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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Hey uh... General-"

"Ryder. Call me Ryder." He smiled.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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