Breakfast with Celestia was everything a meal with royalty could be. The only difference was this one came complete with a rundown of a party game that was going to be played out more like a LARP.

All of it sounded fun, even if a lot of it was made up on the spot, however, Celestia welcomed the distraction for what really needed.

"Well then, it's settled. Tonight's trip to the gardens will be the setting for a game of Werewolf. However, before we break for the morning, I would like to have a word with the human delegates, Benny and Cerb, in private."

It could have only been one thing, and Benny made a gesture to the others to remain calm.

"Of course, Princess."

After the meal ended, Benny made the odd request that Octavia and Vinyl leave the room, but let Pinkie stay. That left only Fluttershy and Rarity as the other ponies with their counterparts in the room.

"Thank you both for staying, and while I would rather have Twilight deal with this issue, I'm afraid it's a matter that affects all of our interests. Even more, given the parties involved. I could not in good conscience ask this of any of you unless it was a last resort."

She took a deep breath and steadied herself to land the blow.

"Kelly’s attacker has been in a coma since the night of the incident. We are unable to wake him, and his condition seems to only have worsened over time. So, it is with a heavy heart and a cautious mind, I ask for Becky's help to stabilize his condition."

In an instant, the room filled with a mix of emotions that clouded what any of the five were feeling. There were clear cases of fear, anger, and even a bit of sadness, but what made itself known the most was Pinkie slamming her hooves on the table as she shouted in an uncharacteristic showing of rabid defiance.

"Are you crazy?! That pony is dangerous! We should just leave him in the coma and lock him in the dungeon!"

"Yes," Celestia sadly answered with a bow of her head, treading carefully with her words. "That would be for the best, however… Such a punishment cannot be permitted without a trial. And just like Spearhead and the other guard involved, I cannot properly adjudicate without his testimony."

This left Cerb with the obvious question to ask, though he did with a calm tone.

"Might I ask why you're bringing this up to only us?"

As proper and dignified as Celestia tried to posture herself, she couldn't hide her discomfort or shame in answering.

"My last interaction with Becky for her medical assistance was poorly delivered. It was not out of spite, but ignorance. Even if not intentional, I have lost trust with her, but understandably so. I also would not want to bring this to Kelly’s attention that we may need the help of one of her most trusted friends to assist the pony that nearly murdered her."

She took a deep breath and sighed in defeat. The crossroads she was standing at left many future complications for all parties involved, but could no longer be avoided.

"If Becky can wake Swift Hoof, the pony who attacked Kelly, we can commence with the trial, deliver justice, and finally move past this blight on our history. Hopefully, give Kelly the peace of mind she needs to move on without the fear that she still harbors inside. So, I'm asking you to convince her to do this favor for all of us."

It was easy to see the pressure she was under, but Benny could empathize with the position they were all in now.

"We'll talk to her. We want this over with too, but we will need access to as many of the court documents that are available. Chris will be acting as our legal representative for Kelly. He wanted to start on the discovery phase today."

Celestia nodded as if it were a common curiosity.

"Of course, but this is all but an open and shut case that I intend to end quickly. Kelly is a sweet girl that did not deserve to be treated as she was, and thank you. I'll leave Raven Inkwell available to assist Chris in anything he needs to assist with the prosecution. We will also need statements from all of those involved. You, Justin, Lumberman, and Kelly."

Everything seemed to be in order as far as Benny was concerned, though it almost seemed too cut and dry. He just couldn't tell if that was a good or bad thing.

"Not a problem. We'll talk to the others shortly."

Given how busy and crowded the downstairs had become with the construction crew returning, Applejack welcomed the company up in her room, who were surprised to see Zecora had arrived not much earlier than them. Sure, the constant hammering and sawing were distracting, but that was to be expected. It didn't seem to bother Applejack much anyway. Not when there were bigger problems to tackle, and another pair of wings had offered to help on the farm.

"Oh, Sugar Cube, that's just beyond awful," Applejack sadly answered. "He just up and walked away? Didn't even give Sniff a chance?"

Not so surprisingly, Zecora had some rhymes of wisdom to share.

“There’s no mystery why human lovers could make other ponies argue and fight. To see their true beauty, one must look past their exterior. At first glance, it even gave me quite a fright.”

Sympathy was something seemingly long forgotten to Cutter but greatly appreciated by this new, extended family she was adopting.

"To be fair, I didn't give Peter a chance either, and how would you react if your sister Apple Bloom was set on being with a creature you knew nothing about? Or worse, if you saw what looked like another mare Lumberman was getting familiar with?"

The silence from Applejack said everything a full confession could have, but thankfully more gracefully.

"Gawd dammit… Why is it never easy dealing with humans?"

A fair question and one Lyra was willing to answer.

"Probably because they're worth it," she happily stated. "Now, let's not worry ourselves when I'm sure Peter can take care of it. Instead, I think I have a good idea of how to establish a working contract for Lumberman. It won't be more than a standard license to operate with an authorization to employ. Doing it this way means he can manage his payroll on his own."

As if to show off slightly, she finished it off with a signature before turning it for both to see.

"I'll still help where and when I can, but this gives him the most control to operate how he wants. Now I just need the name of the business."

A business by another name is just as valid as the next, but Applejack was warmed from the inside out now that she could announce it.

"Heh-heh. Ole' Woody wanted a name that showed how serious about this business of his as he is taking care of me. So, after some brainstorming, he settled on Lumberjack Construction."

For some reason, that tickled Cutter just the right way, making her giggle for a moment.

"Lumber from his name and Jack from yours, and it works so well since he's a builder. That is too cute."

Given how Cutter was opening up so much and acting motherly, Applejack decided to use this opportunity to get some insight.

"Hey, Cutter? I got a question that I'm only a bit sure you can answer. Foggy memories might make it a problem fer ya but… when getting ready to have a foal, did yer tits get bigger?"

The question, of course, brought a confused look about Cutter, prompting Applejack just to be blunt about it.

And by blunt, she sat upright and pulled back the covers to reveal her growing bust. At least her delivery was more of bewilderment than panic.

"I'm talking 'bout these down here. Somethin' 'bouts how my body is trying to get ready fer having a foal. But that don't make a lick' uh sense being how Woody can't get me pregnant, and we ain't even done a proper rut yet."

Somehow that got Lyra to avert her eyes from the budding breast to Applejack’s face. Though whether it was from embarrassment or something else, she wasn’t sure.

"Seriously? Not even last night, after everything Starlight and Fluttershy and Rarity said?"

Being the closest to a medical expert, Zecora took in the sight of the budding breast with surprise and curiosity. It was certainly a bewildering sight to behold… And Zecora had seen some crazy shit in her days.

“They’ve grown like your apples, perhaps with no foal, the swelling will subside. But much like helping Fluttershy with Justin, I have no advice to provide. But this rutting I’ve heard of that has you girls all sorts of inspired, is that not the reason this morning you were still so exhausted and tired?”

If the topic was going in this direction, Applejack went back to a more comfortable, laying position. Even at this point, she was just as calm and civil, though didn’t bother to cover up, seeing as how the proverbial cat was out of the bag.

"Lyra, if you mean that I could just push my way through it, then no. And if anything, they helped me realize that even if Woody and I can't make a family of our own, we can still make the act of it just as special. So… now we're gonna wait till the moment is right fer us to do more than what we've been doing. And Zecora, if anything, I’m still mostly tired from last night. We did a little this morning with his hands and some other stuff, but the rut is going on hold for now."

Such truly heart-spoken words were just as related to Cutter as they were a sad reminder.

"You should both do what you believe is best. I am very happy for you both, but as to your question-"

"Oh, shit," Applejack quickly apologized, remembering the somewhat tense situation Cutter was in. "I shouldn't be bragging so much when you-"

"It's perfectly fine," Cutter calmingly stated. "If anything, it gives me hope for bringing Baked Fresh to reason and see that this should be normal for us."

Looking to turn the conversation more positive, Cutter put the topic on Applejack’s future.

"Speaking of making things normal, how serious are you and Lumberman? I know it's only been a few days, but you two are so cute together."

Of course, Lyra just had to pile on with her.

"By Celestia, you two were magical last night. Dancing and carrying on the whole time, you might beat Starlight and her girls to the wedding planners."

Applejack’s face immediately flushed with red from embarrassment, though her smile was nothing but pure glee.

"Oh, stop it, you two. It's still way too early to be calling for anything like that… But maybe after we get the bits to settle down and build a house of our own. Let Granny have a little more room around the house, Apple Bloom, too."

A rather sweet sentiment, but one that Lyra had to now think about in regard to her own future.

"You're so lucky to have Lumberman all to yourself… Really makes the choice of who you want to be with all that much easier to think about. I still feel like you both should give a night with a mare a try, though."

Applejack just grinned somewhat awkwardly at the suggestion, clearly not buying into it, but Cutter's faint smile looked to give room to some hesitation before she answered.

"Not likely, Lyra. While I’m a bit curious about what you both have, I think I'd rather stay committed to the one I've already sworn myself to… but a good soldier isn't afraid to use any tool to accomplish her mission."

Becky sat next to Rainbow across from Shining and Celestia. There was still some nervous tension mixed with the group, but Celestia couldn't help but be appreciative of the help being given.

"I must thank you again, Becky. I know how difficult this must be, to render aid to the pony who wounded your friend. It takes a strong moral conviction to do what you're doing."

Even if it was, Becky gave a huff that was clearly less than pleased.

"It’s the right thing to do, but the Hippocratic Oath says to do no harm, not to mention I need more experience with pony physiology. That, and I think the closure will help Kelly in the long run."

She peered up with a sad look in her eyes, the prior discussion with Kelly not going so smoothly.

Kelly stood stupefied at the request for her blessing.

"He tried to fucking kill me, and you want to wake the son of a bitch up? Fuck no! Let him rot in a coma."

Again Cerb tried to speak reason to what she rightfully was feeling.

"Kel, believe me, I get it, nobody wants to see that piece of shit suffer more than me, but it's the right thing to do. And the sooner the trial is over, the sooner we can see him put away so we can put this all behind us."

Chris, still preparing to study up on said trial, had to agree.

"Kelly, if he's in a coma, you're not getting your justice. He's just going to sleep away his sentence. That's not exactly a recipe for proper punishment."

As much as Luna hated the idea of returning that pony to the waking world, she couldn't ignore her responsibilities to him and the justice system.

"Kelly, my dear. Healing him enough to face trial will not lead to a better life for him. This is to ensure that he is dealt with in accordance with the law. I assure you that when found guilty, he will wish he'd never woken up."

Outnumbered and knowing she was in the wrong, Kelly turned away from her friends and forced herself against Luna.

"Do whatever you want. I don't want any part of it."

Celestia sulked, having heard the conversation held by the group and witnessing Kelly’s distress.

"I have seen so many horrible acts of betrayal and overheard countless acts of spite and cruelty over my many centuries of life. All of them had at least one pony in the wrong, but none of them of which I could not see reason for forgiveness… Not until this… Not even I have forgiven the ponies involved in this, though I look forward to the day it does not weigh so heavily upon us. Kelly's behavior is understandable."

While not a long ride or conversation, the carriage smoothly came to a stop with the door swiftly opening.

"Canterlot Hospital, your majesty," Flash's voice announced from the outside. "The staff have been made aware of your arrival and are expecting you."

As one could have predicted, two columns of doctors and nurses stood outside the hospital to welcome the royal party. Sadly, this time Celestia was all business, made obvious as she stepped out to greet them.

"Thank you, everypony, but please continue on with your normal duties. My time here is limited today. Miss Landon, Rainbow Dash, Shining, please follow me."

The hospital wasn't much different than Ponyville’s, so it wasn't a long walk to the top floor and the guarded room. Between two guards, a brown unicorn with grey hair and a heartbeat readout for a cutie mark stood nervously at the door.

"G-G-Good morning, Princess. I'm sorry to inform you that there has been no change with the patient. We're still monitoring his condition, but will inform you as soon as-"

"I am aware, Doctor EKG. I would like to introduce you to our human delegate, Rebecca Landon. She's the medical specialist that has offered to assist in diagnosing and hopefully treating Swift Hoof so that he may regain consciousness."

The unicorn’s entire demeanor changed, and he rushed up to greet Becky like a fanboy.

"Doctor Horse has written to me about you! Oh my gosh! I'm so excited to be able to meet you. There are so many questions I have about blood-related injuries. I have so many questions about… EVERYTHING!”

There was so much to do, and none of it by Celestia. So, with Becky turned over to the new doctor, she had nothing else of value to contribute.

“Doctor, please calm yourself. While you have done well, I would like Miss Landon to take the lead on Swift Hoof’s care. I’ve personally witnessed what she is capable of, and trust her as I have trusted you. Prince Shining Armor and Rainbow Dash will be accompanying her at all times. Any other company she wishes to join her will be given just as much free reign as she dictates. Is this understood?”

EKG nodded excitedly, obviously overwhelmed at the chance to learn medicine from another world.

“Of course! Of course!” He promptly turned and raised a hoof towards the guarded door now opening. “Please, right this way.”

Bravely, albeit slowly, Becky stepped into the room.

Brightly lit from the open window, visually sterile white walls, that chemical smell from over-cleaning, and nothing one wouldn’t expect from a hospital room. Even the murderous Solar Guard was silently slumbering under his bandages. The beeps and boops that quietly chimed from the machines were almost unnoticed until the doctor's voice rose up between their rhythmic beats.

“Our patient has offered us nothing but riddles and mysteries since he arrived eleven days ago. He and another we've since released back into the Guard's custody, both were brought to us unconscious."

EKG levitated over the clipboard to Becky, giving room for Shining and Rainbow to take a seat in the open chairs.

"The other patient was a unicorn, though I doubt that makes a difference, and we thought he would be the one in worse condition. What with his helmet dented against his skull, bruises from chin down to his fore knees. Seemed to drift in and out of nearing a waking state… then he woke up with a pounding headache and some sore limbs."

Becky skimmed through the pages of notes, and records kept, trying to make sense of all the numbers while still listening to the doctor's recollection of events.

"He managed to walk all on his own after being wheeled out. Even demonstrated no disruption to his use of magic when he cuffed himself before being escorted away… But this one?"

Becky closed the notes, impressed with the clarity of the x-rays taken, and began to look over the patient, still listening to the doctor.

"No signs of waking. No reaction to any form of stimulus and complete lack of movement. Might be for the best, though, given his bones haven't been healing."

Another closer look at the bandages on the face beckoned Becky to pull them back for a closer look. Still, there was more to be caught up on.

"Broken jaw, cracked and dislocated shoulder, ribs, and hip, bruises… Well, bruises virtually everywhere, an occasional fever, but otherwise, he remains comatose."

As expected, Becky knew something was off with what she had all seen, but something was wrong with one symptom in particular, but others seemed different from what she'd seen.

"I don't imagine you've run any blood tests to check for an infection?"

Curious, EKG asked, "We can do that?"

Such a response was what she was expecting, which of course, only made her worry even more.

"Get me Doctor Horse and Nurse Redheart. Tell them to bring any book associated with infections, blood clots, and the nervous system."

Looking through the windows had seemed to pacify Starlight all morning, but the act was growing old on Chris.

“You know, one of the reasons to make this day special was for me to do something special for you,” he warmly joked with her. “I’d have thought that buying you something nice would be appreciated, but you’ve got to let us go into the stores for that to happen.”

As flattered as Starlight was, she continued to resist.

“I don’t need you to buy me anything. Just spending time with you is a great gift."

Even if her sentiment was sweet and admittedly hard to resist, it was time for Chris to play dirty.

"So we should totally skip that kite store?" He asked, perfectly faking a tone of disinterest before switching to bewilderment. "Didn't you say you like-"

Before Chris could finish casting his bait, Starlight was already reared up and in his face with her forelegs holding him tensely.

"Can we get a matching pair?! Just yours and mine! I won't ask for anything else. I'll give you anything you want in return if you do this for me. I don't have any money left and didn't want to have you-"

Having worked better than intended, Chris silenced her rambling with a kiss there in front of the busy streets. No tongue or gropes to excite her, just a subtle reminder of what they already shared.

"Mmm,” Starlight happily moaned, though making sure to keep her voice down. “How about we make a quick purchase and give them a try before we head back, and you help me take a nap?"

Thankfully Chris saw no twitching of ears, but the look in her eyes made it clear what she meant.

"You mean this morning wasn’t enough?"

Starlight flashed a grin before she dropped to all fours and turned to head into the toy store with less in the window.

"This morning was light and playful because I needed it. Now it's more like… I want it because I want to do something to show you how much I appreciate having you with me."

Cerb sat at a table across from Flash, a stack of papers between them, Fluttershy and Rarity on either side of Cerb, and Spitfire, along with Fleetfoot, at the sides of the table. There was a lot to discuss and little to start with.

"These are all the professional records you have on the three involved?" Cerb asked, eyes focused on the documents in question.

Flash nodded, still not sure what to make of everything.

"Spearhead had the longest service record but only recently rose in the ranks. He was well-liked, but Prince Shining Armor he was not. Nopony has been as good as him."

Extending his wing, he pushed the files closer, a bit more confidence in his tone rising up.

"The other two were rather junior guards, taken in under Spearhead by request to help train them… Unsurprisingly, you can see how that went."

Cerb opened the top folder, seeing the familiar face of the pony guard that Celestia nearly obliterated at Benny’s house.

"Did Spearhead have a history of problems or disciplinary actions taken against him? Court martials, complaints from subordinates, trouble while off duty?"

The question landed on Flash like a wet blanket. His discomfort was clearly seen by all there.

"No… As I said, he was pretty well-liked. All of them were. Loyal, committed, timely, disciplined… They all fought bravely during the Changeling Invasion until they were overwhelmed. I served with all of them, but never could’ve expected this."

He seemed to shift uncontrollably in his seat, looking to momentarily debate with himself before speaking cautiously.

"It actually caught a lot of ponies off guard that any of these three would disobey their orders or even attack an unarmed civilian, let alone an Element."

While the sentiment made the mares frown and grumble with discontent, Cerb was a bit more sympathetic.

"Sometimes our brothers in arms let us down. And as much as it hurts, we have to uphold the oaths we swore to uphold."

The amount of empathy Flash heard caught him off guard, causing him to have to collect himself.

"Yes-Yes, of course."

Following the overall tone of Cerb's approach, Benny spoke to get the meeting back on track.

"We'll start with their backgrounds, look for any red flags, then move on to the series of events that led to the attack."

Big Mac trotted his way down the only street separating two columns of two-story buildings. His purpose today was to make a long-overdue delivery. A delivery that now had him nervous as he walked through the baker’s doors.

“Morning Sugar Belle. My apologies on the delay of your order. There’s been a lot of… developments, I reckon one could say.”

Sugar Belle cheerfully trotted out behind the counter. Her well-groomed coat was a creamy-colored shade of pink that looked slightly darker, as if the purple of her main had blended with her fur. This unicorn’s cutie mark matched her occupation, being a cupcake with a cherry on top. Her wide-eyed approach reflected the brilliance of the sun with a hint of the shade of her iris that was half her coat and half her mane.

This cutie was nothing but an enamored flirt, ready to share her schoolgirl bashfulness.

“Oh, I can only imagine. Rare Find came through a few days ago with a story he said he couldn’t give us all the details on. Is it true you fought off a hoard of Timberwolves to save a mare from another world?”

The beating around the bush the mare was normally giving off was a bit harder to deny at this point. She was already hanging on to his every word, despite not explaining a thing. Big Mac’s mind was racing on how to properly handle this.

“God damnit. I don’t know how to tell her I’m already with another mare. Well, two mares actually, but I sure can’t tell her that. And she looks just like how Applejack did about Lumberman. Am I going to break her heart or turn her crazy like Tea Love?”

Even if he previously had been a stallion of few words, he was taking too long to explain himself. He had to say something.

“Uh-Eyup… Yep.”

Flawless.

“Oh,” Sugar Belle excitedly answered, casually brushing her hoof over Big Mac’s collar. “I knew you were certainly a strong pony, hauling all those apples by yourself for little ‘ole me, but to even fight a single Timberwolf, let alone a hoard of them?”

Another opportunity for the literary champion of the Apple family to flex his extensive hidden vocabulary.

“Mmm-Hmm.”

The fact this mare wasn’t mopping up after herself was a mystery that should haunt human and pony kind for all time. Then again, maybe all the fluids had rushed to her head, giving her the power to grow a smile so obnoxiously obvious of her intentions, yet still, make it adorable.

“Wow~ I might have to make my orders with you more often in the off chance another threat finds its way into Our Town. Not that seeing you again so soon wouldn’t be so terrible either.”

Oh, right. Big Mac was here for a reason. What better way to avoid further conversation.

“Speaking of orders, I got yer’s out on the cart. I’ll jus’ go on out ‘n grabbem for ya.”

The perfect clean break to keep this mare from getting any closer or-

“Oh! Why don’t I lend you a hoof, or horn, I mean,” Sugar Belle offered, ending with a warm giggle, following him out the door. “Maybe if I help you get done faster you can spare a little time to tell me about your big adventure?”

For better or for worse, it was looking like Big Mac was going to have to rip away these stitches Sugar Belle was trying to patch them together with. Even if it hurt, just being honest would be the better option than leading her on, though the thought of having to do so was already getting him angry at himself. Had Kelly not shown up, he might have gathered the courage to ask her out instead one day.

“Well, ya see. It all-Emph!”

Out of nowhere, Big Mac was shoulder-checked by another stallion. Tan coat, a bright brown mane that was more like human hair than any pony rightfully could have been born with, and… frosted tips?

“Big adventure?” Another stallion’s voice loudly asked, only to replace his words with a groan. “Oww~”

Big Mac looked down at said stallion that nearly made him stumble upon impact, only to have laid himself out from the ambush. This teen heart-throb-looking son of a bitch brought himself up on shaky legs, bright green eyes, and a weak, forced smile, showing off his perfect teeth, was locked on Sugar Belle.

“I was working on a new song about fighting an entire army to find the prettiest mare in Equestria, but then I saw you and knew I found my inspiration.”

Unprepared for the compliment, Sugar Belle blushed slightly, looking a tad more smitten than before.

“My goodness, that’s so sweet of you to say, Feather Bangs. If it’s inspiration you need, though, perhaps you can come back after Big Mac finishes telling me about his adventure in the Everfree Fo-”

“Not much time for that, I’m afraid,” Big Mac nearly shouted, already planning to take full advantage of this new situation.

In an impressive display of strength, Big Mac had managed to wrap his forelegs around two barrels of apples, stacked another two on his back, and somehow managed to hold another with the back of his head, wedging it against his shoulders.

“Only one barrel left after this, then I really should be going. There’s so much that happened. Royal Guards, Timberwolves, and a whole truckload of things I can’t even explain even if I was allowed to.”

Sugar Belle blinked rapidly, trying to take in the sight, as well as the hasty explanation.

“What's a truck?”

Far be it from Big Mac to run away from a problem, but by the looks of things, he was pretty sure Feather Bangs was going to step in and take care of Sugar Belle for him. Save them all a little humiliation and heartache with any luck.

“That mare I was fixing to save? She has six friends, and one has a yellow wagon that can move its wheels all on its own and haul loads like this. Feller’s got it parked at muh house. Calls it a truck.”

In no time at all, and far less effort, the barrels of apples were dispensed, and once out the door again, Feather Bangs, still trying to charm this mare, sharply turned his head to sway his bangs.

“You know, I’ve faced plenty of danger around here. You got the looks that could kill, and I just can’t keep my eyes away.”

To Big Mac, this guy sounded like a terrible combination of Sniff’s silver tongue and Applejack’s points of observation while stumbling drunk. To Sugar Belle, her expression seemed to silently call for help. The one-too-many compliments now coming off as creepy, and it sadly wasn't in the big red stud to leave a damsel in distress. This Justin Bieber-looking mother fucker wasn't doing himself any favors either.

"Hey there... Pecker Pains?"

The teen choice award stud turned, wiping his hair up again to see Big Mac a bit more clearly. He leaned against the apple cart in a pose that made three highly impressionable mares not far behind fan over his presentation.

"It's-uh, Feather Bangs," he finished in a huff, though internally he was sweating. "You need something, bud?"

Big Mac reared up and placed a hoof behind the last barrel, ready to leave this town he once looked forward to visiting.

"I'm a mighty busy pony, ya see? And I can see that you're mighty up and close to asking this sweet little lady out—"

"I am?" Feather Bangs asked, visually frightened. "I mean, you can? I mean-"

Big Mac, having never stopped talking, kept on talking over him, finally shutting him up with his other forehoof over the younger stud's shoulder, pulling him against the cart.

"So, why don't ya help us both out and carry this last load." He flexed hard, pulling Feather Bangs even tighter against the cart and slamming the barrel of apples against the unsuspecting stud’s chest. "I'm sure she'll mighty appreciate it."

As expected, no sooner did Feather Bangs take the full weight of the apples, did he crumble like a sack of potatoes.

"Eck!"

Not the most graceful of departures, but this chaotic mess was going to be nothing but trouble if he stuck behind to see it through. So, with the load delivered, Big Mac reattached the harnesses and tried to look as focused on his task as possible.

"A thousand apologies for the delays and interrupting… whatever you got going on with yer admirer. Pleasure doing business with you, mam."

Pulling a quick U-turn, Big Mac didn't even bother casting a glance at the downed pony. It was a steady trot out of town and back home thereafter.

Post departure, in front of the shop, Sugar Belle was stuck with her order of apples, more possibilities for recipes than she had room for, a pathetic mess of a stallion under her last portion of the order, and the stallion she fancied fading out of sight.

Needless to say, she was anything but thrilled.

"Feather Bangs?" She angrily huffed. "In the future, if you think I'm going to be your muse—"

She lifted the barrel of apples he was slowly being crushed by, letting a few fall out on the stricken stud. His head, his chest, his stomach, and the last one landed square between his legs.

"Oof!"

"Don't," Sugar Belle finished off before marching back into her bakery, thus ending his pursuit of wooing her over. “I’ve had enough ponies trying to tell me what I want with what they want me to hear. I want a stallion that will let me choose for myself.”

In a fevered panic, Sniff stepped out in front of a pony-drawn carriage, hands extended, and nothing to lose.

"Stop!"

Grinding to a halt, the Earth pony pulling the cart slid closer, his locked legs tense as the weight of the carriage edged him further.

Narrowly avoiding getting steamrolled by the pony, Sniff ran around the side and opened the door.

"Sorry! This is an emergency! Princess Twilight needs you to take us to the far end of town. Right now."

Twilight galloped past the driver, nearly tripping over the hem of the dress.

"This is an emergency, but you have to take us there at a normal pace. You can't make us look suspicious! Go! Now!"

There was no way this pony was going to turn down an emergency from a princess. Not when she was riding with such a strange-looking creature. So when the carriage door shut, he was off in a dash.

Inside their ride, there was an urgent matter Twilight was addressing. Her distress was demanding of Sniff's attention, and after another silencing spell was cast, she tried to control herself, though sitting across from Sniff, staring at him, didn’t really seem to make things easier.

"This isn’t your fault! I shouldn’t have asked when I know I’m so—"

Of course, Sniff was apologetic in his response, but he was also a bit defensive towards the princess, holding her head in frustration.

"I'm sorry, Twigs. You asked me an honest question. I wasn’t going to lie to you about it."

The violent snapping of ears returned, and the sense of urgency from the Princess turned to desperation.

"It's my fault for not spending more time with you this morning. I only wanted to spend some more quality time with you today. I didn't know I would get-"

She clamped her hooves to her ears to hold them still. Of all the things to go wrong, why this? Why now?

"I want it… The more I get to know you, the more I get to be myself with you… I shouldn't just want to take your clothes off and have you touching me like you can. Even just hearing about what you wanted..."

Now feeling embarrassed for her urges, she sulked, looking apprehensive about her excitement.

“Can we take a break from everything for some sex?” Quickly catching herself in her bluntness, she sat up straight to correct herself. “Not sex like rutting! I know you want to wait to do that, but like we normally do?”

While it was touching to see his mare so concerned about his pacing of things, Sniff couldn’t help but indulge in some lascivious behavior. This carriage seemed large enough to make things work for them anyway. And at the rate they were moving inside a closed carriage, it was unlikely any onlookers would notice anything.

“Twigs… How about you come sit by me instead of over there? I don’t know what all I want to do with everyone, and I’m still contemplating what we should do tonight. Including with Swifty… since that was what you wanted to know.”

Carefully, Twilight stepped across the short gap between their seats and joined Sniff as he sat further into the corner. The rich scent of clover made his welcoming arm around her all the more intoxicating as she anticipated his next move as she was pulled up into his lap.

“Do you know how hard it is for me to have to keep holding back? I mean, at first, a lot of it was how much I missed having a woman with me. It wasn’t always a lady I was trying to help. Sometimes it was simply another woman who just wanted to find a man to treat her to a good time.”

Having Twilight comfortably positioned, he began to inch the hem of Twilight’s skirt up. An uncomfortably inviting heat slowly emanated out, alerting him to the current state of her condition. He wasn’t surprised, but he was back in his element.

“I want to help you in every way I can.”

The fabric rose higher, revealing her inner thighs. With every growing inch exposed, her heart rate quickened.

“I know what I like, how to get it, and what it’s worth… I need you to know that, too. Then—”

As his fingers breached the only remaining barrier to his lady’s modesty, he felt her go limp: a member of royalty, his to command.

“I think when you understand all that, then you’ll know what to do without being so embarrassed about it.”

Twilight released a long gasp as her inner walls were parted again, quelling her agency like a warm bed on a lonesome autumn night.

She had what she needed, and even if she still felt a little disappointed in herself, feeling her loving human was too good not to steal her focus. Although there was still something on her mind, she couldn’t help thinking about. Something she had a better understanding of now, given the events of the night before.

“Mmm, yes… Swifty’s tongue is amazing. Mmmm, by Starswirl’s beard, you make me feel so goddamn good.” Another gasp encouraged her inquiry even further. “Ohh, yes… Tell me how you want her to use it on you."

Sniff dropped a few extra bits into the hoof of the driver, happy to see he wasn’t bringing any extra attention to the circumstances that brought them there.

“Thanks again, and sorry about the confusion. Crisis avoided, at least.”

The driver gave a bow, and left without complaint, leaving a very pleased Twilight to explain exactly where they were, shifting seamlessly back into her more bookish self.

"Oh, thank you again, Peter. I feel so much better now. It's kinda too bad that we didn't make it here earlier. Follow me up these steps."

The sites of the city were picturesque, leaving Sniff to wonder what the purpose of this building was.

"So, where are we?"

Revealing a golden key, the backend looking like an hourglass silhouette, Twilight was happy to answer.

"This is where I used to live."

She used the key and opened the doors. Inside was a three-story, open-floor flat, that was two-fifths science lab, two-fifths library, and one-fifth a place one could call a home. And all one hundred percent of it was uncleaned.

"It might not look much, but this place made up a lot of my childhood. Actually, most of my life. I lived here up until about six years ago when I moved to Ponyville."

Sniff took a look around the dusty old nerd escape, seeing its charm for what it was.

"A nice little bachelor's pad. Who’d you stay here with?"

Twilight gave a cute little laugh, thinking of how silly the question was.

"Just me and Spike. I was given my own place to help raise him. Now though, I was thinking this would be a nice little getaway for you and Top Shelf. No guards to worry about that way."

Now that they were truly alone, Sniff wanted to discuss this aspect of their relationship.

"You're really into this herding concept, aren't you?"

An honest question and one Twilight had plenty of time to think about, making her happy to discuss.

"Of course I am. This is so much more than just the friendship lessons I learned about. Plus, the physical nature of what we get to share is so incredible. In only starting to see the social and mental benefits that come along with it."

Still seeking all the wonderful discoveries, she started to lead him up the levels of the old home.

"Stress relief, confidence building, a sense of belonging, moral support, and so many lonely mares can finally find companionship.' She looked over her shoulder as she cleared off her old bed. "Aren't you enjoying the benefits?"

That question should have been easy to answer, but Sniff had to really give it some thought.

"I am, but I can only do so much, you know?"

Twilight sat on the edge of her bed, welcoming Sniff to join her, though in a non-sexual way this time.

"Yes, I'm starting to see that, too. There should be a limit one should expect for a herd to function as, but we're slowing down enough, aren't we?"

A little more comfortable, Sniff sat next to her, mentally running through the list of mares he'd been courting.

"I suppose we are. But it's not just me who can only do so much. I don't want to leave anyone out in the cold and feel neglected. If I really am just helping others understand what they want and need to find the relationship they're looking for, I need to know they're being taken care of."

Seeing the need for comfort, Twilight leaned against Sniff, wrapping her forelegs around him.

"And you are, Peter. Everypony you've been helping has grown, and seen the benefits of joining us. They're even taking what we've learned from you and have been applying it towards each other. So if you're worried about us relying on you too much, I don't think that's going to be a problem. Especially with Swifty and Lyra getting so into the more intimate forms of a herding relationship."

It seemed so twisted, but in some way, it gave Sniff comfort. Even if she didn't have a full grasp or control over her sexuality, she was gaining the confidence to do so. She was growing and maturing, becoming her own person… or pony, in this case.

"I'm glad I can help you all in this. So long as it's what you want, I'm happy to help keep doing what we’re doing. Not just the sex, but everything. I’m glad I can be a better version of myself here with all of you.”

If Twilight just heard what she thought she did, then there was something far more pressing to address.

“Peter,” she softly spoke as she repositioned herself to sit upright. “I know that Ovens has more or less taken the lead on trying to help you deal with what your problems were back on your world. I know it’s not your health, or nightmares of war. I can only imagine what must haunt you from your past, but I couldn't ask for you to be any better of a human than you are now. All I know is that what we're doing is helping you, but this is my first real chance to thank you for all you've done."

Getting caught up in the moment, she looked up and pulled their lips together, a sad but loving kiss shared between them. It was soft and tender, and though her libido beckoned for more, she pulled back to finish her train of thought, or at least what she could with the time they had.

“I apologize in advance if I get carried away and want to pull you away for a while, but I want to treat you to as much of the best that Canterlot has to offer. I know of a wonderful place the nobles often brag about. I figured we’d go there for lunch. There’s also a theater with shows that change almost every week, I thought you like to see them perform… but if you’d also like… Swifty will be meeting us here soon, and after what you told me-”

While incredibly tempting, Sniff didn’t need this at the moment, despite how much he thought about how great that would be about now.

“Swifty had plenty of me this morning. You're the one who held out, so how about this."

He pulled her into his lap, making sure she felt his arousal, despite them being fully clothed. He kept his hands firm on her hips and kissed her again, deeper, longer, teasing her with more that he knew she would want, then parted lips as soon as she tried to lower his hands.

"Today is about me and you. Tonight is about me and you. Let's just focus on each other until the morning. Maybe after that, Swifty will have some more to look forward to."

He raised his eyebrows, making it clear he wanted more than what they’d done so far, which of course, caused her tail to twitch and her ears to go on the fritz.

“Oh,” Sniff jested with a coy grin. “Does my Princess like the sound of that.”

It most certainly did, prompting Twilight to feel a little selfish with her time.

“Oh, fuck,” she desperately moaned. “Yes, please. But you can’t just keep me waiting all day for that. Can I… Can you take your pants off? I need to feel you against me. I’m so horny right now. The ride here wasn’t enough. I need to ride you!”

He practically asked for this, so who was he to say no at this point? So, at a rabid pace, the two began removing their lower halves. Twilight nearly tore her panties, given all the other garments in her way, and Sniff pushed his pants down to his ankles.

Overtaken by lust, Twilight pushed Sniff down onto his back and mounted him, feeling his girth mashing against her slathered center.

“Oh! Son of a bitch! Gah! Uuho!” She wailed, grinding herself harder against his manhood. “How ahh! Uhh! About a late lunch! Mmm.”

After learning a lot about the three suspects, Flash had left to go about his duties, leaving Cerb and the four mares slightly less motivated. However, Spitfire had a counterpoint to their perspectives.

“Take it from me. Just because a pony has a stellar record, doesn’t mean they’re incapable of breaking the law. Prime example, one of our old mentors and now defamed Wonderbolts, Wind Rider, framed Rainbow Dash for sabotaging our performance by sending me off on a wild chase for a cure for my sick mother. Turns out, my mother was fine, and the flower didn’t even grow that time of year. However, that didn’t mean the Crystal Mountains, where I was told to go, weren’t dangerous for even a skilled Wonderbolt like me.”

On that point, Rarity had an instant recall of those events.

“That’s right! Wind Rider was a very well-respected and admired Wonderbolt. Of course, his disgraceful actions had him stripped of his titles and removed from the Wonderbolts.”

“More than that,” Fleetfoot added confidently. “It was kept private, but he was court-martialed after that for a whole slew of infractions. Behavior unbecoming of an officer, fraud, and endangerment of a EUP service member, to name a few.”

Spitfire took a closer seat at the table, putting all her attention on Cerb.

“We’ve been through the whole court-martial process. We also… umm… found out about what happened to your friend Kelly. So, while we know my case wasn’t as serious as hers, we at least know what to expect and wanted to give you as much first-hoof knowledge to make sure these stallions get what’s coming to them.”

Sure, Spitfire was one fluttering of her lashes away from openly flirting with Cerb, but Rarity could see how that wishful thinking was landing them the support that might not have been available because of it. Wisely, she let it slide for the time being.

“We should take all the help we can get, Justin. I might have been the one to crack the case about Wind Rider, but I wasn’t involved for the…. Is a court-martial like a trial?”

Even if this was a crazy pony-world, Benny could explain this part.

“A court-martial is a military trial. Military-appointed judges upholding military laws with court proceedings with slightly different procedures. I’ve never been to one, but I’ve had to deal with a few sailors going to Captain’s Mast when I served. It’s basically a trial by the commanding officer, but not with the same authority of a court, but some sailors ended up going to or requesting a court-martial anyway. So, I do know a bit about it.”

Cerb, nonchalantly, offered his experience.

“I’ve been to one, escorting the accused to trial as his bailiff. The guy was intoxicated on base and assaulted an officer with a weapon. Long story short, they took him down hard. Most court-martials give no love to the defendants. Most the time, they already assume you’re guilty if you’re there to begin with.

Fashionably late, a knock came to the door, with a lovely pink princess poking her head inside.

"Is it okay to come in? I brought some help."

The group motioned Cadance in, followed by Chris and Raven. Cadance was unexpected, Raven wasn’t, but Chris was late. Naturally, Chris being late prompted a sharp remark from Cerb.

"I'm guessing you got lost. Where was it? The city, the castle, or your bedroom?"

While well deserved, but not appreciated, Chris answered.

"All three, but I had to wait for some I knew to escort me around after… You know."

Thankfully, Benny understood that Chris, the newly devirginized brony had a demanding mare and a weak will to fend her off.

"Leave him be. It's not like he missed much anyway. Raven should have everything else we need."

Sadly, Raven's sudden withering demeanor changed the tone of the room.

"I actually only have most of the documents leading up to the events of the incident at the Apple Farm. There are a lot of documents with information that have been redacted that I have to go back and have properly cleared, given their sensitive nature, or haven't been finalized."

Every pair of eyes were cast on Raven. Doubt and discontent stabbed her like daggers.

"Please, try to understand that we've had a very difficult time trying to properly annotate the severity of the attack that took place. That and the investigation has been very thorough in interrogating those involved, one of which was only medically cleared to speak a few days ago, and the third guard is still in a coma. We still can't verify his side of the story."

Raven knew this was detrimental to their cause, but she was backed into a corner at this point. She had to level with them.

"Some of this is my fault for not being able to catch up in time. I should have the bulk of them to you by tomorrow. I promise."

That was a letdown, but there was still so much for the rest of them to go over with Chris and get his insight. It was Benny again who took the lead on how to move forward.

"Chris, Cerb, and I only have a limited understanding of how the trial will go down. Fleetfoot and Spitfire will help with teaching us how things will go down. We also have the character profiles for the guards that attacked Kelly. We'll figure out the rest tomorrow."

After an accelerated pegasus transport, courtesy of the Royal Guard, had delivered Redheart and Doctor Horse in less than an hour. Combined with EKG, they were almost making progress, inspiring a continuous string of questions from EKG, now, solely focused on the current string of tests.

"Blood cells… Just look at them. Real, live blood cells. How many of them do you think there are?"

Kelly, nearing the point of feeling too annoyed to continue answering, did her best to keep her civilities to a doctor who seemed to care. Thankfully sitting hunched over at a desk, reading up on the hypothalamus, hid most of her physical signs of agitation.

"I don't claim to know how many are considered normal for a pony. What we’re looking for are damaged red blood cells and the abundance of white blood cells."

Redheart, believing she was following along, tried not to sound as bothered as well, keeping her questions more practical.

"An elevated white blood count should indicate an infection, but what are you looking for in regards to the damaged red blood cells?”

This was a bit out of Becky’s expertise, but she knew enough to speak generally about the abnormality.

“I’ll need your help to narrow down the cause, but if we find broken red blood cells, that could indicate a blockage in the bloodstream, or his liver being damaged. If not, I’m really going to need your help to see if the worst-case scenario is what we’re dealing with.”

Very much out of the know, Rainbow hated being the dumbest one in the room, but the curiosity was killing her now.

“Hey Becky, I know you’re getting a million and one questions today, but why are there two types of blood cells?”

Had not it been Rainbow, Becky would have had something snide to say, but her wing mare had stuck with her and the others through the most boring of tasks. Beyond being her best friend while stuck in this world, she deserved a proper explanation.

“Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to all the other cells in the body and trade the oxygen for carbon dioxide. Without that exchange, all the other cells would die, killing the pony with them. The white blood cells seek out foreign bodies like bacteria or anything else that can make you sick. The body will make more white blood cells if there’s an infection.”

Just in time, Shining returned with a nurse who handed over the newest test results.

“Becky, the optometrist was reluctant to do the test you requested on an unconscious patient, but she said your concerns were right.”

And just like that, an uneasy chill seemed to fill the room. Becky was angry, scared, and stuck in a horrible dilemma.

“Fuck… Close the books on infections. Focus on anything related to the nervous system. Get as familiar with it as you can and get him in for… Shit… Do you have an MRI machine? CT Scan? Even an Ultrasound will do if that’s all you have. We’ll need as much imagery of his skull as possible. Dash, Shining, take me back to the castle. I need to speak to Celestia and everyone else.”

Rainbow was already on alert. She didn’t know why, but something had gone horribly wrong to have Becky this worked up. Her instincts for fight or flight were kicking in, but she had no target to focus on.

“What happened? What’s going on? Why are we going back?”

Becky stood up; the gravity of the situation weighing down on her turned into a panic, and she lost her balance. She swayed for a moment but was quickly caught by Rainbow and Shining rushing to her side.

“I’m gonna be sick. Get me out of here.”

Whatever was happening, Shining knew it was an emergency and took charge, barking his orders to everyone in the room.

“Doctor Horse, Nurse Redheart, both of you focus on the books. Doctor EKG, get whatever Becky needs for Swift Hoof. Rainbow, put Becky on my back. We’re getting her out of here.”

Letting herself in, as instructed, Swifty entered the living quarters of Celestia’s former most faithful student-turned-princess. With her sharply tuned sense, she discovered what had transpired in her absence.

“Awwwwe~ I thought Peter wasn’t getting spoiled like this until the end of the night.”

From higher up, Twilight’s chipper voice called down.

“No! That’s still happening! Come on up!”

With a growingly positive outlook, Swifty took to flight.

Two floors of books, scientific equipment, and other discarded items parted by foot and hoof tracks in the dust led up to Twilight and Sniff lying in a bed just barely big enough for the two. A pair of panties ripe with the scent of arousal lay on the bedpost overhead of the happy couple cuddled together.

"Sorry, but I couldn't hold out,” Twilight apologized. “Peter is still saving himself for tonight, though."

Sniff smiled innocently and made a small gesture with his free hand. His scent clearly not having passed the highly interested stage.

"Twilight wants to spoil me tonight, so I'm saving up for that."

Swifty ruffled her feathers in a show of excitement and wiggled her rump, beaming a bright smile.

"Oh, I can't wait to hear how that goes."

She gave another heavily flirtatious smile. Her temptation to instigate something for herself dancing at the tip of her tongue, nearly escaping as she saw the opportunity within pouncing distance, but instead sighed.

"You two sure know how to make a girl jealous, but anyway. There’s not a lot to report. Word came in that Becky requested Doctor Horse and Nurse Redheart to help at the hospital. Cerb and Benny have been busy all day with Captain Flash Sentry. Chris did join them, but that wasn't until much later."

She gave a little snort before laughing as she remembered running into him and Cadance along the way.

"I'm guessing Chris and Starlight had a wonderful time together in town. I think Princess Cadance must have got a nose full after Chris had an even better time back in his room. Starlight was out for the count, and Cadance had to escort him to the others."

The two on the bed had a little laugh at that as well, giving some thought to Twilight as well.

"Oh, poor Cadance. I'm sure Shining will be getting some extra attention tonight. I'm sure she knows what's going on, and seeing other ponies in love always makes her more affectionate towards him."

A likely situation, given she was the Princess of Love after all, though it inspired a question from Sniff.

"Hey? You ever talk to her about sex? She might know something we still don't."

That was true, but Twilight had her mind elsewhere and turned over to face her human stallion.

"I was going to earlier, but she was getting all lovey-dovey with my brother in front of me, so I didn't want to interrupt."

The Red flag was noticed, and Sniff was instantly ready to kill the conversation.

"Oh, yeah. I guess hearing about your brother getting busy isn't the greatest conversation to have."

And just like that, the thought of her brother doing anything sexual had the kind of reaction one would expect on Twilight.

"Uck! Let's not talk about that. Like, ever. But, how about we head back so I can change? I didn’t think I'd get this bad, but thankfully Rarity thought ahead and made some extra panties for me."

No sooner did Twilight and company make it back, were they promptly approached by the guards.

“Princess Twilight, Mister James. Your presence is required in Becky’s room. There has been an incident that requires your attention.”

This seemed too unreal, and Peter couldn’t believe anything could have happened after everything that had gone down with Kelly. There had to be some misunderstanding or a poor delivery of something that only looked bad.

“Was Becky hurt? What happened?”

The guard seemed unshaken by the questions, still standing tall and proper, and answered with clear delivery.

“No, sir. She was not harmed; however, we were not given any details as to why she appeared so shaken. Princess Celestia has not shared the specifics, but the incident left Becky weak and feeling ill, though she has already recovered.”

Those symptoms quickly sounded familiar enough to calm Sniff, but all the more reason to investigate.

“Shit. Something must have spooked her good. Twi, Swifty, let’s go.”

The three ran the entire way to Becky’s room, where they found the whole group, save Lumberman and Applejack, gathered around. Becky, herself, was lying in bed, comforted between Rainbow and Shining, Cadance standing close by, and even Kühn was ready to seemingly protect her if needed. However, oddly enough, Kelly and Luna sat a bit farther away near the window.

At least now that Sniff and Twilight were back, Becky could get started.

“Kühn, could you wait for us outside, please?”

The intimidating yak nodded and, as requested, departed the room. When the door closed, Becky looked practically sickly.

“Sorry to cause a panic. I did everything I could at the hospital, and when I realized what happened to the pony that attacked Kelly, I kinda freaked out.”

Apparently, her discovery must have been discussed enough that most of those in the room looked sympathetic to her, though Kelly held a mixed look of anger and hurt. Probably why she was sitting further away and still being held by Luna.

No matter the opinions of those in the room, Becky needed everyone to know the truth.

“His name is Swift Hoof. He’s been in a coma since Big Mac fought him off when he tried to kill Kelly. Big Mac fucked him up good. I can’t explain it, but his injuries are worse than any other pony I’ve seen so far, and unlike Redheart or Applejack, he doesn’t seem to be healing fast like they are. But I think he’s slowly dying, and I don’t know what to do about it.”

Mournfully, Celestia brought herself face to face with Twilight. Her expression was nearly that of the night Kelly was brought to her on death’s bed.

“It was briefly explained to me, but Becky believes that during the fight with Big Mac and the other guards has done serious damage to Swift Hoof. He appears to have suffered a head injury that has caused swelling of the brain. It’s the reason that he hasn’t awoken from his coma.”

“It’s more than that,” Becky added, the emotional pain gripped in her voice. “He’s been having fevers off and on, meaning the pressure has physically caused changes in how his body functions. He might have already suffered permanent brain damage, and he needs actual brain surgery… I… don’t know what to do now.”

After such a wonderful day out with Sniff, it looked like yet another crisis was going to ruin everything.

On second thought, even if Swift Hoof had attacked Kelly, Twilight couldn’t reason allowing him to die. She had to save this.

“But… Can’t you do something? With all of your medical knowledge-”

“I can’t,” Becky whined, nearly crying out the words. “Applejack was one thing, but the kind of surgery he needs could kill him if done wrong. I don’t have that kind of control over my hands, even if I knew how to safely do it.”

With a look of even more bad news, Benny gave a long sigh, knowing there were more problems to be concerned over.

“We need to make a decision of how much involvement, if any, Becky should have in this. Just being real, if she did attempt the surgery, and he dies, some might look at it like she killed him on purpose as an act of revenge. If she does nothing and he dies, then they can just as easily say she let him die out of spite.”

Adding to the list of problems, Cerb had another issue to bring up. Something he could already see growing into a bigger problem.

“We have to take into consideration that we’re foreigners to them, and not everypony might care that this Swift Hoof attacked Kelly without reason. From the reports we went over today, he was a good soldier. Well-liked, clean record, even received a commendation for community service by helping dispense supplies after Tirek attacked the capital.”

From the window, Kelly’s muffled voice seeped over the room, but only her anger was understood, prompting Celestia to turn and address the slighted woman.

“Come again?”

With a resentful huff, Kelly repeated herself with further ire.

“Forbid Becky from helping. She figured out what’s wrong with him, that makes her a hero. She came to you to say what he needed, but since she’s not fit to cut his skull open, make a law or whatever you need to say to remove her from killing him on accident. No one can blame her for not helping him live if you say she was never allowed to.”

The room was shocked. While it might have been at least somewhat sensible to protect Becky from public scrutiny, it was still essentially a death sentence. However, as the legality of all the matters started clicking for Chris, he recognized the fault in that logic that all but guaranteed danger in their future.

“Uh, guys? If we’re playing the hypothetical blame game here, then letting him die is going to put Kelly back in danger.”

All eyes turned to Chris, metaphorically twiddling his thumbs as he tried to explain his theory.

“Think about it. If he needs the surgery, but nopony knows how to do it and he dies, they’re not going to blame the doctors who couldn’t save him… They’re going to blame the pony who put him in the hospital in the first place… They’re going to blame Big Mac.”

Another threat was the last thing any of them needed, and Starlight wanted to believe he was wrong.

“No, Chris. You can’t think that. No pony would blame Big Mac for this. He was protecting Kelly.”

This situation was quickly spiraling into one doomsday scenario after the next, but the humans were all of Twilight’s responsibility. She had her responsibilities and needed to own up to them.

“Swift Hoof isn’t going to die,” Twilight ordered with firm confidence. “We ponies are tough. No matter how beaten, and battered, or bloodied, we always pull through. And when things really get dicey, we have a human’s helping hand to pull us through the worst of it.”

She turned back to Becky on the bed, still resolute in her decree.

“Becky, your hands might not be up to the task, but your eyes and mind are as keen as your intentions are pure. Let Doctor Horse perform the operation, but you stay with him as the medical advisor. Nurse Redheart can supervise with anyone else you recommend to assist. You will not be blamed for anything that happens to Swift Hoof, as I’ll take full responsibility for anything that happens in that operating room. And Big Mac’s actions saved Kelly’s life, and potentially more than hers, given how violent they were that day. There isn’t a jury in the world that could find him guilty, and neither would the public opinion.”

She marched over to the bedside, letting Shining move enough to give her space to reach over and take Becky’s hand into her hooves. Her stern face turned soft with a comforting smile.

“You’re smarter and more talented than you give yourself credit for… You don’t need to put all the responsibility on yourself, just like how you let Justin and Rarity take over for you; you can let others take over the physical demands and just allow yourself to help from behind. Just do your best, and I know everything will be fine. I believe in you.”

Picking up on her own responsibilities, Rainbow was right there back in her prime to motivate her ward.

“Becky, Twilight is right. Nopony can blame you for doing your best. And I know you. You’re a good human. One of the best. Top seven, at least.”

Her stupid little joke landed perfectly, sparking a laugh from Becky. Just long enough to let Rainbow pick back up with some more to add.

“You saved Kelly and Applejack’s lives, patched up Justin even, and evaluated every injured pony we’ve come across to make sure they were fine, and you haven’t let any of us down even once. And yeah, this is a lot bigger, but maybe that’s what you’ve been working up to. Getting more familiar, more ready to deal with the unexpected and worst-case scenarios. You even pretty much knew what his problem was before all the tests were done. Becks… you were made for this.”

With everything laid out, even Kelly could see this was the best path for everyone involved and joined Becky on the bed. It wasn’t only that; she could see how difficult this decision must have been and pulled Becky in for an encouraging hug.

"Forget what I said earlier. We can't pick and choose who to save. If you can save this prick, then that's only going open up more possibilities for finding a cure for you."

While it wasn't clear how that would happen, Becky could understand that every advancement held promise for new discoveries. So perhaps this was the smartest thing to do.

"You're right, Kel. Thank you."

Just to make sure no one thought something had changed more than it should have in her, Kelly had one last point to make.

"Besides… How's that asshole gonna pay for what he did to me if we let him off easy like that?"

Becky snorted, breaking off into a laugh, making her hold onto her dear friend a bit tighter.

"I got your back, girl. He'll pay. I won't let him slip away without getting what's coming to him."

A sense of calm started to settle over the room, and Celestia was left with a mix of emotions. How they managed to deduct so many outcomes that were the most likely to have fallout had ended with them agreeing to value the life of one who tried to kill the friend was something she didn't think even most ponies would consider, but somehow these creatures did?

The possibility of having misjudged them started to eat at her. Then again, only in time would their true intentions be seen. She still had to stay positive, regardless.

"Becky, I trust you to do everything in your power to ensure a successful operation. I also assure you that there will be no backlash in the unlikely occurrence of anything going wrong."

It was settled. Becky was to oversee the impossible task of training ponies to perform brain surgery. It would have felt empowering if it wasn't so overwhelming of an idea.

"Thank you. I’ll do everything I can, but I might hit a point where I can’t help any further because the risk is too great of doing more harm than good… Just keeping the expectations reasonable, that we might have to close him up before saving him.”

Truth be told, no one could fully appreciate the kind of pressure Becky was under, but Kelly knew better than most when their friend needed to decompress.

“Hey, Beck? Are you going to be good for tonight? I’m sure they’ll understand if you don’t make it out for the Werewolf Party. I can stay behind if you want some company.”

There was a charming quality to Kelly’s smile, almost like she was offering more than conversational company for the night. That or perhaps Becky was just projecting.

“Thanks, Kel, but no to both. I don’t think I’m much in the mood for a crowd tonight. You all should go out and enjoy yourselves. I just want to unpack what I put in my head.

If that was taken care of, then only the remaining care for Becky remained, among other things. But what was Celestia if not a gracious host?

“Becky, as always, the staff are at your disposal for whatever you wish. And Benny, Justin, I apologize for the delay of the remaining records you requested. I’m sure you understand the importance of ensuring the most accurate reports are recorded, but they will be ready for you in the morning. I would stay longer, but unfortunately, there is still business to attend to.”

Given recent events, new, unexpected developments had been born from the chaos of a human’s intervention.

“It seems the Abyssinians are already planning on expanding their clothing trade, and that will require opening additional ports, and there are many details still to be worked out.”

Still wanting to be helpful, but knowing full well what awaited him after his day with Twilight, Sniff hedged his bets with favors with two opposing parties.

“It sounds like you have things under control, Princess. I’m sure we could offer plenty of help tomorrow if needed. Twilight and I still have a lot on our plate for the rest of the day, but after that-”

He turned to Twilight, now on the edge of the bed, if not the edge of her seat, looking like a deer caught in the headlights.

“Twilight, you’re learning so much about my world today. Would it be alright if I learn a little more about yours with the other leaders tomorrow? Build some better bridges? Help show how well we work together?”

After everything Sniff had accomplished so far, Twilight couldn’t even be mad and put himself between her and Celestia. He was still helping her, trying to fix things, let them be open about each other, and maybe even turn Celestia around on everything.

It wasn’t even a question anymore.

“That sounds like a wonderful idea, Peter.”

There was nothing Celestia could do but act grateful and bow to give her acceptance.

“I’m sure your help will be more than welcomed if negotiations break down.”

The group all gave some additional words of confidence and their obligatory offers of comfort, though Rainbow, Shining, and Cadance stayed behind. Rainbow and Shining stayed for Becky, while Cadance was waiting for Shining, but Becky was glad to have all of them.

"Thanks for getting me out of there when you did, you guys. And Shining … sorry that I threw up on you."

Like a good friend, Shining just laughed it off.

"That's nothing. You should see what Flurry Heart can do."

Even if the worst of the day seemed to be over, Rainbow was still worried about another event that could have happened.

"Did you feel anything in your freak out? We didn't… you know… Well, at least me.”

Humans were anti-magic to a point, and Becky remembered this all too well.

“I think so. It felt like… I trusted you both. Like… I wanted… I dunno. Like I even though you were both there for me, I was also there for you. And… I guess it was kind of like how I felt that time I first threw up in front of you, Dash. Only this time, there was something else there… Bright… Warm… Strong to the point I felt safer the more you carried and held me on the way out.”

All interesting attributes, but something wasn’t adding up for Rainbow. Sure, she wasn’t the most well-rounded in her education, but the history of their magic and its reaction to humans didn’t make any sense.

“That sounds an awful lot like loyalty, though I’m not sure about the other part. Still, the first time you had that happen to you, you said you weren’t scared at all. Is there something else that might be able to cause your vulnerability to act up? Not unless you actually were scared of something that day.”

Surprisingly, Becky didn’t have to do much to remember that day. Not when it was that bizarre of an experience.

“No… I was just excited to see you train. It was the first time it really set in that I was here and could actually be a part of something that was unreal. That I could be a part of a world so much better than mine… As stupid as that sounds.”

While not a great explanation, Rainbow couldn’t help but make an obvious observation.

“Maybe it’s not just fear for everyone. Maybe it’s just strong emotions in general?”

Coming from Rainbow, not a bad theory. Not as far as Cadance was concerned.

“Emotions can be complicated,” Cadance softly stated. “Sometimes even our good emotions can overwhelm us to the point they could scare the person feeling them. Maybe even, and I hope not to offend, but perhaps you’ve all been so used to dealing with your hardships that your mind couldn’t tell the difference.”

If that was true, it was horribly depressing to hear.

“Maybe,” Kelly quietly answered.

In the grand scheme of things, this was all trivial, and Shining only felt more compelled to do right by Becky.

“Hey. We don’t know that, and does it even really matter? You are here. And not just you, you have all your best friends with you. Your real family, and Dash, and me, and Cadance, and everypony else that want to make sure that those terrible things you left behind can’t take away from a better, happier life while you’re here with us.”

Now that’s the kind of motivation Rainbow could get behind, turning her entire persona back to the cocky powerhouse of positivity she was best known for.

“Hell yeah! Think about it, Becks. You’re living in a castle rent-free, partnered up with the coolest Wonderbolt to ever wear the uniform, protected by practically every kingdom that is worth a shit, and a small army of humans who could beat the strongest contenders just by getting mad enough. Not only that, you’re smart, a hell of a lot prettier than you probably even realize, and such a great goddamn friend that even a Princess wants you to date her husband even though you could have any stallion you wanted! You got it made! So forget clearing your head! Let’s go do that Werewolf Party thing tonight, then you can worry about how awesome you’re gonna look when you keep the dip-shit alive long enough to rot in a dungeon.”

And in a mental countdown of three, two, one… Shining had mastered the art of being oblivious.

“Becky’s dating a prince? When did I miss that?”

Adorable. So much so that Cadance gifted Shining with a nice big kiss on the cheek.

“Oh, you are just the sweetest thing, Shiny. You said you’d take her out on a date.”

Shining blinked a few times, letting those gears turn as they should, then started to laugh.

“Ha! Okay. Okay. Very funny ladies. I never said I was taking Becky on a date. I’m just taking her out around town and maybe having lunch… or… dinner?"

And in three, two, one, Shining realized what should have been obvious, but Cadance still knew she had to explain this to him.

“I’m sorry, hunny. I thought you knew what she was asking for, but I had told her that if she was afraid of picking the wrong pony, she should just ask you.”

On that note, Becky couldn’t help but blush a little, remembering that moment.

“No, Cadance. You said more than that.”

Just shy of the song ending Becky’s dance with Midnight, her pace slowed to such a more noticeable degree that even half in the bag, she couldn't hide her discomfort.

"Could you help me to my seat?” She asked her dance partner. “I think I'm about to drop."

Without even a question, Midnight returned to all fours and offered a wing to escort Becky back, never making eye contact with the would-be stallions that sought to ask her for a dance. The one pony he couldn’t avoid, was Princess Cadance walking next to them, politely budding in.

“Pardon us for a moment, Midnight. I need to speak with Becky for a moment.”

Midnight stepped away, making sure Becky was on stable feet before he walked off. The other ponies surrounding them seemed to keep their distance out of respect, allowing Becky to stay calm.

“I’m sorry, Cadance. I think I’m all danced out. Maybe next time?”

Cadance laughed off the comment, playing a little coy about it.

“Goodness, no. Becky. Thank you, but I don't think you could swing me around the way Justin did. This isn’t exactly that kind of music anyway.”

That was cute and certainly accurate. That whole night was pretty crazy, especially considering how Shining had acted and nearly caused an incident. More than ridiculous enough to get Becky, in all her inebriated senses, to laugh it up.

Of course, Cadance only saw this as the perfect segway.

“Anyway, I wanted to have you alone for this. I couldn’t help but notice just how close you and Shining have become since that night, and you just so happen to put yourself in a position that you need to ask a stallion out.”

The words were spoken so perfectly in that “You think I didn’t know” tone, Becky couldn’t help but think Cadance had assumed this was a homewrecker scenario she had uncovered. And, of course, this served to put her more than a little on edge.

After all the goodwill this princess had extended, such an accusation alone could end horribly, and now Becky had to do damage control while dancing on eggshells. Of course, lacking sobriety, she was a nervous wreck.

“Oh, fuck. Cadance, please believe me. It’s nothing like that. We’re just friends, but if you thought I was trying to steal your husband or anything like that-”

Becky’s one-eighty put her off balance, and Cadance reached out with her wings to help stabilize both Becky’s balance as well as her emotional state.

“Becky, no, please. I know it’s nothing like that. Shining and I have talked all about your concerns. You have nothing to worry about. We both trust you… That’s why I was going to say that if you’re having trouble finding the right stallion to ask, Peter and I both think you should just ask Shining to hold up your side of the bet.”

Well, that was actually far better than Becky could have hoped for as far a resolution went, and she answered by reaching out and hugging around Cadance’s neck.

“Jesus, Cadance. You about gave me a heart attack, but are you sure he’ll be okay with it?”

Cadance smiled proudly, knowing how lucky Shining was to have this opportunity gifted to him, then eased Becky back and ushered her away.

“He thinks the world of you. I’m sure he’ll say yes without even thinking about it. Just don’t get carried away. You know who has a hold on his heart after all.”

Whatever caused Becky’s life to get this crazy, she’d never know for sure, but it was too crazy not to enjoy the madness that it was, and she laughed it up as she started back to find her seat. That is, for all of four steps before stopping to catch her balance. Then another three brave steps that came with the dull ache of legs physically nagging her.

A little help wouldn’t hurt at the moment, unlike her legs which were both getting ready to hurt her, which was of little help. She’d just have to rough it out a bit more. Her seat wasn’t far beyond this next corner.

"Oof," Becky grunted, not really in pain as she bumped into Rainbow. "There you are. Come on. Help me upstairs."

Shining blinked a few times, trying to figure out where the line was really being drawn between the mare he loved and the woman he was attracted to. Was there some silent agreement between them, or maybe another part of the story that was left out that he should be excited to hear about later? What’s more, was figuring out how to even go about asking about it.

“So, is this like a date-date? I don’t know what I’m doing anymore. Because you made it sound like it’s not a date that two ponies would go on a date for.”

Rainbow, on one hand, was getting a kick out of watching Shining being messed with, but on the other was that feeling she had again. She hadn’t really noticed it until after getting Becky back to the castle.

It was just like before at Twilight’s castle when Shining helped Becky back to her bed there. It was in Shining, yet in her, like an echo or a reflection. Like a distant bright light flickering, sending waves of warmth that vanished too quickly to properly identify. Although one trait that she couldn’t ignore was that its source was strong.

Then again, with so many other mares still carrying their scents of human lovers and the sex they’d obviously had that day was distracting.

Why did being horny have to make focusing on anything so much harder?

“Hey, Becks. Would you mind if I flew off for a while? It sounds like you two need to plan out your not a date-date, date, and I need to get some flight time in. Especially after staying cooped up in the hospital all day.”

Speaking of getting out and away for a while, Shining had another stop to make.

"Oof. Hey, if we're going out, I should probably wash off the rest of the vomit. I'll be back after I get cleaned up."

Cadance waived the ponies off who sitting close to Becky on the bed.

"I'll keep Becky company and help her get ready. See you tonight, Dash, and take your time Shining, dear."

With the two left alone, Becky was feeling well enough to make her way over to the vanity station.

Cadance joined her, compliments at the ready.

"I'm happy Shining was able to help you, even if he was a bit clueless. And I'm sure I can't offer much help to get you ready. You're already so pretty as it is; it's almost a shame to cover any bit of you up. Then those beautiful green eyes of yours. Maybe I should be worried?"

That last one was a joke, obviously, though Becky still had to be respectful of the situation she was in.

"I might be pretty, but you're downright gorgeous. I can't thank you enough for helping me out last night, too. Dashy would have held that over my head forever if I chickened out, but I can't stress enough that I wouldn’t have accepted unless I knew Shining was going to be faithful to you."

Cadance couldn’t help but boast, though her enthusiasm had noticeably dropped.

"Shining and I have never been more committed to each other than we are now. Not that he wouldn't enjoy a little physical affection."

Was that a dirty joke? It had to be, and Becky covered her mouth to stifle her laughter. That was both terrible and funny. Almost like something Kelly would have implied. Pretty obvious the Princess was a rookie when it came to such comments.

"Cadance, you're terrible," she laughed, thinking of testing the waters with a joke of her own, but was beaten by Cadance again.

“Terrible? What loving wife wouldn’t give her husband such beautiful Hip Candy,” she joked, and with a sisterly display of love, she hugged Becky from behind. “Just enjoy yourself today. You even have my permission to give him a smooch or two if you feel like it.”

As much as Becky wanted to laugh off such a ludicrous offer, she couldn't help but think that she'd be okay if it were him. There were so many good qualities to a stallion like Shining, after all.

"Don't tempt me."

After a long day of delegation, dating, researching, and all manors of unexpected developments, all parties had congregated for one final night together. And as Becky pulled up with Shining in an open carriage, Benny could finally begin to start the game.

"Alright, welcome to the Werewolf Party. We had to modify this game a bit from how it's normally played, but this way, I think, will make it a little more exciting."

Hopping out in front of Benny, Pinkie sprang forth, shuffling a deck of cards the size of a small book with casual ease. The deck was split, reshuffled, then dispensed among the crowd as Benny explained the rules.

"Everyone will be given three cards. The first card will explain what role you will play and what abilities you have. The next two cards are special cards that can give you extra abilities, or let you perform actions no one else can."

As the cards were handed out, the faces lit up with what the cards held for them.

"Some of the roles are hunters, who can kill a Werewolf if they catch them during the day. Werewolves can kill any other player that isn't a Werewolf at night. Psychics can read a player’s card one time a night unless another card says they can do more. Also, since this game is a little new, Chris and Starlight have offered to oversee that the rules of the game are properly played and explain any questions that you may have."

A card flashed up in front of Benny, making him grin before grabbing two more cards. Looking at his set, he remembered a few more things to explain.

"Also, just so you know, you can feel free to tell others what your role is, but be aware that Werewolves and a few other special roles will lie about theirs. The name of the game is deception for the werewolves and villains, and deduction and survival for the civilians, royalty, and avengers."

With the basics of the cards explained, Chris and Starlight took to the front to continue the rules, Chris taking the lead.

"I hope you're all ready to have fun because I think we created something special for you. Now, the way this will be played is that different areas of the garden are designated as shelters, businesses, and homes. Some players will claim to be able to do things based on their roles, but anyone can claim to have those roles. However, not every role can do what they need to in those areas, so if you're not a werewolf, you want others to know you can do these roles during the day round. During the night round, other roles have different tasks, and failing to do them removes their special abilities, but this is also when the werewolves will hunt. However, at the start of the next day round, everyone gets to vote on who they think they think the werewolf is. The player with the most votes is removed from the game. The game ends when only the werewolves are all removed… or win. Only then can you escape the Garden.”

No art this week. Sorry about that. It took long enough just to get his chapter done, as I'm still trying to catch up.

Regardless, this chapter did the rare feat of taking place over an entire day, leaving the next chapter to close out the night.

In this day, however, a lot has progressed. The biggest being Celestia asking for Becky's help. That must have taken a lot to accept that help. Even harder for Kelly and Becky to deal with.

Over at the Apple Farm, things for them are staying pretty tame. I'm sure they can appreciate that much, though. With Applejack still recovering, Lumberman could get back to work, and AJ could enjoy some company.

Some of that was just me wanting to show off how awesome Cutter is while following through with what Lyra is responsible for. And while not stated, Zecora was just checking up on AJ.

Continuing on with Becky's new struggle, EKG was added into the mix, but I had to bring Doctor Horse and Redheart back in. Becky knew all too well she couldn't tackle this alone.

Out in town, we got to catch up with Chris and Starlight acting like a real couple... dats about it.

Getting closer to the trial, we get to see some of the crew reviewed the records on those involved. None of which seem to be your standard villains. Not exactly cracking the case, but at least it's a start.

Meanwhile, over in Our Town (Yes, that's the name of the town Starlight once took over), Big Mac is back on delivery duty. Now we get to see the pony he had eyes on before Kelly came into the picture. Of course, it just had to be Sugar Belle.

Of course, that comes along with Feather Bangs, who this time is trying to force his way in against a battle-hardened Big Mac. Also, this time Big Mac isn't trying to clap them cheeks, but also doesn't seem to really like that pony all that much.

Personally, I don't mind the character all that much and even though his singing in the show was pretty good (cliche and corporate pop, but at least performed well). They go out of their way to make you not want to like the guy, given his personality, but oh well. He's in the story now.

Regardless, Sugar Belle got what she wanted the first time around with what should have been Big Mac's chance of wooing her. Big Mac didn't force himself on her the point of making her uncomfortable. Let's see how that goes.

Back with Twilight and Sniff, poor Twi just couldn't keep her panties dry, but when she's trying to find out more about Sniff and what he likes, who's really surprised that she might like it as well? At least this cute couple still have good communication with each other, for the most part. Not only that, Twi hasn't forgotten her goals, nor her place. Just like how Sniff hasn't forgotten to take care of a lady in need.

Jump ahead a bit later, and it was enough to get Swifty near excited enough to sneak in some quality time. Maybe next time.

Getting back with Becky, she had a pretty good idea of what the issue might have been as soon as she heard he had a fever while in his coma. It's crazy what can happen when there's bleeding on the brain or any damage that causes swelling. That's why she was reading up on the Hypothalamus since that's the part of the brain that regulates body temperature.

That all boiled down to her realizing she was in over her head and all the fallout that could happen if she tried to take this on herself. All that turned into real fear and she ended up subcoming to the effects of fear around an Element... and maybe even Shining.

After an emergency trip back to the castle, Twi and her plus two eventually showed up to get the bad news, but that was all thankfully turned around with the quickness.

True, all the concerns could still happen, but with the backing of their friends, it can't be al that bad.

Once all that was cleared up, Shining finally got clued in that he bagged himself a date with the woman he had the hots for, and didn't even know it. Also, like I tend to do, a little spot of time that was glanced over finally got explained. Just spelling it out that Cadance made the offer, and how she did, seemed better told a little more spaced out.

So, with the date pending a quick rinse off, and Rainbow feeling something that made her dip out, Becky was left with Cadance. And Cadance... she's really skirting around the fact that she's okay with Shining getting physical with Becky. However, Becky... girl... you better be careful. That's a married stallion your going on a date with.

Oh? But wait! What's this? it's already night and the date is already over? But... what happened? Both with Becky and Sniff's dates, actually. These were important events, but...

Yeah, you'll find out next chapter, along with how the final party goes next week in: