It was late at night after we had just gotten home from our trip to the Crystal Empire. Scootaloo and Applebloom went with Princess Celestia after we had gotten back to Ponyville. Even went to pick up Sweetie Belle and Babs- who I must say is enjoying her stay at the summer home. Uncle Orange even told me how she's been having less and less nightmares and even less accidents. Even had a guard or two help her with her height stuff. Cant get past the second story floor. Told him within the next couple days that I'd be there to do another thing and see if she can at least make it up to the roof and even offered a dinner. But tonight I'm just... I just felt off. I sat on the roof in my sweats and a hoodie looking up at the moon. Applejack was fast asleep inside because she had a bit of a drink tonight since we didnt have the girls... Yet she had a little too much and I had to diaper her. Even worse? Big Mac was with her too even after his hangover at the castle with Shining. I was laughing hearing him throw up in the bathroom despite feeling a bit gaggy myself. But going past that I sat there feeling as if someone was watching me. Dad would've revealed himself by now and this had been going on since dinner. I hopped down as I heard the ghostly howl of that demon dog I took ownership of. Schrivechnya. As I landed on the ground I saw the burning paw prints come from the trees before the dog that made them appear. Also I know Luna took precautions for me with the dog but she apparently doesnt give anyone she likes diseases. I knelt down and petted her on the head as she breathed from the mouth slobbering everywhere. "Heh... Sorry if I'm not playing with you girl... hard to find time with the family you know?" I said. "How about later you and I can head out to somewhere away from the house and we play some fetch and I let you run around a bit? Sound good?" She let out a small bark as her stubby tail wagged. "Just please dont go bringing me dead animals... Luna said you liked doing that from what she remembered but you need to not do that with me... Kay?" She whimpered a bit. "Sorry girl... I just dont wanna see any cute animals die... Only animals I want dead are the ones who try to hurt me okay? We can work on that though dont worry. Now go on. I'll come retrieve you later. Gotta get back inside."

The dog let out a howl again and ran off disappearing into the orchard. To this day I still dont understand how the fuck that dog likes me. Anyways I flew back up to the window, shut it and just looked back at my wife... she was half naked and I dont remember her being that way when I left the house. I walked around the bed in the dim light of my lamp and saw her pants and her shirt on the floor as well as the covers she had kicked off herself only leaving her in a soaked diaper. I sighed and recovered her before taking my hoodie off and tossing it aside before climbing back into bed again. As I slept I couldnt help just feel so uneasy. Like someone else was in the room but AJ said feelings like that come and go. Just our parents basically keeping an eye on us... dunno if it were mine or hers but I swear they were judging us. Didnt stay asleep for long though. Applejack got up about a half hour later and sprinted out of the room only to hurl moments later. I got up and went to the bathroom found her hugging the toilet. I got behind her and held her mane as she went in for another go. When she came back up she wiped her mouth and spit. "...R-Ry... NEVER.... let me do that again..." She said. "Stomach's.... on fire..." She covered her mouth but to no avail before throwing up again. I sighed.

"AJ... you know whiskey does this to you. Especially when you do a drinking contest with your brother... even I wont challenge the guy. You know what happens when I drink that much." Pissing myself and crying. Fun. And with my strength now? What else will happen? Dont wanna find out. She came back up and spat again.

"...Oh lord... c-can ya get me something to calm my burnin' guts sugarcube...? And... maybe a few aspirin? Head feels... like... like..." She ended up vomiting again and I just shushed her rubbing her back.

"Breathe Aj... I'll be back with some ginger ale and a few pain killers... You just try to get it all out of your system and back into bed okay? I'll even get you changed so you're comfy." She nodded and I carefully leaned her onto the tub before going downstairs and opening the fridge. Grabbed her a can of gingerale and one for myself because holy hell was I starting to feel queasy. I went back up to the bathroom and gave her a can before setting mine down and going into the hall closet for a few pain killers. I had to help her get from the bathroom to the bedroom. I let her drink her stomach soother, she took the pills and I lied her down, changed her and climbed back into bed to cuddle with her.

This time when I fell asleep I didnt feel as uneasy... Felt good to cuddle... maybe I grabbed her... maybe... she didnt really care. Hours later when I woke up I carefully got out of the bed as to not disturb her. I got dressed and went out to the living room where I saw Big Mac in the kitchen brewing coffee. He was wearing basket ball shorts and his teeshirt. He held his head as he waited for the pot to fill. Though... I did have to be an ass at this point. I stopped at the bottom two steps before jumping onto the floor which scared the absolute hell out of him. He jumped, fell stumbling away from the kitchen and looked like he was in utter pain. He looked to me giving a groan as he rolled onto his side. "...God dammit Ry... Ya fuckin' asshole...." He said. "...god damn lucky i've got a strong bladder..." I glanced down at his crotch and saw a puddle forming under him.

"Yeah... seems like it... Why dont you finish up here and go diaper up with your sister? I'll get the towels and get you some coffee okay?" He nodded wiping tears from his embarrassed face. As the puddle stopped growing he stood up sniffling a bit before dropping his shorts and hurrying upstairs. Almost looked as if he tucked his tail between his legs. Guess the reason he wasnt diapered was that he didnt piss the bed when he was drinking with Shining. Thought we could trust him and we could... until I scared him at least. Clean up was quick and easy. Grabbed him his coffee and even left one out for Applejack when she woke up.

After that I left the house but this time I knew something was wrong. My body just told me RED ALERT. It wasnt just because I'm leaving my drunk wife in bed with her brother. That's bound to happen especially when one is less hung over than the other. But I couldnt tell if it was either the fact that I felt I was being watched from somewhere or if it was the guard transport barreling down the road towards the house. I tried my hardest to ignore the 'all eyes on me' feeling and focused on the truck waving it down as I ran up to it. It stopped just short of the opening where the house was. I ran up to the back of it and tapped on the window. It rolled down only to reveal Princess Celestia. "Good morning General how are you today?" She asked. I huffed

"Fine but what are you doing here? Is my sister with you?" I poked my head in only to see my sister leaning on Applebloom and Babs with Sweetie Belle bringing up the end, all still in their pajamas. "Oh my... Why are you bringing her back early?!" She huffed as I stepped back.

"Something came up and I cant keep them at the castle. Luna should be keeping them busy so they stayed asleep and since I cant return Babs to her father because he's elsewhere she's gonna have to come here with your sisters."

"Well they cant be here Princess!" She gave me a confused look

"Really? Why not? I thought you loved Babs!" I looked at the house and huffed.

"Well... They had a drink last night and they are NOT feeling good... maybe try Rarity or Fluttershy or even Twilight for that matter. I'd be happy to watch them if there werent two half drunken hung over adults in the house but because there are I cant. Big Mac knows what to do even though he's had a few and I gotta get going. I gotta make sure I'm still fit for guard work after that much rest." She huffed and looked inside at the cuddled fillies.

"...I suppose... I just dont want to drop them off without any warning.... Plus uh... Babs might be wearing right now... y'know? She was kinda embarrassed about it telling it to me and she's only wearing it because Scootaloo got a bit scared last night when she saw a bear in a movie that wasnt meant to be scary. Nearly slipped my mind she was scared of those things until she had her accident... Lucky she was on the floor otherwise my seat would've been soaked." I sighed.

"Good of her to do that... But its fine. Just... wake her up, let her know what you have to do and to be nice to who ever you drop her off with. Fluttershy is less likely to embarrass her and she'd be able to play with some of the animals. Want me to give her a call for ya?" She shook her head giving me a sigh of relief even though my brain was still firing on all cylinders saying HURRY UP AND GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!

"Well that shouldnt be an issue. If you have to get going to do what you need go ahead. I'll keep them in here and drive around while I call Fluttershy. If she doesnt then I'll see about Rarity and go on from there. As for now you should call Dash and get her down here to make sure that they dont hurt themselves."

"Understood Princess. And please make sure Scootaloo knows I dont want to be disturbed at all. Focus you know?" She smiled and nodded. "Alright now get out of here. I gotta get going." She nodded once more and rolled up the window. I flew up and watched the car as it made its way to turn around and drive right back out. Once it was far enough down the road I quickly started looking around my car making sure it wasnt touched at all. No strange devices, no damage and it was still locked. I had to go grab my keys (because I'm an idiot) and even checked the inside. Nothing out of place.

Before I got into the car I steadily looked around as I pulled my phone out and started calling Dash. It didnt take long for Dash to answer though. "...Ryder you dolt what do you want...?" She asked sounding tired. I huffed.

"Dash. Need you down at the orchard to watch over Big Mac and AJ. They got drunk and they need the help. Not my words though. Princess' orders. Especially when she's got four fillies who need somewhere else to be that's not near two drunk ponies and a princess who had some royal emergency come up." She huffed.

"....Ryder... its SEVEN IN THE MORNING! Why the hell do you need me to-"

"AJ's drunk, I cant be at home, you're not with Fluttershy are you?"

"No but i-"

"Alright I'll be calling in a bit to make sure you're here taking care of my wife and her drunk brother! If you bring Gilda make sure she takes what's left of the whiskey. Kay thanks bye!" I know it was rude but I swear my brain was just telling me to get the fuck out of here so I hung up on her and grabbed my keys hopping in the drivers seat. Though... I didnt make it far. Something hit me hard in the back of the head knocking me out.

I was out for a good while. I wasnt sure how long but I assumed it was hours because of where I woke up. Dark room, single light shining down on me making my head hurt more than it already was and I was cold and stark naked. My mouth felt dry and I felt sick to my stomach. I tried moving but I was too weak to even do anything. Couldnt get up, couldnt move- mostly due to restraints I couldnt break- and that I was wearing some weird collar as well as my dog tags. I coughed and wheezed only being able to spit up phlegm onto my naked crotch... even worse I felt like I had pissed myself at some point. "Well well... Looks like the shit woke up..." A metallic voice said. I looked up at the blinding light.

"...You... You mother fuckers..." I said. "Where are you...? What do you want?!" I heard nothing. "Answer me.... you son of a bitch..." A laugh came from that metallic voice.

"You kiss your mother with that mouth? Oh of course you do... Mommy's little wonderbolt!" My heart nearly stopped here.

I started breathing heavily feeling light headed only until I heard the screech of speaker feedback and my god did it hurt more than anything... karma I guess but this? This was overkill. That screech stopped a moment after. "Damn idiot... Take him away!" I heard a totally different sounding metallic voice say. "Now... We need information... We wont touch any of your loved ones... We've seen what happens when that happens. We've got other plans for you..." Just like that lights turned on and I was blinded. My eyes stung like someone had just splashed acid in my face. When I opened my eyes it was still hard to see kinda but i adjusted. I found myself in a large concrete room. I saw a large table at the end of the room where I saw a blurred window where I just saw shadows moving about. Just to my right there was a long table with what looked like two sleeping bags rolled up tight. To the other side was a sledge hammer leaning on a small table with a car battery on top connected to jumper cables and a rag with a gas can next to it.

I looked back to the window and just under it to the right was a large vault door. I heard locks turn, mechanisms fire and saw four large pegs driven into the ground recede into a part of the door that was jutting out. As things stopped making noise I braced myself to see who my captors were. The door opened and two stallions walked in wearing balaclavas, dirty olive drab teeshirts and black combat pants tucked into work boots. One was even wearing gloves. They didnt have any wings or horns so I assumed they were earth ponies. Either that or they had that weird magic spell that hid features under clothing. "Well now... Little under dressed for the party arent we?" One of the stallions said with some sort of voice changer. Made it sound spectral though I could still make out what he said. "Could've sworn your invite could've said come fully dressed! No matter..." He looked to the other stallion. "Ready our toys. I need to have a word with our friend here."

The other stallion nodded. I weakly looked to the stallion before me. Blue eyes, pale blue coat. Couldnt see his mane for shit. "...What do you want with me you fucking terrorists...?" I asked. The stallion in front of me grabbed my jaw holding my mouth shut.

"I'll let you get away with that. Calling us terrorists is like calling a fifty caliber bullet a nine millimeter round. We do similar things but we're fighting on your side.... But I need to ask you something... Where did you father go? He's gone missing after his little visit for you... basically you were the last to see him... he even told you something pretty secretive that only us and someone else should know... that someone else isnt you... we'll be willing to let you live with that information if you tell us where he went." He released my jaw and as I tried to speak I started coughing and wheezing. My whole body ached right there. Muscles, joints, head, EVERYTHING. The stallion looked to the other guy who was just unraveling the 'toys' in the sleeping bags. "Vice. Need the water. He needs a drink. And the bottle. Not the other. That comes later." He looked to me. "But not if you cooperate. Capiche?" I hesitantly nodded as the other guy walked over to the door just going out before reentering with a bottle of water a moment later. He tossed it over to us. I flinched as he caught it and cracked it open. "Here. Drink slow."

The stallion held the bottle up to my lips and I slowly sipped. Granted I was afraid as hell I still drank. Cool water swam down my throat in gulps, cooling my body as it made its way down. I would've drank the whole bottle if he hadnt taken it away. I sighed as he recapped the bottle and set it aside. "...Y-You guys... You're elites arent you?" I asked.

"Smart.... keep the truth flowing and we may just give you something to eat. Now... where's your father?" I hesitated a bit.

"Sir... I... Is it okay if I call you that? I... I havent seen my father since he saw me last... I'm... sure you know where that was right?" He huffed.

"Unfortunately no. He disabled a transmitter before wandering north. We lost his tracks and decided it was time to have a family visit... see how his son was and ask him WHERE THE FUCK HE IS!" I couldnt react here. The stallion before me picked up my chair sending me to my back. "I'm gonna ask you again! WHERE. IS. HE?!" I looked to him groaning.

"I dont know! I saw him when I was-" I stopped myself. Do I risk the security of the Princess and my friend? Apparently I hesitated too long and the guy planted a boot into my chest.

"One more time... And we might let you go.... This time KEEP FUCKING TALKING! WHERE IS HE!?" If I could laugh I would. Something sparked in me and I just spat in this guys face. Bad move. He pushed me over with his boot, wiped his face and looked to is friend. "He's not talking. Might as well make it hurt to talk." He turned back around and grabbed the arms of my chair setting me straight up again. He set me up looking at his friend as he was looking over the table for what he needed. I watched as he grabbed a soda bottle. Clean, glass and he goes right ahead and breaks it on the floor. The stallion at my side walked right over and sifted through the pieces. He pulled out a bit of a big one that he broke in half before walking right over to me. Didnt hesitate to grab my jaw, hold my mouth open a bit before shoving that piece into my mouth. It cut my cheeks a bit before he reeled back and punched me square in the face. He did it a few times before backing off letting me cough and hack only to spit up the shard and blood with it. He grabbed me again. "NOW TELL ME WHERE THE FUCK HE IS!" I coughed and spat more blood, away from him this time.

"...I... DONT... KNOW!" I could tell he was mad. He gave me a gut check and back handed me.

"LIAR! YOU SAW HIM! YOU KNOW WHERE HE IS!"

"I SAW HIM BUT I DONT KNOW WHERE HE WENT!"

"BULLSHIT!" He backhanded me a few more times, slapping me left and right before he looked to his friend again. "Charge him for it!" The stallion nodded before running over to the battery... Actually was a jumper box to give the battery a quick charge in a car. He flipped a few switches and grabbed the clamps quickly giving them a touch together sending sparks everywhere. "ANSWER THE QUESTION! WHERE IS HE!?" I was too frozen staring at the stallion with the jumper cables. He touched them together sending more sparks everywhere, some getting on me burning my skin. "ONE." I didnt answer. "TWO." I didnt know the answer. "THREE!" And here I thought getting shot hurt more. That or my wing getting chopped off. That stallion touched my bare chest with the cables and I felt the electric charge jolt through my entire body. I yelled, screamed and tried curling up and struggling from my restraints but I just couldnt move. Vice pulled the cables away after what felt like forever and I felt my heart beating fast. I had goose bumps, my hair felt like it was standing on end and my feathers were frizzed out. Think I even pissed myself a bit. The still unnamed stallion grabbed me and held my face as he picked my head up making me face him. "We start running out of torture instruments and we will go after your fucking family starting with your god damn sister. She'll fight, She'll scream and you're gonna have no choice than to tell us what we fucking wanna hear. We've still got a long way to go so tell us now, we forget your family exists. Got me?!" Okay call me crazy but even though I couldnt move I mumbled something. Was go 'go fuck yourself' at first. But after that he grabbed my mouth. "What was that? Speak up so we can hear. NICE and CLEAR!" I coughed spitting more blood up. This time it was somewhat involuntarily because it came out with water and stomach juices. Gross tasting. "What were you gonna call for help? Go on call for help! Anyone! Call for mommy! Call for Daddy! Who knows? MAYBE SOMEONE WILL SHOW UP!" He shoved my face back making me hit my head against the chair. I spat more blood out and looked to him.

"SCHRIVECHNYA SICK EM!" I called out. For a moment they looked at each other confused. Then they started laughing.

"Oh what? Some weird dog gonna come out and attack us? Hell I've seen that mutt you have! Thing wouldnt hurt a fly but it'd shit out more than what you're spewing!" He went back to laughing but not for long. The ghostly howl echoed throughout the room before I saw the paws come from the door. The dog quickly revealed itself and these guys got scared. So scared they froze up. I saw Vice glance at the table then back at the dog. The stallion glanced at Vice. "...D-Dude.... Dont move... That thing... That thing aint natural..." Suddenly Vice made a break for it. Schrivechnya didnt even let him get to the table. Just pounced on him, tearing fabric and skin from his legs before silencing his pleas as she ripped his throat out. Gruesome as it was I didnt have the stomach to throw up. The dog turned its bloodied face towards the stallion nearest to me. He slowly backed away as the dog crept closer. As he got close to me he threw me down making me slide towards the demon hound. I spun around so much I didnt know how many times I did... All I know is I saw Schrivechnya charge him only for him to grab the sledge hammer and quickly hit the dog almost like a golf ball sending the dog ragdolling away. I watched as she landed motionless and stayed down. Though... he didnt see her disappear as he started coming towards me with the sledgehammer ready. "...I-I dont know what you are... or what that dog was... But... Y-You need to die... You aint a pegasus... You're a fucking demon.... The god damn devil.... DIE FUCKING DIE!" I watched with one eye open as he raised the sledgehammer over his head. At the top of the swing he froze. I could see him start to wince a bit before seeing blood form on his shirt. He dropped the hammer and clutched at his stomach starting to shake vigorously before he let out the most blood curdling scream as the blood spewed from his gut and out popping Schrivechnya. She even shut him up by biting out his throat too.

The dog turned its attention on me and whimpered a bit as she shook the blood off. I watched as she chewed at the thing around my neck like it was nothing. I'm glad this dog is on my side otherwise I'd've been fucked and forced to tell them where I saw my dad last. Once that metal collar dropped to the floor I felt my strength return. I broke out of the restraints holding my hands down and got up from the ground narrowly missing the pools of blood. I hurried over to the table and looked at the instruments of torture. Tongs, knives, scalples and such. Mostly blades anyways. I took a serrated combat knife and held the blade upside down in my hand, blade turned to the floor if I held my thumbs up. I looked at the bodies leaking blood. I was thinking about taking clothes but it was already too drenched in blood. I ended up hurrying over to the door naked just to peak out a bit. Long hallway, open doors here and there and even a fridge, microwave and cabinets. I went out and quickly ducked into the fridge grabbing a bottle of water and a fruit. Didnt matter what kinda fruit it was I needed it. I quickly ate it and chugged the water. As I finished i left the empty bottle and fruit scraps on the floor and carefully made my way down the hall, knife in hand. As I neared one of the open door I quickly got against the wall and watched as a stallion walked out. This one wearing black combat pants, black combat boots and a cut off grey shirt. Pegasus just like me. He turned the opposite way I was and carefully I followed him before tackling him and planting the knife in front of his face as I held his arms to his back. Floor was solid concrete and I managed to stab it. He just froze when I did that. He looked up at me. "...What do you want...?" He asked.

I huffed. "Dont scream, dont yell, dont even try anything... I need your clothes." I said. "Get me clothes and you stay alive. Deny me clothes and there's a bruise on your cheek with your head across the hall... Maybe you'll end up like your friends in the other room...." He looked over seeing Schrivechnya licking her lips growling. "So... Wanna be a meal or make it to your next?"

"....Uh... Wh-What size are you?" I grinned and pulled him to his feet.

"Got a cache of uniforms somewhere?" He nodded pointing to a door just across the hall. Number pad code lock. I pushed him over to it. "Code. Right one. Type it." I watched him as he started pressing numbers. One. Two. Four. Seven. The door beeped and I heard the lock click. He pulled the door open and we dipped inside. "Underwear here too or at least something close?" I surveyed the walls. Clothes, supplies, ammo. One thing I didnt see was guns. I didnt even hear an answer from this guy in front of me. Shaking vigorously and such. "Alright... I'll let you go but you need to help me. Let me frisk you, make sure you're not gonna fuck me over while we pick some stuff out and we go about our day. Understood?"

"G-Go ahead... Nothing here..." I backed away from him and started feeling him out. In his boots, his waist area, even his chest area and even his undercarriage. Nothing.

"Alright. You're clean. Help me find clothes. Extra large shirt, size thirty two waist, size eleven for shoes. Underwear is needed BADLY in this situation." He nodded and hurried off further into the room. I kept a close eye on him as I grabbed a coat looking big enough to fit me. Military coat, shoulder snaps and winterized on the inside. I grabbed it as he grabbed a package of socks and underwear tossing them over to me. Guess they come as a set during the winter. I opened the package and grabbed at the underwear. Silky smooth thermal boxers and matching socks, both black. Socks were boot length. He grabbed me some pants and boots and helped me into em since I stumbled. Didnt even once try for the knife I had. Once I was all dressed I looked at myself. Everything felt right. Whole uniform was black or something dark. Jacket was thick. I looked to the still unsteady stallion. "Thanks for that. What's your name?" I could see he was hesitant. I sighed. "C'mon. Not gonna hurt you since you helped me out. Still gotta get out of here though. Tell me your name, code or otherwise. You just call me Rush." The stallion took a deep breath.

"...Mags. I'm s-supposed to be the designated quartermaster here.... I'm still a bit new... not really sure what I'm doing and... I... I just dont do combat...." I huffed shoving the knife into my boot just inside a zipper pocket.

"I know that feeling. Started out as a recruit and I was freaking out, even after my first kills. Next thing you know here comes my position and I start learning stuff along the way, even do my own thing which works... here? Seems like a staff sergeant drill instructor nightmare... Secrecy and the torture... I was lead to believe that didnt happen but... turns out I'm wrong...." Just then we heard Schrivechnya start barking. We both locked eyes before rushing to the door opening it a bit. I heard a few men rush down the hall. When they got close I threw the door open hitting one of the guys as Schrivechnya dodged out of the way. The other guy I jumped on, tacked and stabbed him in the shoulder. Then I turned my attention on the other guy only to grab him by the shoulders and headbutt him. Both out, one in extreme pain. I looked back at Mags who just stepped out of the room in shock. "Sorry you had to see that but we need to get the hell out of here! Get me out and I'll handle it from there. Up to you if I need a weapon or not." Mags nodded and started off at my side. He peeked around corners at hallways, checked doorways and even scouted ahead protecting me. I had coughed a few times tasting my blood more and more. Though soon I had enough of trying to swallow and just spat it onto a table in a nearby room. Mags looked to me worried.

"A-Are you okay Rush? You're coughing up blood...." I wiped my mouth on my sleeve as he peeked out into the hall. We were in a break room. More food that i didnt even want.

"Yeah but... all it takes is a bit of glass in my mouth and an electric shock to bring the dogs out and piss me off... I should be fine though." I looked at cabinets above the fridge. "There any alcohol in here? It's gonna burn but god I need something to disinfect my mouth."

"Some keep alcohol in here when a mission is carried out. Both to calm nerves and to celebrate after. Shot sized if that's okay..." I opened a few cabinets, nothing for two or three. Then the fourth one had some. Didnt care what it was but I just took one, opened it and drank it swishing it around in my mouth. It felt horrible but better than the glass. Spat it right back into the sink and took a few more shoving them in my pocket. I looked to Mags.

"There. Need one? Might help." He nodded and I tossed him one. He caught it and downed it like it was nothing. "Good. Now we need to keep moving. Longer we stay here, more chance they find the destruction I left." I looked to Schrivechnya as she growled. "Okay that WE left. Happy?" The growls subsided and she started panting wagging her bony tail. Mags shuttered a bit.

"Wh-What kind of dog is that? Looks like it needs a vet..." I approached him and put a hand on his shoulder.

"Better that I dont say. Vice and the other guy are meeting her original owner. Now move." He nodded and we went out into the hall again. No cover this time as we made our way to a stairwell and made our way up. Stairwell was dim. very few lights on.

Carefully we made our way up before we heard a PA system give off a loud alarm. "ALL PERSONNEL THE PRISONER HAS ESCAPED- I REPEAT THE PRISONER HAS ESCAPED." Someone on the PA system said. "PRISONER IS BELIEVED TO BE DANGEROUS. INFORMATION IS NEEDED FROM HIM. NONLETHAL FORCE ONLY. I REPEAT. NONLETHAL FORCE ONLY!" I huffed as we reached the third floor.

"WE'RE IN THE SHIT NOW MAGS! STAY CLOSE AND BE READY FOR ANYTHING!" I barged through the door and tore it off the hinges like it was nothing. Might've been metal but I bent it in half and used it as a shield as we went out in the hall. I charged doors as they opened slamming them back shut sending who ever inside on their ass. Even busted the door frame to keep it shut. Few of them got out ahead, some armed with tranquilizer rifles. Exactly why i broke off the shield... If I werent afraid of being shot with multiple knock out darts again I'd be brute forcing it. I let one get an opening and they still missed. That's when I checked them against the wall knocking the gun from their hands. The other one nearly got me. Blocked it with the shield and it ricocheted off going up and over the shield. I charged that guy and made sure he didnt get up. Not even have a chance to reload. Broken arm and legs.

I threw my shield down after that and Mags and I just started running. "ELEVATOR TO THE RIGHT! OUR ONLY WAY OUT!" Mags called out. We skidded to a stop and just started mashing that elevator button. It opened but not in time. Just as it opened I got it with a tranquilizer dart in my shoulder. I struggled to stay awake as Mags pulled me in getting the dart out of my back. "Hold on Rush! We're almost out! Just try to stay awake to get to a vehicle!" I tried my hardest. I pinched myself, slapped myself and even bit myself. I was losing the fight though.

"...Mags... If we can get to Canterlot... tell the guard at the gate.... Gamma Delta Twelve..." He nodded. I started fading in and out as we got to the top. He drug me from the elevator to the outside. The sun was still high in the sky and I saw my car waiting nearby. I faded in and out even as Mags was stopped by the guards outside. "We need to get him medical attention immediately. Medbay is out of blood cleansers and he was hit with a few tranq darts! Mother fuckers need to look before they shoot!" Dumb asses fell for it. They helped me to my car- again dumb asses- and threw me in the back seat. And here I found out they left everything I had on me in my car all neatly folded. Even my phone. I grabbed it and held it close before finally just passing out.

I woke up hours later to my phone ringing. I found myself in the same room I was when I came back from the war. I felt like I was even going through major dejavu. I looked around yawning and saw my phone on the nearby table as well as the clothes I dressed up in earlier, a note and on the couch the stolen clothes were folded up. I ignored my phone and grabbed the note. I looked to it and huffed as I read. 'Rush, Mags here. Princess Celestia wasnt pleased to see me but I reassured her it was within good intentions to get you safe. You should have armed guards outside your room and if I'm right Celestia healed you. No more blood in your mouth. As for now I'm going into hiding but we will cross paths again i'm sure of it. For you i'd suggest getting out of town too. Few days at least until Celestia can smooth things over. And the Elites? They'll try to come after us. Thus why we hide. Your loved ones? No. Not even they'll go after them... not after an incident with someones kid. Thank you again for not killing me. Good Luck. -Mags'

It felt surreal seeing this note. I carefully got out of the bed, threw off my hospital gown, took an IV out of my arm and got dressed. I took the clothes that were stolen and left the jacket before going outside the room. Two unicorn guards stood there with rifles. They looked to me and saluted. "General SIR!" One yelled. I saluted back. "Good to see you on your feet!"

I huffed looking to them. "Celestia. Where is she?" I asked.

"Dining hall. Need some help getting there?" I gave a hesitant nod.

"Yeah. Get me a wheel chair. I'll be fine getting there on my own. As for notifying her- Dont. I want this to be a surprise." The guard nodded and I leaned against the wall while they ran to get the chair. After I got it I rolled myself out of the hospital wing and down the hall. I followed the halls, asking for direction a few times and found myself at the door of the dining hall. I huffed just staring at it feeling my heart beating out of my chest almost. I rolled up to the door and pushed it open wheeling myself in. I rolled around the table and saw her sitting at the end of it. She faced away from me as she was talking to a diplomat. Stallion looked to be wearing western Steuropean garb.

The stallion saw me and smiled. "Ah Princess I didnt know we'd be having a bit of company!" He said. Accent was very thick but I understood very well.

Celestia looked to me and smiled a bit. "Oh well I had no idea he was coming." She replied. "General this is-"

I huffed. "Princess. Can we do this meet and greet later? I need to speak with you. Urgent business." I said. She looked to me a bit scared and confused. "Your guest and I can meet later but we NEED to talk. Please Princess?" Celestia sighed before looking to her guest.

"Oh uh... Well... My general needs to speak... in... private... I hope this isnt anything that will inconvenience for our talks... Even more I apologize for my generals behavior at this point."

The stallion smiled. "Not at all Princess. I'll let you have your chat with him. A great leader needs to tend to urgent business. If you need me I'll be outside in the hall." He said. I watched as he got up and walked away from the table. When he was out of earshot I looked back at Celestia.

"Look I know it looks bad but-"

I huffed and forced myself to stand up from my chair. I fumbled a bit but I managed to keep myself upright with the table. "It IS bad! It's not just a flesh wound its a mortal wound in this case!" I snapped. "One that could've killed me. What I went through made it seem like my gunshot and the terrorist attack look like one of Scootaloo's play dates!" She used her magic sitting me back down in my wheel chair rolling it up to the table after moving one of the chairs.

"Ryder I just-"

"I was shocked with jumper cables, I had glass shoved in my mouth and I was coughing up BLOOD! If it werent for your fathers dog I would've been dead!" She gave me a strange look. "Dont believe me?" I looked away. "Schrivechnya! On me girl! And without the fire please!" And just like that she was at my side with her paws on the arm of the wheel chair looking up at me with a rotting grin. Celestia gasped and backed away.

"H-How did you-" I looked to her as Schrivechnya disappeard.

"Ask your sister! and speaking of her I'm gonna need to speak with her later about something. Nothing to do with what we're talking about. Something personal. But you and I? We need to have a serious talk about The Elites." She just froze. She slowly fixed herself in her seat and looked as if she was about to be sick. "I know about them and they tortured me. They would've tortured me until I died of bleeding out or being cooked alive by an electric shock or even cut me open killing me from the inside! If it werent for that dog and Mags I would've been dead! What they wanted to know was where my father was because he apparently went north and went missing. Today I thought it was gonna be normal. I was gonna go out, train myself a bit and what not to make sure I've still got it after all the time i've taken off but no. As soon as I get into my car I'm knocked out and dragged to a bunker somewhere. I didnt see where it was- for all I know I could've been just a mile over. And since they work for you- I know because my father told me and dont think about going after him for telling me that information- I thought I'd take it up with you because they attacked ME and threatened to attack my family! One of them even mentioned hurting Scootaloo. I know some of them said they wouldnt hurt my family but how would I have known? For all I know if I passed out, an hour later I'd be woken up with a needle deep in my chest only to see Scootaloo in a chair across from me WITH A GUN TO HER HEAD! I would'nt have been able to a damn thing no matter how hard I tried. They put some kind of inhibitor on me cutting my strength down to where I could barely move. So far two of those men are dead but I had to protect myself somehow and the only way was the dog. My fault? Not my fault? Your call but take in the fact of what happened to me PRINCESS!" She stayed silent for a moment. That moment turned to two. Then four. Then seven. After that seventh she hung her head.

"...Those blasted dudnerheads... I told them not to touch you no matter what... they've known since your father first revealed himself... he wasnt supposed to but I had to let him do it. Only to show you he's changed. Everyone in there? They were a prisoner at one point. One I think was one of war that defected from one of the most dangerous countries everyone has tried talking down. Now that country doesnt exist and is a part of St. Bleetersburg. To hear the one who mentioned your sister and doing horrid things to her... It pisses me off more than you get... That filly means everything to us and to see something happen to her would mean the death of someone who deserved it." She glanced at me.... I could see the darkness in her gaze thats usually full of bright smiles. "Tell me... what happened to the one who threatened that?"

"Dead. Ripped right in half by that dog coming out of his stomach like it was a bad gumbo."

"Something out of a movie... fitting even... literally gutted. As for your father? He wont catch any hell and I'll make it known. I dont care how or why you have the dog- props to you for that. Just makes you an even better General. Both of the royal guard... and of The Elites." She looked to me and smiled just like it was normal conversation. "Consider it a promotion for being able to out do my own guards and even bring one onto your side. I'll let everyone at the facility know you're trusted and will not be touched and if you are you will set them straight. Mags will be welcomed back like your father as well. But as for your father even I have no clue where he is. He may or may not show up but he's a capable soldier just like yourself. But enough talk like that. Why dont you go get our guest and come back? Maybe get yourself something to eat and drink. You nearly fainted there didnt you?" I nodded and just backed out of the spot before rolling towards the door. I opened the door again and saw the guest.

"Alright. Things are resolved now Sir. You may come back in." The stallion smiled and allowed me to wheel out of the way before reentering. I rolled along side him before splitting off. But... that's when my phone rang again. I huffed and stopped digging in my pocket pulling it out. Fast fiddle... AJ. I huffed as I slid my thumb across my screen and hesitantly put my phone to my ear. "Hello? AJ? Everything okay with-"

I was cut off by a scream before cries. "GOD DAMMIT RYDER YOU HAD ME WORRIED TO DEATH!" I heard AJ yell not even having my phone to my ear. "I'VE BEEN CALLING ALL GOD DAMN DAY AND YOU DONT ANSWER UNTIL NOW?! WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU AND WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING?!" I sighed hearing her break down.

"AJ I had to make an unscheduled stop in Canterlot. Left the phone in the car while I did some conditioning and I slammed into a tree again. I'm fine but an emergency kept me away from the house. Celestia needed me and well... I guess I got a bit of a promotion... I get my own squad of guards that I can basically have do small spec ops missions. I'm sorry if I had you worried but you need to calm down. Is Dash with you? Give the phone to her!"

I could hear the phone get tossed through the air into something. Dunno what. Heard someone pick it up quickly and sigh. Dash. "God dammit Ryder... You call me early in the morning and make me come down here not telling me when you'll be back and make your damn wife cry?" She asked. "Youre a lucky stallion I dont find you, rope you up and hang you from the tree's by the road naked! I had plans today AND YOU RUINED THEM!"

"Dash I'm sorry but just get her to calm down! Where's Big Mac?"

"He's been in his room all day. Had to get him some soup and clean his sheets a few times. He's napping right now. Gonna wake him up for dinner in a bit and hopefully I'm not gonna have to change another dirty diaper.... hurled and messed himself earlier after I got here and I nearly just left them here..."

"Do you know where Scootaloo is though?"

"Yeah. Fluttershy has them. She was surprised when the Princess dropped them off but she was more than happy to let them stay the night. Why? You want me to tell her where you are?" I huffed.

"Nah. I got that. You just go on and help those two relax. I'll even buy you something for this okay? Just make sure they're okay through the night and I should be back in the morning."

"Got it. I'll catcha tomorrow. AJ just ran upstairs.... Later Ry. Just stay safe okay Ry?"

"Later. Tell AJ I love her." She didnt even say anything before she hung up.

I rolled back to the end of the table and met with the diplomat Celestia was meeting with. Prime Minister of South La Floria in Steurope. Real nice guy. Asked why I was in the wheel chair, just bullshitted my way through. I had told him I hadnt eaten- true- decided to start training just outside of Canterlot and when a guard patrol found me face down in the dirt, got me in my car and drove me to the castle. Celestia even went along with it. Ordered a hayburger and a soda and oh my goodness it felt so good to have that in my system. After the meal I excused myself and went off towards Luna's room. Had to have guards help me find the nearest elevator (which... strangely there's only one). When I got to Luna's room I snuck inside without my chair. The guard at the door let me knowing my relationship with Luna. I crawled into her bed and lied on top of her, my head on her chest... so soft... so warm. Well... I couldnt help but give her a pinch on her nipple but that was too much. She threw me off and sat up fast looking around panting. When she saw me she sighed. "...Ryder... What the hell are you doing here? How did you get here?" She asked. I huffed hugging her as she wiped her messy mane from her face.

"...Well... I'd say but... If I were you I'd ask Celestia... and thank Schrivechnya for helping me get here...." She looked to me confused after yawning.

"...I would say I'm dreaming but... This isnt what i hear when I'm dreaming... What happened?"

"Lets just say I got into a one sided fight and somehow came up on top... And it was because of that dog that I got the upper hand... maybe with a little blood on my hands but it was someone who deserved it." She sighed.

"...I'll get the details later from my sister.... Too tired here.... Something you wish to do before I go back to bed? Perhaps nap with me?" I re-positioned on her bed now sitting next to her.

"Well.. I was gonna call Scootaloo... make sure her and her friends are okay. Thought you might've wanted to talk with her." She smiled at me.

"You know I could never deny talking with her. Now dont stall! Go on and call!" I pulled out my phone and went through the contacts.

I passed by Applejack's contact, Big Mac and a few others only to finding myself up to Fluttershy's contact. Once I hit the call button I put it on speaker and waited as it buzzed. Moments later i heard a click. "Oh Ryder!" I hear Fluttershy say. "Perfect timing. I just got off the phone ordering a few pizzas for your sister and her friends. Are you on your way to pick them up at all?"

I gave a huff. "Not really Flutters. Stuck up in Canterlot for the time being. Just calling to check on Scootaloo." I said. "Alright if I talk with her for a moment?"

"Sure sure let me get her real quick. Should be watching a movie." I listened closely as she went quiet for a moment. "Scootaloo! Pause the movie and come here a moment! I got your brother on the phone!"

I heard what ever movie they were playing stop before hearing the phone rustle a bit. "Hello? Ryder?" I hear my sister say making both me and Luna smile.

"Hey Scoot... How ya doing today sis?"

"I'm alright just at Fluttershy's since the Princess had something to do. Are you at home right now?"

Luna took the phone from me and sighed. "No you silly filly he's with me in Canterlot." She said. "Are you doing okay Scootaloo? Any accidents since you left?"

"What? Ryder's in Canterlot!? Why couldnt I stay if he's there!?"

"Now Scootaloo I asked you a question. Ryder was only here unexpectedly and Celestia IS doing something important. Now I suggest you apologize and answer me." I heard her sigh.

"Sorry Princess... Sorry Ryder... And.... Maybe one accident... I thought I saw a bear again...."

I sighed. "It's okay Scoot. Fluttershy's friends with the bears. I bet she told them to stay away from you today." I said. "If you think you see any bears again, tell Fluttershy and she'll help you. Okay?"

"Okay... Uh... Hold on...." I heard her talking with someone. Didnt know who until she came back on a moment later. "Um... Babs wants to talk to you Ryder... You okay? I.... I need Fluttershy real quick...."

"Alright Scoot put her on. Everythings gonna be okay." I heard my sister whimper a bit before fading out and the phone rustling more.

Luna just gave me a little worried look and I just sighed. Gotta help her with that fear... though... I'm gonna have to do something about that... Dunno... As soon as a quick rustling stops I heard it. "Ryder hey uh.... You doin' okay?" I hear Babs ask. I smile and sigh.

"Yeah doing good here Babs. How are you doing? You good? No accidents?"

"...Does one on purpose count?" I huffed.

"Babs your dad doesnt want you in diapers and I dont either. I know you did it for someone there but please keep your pants dry no matter what!"

"Sorry sorry... I just... Scootaloo got scared and-"

"I know- you wanted to make her feel better. Thanks for that but seriously. Your dad doesnt want to keep finding you soaking your own sheets or shorts. Promise me you wont do it again."

"I promise..."

"Good. Sorry if I have to get snippy but I dont want your dad breathing down my neck for you still wetting your pants. You wanna try getting over your fear of heights again soon?"

"I guess... But... can we do it with something to catch me if I fall...? I'm not saying I will but... gotta be careful right?" I sighed.

"Another nightmare?"

"Yeah..."

"It's okay Babs. I'll call up my mother, see if we cant borrow part of the course if they're doing stuff. Either that or find someone whos got a safety net. Might have to be about a week or so just because I'm gonna be out of town for a while again. Maybe while I'm out I'll pick up something special for you okay?"

"Ooh what will it be?"

"Not sure but it's gonna be something special. Now look I gotta go okay?"

"Alright Ryder I'll... Talk with you later? I'm gonna ask my dad for a cell phone soon so maybe I could get your number after I get it?" I smiled looking to Luna.

Luna smiled back and huffed. "Perhaps I shall step in and get you a gift of that cellular phone." She said. "Think of it as a good gesture of faith to let your father focus on your new home." She looked to me. "Come to think of it we should still try to find your sisters phone. She'd lose her head if it werent attached to her body."

I gave a nod just as we hear a quick squeal. "Thank you thank you THANK YOU!" I hear Babs say.

"Alright Babs when we get Ryder back home for your flight lessons I'll take you to get your phone. As for now why dont you go give Fluttershy her phone back and go relax with your friends."

I heard her laughing a bit only to have it fade out just as I hear Fluttershy snickering a bit. "Someone made someone happy!" She said.

I sighed taking my phone back. "Yeah. Well we're gonna go. Im gonna go take a nap for a bit, relax here and I'll call you later to discuss payment." I said.

"Oh no worries Ryder I'll always be happy to take care of them! Pet sitting helps tons. You take care now! Bye!"

And like that she hung up leaving me alone with Luna. I sighed as she set aside my phone with her magic before hugging me. "Dont worry. I'll wake you up for the evening meal if we end up sleeping that late." She said.

I would've said something but my phone rang. This ring tone? The score from one of my post apocalyptic video games. Not Nukes Galore. Another one. Cant think of the name off the top of my head. I scrambled over Luna and snatched my phone off her nightstand before falling off her bed and answering it on the floor. "Hello?" I said trying to sound like I hadnt just eaten shit.

There was silence for a moment. "Ah General Ryder I'm glad I caught you. This isnt an inappropriate time is it?" A familiar voice asked. Yep. Daring Do.

"Oh uh No no Miss Yearling. Was there something you need?"

"Ryder cut the crap. If you're with the Princesses or your wife just call me by my real name. I do appreciate you keeping the secret though but I think I've made a breakthrough in what happened at Las Pegasus. You remember the bar I told you to meet me in if you were ever out in Vanhoover?"

"The Divide right?"

"Yes. When you get a chance PLEASE go there, use the code phrase 'Time's Up, Drop off' there. I'll explain what's going on from there."

"Time's Up, Drop off? Who do I say that to?"

"Order something and your answer will be given to you. I'll leave you with the information I have given. It's to be expected you'll arrive within a couple days- Unless something is going on. Tell me now and I'll postpone the meeting." I looked to Luna and huffed.

"Nope. I'll be there. Just gotta get a few things together. This gonna be all business or could it be personal?"

"Business at first but... we could have a personal visit after everything is said and done. Oh and do make sure you come alone. Vanhoover has been a bit dangerous lately. I havent been able to go out under A.K. Yearling because of that. Too big of a target. Now I need to go. Stay safe General."

She hung up before I got another word in. I got up carefully and stuffed my phone back into my pocket. "Something important come up?" She asked.

I huffed. "Yeah... I take it Celestia told you what happened in Las Pegasus a while ago?" I asked. I could see her go deep into thought. "Guess not... Thought you'd've been the first to know. Apparently something happened with me when I picked up a guitar... like... something awakened a nightmare within me and I kinda destroyed somethings... Shining had to take me down with a few tranquilizer darts and it probably would've killed me if I hadnt been in that form. Though I've got someone helping me figure out what happened that night and that same someone just called letting me know she's got a lead." She carefully got out of her bed. Dressed in nothing but a tank top and panties. Cute ones with video game eight bit print.

"Is this someone Daring Do?" I hesitantly nodded. "Ah. Good help there... Who knows you may get your own book out of this. I'd say knowing more about this takes priority over what happened but I'll still look into that. Anything you need though?"

"Train ticket too much to ask? I can pay for the rest."

"Train ticket to Vanhoover. I'll spring for the comfortable cars for you. Sound fine?"

"Yeah. I'll just leave my keys with Applejack after I get there. Anything else you think I'd need?" Luna stretched as she hopped to the floor.

"That I'll leave to you. Just dont do anything to overly obvious. I'd say carry small arms or a knife. Make sure it's only a last resort. Dont want to see you in a cell with evidence stacked against you."

"Yes Princess. You should get back to bed. I'm just gonna go relax somewhere before heading back to the medical wing. Need to make sure I'll be fit enough for the trip." She sighed.

"Well I would but I went to bed a little early. Two days of being awake and I'll be out at the worst times. You just wheel yourself to the entertainment room and I'll be sure to see you doing better." I nodded and carefully made my way to the door with her help just to open the door and sit back into my wheel chair. Wheeled myself to the bathroom, then to the entertainment room and just watched a TV while Luna got dressed. Played coop for a good while until I needed to go get food and drink. After... Well six to seven hours I called AJ through Dash, Dash was pissed but was greatful I called to check on my wife. Apparently she cried herself to sleep, lost her food a few times because she was so worked up and just all around worried since I never called until that moment. Talked with AJ for a bit until she fell asleep, telling her about training for something special and lied about having to go out of town for it, told her Scoot and AB were fine with Fluttershy while her and Mac recovered and that was it. I gathered my stuff, found a room nearby Celestia's and fell asleep. Woke up the next day refreshed and that was that. No nightmare, no other resistance or even reports heard from jarhead central that kidnapped me. One of these days I'll go back, assert myself as their leader, get a proper tour of the facility. Maybe with a little less bloodshed.

Next Chapter: Far From Home Estimated time remaining: 3 Hours, 17 Minutes