a meeting room. Luna looked to us as Celestia snuck inside. "Alright. Celestia will inform the two ponies of your arrival." She said. "For now do either of you have questions? I did notice you two stop but never let Celestia onto it."

Applejack sighed. "Princess... I just... I got a question for ya...." She said. "It's somethin' personal but... it's got to do with my parents... It aint to see em but... it's just.... I wanna know how things would be if they made it through what they didnt...." I rested my hand on her shoulder. She hung her head a bit. Luna smiled a bit.

"Well... I'll gladly show you but... Know I cant change things to what you want them to be... if need be I'll bring Ryder along in a dreamscape for you to hold if you need to cry or something... But... Might I ask that you come to me if you are ever feeling saddened by these things....? I just.... I feel as if something like that might push you to drastic things...." AJ sighed.

"I promise.... I had those thoughts before and my sugarcube pulled me out of it, cut up all my rope and I dont think I'll be having those thoughts again... but if i do... I'll come straight to ya no questions asked.... If I need to I'll say somethin' during my thing.... For now lets just get on with this.... Dont wanna think about mama n daddy no more than I gotta..." Luna brought her over and hugged AJ.

"It's going to be alright Applejack.... We're here for you...." Luna looked to me. "Ryder why dont you go in and meet everypony.... I need to make sure she'll be okay... I'll send her in once I'm finished okay?" I nodded and came over just to give AJ a quick kiss on the cheek. I saw a tear in her eye before going over to the door hesitantly and knocked.

The door opened slightly and I dipped in only to see Princess Celestia greeting me and two ponies behind her sitting at a table. One mare and one stallion. The mare was a pegasus pony. Long dark grey mane, light grey coat and her wings tapered off into jet black at the end. She wore a nice burgundy dress with golden inlays here and there. The stallion was an earth pony. Short sandy brown mane, regular brown coat and he wore a black tux with a red bow tie. "Ah! There you are Ryder!" Celestia said. "Is Applejack still talking with Luna?"

I nodded. "Yeah... she started talking family with Luna...." I said. I looked around her at the two ponies who just didnt meet my gaze for some reason. "So... Who do we have here?" Celestia looked back smiling.

"Terribly sorry where are my manners? Ryder this is Senator Dustland Winds and his wife Ebony Sands." I smiled and approached them giving a salute.

"Nice to meet you Senator Winds, Mrs. Sands. I am General Ryder of the Equestrian Royal Guard. It'll be an honor to be by your sides today!"

The Senator stood up and smiled at me putting his hand out. "Ah General... Celestia was telling us about you this morning... Glad you decided to protect me and my wife." He said. His thick Saddle Arabian accent almost drowning itself out. "We almost thought we had to go without a dinner in Equestria and still living in fear for when.... and if... we ended up going home...." He looked to his wife. "The uh.... ponies after us are the radicals you fought and well... I've heard one threaten me through a tape recorder they had dropped by with a courier.... They had no clue they were traitors to my country and that courier gave it to a guard, said to deliver it to me after inspection... Came up clean but.. the message was so bad I had it destroyed.... Sorry..."

"It's fine. I have a feeling what it said but dont worry. You and your wife are going to be safe tonight but uh.... I do have a favor to ask of you..."

"What is it that you need friend?" I took a deep breath and sighed looking back at the door.

"First off... Please dont say you're foreign diplomats. My marefriend thinks we're taking out a couple of foreign ponies who were wronged badly by some ponies who have terrible thoughts about the war that was just had. Another thing is.... I'm planning on making tonight special but with things going this way I feel like I might need a little encouragement to go through with it.... Maybe a little word of advice or something...." Senator Dustland smiled.

"Well what i did when I proposed to my beautiful wife I was very nervous. Shaking, sweating but one thing I knew always calmed me was one of my favorite songs. It is very old song yes but it was a peaceful one. If feeling nervous, take a deep breath, strike up what ever band plays in your head and sing a song you know!" I thought about it for a moment. It sounded like something I could do. I love music, I love my games. Could do some video game music or just something from my bands. I looked to the senator.

"Well Senator... Guess you've got something that might help." He smiled.

"Call me Dusty General. You're a good stallion. A friend I can count on since you helped restore power to my country."

Princess Celestia came over and pushed us apart for a moment. "Sorry to interrupt but I think my sister is done talking with Ryder's marefriend." She said. "Stay calm, dont let on that you're important." She looked to me. "If I dont get a chance to say it later, congrats, drinks are on me!"

I nodded and looked to the door just as it opened. In came Luna and Applejack, AJ looking a bit happier after that episode. "I hope we arent too late for anything here!" Luna said. "Applejack I'd like you to meet Dustland Winds and Ebony Sands. They've been through a rough patch since they moved to Equestria a month ago. Ponies keep using slurs around them and they have even gotten threatened by a pegasus pony who we are still trying to find. Right now we're sending you on a mission of peace to a restaurant here in Canterlot. We've given bits to pay for said meal to Dustland and his wife but if needed meals shall be free upon our word."

I gave a smile to Luna. "I'm sure it wont have to come to that but we'll make sure to tell you if it does." I said. "For now why dont we freshen up, fix our makeup if we need to and use the bathroom before we head out. No clue how long we're gonna have to wait for this restaurant."

Celestia smiled as well. "Splendid ideas general." She said. "Miss Sands? Applejack? Why dont you come with me so we can get your make up done. Luna can take Ryder and Dustland to deal with what ever they need to do." I gotta admit it was almost like Celestia was treating us like children but... I didnt complain. Neither did anyone else. I gave AJ a quick kiss and watched her and Ebony Sands walk out the door tailing Celestia. As the door closed I looked to Luna.

"So... Gonna help me prepare for this dinner? Wasnt exactly given my accessories with this suit!"

Luna chuckled a bit. "Fear not Ryder I've got just what you need." She said, her horn glowing a bit. A flash in the air happened and there floating in her magic was a gun. I recognized this gun. One of my favorites to use in my post apocalyptic games. Clip fed, fire paint scheme, semi auto and a custom leather and steel grip. Almost looked like a box that was too small to hold a revolver with the way the barrel was but it was the housing for the mechanisms. Del Fuego is what it's called in game and I swear to you this life is becoming a game with the shit going on in it. When I took the gun and checked the clip. Fully loaded, nothing in the chamber. "Custom made by the best gunsmiths in Equestria and I tested it out myself the other day... was planning on giving it to you as a birthday present but seems this is going to be a better time. You'll be provided with more ammunition after you empty the clip. Make it seem like your character is just pulling the clip out of his ass and getting it into the gun. Still you have about four to five clips and it only replenishes every twenty four hours." I opened up my jacket and slipped the gun into the holster. Fit perfectly and disappeared better.

"So technically unlimited ammo in a sense... Nice... And it doesnt stack up does it?" Luna shook her head.

"Tested it the day after the first test and yesterday. Still five clips." I nodded.

"Understood. Now for the men to prepare for the dinner?"

"To the restrooms and then to the transport?"

"Aaaand to get my badge? Cant do anything without that now can I?"

"Right right! That's not going to be good if a stallion gets into a shoot out and nopony knows youre in the guard someone is going to suspect you of assassination attempts on a foreign diplomat..." She turned to the door and walked out with us in tow. "Sure we might have guards there undercover but they're gonna feign ignorance about you even being a guard since they're trained that way. Someone could even put a number on your head demanding justice." It's understood there. Shining said after I got back from the war that ponies would try to make me look like the bad guy but they're not gonna go far with that. Only time I do put on a persona of a bad guy is in my games where karma makes the pony. Heh.... Still cant get over the shit i've done in my post apocalyptic game... Should I be worried if nuking Ikkebuckero brings me joy?

ANYWAYS getting off topic we did stop at the restroom, i got my badge and we met up with AJ outside at a transport vehicle. Celestia stood outside with her, the door opened behind her. I could see Ebony Sands sitting inside. I even watched as Dusty climbed in to be with his wife. Luna turned in to tell them something while Celestia came over to us. "Alright you two.... I wanna say thank you for doing this for us...." She said. "You're doing Equestria a big favor by showing them some kindness. After this is done gifts shall be in order. Ryder shall get what ever he wishes even if it is for him or someone he knows and the same goes for you Applejack. What ever you wish, for who ever you wish. Limits are there though."

I smiled a bit. "Thank ya kindly Princess..." AJ said. "...I just... I'd say I'd do this for free but... maybe I might take ya up on the offer.... Dunno fer what yet but.... I'll letcha know."

I sighed. "Same here Princess...." I said. "I'll say what I want but... Later... Maybe for Scootaloo more than me..." Celestia smiled at us.

"It's fine. Take as long as you need. For now get in that transport. I've put in a reservation for you four so you dont have to wait in line." Applejack nodded and went for the truck. I stayed behind, staring at Celestia. She sighed as AJ climbed into the truck. "Good luck General... I'll be waiting for your arrival... I have a room set up for you and AJ for when you get back.... If you get back...."

"Princess.... I've gone through a lot of shit worse than this.... More personal than I'd like but... hey... I'm still here arent I?" Celestia smiled.

"Yeah... I guess you are.... I just.... I really do wanna thank you for everything.... even if it meant screwing up your perfect night.... What ever you need it's done... I wont even go beyond.... doing things with you.... I'm just that grateful...." I blushed knowing what she meant. Give unto me what AJ gives the best of and I'm not talking about her cider. I smiled.

"...I'll... be sure to let you know what I want.... Just... Let me keep my mind on my mission alright?" She blushed a bit.

"Right right... Get going now... More time we waste, more time Senator Dustland gets impatient...." I gave a nod and saluted Celestia. Celestia smiled and saluted back before I broke away and headed for the transport. I glanced at Luna who just had a little sparkle in her eye as she watched me join Applejack on the seat inside. She closed the door behind us. I just couldnt help but turn up a little music as everyone talked amongst themselves. AJ about the farm, Dusty about his 'encounters' and Ebony making things up as they went along.

I stared out the window most of the drive. Listened to classic rock stations but nothing good came on. Only one song I knew and that's because Scoot played it too much on Bass Villain.... She'd be able to out play me on that game.... True shit. When we were getting close Applejack nudged me. "C'mon wake up sugarcube!" She said, snapping me out of my trance. "Y'alright there Ry? Spacing out again?" I nodded. "Well what ever's on your mind just keep it off your mind until we get done with dinner. I'm gonna question you about that later though so dont play dumb when I ask ya!"

I huffed. "Alright... Just feel free to smack me if I space out again." I said. "Just.... Scoot kinda made me worry when she woke us up last night.... Another nightmare about mom and dad n such... Had to call Luna to even help me calm her down..."

"....Hope she's okay.... Girl' saw something she shouldnt've... it's gonna stick with her for a while unless it's dealt with... Maybe ask Luna later to see what she can do while still keeping your sister the same.... Just lucky she aint me with my daddy...." I hugged Applejack.

"C'mon... she'll be okay... you'll be okay... wont you?" She smiled looking to me.

"....Yeah... I'll be fine... I've learned my lesson from last time...." She glanced out the window. "Guess we're getting to the restaurant.... Why dontcha just get ready to get out and we stop talkin' about personal stuff hm?" I nodded. I grew more nervous as the truck came to a stop. I could hear the guard driving get out and rush around the side. I could see the restaurant we were going to. Fancy place yet with a touch of cheap family places. Though this one had a bit of a dress code to follow. How could you tell besides the fancy wears we have on? Because there was someone bitching about this place to his boyfriend or husband. One was wearing a suit while the other wore a dress shirt, tie and jeans.... Seemed fine to me but I guess not for this place.... Hopefully I can eat my hayburger like I normally do... I got out first with AJ behind me. Then came Dusty and his wife. Couldnt help but look at all the ponies standing around because of the wait time.... Four, five and groups of ten (or so I thought).

I grabbed AJ's hand and we started walking with Dusty and Ebony behind us. We walked past groups and couples alike, some talking with each other asking who we even were. Wanted to flash my badge but I didnt wanna reveal anything. As we entered a doorman opened the door for us and we walked right up to a podium with a unicorn mare in a red dress. She smiled. "Party of four?" She asked. Lovely flowing Steuropean accent.

I nodded. "Yes. I think the princess put in for a reservation for us?" I said. "Not sure if she put it under Celestia or Ryder."

"Ah yes. Royalty seating. She requested drinks be free for you but food is paid by your party. Are we clear about that?" Everyone nodded. She grabbed a few menu's from a holder on the podium. "Alright. Follow me. Celestia must really like one of you to let her give you access to her personal seating." I gave a chuckle.

"Yeah... Princess asked for a few favors and I had to do my duty...." She glanced back at us.

"Guard eh? Well thank you for your service!" I smiled a bit as she took us through a crowd of ponies enjoying their meals. I looked around saw a few suits looking guard-esk. Somewhat of a royal look to it but nothing to give it away... Though they were similar in style to each other. The mare took us to a roped off section in the corner. Four seats, a bucket of ice with a champagne and wine bottle in it. She pulled the ropes aside and allowed us in giving each of us a menu as we passed her to our seats. "Your server will be with you momentarily. While you wait you have a nice Brut Champagne and a Chardonnay wine bottle in the ice bucket. Cork remover is right on the side of the bucket." I nodded to her as she roped us off. Might have been a corner table but I sat against the wall with Dusty next to me also looking out towards everypony. Applejack and Ebony sat on the other side of us looking in at us.

Applejack sighed looking at the menu. "Aint everyday we get to eat at some fancy place like this...." She said. "Shoot... Best I've had was a pizza from the local pasta bar in Ponyville..."

I took a deep breath looking at my menu. "Eeyup... I just... cant decide what to eat... Got... Some habanero hayburger sliders... Those look good..." I said... nervously. Applejack looked to me.

"Somethin' wrong sugarcube?" I hesitantly nodded.

"Yeah... just... I see a few ponies looking at us.... Feel like they're just judging us for being in this section...." She glanced behind us.

"Ah hell to them sugarcube. Once they help the Princess like you and I did they'd be sittin' here with the princess herself possibly." She looked to me. "Well maybe one of these days y'can get Celestia to take you here for a drink or two for your birthday."

Dusty grabbed my arm and stood me up. "Speaking of drinks excuse us... Need to use the restroom but uh... kinda not feeling safe walking through here without someone with me..." He said going for the rope. He lifted it and nudged me through with both mares sitting aside and saying nothing. Guess because AJ understood the lie. But I was questioning this. Why was Dusty taking me away from the table? I could only follow as closely as I could as he dragged me along through ponies glaring at us, some questioning us, most not even paying attention to us.

Though we were heading to the bathroom. It was just beside an open bar where you had ponies enjoying a few drinks. Some looking like they had too much and at the point where I should intervene but hopefully the bartender cut em off. As we entered the bathroom I shook the senator off of me and looked to him. "What the hell was that? Why did you drag me here?" I asked. "If you needed to take a piss so bad why didnt you go by yourself?"

"Apologies General but... I didnt want to freak the ladies out... I.. I saw one of them..." I looked at him confused.

"Who? Who did you see?"

"One of the assassins who are after me! He's after me! He and his men are! I saw the leader and where ever his men are they're going to kill us!"

Before we could even leave two stallions came from different ends of the restroom. One from the stalls and the other came in from the door. Both earth ponies, one blue coat and dark blue mane, other brown coat and darker brown mane, both in black suits and black tie like they were going to a funeral. Ours. The one at the door pulled a gun. "Damn right we're gonna kill you...." The stallion from the stalls said.

I got my back against the senator as the stallions started closing in on us. "Hope you're good hand to hand..." I whispered. The senator looked at me scared before I rushed the stallion with the gun knocking it away from us. It fired off against the wall making screams come from outside. I managed to wrestle the gun away from him and hit him point blank in the chest with a few rounds. Something I didnt wanna do. The other guy was fighting with the senator. I turned around and rushed them both getting the assassin off of him and curb stomping him, knocking him out. I helped the senator up shoving the gun into his chest. "Here. Should have a few rounds left but dont go firing it off willy nilly! Get in one of those stalls, lock it and try not to shit yourself!" He nodded as I pulled my own gun. Even knelt down and felt the knocked out guy up for weapons. Knife in his suit jacket. Sharp and serrated. Took it, slid it into the stall where the senator went. "Here. Just in case you run out of bullets like an idiot... Sorry sir..."

I could hear him cough a bit through his heavy breathing. "...It-It's fine... Just... go make sure my wife is okay!" He said. And gunshots from outside... great. "NOW!" I didnt even give him an answer as I opened the door and peered out. Few stallions were sitting behind barricades with pistols. They werent even wearing the guard suits so I knew I could fire at them. Nailed one of them in the head and missed the others but that's when I was being shot at. Bullets whizzed by me hitting the wall. My heart was racing. Not only because this was happening but because i didnt know if Applejack was safe. As I heard more gunfire coming from the other side of the restaurant I rushed out and dove behind the bar. Bar tender was hiding behind there clutching a bottle of whiskey. She was a pegasus mare. White coat, white mane that tapered off to a grey and black the longer it went. Had it in a bun. Wore a white button up with a black vest and bow tie. I dug into my pocket and flashed my badge when she looked to me and I motioned to her to keep her head down. Only popped my head up to see where the bad guys were. More focused on the other guards. I popped up and fired a few times. Missed but ended up legging a guy quite literally before going back down. Some gunfire broke a few bottles above me showering broken glass and booze on to me. Expensive stuff. Poked my head up once more and the last guy couldnt tell where to look. Couldnt tell if he wanted to look at me or look at the other guards. Three of them moved up out of the four that I saw earlier. I jumped the bar and aimed my gun at them. "LEMME SEE YOUR FUCKING HANDS RIGHT NOW!" I startled the one on the floor and he gave up right away. The other one was clutching his wound. "BOTH OF YOU NOW! HANDS WHERE I CAN SEE EM!" The guards at my side moved in guns drawn. I looked to the one closest to me. Stallion. Similar suit to mine, lime green mane, minty green coat. "Two in the bathroom, one dead, other unconscious but be careful! Saddle Arabian Senator inside! He's armed and scared! Dont hurt him but let him know you're there!" I hurried back to the table where we sat frantic. Table was knocked over, bullet holes were everywhere. Champagne bottle in the bucket was gone, wine was broken all over the wall. Looked behind the table and no AJ or Ebony anywhere. That's when I ran outside. Crowds of ponies were across the street hiding behind cars. I looked everywhere on the street for Applejack.

I looked everywhere and just sat down against a planter just as guard trucks came around. Sirens blaring. I felt light headed not knowing where AJ was.... She could've been hurt.... I was freaking out but... not as bad as that night... I keep going back to it but.... this just flashed me back to it. I killed again. Yes to save someone but... was it worth ruining a perfect night of my life? I hung my head as tears came to my eyes. Didnt really break down. Held it back as much as I could before someone came and picked me up hugging me. It was Applejack. She was crying. "...S-sugarcube... You're okay!" She said through her tears. Her makeup was running down her face. I sniffled a bit hugging her back.

"...I-Is Ebony Sands alright?"

"Sh-she's fine..." She looked at me. "...Got out as soon as we heard those shots.... god i just... I thought you were dead... Just saw you go in with Dusty and a stallion just follow you in... Then the shot.... Just...." I shushed her.

"...Dont worry... it's over... it's okay.... I'm alive..." I got up with her carefully and sat her in a nearby bench. "...AJ... I'm gonna be straight with you... this wasnt a mission of good faith... it was... it was a bodyguard mission... I was pretty much forced for this by the princess.... I just.... I'm sorry I-" She got up and slapped me.

"WHAT THE HELL RY YOU DID THIS AND BROUGHT ME ALONG?! I COULDA GOTTEN MYSELF KILLED IN THE CROSSHAIRS!" I grabbed her and held her tight. She fought to get away from me but I had her gripped. Waved a guard over with my wings. He rushed over and when he was a good distance away from me I pushed AJ over into his arms. As she stumbled it got me enough time to get into position to propose. She struggled to keep herself stood up as the guard struggled with her in his arms. She gained her balance just as I pulled out the ring and looked to the guard. "LET GO OF ME! DONT TOUCH ME I JUST-" She turned around and froze. Wasnt the way I wanted to do this but... I planned on this tonight... I didnt wanna let this go to waste.

"AJ... I'm sorry this night didnt go the way you wanted... the way WE wanted... but... I just... I've been wanting to ask you this for a long time.... I... Will you marry me?" I could see her mind just breaking. She didnt know what to say, staggering over her words. She stopped trying to speak and nodded with the biggest smile on her face. I couldnt help but get up and rush her hugging her tight. The guard gave me a thumbs up. I just smiled and nodded to the door of the restaurant. He rushed in. I was so happy the rest was almost a blank. Dusty and his wife were reunited, we got fast food after that screwy night and went back to the castle. Celestia was so happy for us she gave us a lovers suite she had all set up for if Shining and Cadence visited.

Heart bed, mirrors on the ceiling, normal canterlot room furnishings. There was a desk in there even with a computer. Hooked up my video chat account with it and called up Twilight with Applejack sitting in my lap. It buzzed for a moment before having Twilight's face pop up on the computer. She sighed. "Thank goodness you two are alright!" She said. "I heard what happened."

I sighed. "Yeah... scared the living daylights out of us both... me more because I had a gun in my face..." I said. "Didnt stop me from putting this on her finger!" Applejack flashed her hand on the camera. Twilight's face lit up.

"Yay! Congrats AJ! General!" She looked off camera. "Girls! He did it! He proposed!" We heard cheers from everypony else there.

Rarity came into view with Pinkie both just bumping Twilight out of the way. "Darling I hope that dress didnt get ruined there!" The white unicorn said.

AJ shook her head. "Might be a bit dirty from my make up but... Well worth it for this night..." She said.

Pinkie blew a party favor at the camera. I flinched a bit. Never liked those things. "CONGRATS! I'M GONNA THROW THE BIGGEST PARTY EVER!" She said. "CAKE, GIFTS, PARTY FAVORS AND EVERYTHING!" I laughed a bit with AJ.

"You always do no matter what... Job thing, birthday or even a weddin'..."

I saw Dash fly by and push them out of the way with her wings flapping at them. She landed with Fluttershy on the side of her. "Ry you might be a dork sometimes but you bagged yourself one hell of a mare!" She said.

Fluttershy smiled. "Big Mac's gonna cry over this! He's gonna be so happy!" She said.

I huffed. "Yeah... Just tell him but leave the part about the dangerous stuff that happened... Less chance of getting my ass beat when I get home..." I said. "But for now... why dont you girls just have a drink to celebrate and let us get on our way... gotta rest from all the adrenaline crashing..."

Twilight made a little magic bubble burst Flutters and Dash out of the way. She smiled nervously. "Sorry there... Girls were a bit over excited.... Think someone even went a little...." She said. She blushed. "But... You two have fun! Dont let us stop you!"

And we didnt. We didnt do anything big. Just teased each other and slept next to each other. Hell of a night, hell of a few months and just hell of a time.