Old Man Ray

Chapters

A Man Named Ray (Prologue)
An Odd Encounter (1)
The Approach and The Deal (3)
Getting Into Things (4)
New Business (5)
The Real Business Begins (6)
The Force of The Sun (7)
Starting Recovery (8)
A Break and Small Things (9)
The Settling of Things (2)

A Man Named Ray (Prologue)

You can’t stop life from happening, that is simply impossible.

Ray was a man of simple ways. He liked to drink, laze about, and make sure his sons were alright. He enjoyed watching the stars at night, dressing with fashion, and wearing some sunglasses his friend got for him.

Ray didn’t really care much for anything but his business, and his children; and his dog of course. He spent most of his time with his kids, and doing work, one of which he enjoyed a lot.

However, with his work, came serious problems. Rivals, enemies, whatever you want to call them, but they would start to pop up, and made business hell for him.

Very much so, when they started trying to hurt his family, which honestly, for Ray, is one of the biggest mistakes a person can make. Ray was never really one to just let something happen, and he could be over zealous when it came to dealing with punks, he enjoyed taking his time with them.

However, after a while, it’ll just catch you off guard.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray was sitting on his front porch, enjoying himself as he drank whiskey out of a glass. It was night, and the moon was casting a beautiful light over the fields around his home, the long grass waving back and forth, as though they were dancing in joy, free’d by the wind.

Ray enjoyed the moments like this, the peace of the world around him. It made him feel good, like he wasn’t what he was. These moments were rare, and he took them whenever he got the chance.

The light panting of his dog reached his ears, and he looked over the side of his chair, noticing Scuffy, his black lab, laying there, staring into the distance. Ray chuckled, and sat the glass in front of Scruffy, who began to lap at the drink inside.

Ray smiled, sighing as he sank into his chair, enjoying the feeling of his clothing, the silk shirt and his black dress pants, the material nice and comfortable on his skin. The weight of his silver colored vest was also nice. He closed his eyes, relaxing even further.

Ray had begun to hum, wiggling his fingers as he sat there, thinking about what he’d be doing tomorrow. However, these thoughts were cut short back the sound no one wants to hear. A shotgun pumping.

Ray’s eyes snapped open, Scruffy growling at a man standing on the steps leading onto the porch, aiming a 870 Shotgun at him and Scruffy, causing Ray to tense, his left hand wanting to reach into his vest, his PMM so close, but so far.

“Good afternoon, Ray.” The man said, grinning as he stepped up, onto the porch, and kept the gun trained on them, “I do hope you’ve been having a nice night.” He continued.

Ray only smiled, “It’s nice to see you, Jaime, I can see you’re doing… well.” He said, looking Jaime over. His clothes were tattered and muddied, and his body was shaking, not something you’d want to see from the man pointing a gun at you.

Jaime chuckled loudly, “Yeah… But I came here for something. Your money… I need it.” He said, sweat visible on his face as he shook, from the cold or being nervous, Ray couldn’t tell.

Ray nodded slowly, “I know you do. I’m gonna stand, don’t do anything rash.” Ray said, slowly getting up, and put his hands into the air, smiling warmly at Jaime, “See, we’re all friends here.” Jaime nodded, relaxing slightly, lowering the shotgun every so slight.

“Scruffy! Lunge!” Ray yelled, startling Jaime, as Scruffy lunged at him, Ray reaching into his vest quickly.

A loud bang rang out, startling Ray enough to look up from his vest.

Scruffy hit the ground hard, blood pooling around his old body. Ray pulled out his PMM as he heard the shotgun pump, “You son of a bitch!” Ray yelled, aiming and pulled the trigger.

Two bangs, one thud. Ray slumped against the wall, his body heavy has he fought back tears, “Fu…. God…. God damn it…” He said, feeling the warm liquid running down his leg, the unbearable pain in his stomach. He was scared, the darkness closing in around his vision. It was all so… Surreal.

“Dad?!” He heard one of his sons yelled, bursting through the front door, holding an old Mosin, “Oh my god! Dad!” he looked up, “Hey son…” He said quietly, not able to find a volume for himself. It was getting colder.

“Dad, please! You… You need to stand up!” He heard his son yelled, then the door opened again, “Is every… thing…” He heard his youngest say, “I’ll call 911!” He heard the boy rush back in.

Ray could only smile, his boys loved him so much… Took care of him, despite knowing his wrongs… Good kids.

He grabbed his son's hand, “Take care… of… your brother…” He said, feeling his body going numb, losing all feeling as the darkness took him, “Dad?! Dad no, please!” Was the last thing he heard, before sleeping away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray didn’t know where he was, but it was very cold, and his legs were in what he could only assume was water… Was I thrown in a river? He thought to himself. When he opened his eyes, he found himself blinded by the sun light, cursing, “Hell!”

Rolling over to shield his eyes from the light, he looked around, finding himself… In a river… He sighed, groaning, “Oh god…. My fucking stomach…” He muttered to himself, reach to feel around where it hurt, “Why’re…” He pushed himself to his knees, looking down at his vest and shirt, noticing a large tattered hole where his appendix used to be, a large black bruise and his surgery scar.

He was confused, “The hell caused…” Then he remember last night, “Oh god… I’m dead.. Is this…” he looked around again, “Heaven? I’d figured I’d be in hell… But don’t change that!” he said, thinking maybe God was listening.

A rustling a leaves behind him scared him, making him wheel around, but this caused him to fall onto his back, staring at some bushes… Only for Scruffy to come out of them, “SCRUFFY!” He yelled, opening his arms wide.

The dog slammed into him heavily, causing him to cough, but he didn’t care, “Oh boy… I’d thought I had lost you…” he said, petting Scruffy’s back, sighing.

Eventually, he got up, shaking his legs, trying to ring out the water, “Well… I don’t know where we are… but…” he looked around, seeing something glint in the light not far from him. Walking over, he knelt and picked up his PMM, “I don’t know where I am… But I don’t think God would let guns into Heaven…” he said to himself, Scruffy padding up beside him.

“Let’s follow the river boy, maybe we’ll find a bridge… Or… At least something.” he said, letting out a held sigh, starting to walk, Scruffy following beside him.

Author's Note

Yep, another story I've been wanting to do for a while, but nowhere near as long as This War of Ours. This is a story I came up with with in the last month, and I thought it'd be fun to give it a shot.

Note: I don't hate ponies. Just wanted ya'll to know that.

Good day.

An Odd Encounter (1)

Things are never as they seem, there are always hidden facts.

The sun was still in the sky, but it had started going down. The river was a nice source of water when he was thirsty, but he really didn’t want to stay out here at night, and was beginning to walk slightly quicker.

One thing he had noticed, he felt great, like he was young again, but trapped in this old man’s body. He’d looked at his reflection. Grey hair, neatly combed back. Moustache and his full beard, all grey, combed down neatly. He pulled down his shades, looking at his blue eyes, smiling at the image, “Still handsome.” He said to himself, pointing a finger at himself.

He stood, patting Scruffy’s head, and began walking again. He sighed, rubbing his face, “I wish my children were here.” He said aloud, getting a whimper from Scruffy, causing him to chuckle, “Don’t worry ol’ boy, we’ll figure this place out.” He said, smiling at the dog.

Ray was still worried though, where was this place? Did they get him, and throw him in a river? He couldn’t figure that’d be right, since he remembers shooting the man; one bullet right beneath the left eye, beautiful shot.

He could hear voices ahead, and dipped into some brush to his left. For all he knew, these could be more business rivals. Scruffy decided to stay in the open however, staring at Ray like he was weird, “Damn it Scruffy!” He whisper/yelled, hushing up as he saw brush getting moved aside.

Out came three small… Really small horses, which confused Ray a great deal, “Those are smaller than normal foals…” He said quietly to himself, Where are their owner? He thought, only to be dumbfounded soon after.

“I’m tellin’ ya guys, we ain’t gonna find no cutie-mark in fishin’. Just simple.” one of them said, the little yellow said, with a red bow said.

Ray thought he was going mad, “I…” He just stared at them, taking it in now. There were three of them, Yellow, White and a… Light Orangish one? He really couldn’t tell.

“Oh come on Applebloom, we have to at least try.” Said the Orange One, who was carrying sticks with strings attached. The White One spoke up, he voice high pitched, “But Scootaloo, this is pretty silly…” She said, looking around, “We shouldn’t even be here… The Everfree is dangerous.” She continued.

Everfree… So that’s this place. He thought to himself. Scootaloo, and Applebloom, got some names. Then Applebloom noticed Scruffy, “Dog!” she yelled, pointed a tiny little foreleg at him, causing Scruffy to tilt his head. The other also looked over.

“Sweetie Belle, I bet you won’t go and pet it.” Scootaloo said, grinning at Sweetie Belle, who shook her head, “It’s twice the size of me! What if it’s dangerous?” She asked, keeping her eyes on Scruffy.

Ray chuckled, and then noticed Applebloom begin to cross the river, “It jus’ a dog, Sweetie Belle, ain’t gonna hurt ya nothin’.” She said, her thick accent an odd enjoyment to listen to.

Ray continued to watch, “Please ol’ boy… Do not make a scene.” He said quietly, and Scruffy looked at him, then over to Applebloom who had stopped, and was staring at Ray, her eyes widening slowly, “Swe- Sweetie Belle… Somethin’ watchin’ us…” She said quietly, causing Ray to sigh and stand, showing himself, “Good day!” He said aloud, holding his arms out wide.

There was a pause. Various looks on their faces. Scootaloo look interested, but didn’t dare step forward. Sweetie Belle looked horrified. Applebloom, being the closest, was terrified, like she was going to die. Scruffy was bored, and stood, padding over to Applebloom, and began licking her face, startling her, “Ah!” She yelled, falling over.

Ray stepped out, only to have Scootaloo land in front of him, stamping her hoof on the ground, glaring up at him, “You don’t hurt her!” She yelled, holding her ground.

Ray sighed, and smiled, “I’m a good guy. He said, kneeling in front of her, reach out, rubbing behind her ear, “I would never hurt such little things as yourself.” He said warmly, smiling as he scooted her aside.

Scruffy was laying across Applebloom, panting as Applebloom shoved him, “Get him offa me! He’s gonna crush me!” She yelled, and Ray leaned down, wrapping his arms under Scruffy, then proceed to heft him up and set him to the side, “I’m sorry, Scruffy is very fond of meeting new people.” He said, kneeling beside the group, “Do you mind telling me uh… Where I am?”

Scootaloo laughed, “You live under a rock? You’re in Everfree Forest, only the most dangerous place in Equestria.” She said, smiling that she knew such things.

Ray nodded, patting her head, “Is there a town near here? I imagine since it’s so ‘dangerous’, you wouldn’t be living here… Just the three of you.” He said, taking a look around. Suddenly, he couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched.

Scruffy stood, looking around, sniffing a few times.

“Ponyville is near here mister!” Applebloom said, staring up at Ray as he stood, “Why don’t we all go there? I could go for some food.” He said, reaching into his vest.

“Mister, are you alright? You’ve got a big black spot right here.” He felt something poke the bruise, and jumped, looking down at her, “Jesus... Oh… Yes, I’m quite alright, just fell on some rocks, ruining my clothing as you can see.” He said, pulling out his PMM, “Let’s get on the move.” He said, heading to the other side of the river, followed by the Fillies.

It was a quiet walk for the most part, Ray was holding his pistol, keeping his finger off the trigger as he looked around, shuddering. Now that he was thinking about it, the place felt a lot more eerie and such.

“Um, excuse me Sir, but my sister could fix your clothes if you’d like, for you know… Taking us back home…” Sweetie Belle said, looking at the ground as they went.

Ray nodded, smiling, “Why, that’d be lovely.” He said, smiling as they went.

Snap. A twig broke.

Ray stopped in his tracked, and Scruffy began to growl, causing the three fillies to look around, “Wh- what’s wrong?” Scootaloo asked, worried.

Ray knelt, holding his pistol in the air, “We’re going to run… Do not stop.” He said, slowly standing back up.

Ray looked around, and could see green eyes, watching them. Wolves. He thought to himself.

Three.

Two.

One.

“Run!” Ray yelled, firing into the air, the fillies tearing off, Scruffy following them, followed by Ray. Hopefully the shot scared them. He thought to himself.

Ahead, he could see a fork in the road, and a post, but he couldn’t understand the chicken scratch on it, “Left!” He yelled, and they went down the left.

However, ahead of him, Sweetie Belle tripped over a rock, tumbling forward, the other rushing ahead of her, “Wa- Wait! Guys!” She yelled, but they kept going, leaving her.

Ray stopped, kneeling to quickly Scoop her up. Or that would have been the plan, had a wolf not slammed into his back knocking him over Sweetie Belle, onto his back.

The wolf stood over Sweetie Belle, who was crying whilst kicking at it, ready to take a nice chunk out of her.

BANG!

A shot rang out, the odd looking wolf fell, laying limp beside Sweetie Belle, who was holding her ears. Another wolf shot out of the brush, and Ray rushed forward, sticking his non dominant arm out, letting it sink it’s teeth into hit, causing him to yell, “Oh you motherfucker!” He yelled through the pain.

Sweetie Belle stood, not really wanting to leave him, but Ray glared back at her, “Run, God damn it!” He yelled, making her turn and run, the wolf shaking it’s head, tearing apart his arm, but that could wait, two more left the trees, circling him.

Ray laughed aloud, “Oh hell no!” He aimed his PMM at the right one, firing, and the bullet went into it’s ribs, making the thing stagger and fall over.

The one, now realising Ray was still a threat, rushed him. Ray shifted, and moved so the one on him was in the way, making the rusher collide with the current pest’s back.

Ray yelled, pressing his gun right against the wolf’s forehead, firing.

The bullet went through, hitting the one on top of it in it’s throat, causing the damn thing to fall back, clawing at it’s neck, tearing it apart even further.

Ray, whilst that was happening, was really feeling the pain now, his arm was almost on fire, and prying the damned wolf’s head off wasn’t easy.

Finally getting his arm free, he held it tightly, seething, his eyes full of tears, “Oh… Fuck this…” He said, shaking as he stood, looking around. Nothing else was around, likely scared by the many shots.

He knelt back down, picking up his gun, noticing he had dropped it apparently.

After pocketing it, he turned, and continued running down the path, he arm covered in blood, that was getting on his suit, and leaving a trail. The wolf had tore him a new one. Ray glanced at his arm, and grimaced. It was torn apart nearly, blood pouring out of the wound, and he could feel the familiar sense of cold and tiredness reaching for him, chasing him.

Eventually, he could see light, and a creepy looking hut, the three fillies talking to what looked like a miniature zebra. It gets better. He said to himself.

Stumbling forward, he made quite a bit of noise, causing them all to look at him, “Zecora! See! Ya gotta help ‘em!” Applebloom said, noticing Ray was hurt. Zecora moved forward quickly, bringing him towards her hut, “Yes, please, come with me.” She said, a very odd accent.

Ray followed, but staggered, falling to his knees, hearing muffled voices and barking. At least Scruffy is safe… he thought to himself, falling into a black abyss.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray was cold, and began coughing, his youth from earlier gone, “Son of a bitch…” He said to himself, sighing as he opened his eyes. He was in a bed this time. Wonder where I am now. He thought to himself, shifting to sit up in bed, looking around.

The room was small, with a large amount of trinkets and masks along the walls, most of which were making scared or scary faces.

Ray could feel his arm itch, and looked at it, noticing the red bandages wrapped around it, “Well… At least I’m still alive.” He noted to himself, sighing as he slumped.

“To hell with it.” He threw the covers off himself, and slowly tried getting up, which was surprisingly easy. Wobbling slightly, he placed a hand on the wall, balancing himself, smiling, “Bah, even a wolf couldn’t… Keep…” He could hear voices coming from the door leading into his room, and slowly walked over, trying not to lose his balance.

He leaned against the door, pressing his ear to it, “Gosh darn it, I told ya not to go into the forest Applebloom, and you did so anyway.” He heard a southern female say, “But Aj, we was tryin’ to get our cutie-marks!” He heard Applebloom say, which made him wonder. The hell is a cutie-mark anyway? He asked himself, but was stumped.

“And Sweetie Belle, I agree with Applejack, I cannot believe that you would go off into the Everfree.” He heard a far more posh voice say. That must be Sweetie Belle’s sister… Probably. He thought.

But Rarity! We found someone, and they saved us from wolves!” he heard her say.

“That explains the blood.” He heard someone say bluntly.

Ray sighed, and grabbed the handle, turning it and opened the door, “Excuse?” He said, getting looks of surprise in return.

The looks were varied.

Shocked, overly excited, scared to near death and cowering, thankful, curious, and challenging. It was all very uncomfortable for Ray.

“You know what, I’m just gonna lay back down.” He said, slowly closing the door.

“Wait! Excuse me?” He heard a voice say, but he clicked the lock, and smiled, getting into bed.

Click. He heard the unlock undo, and the Ponies filtered in, the first one was Purple, and began speaking, “I am Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and… Where’s Fluttershy?” She suddenly asked, looking around.

Ray felt very uncomfortable, “Oh my, are you alright, your bandage isn’t clean, I’ll fix that.” The one he could only assume was Fluttershy said, lifting his bandaged arm, and began unwrapping it, revealing a torn apart, blood and pretty much ruined forearm. She gasped, “Oh… Nothing to worry about, I’ll just clean this and wrap it.” She said, acting like it was all sunshine and daisies.

He looked at the others, wincing at the pain in his arm, “It’s… Nice to meet you all…” He said, taking in the site. What is with her hair? Did she color like that on purpose? He asked himself, staring at Rainbow Dash, who only stared back.

“First we deal with that Nightmare Moon lady, now we got this… this… Overgrown monkey.” Applejack said, scowling.

“That…” Ray paused, “Is extremely racist. “ He continued, causing her eyes to widen, “You can talk?” She asked. I was just fucking talking! He thought, upset, “Yes… I can talk… I’m the one that saved those little ones… But no… You’re right, stupid monkey. Should I do a show?” He asked, angry.

Aj traced the floor with her hoof, “Nah… I… I’m sorry… I jus’ was worried ‘bout mah sister was all…” She said, looking at him, frowning.

Ray waved a hand at her, “Yeah.” Then he looked at Twilight, “So, what can I do for you? I’m sure you want to ask me something just as much as I you.”

He was wrong.

Author's Note

I've gone through for all the mistakes, have no fear... Most of them anyway. I must say, I am Ashamed, though, the internet went out while I was in docs, so I couldn't see mistakes. It's not all my fault.

Anyway, good day.

The Approach and The Deal (3)

Ray was a enjoying his work so far. A week had gone by since he moved in with the Apples, and the work was enjoyable, and if a few baskets of apples went missing, the excuses were easy to make.

Ray was finding that Mac was a trustworthy fellow, and enjoyed working with him, even more so since he was a quiet fellow he later found out. Ever since he had moved in, Mac had considerably calmed down with the words.

However, today was different. Ray was helping Aj set up a stall outside their farm gate, and Mac was getting barrels of cider out of a cart and setting them nearby. He could see ponies in a line all the way back to the town. He was impressed very much, “You must have some good quality cider.” Ray commented, looking at Aj, who only scoffed, “Course we do, we pretty much own the business.” She said simply, “So… It’s not that it’s good, you’re just the only supplier.” Ray quipped.

He’d never seen somewhat give him the ‘eat shit and die’ look faster, “Now listen here! We have quality cid-” “Relax, it’s just the way you worded it, I mean, I enjoy working with businesses.” He said passively, “If I got into the business, I’d feel bad for the other players.” He said, smiling to himself, knowing he was egging her.

“You threatening me Monkey boy?” Aj said, standing and glaring at him, Mac seeming ready to jump in. Ray feigned hurt, “My lady, you wound me. I would never threaten you.” He said, smiling at her warmly, “It doesn’t build a healthy business relationship.” He said, “and that advice is free.” He said.

Aj grumbled, going back to working on the stall, which was pretty much done already, and Mac began loading in a barrel, shaking his head at Aj.

Soon, the cider rush began, Pinkie at the front of the line. She began to grab multiple mugs, and Ray smiled, “Good day Pinkie, I see you’re quite the drinker.” She nodded, “Oh, of course! Applejack’s cider is some of the best there is!” She proclaimed, getting Aj to grin at Ray, who only nodded, “I’ll bet.” Once Pinkie had grabbed her drinks and managed to balance them all, confusing Ray, she dropped a sack of bits, proceeding to leave.

Aj started to stop her, but Ray stopped Aj, “If they leave the money and don’t ask about it, we call it a tip.” He said, taking the bag, and setting it under the stall, smiling as he waved at those in the line. Applejack almost couldn’t believe Ray, but… the bits were nice, so she remained quiet.

After a few hours, the sun now high in the sky, the cider finally ran out, and when Aj announced this, the line of ponies all grumbled, the most coming from Rainbow Dash.

Aj was trying to calm the ponies down when a snazzy car/contraption pulled up, knocking over part of the fence.

Out stepped two dapper dans, standing proud. To Ray’s entertainment, they had begun to sing, explaining their mode of transportation, and what it could do. Ray was very impressed, this was exactly what he was looking for. When the singing was done, he began clapping, getting their attention.

Flam began first, “Well aren’t you a tall glass of water.” He said, chuckling, walking past Aj, Flim following. Ray only laughed, “I’d like to think I’m full of other things, liquor being one of them.” He said, kneeling and holding out his hand, “Ray Tanner.” He said warmly, smiling. Flam shook his hand, grinning, “Are you the owner of this joint?” “No.” Aj cut in.

“What ya’ll want?” Aj said, upset and wanting to get to the point, “ya done messed up our fence with ya thingy there.” She continued, pointing at the broken area of the fence, which wasn’t really that much.

“Glad you asked dear, we’d like to help you sell cider with our machine. The hash would be 75-25 percent, us in the favor.” “N-” Aj went to deny the request, and Ray stepped in, “33-67, your favor.” He said, putting his authority into his voice. Flim and Flam went a bit away, and began discussing with each other.

“What in tarnation are you doing?” Aj asked, growling in her words, “Saving your damn farm, now hush.” He said, causing Aj to boil with anger, “You’ll thank me later.”

Flim and Flam came back, “I think we can agree on that, but we’ve also got a deal for you, we can discuss it later.” Flam said, smiling, he then looked at Aj, “Dear, you should hold onto him. He could be the difference between you and bankruptcy.” He continued, trotting over to the machine.

Aj looked up at Ray, looking angry, sad, betrayed, he couldn’t tell, but she ran back into the farm. Mac trotted up to him, also looking angry, “Why’d you do that.” “Mac, that machine produces product at three times the speed ya’ll do. If we let them do the work, and let ‘em sell it, you have no net loss, you’re sell making what you got now.” Mac’s eyes widened, “Never thought about that.” He said, rubbing the back of his head. Ray patted Mac’s back, “Neither did your sister, don’t beat yourself up.”

Ray stood, smiling, “And so far, it’s a pretty beautiful day, and we’ve got cider to sell.” And so the rush continued.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray was tired, and laughing, the sun low in the sky. Mac was sitting with him, “It’s a good thin’ ya made that deal.” He said, Ray smiling, “I thank you for your compliments. I’m here all the time.” He said, running a hand through his hair, it was matted, and sweaty, but he could shower later.

Flam came over, grinning, “I’m glad everything is going well over here.” He said, then looked at Mac, “I’m afraid I need to talk to Ray alone.” Mac didn’t move, and Ray looked over, curious, “Mac, it’s alright, go and check on Aj for me, I’ll talk to her later.” Mac looked between them, and sighed, slowly getting up, and trotted off.

Ray leaned back against a hay bail, “Yes?” He asked, looking at Flam, “My brother thinks you could be useful, mostly because of your bronze and you’ve got something in your head.” Ray rose a brow, “And?” He said, getting curious, “What kinda useful?” He pried.

Flam looked around, and smiled, “Getting rid of competition.” He said quietly. You’ve got to be shitting me. Ray thought, slumping, “And by take out?” He asked, know the answer. Flam drew his hoof across his neck. Of fucking course. “You’d be paid handsomely.” Flam said, grinning, and Ray thought about it. Well, money in a new world, take out other markets, we could become kings. He thought, suddenly starting to like the idea, a grin coming to his face, “Alright.”

“Wonde-” Ray cut him off, “But I need to lay some things out, I’m not killing children.” He said simply, causing Flam to stare at him, “I… That’s fine.” He said, stuck on that. Ray leaned forward, “I also… Need more of these.” He said, reaching into his vest, the vest was his original, but it’d been patched, and pulled out a bullet, “Can you replicate these.” Ray asked, as Flam looked it over, smiling, “I think I can, yes.” Ray grinned wider. I can see a beautiful friendship. He thought

Ray stood, and stretched, “Also, I’m thinking of a market we could set up, but this’ll be far more… Dangerous.” He said, looking around as Flam leaned forward, wanting to hear about it, “Firearms, or guns if you want to say that.” Flam looked confused, “They aren’t allowed, in Equestria.” Flam said, “And the ones that exist are from Gryphonia, and aren’t even that great, it’s not a-” Ray pulled out his PMM, “This thing, is now the most advanced firearm in Equestria.” He stated simply.

Ray looked at the gun, “I’m going to take it apart and send you notes on how to remake and build them. The problem is, we have no access to factories or metal.” Flam suddenly perked up, “That can be arranged! An underground factory, using Diamond Dogs.” Ray nodded, “Yes, I’ve heard of them. That could work well.” He said.

Mac made his way over, “Applejack wants to talk with ya when ya get the chance.” He said quietly, looking at the two before turning and leaving again.

Flam watched Mac leave, “You trust him?” he asked suddenly, to which Ray nodded, “Yeah, we’re… Decent friends, hasn’t hurt me yet. But no, I don’t trust him with this. Not yet anyway.” Ray said quickly. Flam nodded, “About the Diamond Dogs, we should go meet them within the week.” Ray said, to which Flam nodded.

“Do you have a line in that house?” Flam asked, to which Ray nodded, “Only one, living room. Call at night, I sleep in the living room and can answer quickly, numbers 1835.” He said, looking at Flam, “I hope this can turn into something great.” Ray said, turning, “I gotta go take the heat, cya Flam, say hey to your brother for me.” He waved over his shoulder, heading towards the farm house.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray sat on the couch, stoking the fire in a stone fireplace, sighing as Aj came up to sit next to him. She sighed deeply, and hugged him, giving him a start, “Big Mac told me why you did it.” She said, sniffling, “Ah wasn’ thinkin’ about what we’d get, only ‘bout what ah thought we’d lose.” She continued, Ray rubbing her back.

He chuckled, “That’s fine Aj, everyone makes a mistake. Just didn’t want ya’ll to lose out on an opportunity, but this actually help you even more.” Ray said, thinking, “How so?” Aj asked, causing Ray to chuckle lightly, “You can still hoof pick and make product, then sell it in Ponyville as a premium, only place to get it.” He said, rubbing her back.

“That don’t sound like no bad idea.” Aj said, agreeing, “I’ll talk to granny and Mac ‘bout it.” She continued, stepping away from Ray, “I’m gonna go to sleep.” She said, going to take the speaker off the telephone. It was an old timey one, from the 1920s, made Ray feel young, “Wait, I’m expecting a call later.” He said, shrugging as Aj nodded, “I see… Well, take it off once you’re done.” She said, then went upstairs to sleep.

The fire would crackle and pop, now that it was quiet, Ray could actually hear it, sighing as the sound made him calmer. I hope this all go- His thoughts were cut off by a shrill ringing, and Ray quickly turned, grabbing the phone and pulling it close, taking the speaker off and held it to his ear, “Yes?” He said, wondering if it was Flam.

A garbled voice spoke, “2,000 bits, Drake Strongdraw, Black mane. Blue coat. Bow and Arrow Cutie-Mark.” Click.

Ray sat there in silence. I guess killing never can wait. He sighed, setting the speaker piece on the table beside the phone. He then laid down, shutting his eyes. I really hope this goes well. He thought, soon letting his mind slip to sleep.

Author's Note

Dun dun dun.
Ray's turning into a bad egg. However, he was always one.
In this Chapter, Ray helps the Apples and gets a side deal, hoping to earn more cash, and maybe begin running a gun business. Wonder how far they'll get. And Big Mac does like Ray(Not like that), and trusts Ray to do good things. Wonder how well it'd go over if he found out about the deals.

Also some slight Ray/Jack but there will no Romance in this story... Maybe, I don't really know. Love can really sink a Business.

Note: Please let me know about mistakes.

Good day.

Getting Into Things (4)

It was the next morning, the cool air making the morning pleasant, and Ray wanted to get out of the house. However, there were things to deal with. Breakfast.

The clattering of dishes and the muttering of Granny Smith were all noises he was getting used to. Mac was sitting across from Ray, eating some fritters, as Ray ate a slice of pie, a glass of orange juice, something he had to buy himself, joining his meal. Granny had finished, and Applebloom has downing a glass of apple juice, “May ah be excused?” Applebloom said soon as she finished, setting the glass down.

“Sure hun, go play.” Granny said, slowly getting up, “Kids gots to enjoy there time.” She said, leaving the kitchen… slowly. Aj looked to Ray, “How’d your call go… ah.. ah listened in on ya, didn’t hear ya say nothin’.” she said, looking down as she got out of her seat, “I was being told about some hash I need to go deal with.” Ray said, giving them both a warm smile, “I’m gonna go for a walk, I’ll probably be back in a few hours.” He said, getting up, wiping his face with a rag.

Mac nodded, “Eeyup.” Plain as the day is long. Ray thought to himself. He began walking towards the front door, ready to go do his work. Aj stopped him, “I want you to know I’m sorry.” Ray was confused, “You already apologised, why’re you sorry now?” He asked,

Aj sighed, “I just… I didn’t know if you believed me.” Ray chuckled, “You would have known, if I didn’t believe you.” He said simply, and left it at that, standing and heading out, “I’ll be back later Aj.” He said, and closed the door, not letting her respond.

Tapping his shoe tips on the floor, he sighed, smiling and straightened his new vest. A nice purple color, and it was made of thick silk, making it feel nice. He pat the part over his PMM, “Let’s go friend.” He said, walking down the steps, stopping to pet Scruffy, who was enjoying spending time outside, “Stay safe pal.” He said, smiling.

Ray began walking along the trail, leading to town, taking a look at the morning view. The grass was wet, birds were chirping, Applebloom was walking along side him… Wait… Ray looked down, and saw Applebloom staring up at him, smiling, “Howdy Ray!” She said, trying to keep up with his long strides.

Ray sighed, “Applebloom, I’ve got very important work to do, it involving helping your farm.” He said, smiling at her, stopping in his tracks. Applebloom moved to stand in front of him, “I’d like ta help!” She said, staring at him. Ray found himself in a predicament. She’s only a child… Innocent… Wait… “Applebloom, you want to help me, yes?” He asked, kneeling in front of her. Applebloom nodded excitedly.

Ray grinned, “Do you know a pony named Drake Strongdraw?” He asked, looking around, checking to see if anyone else was around. Applebloom thought for a good moment, “Ah think… He’s the weird stallion that goes into the Everfree to mess with the critters.” She said, looking at him, “Do you know when he goes into the woods?” Ray asked, leaning towards her.

“Why Ray? Is he a friend of yours?” She asked, confused, “Yes, but this is secret, it could save the farm.” He said, smiling, “Applejack likely wouldn’t approve though, but you can help me a lot.” He said, standing, rubbing his face, frazzling his moustache. Applebloom smiled, “I’ll help ya sir.” She said, smiling brightly.

“So, time?” Ray asked, looking at her, “He goes into the Everfree Forest around dark.” She said, “It’s pretty easy to track him. He goes to the river and… Sits there.” She said, “Ah feel kinda bad for him… I could lead you to him tonight!” She said excitedly. Ray nodded, “Of course, but you’ll have to listen to me. Word, for word.” He said, holding up a finger.

She nodded, “I’m gonna go play with Sweetie Belle.” and she was off. Ray felt his arm itch, and looked at his bandages. They were a disgusting brown. I’ll have Fluttershy change them later. He thought to himself, and then sighed, “Guess I’ll go to town.” He said, walking.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Walking was nice, it gave Ray time to think, and it helped his legs. He was thankful, this ‘Equestria’, seemed to set his age back a bit, but he still looked old, not the he was complaining, he wasn’t some old, moldy, prune face. Ray found himself smiling, seeing that bar again, ‘The Boardwalk’. I should get back to Daniel some time… Give him all the apples I collected. He thought to himself.

Ray felt someone bump into him, and he nearly fall over them. Looking down, he could see a white mare, electric blue hair, “Excuse me miss, I seem…” She went around him, walking away, “Well… Bi-” He stopped himself, noticing a family walking nearby.

With that having happened, Ray decided to go to Twilight’s library, thinking he might be able to find books on history of wars, or weapons… Maybe some adventure too. While walking he would take looks around, and notice ponies smiling at him, waving and such; he’d wave back of course, giving smiles. It was nice to not be hated.

After a bit, Ray finally got to the library, Twilight had let him know it was a tree, and he was impressed, considering the tree wasn’t dead, but she’d probably used magic. Magic, what a BS way of doing things. He found himself thinking, shaking his head as he knocked on the door.

The little dragon things opened the door. Spike. He remember, “Good morning, is Twilight in?” Ray asked, smiling. Spike only glared at him, moving aside to let him in, “I can see you don’t like me.” Ray said, smiling warmly, “But I think we could be good friends.” He said, heading in.

Twilight was sitting on her couch, reading a book, a pile of them beside her. Ray snuck over, and began reading over her shoulder. And now, you’re on to step four, seduction. Wait… Oh dear. Ray felt himself blush and stood up, took a few steps back, and coughed, “What’re you reading Twilight?” He asked, giving a smile, with a hint of curiosity. Twilight jumped, floundered, then fell onto the floor with a dull thud, “Ow…” She said, slowly getting up, looking at him.

“Nothing Ray, you scared me half to death.” Twilight said, groaning. Ray felt slightly bad, but it was kind of funny, Ray walked over, going to help her pick up the books, only to be stopped when she lifted them in her telekinesis, quickly putting them away, “I don’t need help, Ray.” Twilight suddenly snapped.

Ray stared at her, “Excuse me?” Twilight looked up at him, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to sound like that, I’m just tired and…” Ray waved a hand, not caring, “It’s fine Twilight, I wanted to know if you have any books on History, Wars, and other things.” He asked simply.

Twilight looked at him, puzzled, “Why would you need that?” She asked him, trotting around the room, looking about the shelves. Ray smiled, “I want to learn about Equestria.” He answered quickly and simply. Twilight nodded, “That’s fine, I’ll get some for you.” She paused for a moment, thinking, “I also want you to know, Princess Celestia and her sister are coming to meet you.” She said, pulling out a few books.

Ray suddenly felt uncomfortable, “Why would they want to… I mean…” Only human here, of course they’d want to meet me. He thought, then smiled, “I’m sorry, I just don’t think I’m fit to see royality.” Ray said, looking abashed. Twilight scoffed, “Princess loves all her subjects, no matter who or what they are.” She said, smiling warmly. Joy.

Twilight trotted over, levitating the books, a decent stack of them, “Here you go, Wars and History of Equestria.” She said, smiling. Ray thought for a moment about it, “I would like to know, when are the Princesses going to get here?” He asked, to which Twilight grinned, “Tomorrow morning, they’re busy today, but they’ve freed up tomorrow to meet you.” Ray felt his heart sink, “That’s nice… Thank you Twilight.” He said, leaving her in the library.

Ray sighed, noticing it was almost midday, from where the sun was in the sky. He decided to head back to the farm, that was until he noticed Big Mac at his apple stall, and so he went to him, “Good day Mac.” He said, smiling. Mac smiled back, “Howdy Ray.” He said, his deep voice a comfort, “I’ve got some books, and I was wondering if you could bring them back to the farm when you were done?” Ray asked, holding up the books.

Big Mac nodded, “Jus’ leave ‘em beside the stall.” He said, and Ray did so, stretching, “I’m going to the Boardwalk for a while.” He let Mac know, “Join me if you can.” Ray invited, to which Mac nodded, grinning, “Would if ah could now.” He said, the both of them chuckling.

Ray walked back the way he came from, coming into town, and looked around, smiling, the warmth of the sun was refreshing on his skin, though he noticed his arm was feeling like hell. He knew he’d need more herbs from Fluttershy, even more reason to visit her, but that could wait. He wanted a drink.

Walking along the road, he eventually saw the Boardwalk sign, and smiled. Upon walking over, he noticed a board on the door, ‘Live show, the Showing of Ruby. NO children allowed.’ Ray stared at the sign. Sound interesting… But I’ll pass. He thought walking past the door, deciding he’d just go to Fluttershy’s house.

However, he could hear the great howls of ponies from within, and he felt curiosity tugging on him. Fluttershy wanted to talk, I can come back later with Mac. He thought to himself, and pushed on, heading for the trail.

Ray soon found himself on the trail, humming quietly as he walked, noticing a great deal of animals around. She really does enjoy nature. He thought to himself, smiling as he watched some of the birds.

Ray walked over a small bridge, leading to her house. Ray had to say, it was a nice looking place, the way it blinded in… It also looked like a giant mushroom, so points there.

Ray walked on up to the door, and knocked twice, “Fluttershy? It’s me Ray, I-” As soon as he said his name, the door opened, revealing a smiling Fluttershy, “Ray!” Oh it’s so good to see you. How’s your arm?” She asked, letting him in. Ray stepped inside, ducking to avoid hitting his head, “I mean, it’s still attached, so it could be worse.” He joked, managing to get a light laugh from Fluttershy, “Well, I’ll see about changing that bandage, and then we can relax and drink tea!” She said excitedly.

Ray smiled, “Of course.” He said, looking around. He liked Fluttershy for the fact she lived modestly, nothing much, just enough for herself and her pets. He sat on her couch, letting her take his arm, “This is filthy, you should have been sooner.” She scolded, causing him to laugh, “You’re the one who said to come now.” He pointed out, getting her to look away, sighing.

They sat in silence for a bit, Fluttershy having removed his bandage, revealing the the slowly healing wound. Some of it was still open, and blood would slowly seep out, causing Fluttershy to shudder and turn a slight shade green. She quickly went about cleaning it, then wrapped it back up, smiling up at Ray when she finished, “Thank you Fluttershy.” For not billing me like the hospital would.

“Of course Ray! I’m happy to help a friend.” She said, smiling warmly. Ray nodded, hearing a tea kettle whistle, to which Fluttershy jumped, startled, then flew off into the kitchen, leaving Ray there.

He looked around, clasping his hand together, slouching over, resting his elbows on his knees. Maybe I should shave. He thought, then chuckled. No… That would be silly. He thought, noticing Angel, who was Fluttershy’s not-so-angel pet bunny. They stared at each other for a moment, a small staring contest taking place. Fluttershy looked at the both of them ,”Am I interrupting?”

Ray leaned back, looking over at Fluttershy, “Of course not, the tea smells nice.” He said as Fluttershy brought it over on a plate. Two cups, and a kettle, and he meant it, it did smell good. He took his cup, and tasted it. Ray smiled, taking bigger sips, “This is good Fluttershy, you could sell this.” He said innocently, “I mean, I would buy it.” He added.

Fluttershy blushed, “Oh stop, you’re only saying that. Rarity says it could be better.” She said, looked down, taking light sips of the tea. Ray was puzzled, “Isn’t she your friend?” He asked, curious. She nodded, “Yes, but she can be rude sometimes… I talk nicely about her dresses… Why can’t she be nice about my tea?” Fluttershy asked him, looking up at him, her big eyes sparkling.

Ray scooted away slightly, and sighed, “I don’t know, but I could help you sell it. I know some ponies around Ponyville would love it.” He said, pouring himself more of the tea.

Fluttershy’s eyes widened, “You actually mean it? Ponies would like my tea?” She asked, smiling at the thought. Ray nodded, drinking tea before he spoke, it was really helping his throat, “Of course, some people where I’m from, would call tea the ‘Nectar for the Gods’.” He said, looking posh as he pointed a finger into the air, getting a giggle from Fluttershy.

Fluttershy looked at him, the looked away, “Could you tell me about the religion where you're from?” She asked suddenly, seeming worried about asking, “Of course, but what brought the curiosity on Fluttershy?” Ray asked, honestly wondering, taking another sip,

“Well, my friends believe that Celestia and her sister Luna are both gods… But that seems to… I don’t know, easy?” She said, looking up at him. Ray chuckled. Same everywhere. He pat her head, chuckling, “I believe in Christianity, the religion in which with pray to our God, and ask forgiveness for what we’ve done.” He said, beginning to explain. Fluttershy smiled, “That doesn’t sound too bad.”

Ray sighed, “I’ll explain more later, why don’t we meet up tomo-” He remembered the Princesses were coming, “At the Farm, we can talk about it more then.” He said, smiling. She nodded, taking his cup and went to the kitchen. Ray looked at a clock, noticing they’d spent a large amount of time there apparently, it was almost time to meet Applebloom.

He stood, dusting himself off as Fluttershy came back into the room, “It was nice to spend time with you Ray.” She said warmly, smiling at him. Ray smiled back, waving as he left.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray was sitting in a bush, checking his PMM for any sign of weather or problems. Deeming that it was find, and began counting his bullets. Two clips, thirteen each including one in the chamber. One full clip, the other only has eleven including one chambered. His thoughts were cut off by the bushes rustling beside him, and he turned quickly, ready to shoot, pressing the barrel against Applebloom’s forehead.

Silence. Ray stared at her, and she stared back.

Slowly, Ray pulled the gun away from her head, and put into his vest. She looked ready to die on the spot, “R- Ray… W… Why did… You pulled that out on me?” Applebloom asked, shaking. Ray hugged her, “I’m very sorry Applebloom, I… You scared me…” He said, not able to believe he nearly blew a child’s head off.

Applebloom was shaking, scared, “Ah… Ah thought you was gonna hurt me…” She said, nearly in tears. Ray sighed, rubbing her head, “I’m sorry… I’ll get you some Ice Cream after we’re done if you want.” He bribed, smiling. Applebloom sniffled, rubbing her muzzle, nodding slowly, “Alright…” She said, looking out of the bushes.

Ray sighed. Jesus Christ… He thought to himself, his heart pounding. Applebloom yanked her head back into the bush, “He’s comin’.” She said, and they waited. Ray could hear his hoof steps, and waited for them to go by. Once he couldn’t hear them, he got out with Applebloom, and saw Drake trotting into the woods, a bow on his back and quiver on his side.

Applebloom began to follow, Ray close behind. He could see Drake, and was eager to get this over with and go relax with Big Mac.

Eventually, Drake took a turn, heading somewhere other than the river, and Ray quickened his pace, not wanting to lose him. Applebloom scampered after him, trying to keep up. Looking down the way Drake went, and Ray saw him. Drake was standing, staring right at Ray, aiming an arrow at him. Ray reached into his vest, eyes widening his lunged forward, Drake loosing the arrow, which went just over Ray’s head.

Pulling out his PMM, ray aimed quickly, and fired. Birds scattered, the shot echoing loudly. Drake fell to the ground, the bullet having gone through his neck. Applebloom ran out, “He tried to kill you!” She yelled, surprised, then went to look at Drake, but Ray stopped her, watching Drake convulse, trying to stop the bleeding, but eventually stopped moving.

Ray looked Applebloom in the eyes, “He attacked me, you understand that?” Applebloom nodded, “Uh-huh, he tried to kill ya with an arrow.” She said, and Ray nodded, shaken by the close dance with death. Ray picked up Applebloom, putting his PMM into his vest, and cast one more glance at Drake’s corpse, “We have to report this. And here is what we’ll say. ‘We went fishing, and got attacked by him.’ Alright?” Applebloom nodded, but was confused.

Ray began quickly walking back to the trail, Applebloom shaking in his grasp. He was thankful she had been there now, because she was a witness to his self-defence.

Once they’d gotten to the farm, Ray called the local militia, which was like Ponyville’s police force, and reported the attack, and they’d send someone to retrieve the body and take the Witness’s report. Ray was happy, and the call back the phone that had called him the night before.

“Yes?” The garbled voice asked, “It’s done.” He said simply, and hung up.

When Ray looked up, Aj was staring at him, “Who was that?” She asked, a look he couldn’t figure out in her eyes, “Flam, I had to drop some stuff off in town for him.” He said quickly, and stood, “I’m gonna go relax with Big Mac.” He said, walking past her, “Now wait one moment, why ya hangin’ around Applebloom?” She asked, upset, “You know what this put her through? She’s scared you almost died.” She continued, growing angry.

Ray sighed, “I’m sorry Aj… I’ll talk to her when I get back.” He promised, smiling as he walked out.

“Come on Mac.” Ray said, walking past him. Mac had been sitting on the stairs, waiting for them to get finished, “Eeyup.” He said, grinning as he began following.

Time to see who this Ruby is. He thought to himself.

Author's Note

I had fun writing this, and it wasn't stressful, surprisingly. I enjoyed getting some Fluttershy and Ray bonding in there, I hope you all feel the same.

Remember to let me know about mistakes.

Good day.

New Business (5)

Ray was smiling, drink in hand, listening to music happily. Mac was relaxing, talking with some other stallion. Daniel was taking care of Ray with alcohol, because of his ‘trauma’.

The Boardwalk had few lights on at this time, and most light came from the stage, where what could only be described as flapper girls were dancing atop it. It was quite the sight, beautiful young girls, the music. Ray felt good, and warmth in his stomach, and a buzz in his head.

Ray took a sip of his drink. Daniel knew how to take those apples and make ‘em stronger. He clinched his fist, and sighed, “Daniel’s really makin’ ‘em good.” He said aloud, getting some agreements from other patrons.

Ray got a refill, swaying as he stood to approach the bar, “Oh dear.” “See the giant stand!” He heard others say, laughing with them. Mac came up beside him, helping to balance him, “Watch yourself Ray, you might fall.” He said, to which Ray smiled wider, patting Mac’s side, “You’re good frien’ Mac… I go- Urp… Friend…” He said, holding his chest.

Mac nodded, “I know Ray.” He said, helping Ray up on the chair, “Daniel… More of that Whiskey you made.” Daniel nodded, and Mac sat beside him. Daniel began pour Ray’s drink, Ray asked a question, “Hey… Daniel… Where the hell is Ruby? I wanted to meet her..?” He said, but it sounded more like a question, and Daniel looked over, “Ray, that was a morning show.” He said, trying be frank.

Ray stood, “You gotta be shittin’ me? I came he-” Mac placed a hoof on Ray’s chest, “Ray… Come on… We… There are still more shows…” He said, slowing his words to speak clearly. Ray stared at him, then looked at Daniel, “I… I’m just tired…”

Daniel got a look on his face, “Mac, here.” He gave Mac some keys, they had a tag on them, ‘VIP Room’, “Take him up there, and I’ll hook you up with a drink when you get back.” Big Mac got a look, “I don’t think that’d be a good idea.” Ray laughed, “Please…” Ray sighed, “Sure… I’ll go lay down.” Daniel smiled, “It’ll be a good rest Ray, trust me.”

Mac helped Ray with the ever so fun task of climbing the stairs, and got to the door, “Gimme the keys.” Ray said, holding out his hand, leaning against the wall. Mac stared at him, “It’s in your hand Ray.” He stated simply, staring at Ray, who looked in his hand, seeing the key, “Thank you Mac…” He said,

Unlocking the door, they both stumbled in once it opened, only to hear giggles coming from ahead of them. Mac looked up first, “Oh my.” Ray looked at him, “What?” He then looked up, noticing four mares laying on the Bed. Mac looked at Ray, “You’d not mind… If I joined ya right, Ray?” he asked, with almost pleading eyes.

Ray nodded, “I would, go get smashed.” And with that, Ray shoved Mac out of the room, and blacked out.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray found himself standing in a field, and everywhere he looked, it stretched on for miles. Ray growled, “Where the fuck am I? What happened to those mares?!” He started to get upset, not really caring about volume at the moment.

“You should really calm down, sir.” he heard a voice behind him say, and whirled around stumbling to his left. Ray could feel magic wrap around him, and help balance him, “I see we’ve come at a bad time.” the voice said, and Ray looked at the source, finding a light purple mare was flowing purple hair. She was sitting in the grass, staring at him.

Ray reached up, running a hand through his hair, then smiled, “Hey honey, what’re you doin’ ‘ere?” he said, slurring his words, making a half-assed attempt at being charming. The mare shook her head, “My name is Luna.” she stated, looking flatly at him.

Ray walked around, stumbling every now and then, “Okay? I’m Ray Tanner, businessman hire!” He said, pointing a finger into the air. Luna only raised a brow, “Alright, relax, I can see that you are under the influence. Though, I don’t know what could have gotten you to this point.” she admitted, watching Ray carefully.

Ray stumbled towards Luna, “I was helpin’ Danny at The Boardwalk, he makes Whiskey.” he explained, smiling. Luna nodded slowly then suddenly reached out, smacking him across his left cheek. This sent ray stumbling back ,and he staggered, falling backward, “Ow!” he yelled, holding his cheek, “The fuck was that for?” he yelled, sitting up, staring at Luna.

Luna towered over him, “You’re drunk.” she stated simply, glaring down at him, “I can see that it was a bad idea to visit your dream, Ray, since it was tonight you decided to get… hammered.” she continued, turning to leave.

Ray stammered, reaching out, “Wa- Wait!” He yelled, to which Luna sighed, and turned to him, “Yes?” Ray slowly stood, dusting himself off, stumbling slightly, “I… I’m sorry… I had a rough night.” he said, stopping at that. Luna gave him a flat look, “Of course, I’ll forgive you. I suggest you be dressed properly in the morning.” she continued.

Ray was confused, “What’re you-” he couldn’t finish as he was quickly plunged into darkness again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray awoke with a start, but couldn’t sit up, there was a weight on his chest, and when he looked, he very much regretted it. A mare was asleep on his chest, and he could hear more snoring to his left and right. Please, God, no… He risked a glance. More mares. I’m gonna kill Mac, Danny, whoever did this. He thought, angry that someone would let him do this.

To his horror, apparently the door to his room was not locked, “Why, of course, Princess, Ray is right in…” Ray could hear Daniel talking, and the door open, followed by a group gasping. Ray looked around the mare on his chest, looking at a large white pony, with a horn and wings, Celestia, he assumed.

Ray and the group stared at each other, the silence was daunting. Ray coughed, and decided to speak, “I… I’ll be down in a minute?” Celestia nodded, and the door closed. Ray sat there, before sighing. Great first impression. He thought to himself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Upon heading down the stairs, Ray noticed that the bar was empty, aside from Big Mac asleep on stage. He noticed that Celestia and how he could only assume was her sister, sitting at the bar.

Ray walked over, sitting down beside Celestia, “Good morning.” she said, looking down at him. Shes huge. Ray thought. Daniel brought over a bottle, ‘Daniel’s Whiskey’, good stuff. Celestia shook her head at the offer, but the other one, Luna, he seemed to find himself thinking, nodded. Ray tapped the counter before sighing, “Listen… I’m sorry about what you saw, but that’s not me, I try to be a respectable man.” Ray explained, looking at Celestia, who only nodded.

“I’ve heard good things about you, saving fillies, boosting up business, and other things. I wanted to come and meet you. Twilight said you seemed like a decent person.” Celestia said, looking down at Ray, causing him to feel a shiver up his spine. Those eyes…

Ray nodded, “Well, I thank you for coming down here to meet me, though I wish you could have seen me at my best, not my worst.” He said, glaring at Daniel, who slipped into the back room. Luna looked at him, “I too, wish we could have met at your best.” and she went back to her drink, downing it quickly, surprising Ray.

Celestia stood, “I’ll be heading to Twilight’s library, I’ll talk to you later tonight.” she said, leaving before Ray could say anything. Luna stayed behind, and moved to Celestia’s seat, staring at Ray. She was the same size as Mac, so they were at least eye level. “What are you doing in this town, Mister Ray?” Luna asked, getting in his face, making him lean away, “Trying to make a living?” He said, looking anywhere but at her.

Luna scoffed, “I’m sure, though I admire your brass.” she said, downing another drink, unaffected. Ray rubbed his face, then sighed, “I’m a businessman, I like to build things.” Luna nodded, “I’m sure, but when your business begins to affect these ponies?” she asked, giving him a quizzical look. Ray shrugged, “That’s what business does, sorry for those who get hurt along the way.” he said simply.

A smile graced Luna’s lips, and she stood, “Try to stay sober, I’d like to talk to you more often.” and she was gone.

Ray looked at Daniel, who was in the backroom doorway, “I want to talk to you.” Daniel nodded, and stepped out, and took his place behind the counter. Ray sat upright, and looked at him, “I have another idea for a business, because you’ve clearly got willing mares.” Ray began to explain, Daniel looked interested, “I think you should start selling more than alcohol.” Ray said simply.

Daniel looked to be in thought for a moment, “Well… It’s your idea, so... How much money do you want out of it?” he asked, giving Ray some options. Ray smiled, “25-75, you in favor, after all, it’s your building.” he said, holding out his hand, and Daniel smiled, shaking it.

Ray stood, scratching his beard, “I need to head to the farm though… Aww, fuck.” he said, groaning, making Daniel look over at him, “What?” “I forgot about Fluttershy…” Ray explained, heading for the door, “I’ve got to go, see you later, Daniel.” he finished.

Ray made his way out of the bar, and began to head back to the farm, figuring the Mac would be fine on his own. On the way however, he ran into Aj, and she didn’t exactly look happy. She got right up close to him, poking Ray’s chest, “Where in tarnation ‘ave you been? Fluttershy is worried sick because you didn’t make it home! And where is mah brother?!” she asked, getting louder with every sentence.

Rubbing his ears, Ray pointed back over his shoulder at the bar, and Aj went past him, heading in, Ray used this moment to make his way back to the farm, walking along the dirt road. Ray couldn’t help be feel dirty, he couldn’t believe that Mac would let him throw down like that either. He shuddered. Glad I was drunk, don’t remember anything about it. He thought, one of the only ups.

Once he was at the farm, he walked up the stairs of the porch, and knocked on the screen door. After a few moments, Granny opened the door, “Well hello!” she said loudly, “Finally made it home did ya?” she asked, to which Ray nodded, making his way in, noticing Fluttershy asleep on the couch. Ray smiled and walked over, sitting beside her, “I’m here.” He whispered, to which Fluttershy’s eyes fluttered open, and she looked at him.

Ray suddenly found himself wrapped in a tight hug, which he returned, “Sorry that I’m… quite a few hours late Shy.” he said, sighing as she sniffled, “I thought you’d been hurt.” Shy said, pushing away from him, looking at his eyes, “Why do you smell?” she asked suddenly, scrunching her face up. Ray stood, “I’m gonna go shower really quickly.” he stated, heading upstairs to the restroom, where he splashed water in his face, “I should ring Daniel’s fuckin’ neck.” he grumbled, staring at himself in the mirror, his blue eyes looking back.

He sighed, stripping and took his shower, hoping to calm his nerves.

When he finished, he put on some new clothes he paid Rarity for. Black dress pants, purple dress shirt, new silver vest, and nice, sleek, black shoes. Ray would have to give his thanks later, but they were nice enough now.

Ray left the restroom, and headed back down stairs, where he found Fluttershy sipping tea with Luna. Seeing this caused Ray to stumble, causing a great deal of noise, making the two of them look over, “Oh, Ray, we were just talking about you.” Luna said, smiling behind her cup. Fluttershy was smiling, so he doubted it was anything bad, and made his way over, sitting on the floor.

Once he was down, a tea cup levitated to Ray and he took it out of the air, smiling as he nodded at Luna, “So, what were we talking about?” he asked, taking a sip, it was good. Luna chuckled, “Oh nothing of concern, just how silly you were in your dream, very interesting.” Fluttershy giggled as Luna explained.

They all talked a great deal, however, mostly Luna and Fluttershy talked, Ray only sat there monitoring what was said.

Eventually, Luna stood, stretching, “I believe I must take my leave. I think I’ve heard enough about you, Ray.” she said, smiling at him, and Ray nodded, “Yes, of course.” Once Luna was gone, Ray sighed, but the Fluttershy spoke up, “Tell me about Christianity.” Son of a bitch.

And so he began the long and annoying task of explaining the religion to Shy.

The Real Business Begins (6)

It’d been two days since that day and Ray was sipping whiskey out of a bottle as he wrote down details of his PMM. He was wearing a white tank top, and some shorts Rarity had made for him.

He stared at the pieces, laid out on the table beside his bed, questioning himself. However, his thoughts were interrupted by his room’s door being opened, Aj stepping in, “Are you enjoying your new room, Ray?” she asked, smiling at him. Ray nodded, and went back to drawing out details and instructions.

Aj trotted over, sitting beside him, “What’ca doin’ there?” she asked, trying to make sense of what was on the paper. Ray chuckled, and explained, “I wanted to write down some notes on my gun.” Aj looked at, shocked, “Gun?! Those aren’t allo-” Ray placed a finger on her lips, “If I didn’t have this, your sister would be dead Aj… I’d like you to realise that… And it was a gift from my father.” he said, smiling, “So please, I’d like to hold onto it.” he finished.

Aj nodded, and watched him, intrigued by the lines and detail, “You ever thought ‘bout being an artist?” she asked, looking up at him. Ray shrugged, “I wanted to go into the art business, but my father never let me, wouldn’t pay for it…” He took a moment to draw in some details on the barrel, “So I switched to market business, and he happily paid my way through school.” he finished, sharpening his pencil.

Aj nodded, and got up, “Well… Dinners on the table, and everyone’s havin’ at, come on.” she said, leaving the room. Ray watched as she left, sighed, and stood, letting out a yawn as he stretched. Looking outside, he noticed how late it was, “Well damn.” he thought aloud.

Turning, he noticed Applebloom standing in his doorway, and smiled warmly at her, “What’re you doing up her Applebloom?” he asked, kneeling as she trotted over, “Sis told me to come ‘n’ get’ca.” she answered, smiling up at him. Ray nodded, and picked her up, getting a squeal of delight from her, and he smiled. Remind’s me of when Hugo was younger… He shook his head, and exit the room.

Heading down the stairs, Ray could hear the chatter at the table, “That Ray boy-” “Not a boy.” Mac cut in, but Granny continued in stride, “He’s quite the charmer, I seen him and you, Mac, goin’ into the Boardwalk place.” she continued, and Ray came around the corner into the kitchen, holding Applebloom, “I heard my name?” he said, trying to change the subject.

Aj looked at him, and smiled, she was finally starting to see him for his good side.

Ray set Applebloom down, “Go eat kid.” he said, and she went and sat down. Granny looked to Ray, “Ain’t you gonna eat honey?” she asked, holding a spoon infront of her mouth, shaking. Ray waved his hand, “I’m afraid I’ve got to make a call, but you have my dish, you need to build your strength, so that we can keep callin’ you tough old bird.” he said jokely, getting a laugh from everyone.

Ray smiled at them all, then stepped out into the living room, sitting on the couch, letting a sigh escape his mouth. Picking up the phone, he waited a moment. There was a click, “Operator?” he asked, “Yes?” was the response. Ray smiled, lines were working, “I’d like to be put through to the Flim Flam brother’s office.” he requested, to which he got a confirmation.

The phone rang a few times before he heard the click, “Yes?” Flam said, sounding uninterested, “I have the notes, I’d like to meet this Diamond Dogs within the week.” Ray stated simply, crossing his legs. There was a pause on the line, “Alright, Ray, we’ll be down tomorrow, bring your piece and notes, and your shipment should arrive tomorrow mornin;.” Flam stated, “Shipme-” Ray was cut off by the click.

Ray slammed the earpiece onto the rack, and sat the phone down. Rubbing his face, he groaned, coughed, then stood, stretching.

Hooves, he could hear them behind him, and he turned slowly, seeing Aj staring at him, “Are you alright?” she asked, looking worried. Ray stared at her for a moment, letting his anger settle before sighing, “I’m fine… Tired.” Aj nodded slowly, “I… told Granny to save you a fritter.” she said, looking down, holding out a plate with the fritter

Ray smiled, warmed by the gesture, “Thank you, Aj, I’ll eat it in here.” he said, taking the plate, smiling warmly. Aj nodded and left, leaving Ray there. He let out a sigh, and sat on the couch, eating quietly, wondering about the other elements.

Never really see Rainbow Dash that much… Nothing of that Pink One… And I don’t like Twilight, far too close to Celestia…

He was drawn from his thought by someone poking him, and he looked down to he left, noticing Applebloom, “Excuse me Ray, but… Could I sleep with you tonight?” Ray shuddered, but this was different, it was comforting a child, “Of course.” he said, rubbing her head.

Standing, he took his plate to the kitchen, and cleaned it, ignoring the talk of Mac and Granny.

When he finished, he said his goodnights and went upstairs, followed by the Bloom, and went into his room, sitting on the side of his bed. Putting in the final details in the notes, he got under the covers with Applebloom, and shut his eyes, “Good night, Ray.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray was sitting in a field, and he knew this place, it was somewhere he’d been before. Looking around, he noticed that the field was all that there was, and the sky was night, but the land was bright, like the sun was shining. Strange place.

He could hear the sound of wings flapping behind him, and he turned, coming face to face with Luna, “So, this is your world?” Ray asked, crossing his arms. Luna chuckled, “No, this is your world, just a field; I find that interesting.” she said, trotting past Ray, looking around, “Mind if I make a few changes?” Luna asked, looking back at him.

Ray only stared at her, then just shrugged, “Yeah, but don’t mess up my grass.” he said jokingly.

Suddenly, a bright flash blinded him for a few moment, “Gah! Fuckin’ jesus?!” Ray yelled, flailing his arms. When his sight finally returned, he was greeted by an amazing sight.

A city, massive, he found himself in the middle of it all, nightclubs and bars at every corner, a place he could enjoy, “What is this?” Ray asked, spinning around to take it all in. Luna sighed, “My dream…” she said sadly, looking down. Ray was confused, “Your dream? This is what you want?” he asked, trying to clarify. Luna nodded slowly, “Celestia does not show me the respect I deserve now that I’m back.” she explained.

Ray was only becoming more confused, “Now that you’re back? I…” he couldn’t really express himself. Luna only shook her head, “Story for another time, but Celestia has placed me in charge of keeping an eye on you, but you won’t have to worry about me. From what i can see, you’re making Equestria what it used to be.” Luna said, smiling at him, it made his skin crawl.

Luna clapped her hooves, and the whole city collapsed into the field, leaving nothing behind. The wind was a nice return. Looking around, he noticed everything was back to normal, but when he looked back at Luna, she was gone, “Where’d…” he said quietly, before suddenly he was enveloped in darkness.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray woke with a start, gasping as he reached for the side table, slapping his hand against the wood surface. Applebloom was awoken from the smack, staring at him, “Are ya alright, Ray?” she asked, worried. Ray nodded slowly, getting up out of bed, quickly putting on some clothes, “I’m fine, I just… Had a bad dream.” he said, finishing buttoning up his silver vest.

Ray growled, noticing his gun was still apart, and went about putting it back together. Applebloom got out of bed, and left, looking back at Ray, worried.

Soon, Ray was staring at a PMM, smiling at it, the turned, heading for the door. However, he was stopped by Aj, “Why was my sister in here?” she asked passively. Ray tried to get by, “She couldn’t sleep alone.” He squeezed by Aj, and rushed down the stairs, heading for the front door.

Mac stopped him, “I’m going with you.” he said, causing Ray to groan, “Mac, please… I… You can’t, I’ll tell you later, but I can’t take you with me on this.” He said, holding Mac by his shoulders, staring him in the eyes. Mac sighed, nodding, and moved aside, letting Ray get by.

Opening the door, he was greeted by Flim and Flam, both of which were putting a crate onto the porch, “Hey boys.” Ray said, closing the door behind him. Flam smiled, “Nice to see ya fella.” he said, holding out a wooden chest. Ray took it, opening to look inside, and smiled. My blood money. He thought grimly.

Ray walked past them, and put the chest under the stair, “Put my things there from now on.” he said simply, and Flim grunted a yes. Flam smiled, and began leading Ray, “You look nice.” Ray smiled, “I know, Rarity’s been a great help.” he said, smiling at the clothing he was wearing.

They walked in silence for the most part after that, going past the farm. Along the trail away from Ponyville.

Eventually, they came to an open field, nothing was growing here either, which Ray thought was odd, “So?” “Pull out your gun.” Flam said quickly. Ray did so, making sure the safety was off, “Why do-” Ray began, but was cut off by a mound of dirt suddenly appearing, and three Diamond Dogs popped out of it.

Ray was slightly shocked, then realised how stupid they were, considering the Dogs just blindly charged at them. So Ray opted to shoot the least important looking one, the short on on the right, couldn’t even run properly.

Two shots. One in the chest. One in the head.

The other two dogs suddenly skid to a halt, looking down at their now dead friend, then back at Ray. Flam was watching in shock, surprised by the power of Ray’s pistol, then more so when Ray took initiative, “You’d best stay right there.” Ray said calmly, approaching them. The Dogs shook, not daring to move, “I’d like to talk to you about some work we’ve got for you.”

Flam took it from there, “We’d like for you to help use with mining out metals and other materials. In return, you’ll not have to worry about the ponies taking your gems.” The Dogs seem to like this deal, and nodded vigorously, “Yeah! We take you to boss! He will hear deal!” the tallest Dog said. Ray sighed. It’s going better than I thought it would.

Flam nodded, his brother remaining quiet, “Of course, we’d love to.” he said quickly, a smile on his face. Ray rubbed his beard, and nodded along.

The two Dogs quickly began digging a diagonal path into the ground, and Ray sighed, taking the lead. Let’s get this over with.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray had to cover his mouth, it was awful, the place smelled like shit and death. Not pleasant. Flim and Flam were not faring any better.

Dog were watching them as they walked. Ray noticed some using their claws to have at veins of metal, and dug out massive gems. Ray could feel a business coming to mind.

Eventually, that came to a large room, tall enough to have stone pillars holding the ceiling up, Ray was impressed, and whistled. This caused a great many Dogs to glare at him, “Please… Do not whistle here… It is offensive.” A deep voice spoke, and drew Ray’s attention to it, revealing a large Diamond Dog upon a stone throne. It’s like something out of Fantasy.

Ray’s little group approached, and Flam took the floor, “We come bearing ideas and deals to bring you work and money. All we ask for, is part of your caverns so we can build small forges.” The ‘King’ seemed to think about it, “Fine.” he said plainly, “Now leave.” he continued.

Ray took the hint, and turned, leaving, “Where’re you going?” Falm asked, trying to stop him, “He told us to leave, we’re living.” Ray stated simply. He can stay if he wants. Ray though, making his way past Flam, who sighed, and followed. Flim didn’t seem as willing, but did turn after a moment, slowly following them out as well.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray could breathe again, the fresh air of the surface very welcome. Flam was happy… enough. Flim could be in a far better mood. Flam tried to lighten it, “He said yes, that’s all that matters.” Ray nodded, agreeing.

Ray looked at the sky, and smiled, “I think I’m gonna… Go…” He was stumped, he could have swore…

Flam patted Ray’s back, “You alright big guy?” he asked, giving Ray a worried look. Ray shook his head and smiled, “Yeah, I’m fine. Why don’t you guys head on down to The Boardwalk? I hear they have something new on the menu.” The two brothers looked at each, shrugged, then left, leaving Ray to watch the sky.

After a few moments, Ray shrugged, and started to walk, until he heard a cough from behind him. Turning, he came face to face with Luna, who only chuckled, “Hard of hearing?” she asked, joking. Ray smiled, and nodded, “Comes with old age, you should know.” he joked back, and they both laughed.

Stifling them, Luna smiled and held out her left hoof, “It’s nice to see you again, Ray.” she said, her smile warm. Ray took her hoof, not willing to kiss it, but a good shake and nod of the head, “Charmed, nice to see you as well Luna.” He said, smiling back, “What brings you around this tiny town?” Ray continued, looking around.

Luna brushed back some of her hair with a hoof, “I came to see you, you’re far more interesting than my sister, all she does is politics.” she said, making a bored expression, Ray decided to make a joke, “I don’t like hearing about your sister sleeping around with the our board member.” he joked, causing Luna to cough and blush.

One punch to the shoulder later, and they were walking along the trail back towards Ponyville, “I came to ask how’s your business going?” Luna asked, getting slightly closer to him, trying to pry. Ray wasn’t having it, “What business?” he asked innocently, smiling as he walked. At least she isn’t blind. He thought, chuckling.

“What’s so funny?” Luna asked, glaring, to which Ray waved a hand, “Oh nothing, I was only thinking about heading to Daniel’s bar for a drink.” he said simply, “Care to join me?” Ray asked, giving her a dashing smile, and she only laughed, “Trying to do to me what you did with those…” A look of thought, “four mares?” she asked, a wry grin on her face.

Ray stumbled, causing Luna to laugh, “I didn’t know there were four, maybe I’m better than I give myself credit.” he said, but shuddered. What the fuck is wrong with me… I really might just ring Danny’s neck. He thought, and looked at Luna. She is attractive, for a pony.. Or.. horse, if you considered her size.

Luna looked at him, and rose a brow, “Yes?” she asked, to which he shook his head, “Sorry, was lost in thought.” Ray said quickly, looking to see the progress they were making in their walk. Only now, they were just coming up on the farm.

Ray sighed, “Business is well, Apple Family is making it’s money, and I make mine from Daniel.” He said, looking at Luna, chuckling dryly. Luna smiled, “Was that so hard, and don’t worry. Honestly, I’m rooting for you, and I can be of great help to you, anything to undermine my sister and make her look bad.” she said, looking at him, “I won’t get in your way.”

Ray was shocked, a government official… Just gave him the green light to go about his criminal business. Ray chuckled, and looked at her, “Would you also be willing to give me money?” he asked, seeing if he could push his luck. Luna put a hoof to her chin, thinking, “Hmmm… No.” she said simply, smiling at him, “But I’m sure you can get your own money.” she continued.

Ray sighed again, and noticed Mac coming towards them from the town. Once he was close, he nodded to Luna, and smiled at Ray, “You headin’ to The Boardwalk?” he asked, curious. Ray nodded, “Yep, gonna bring the pretty lady with me as well.” he said, motioning to Luna, who smiling lightly, chuckling.

Mac nodded slowly, “Alright Ray… I’m gonna head to the farm, make it home safe.” he said slowly, smiling as he went past. Ray watching him go onto the property, then head to the farm.

Luna laughed lightly, “You’re good friends with him I assume?” she asked, to which Ray nodded, “You could say that.”

They kept walking, talking about pointless things from then on, weather, news, other things and such. Ray was ready for a drink, and was in the mood for something strong.

Once in town, Ray followed a remember path to the bar, and when he was able to see it, he noticed it had far more business now. He and Luna approached, skipping a line outside the door, the bouncer letting him and Luna in.

The inside was pretty much the same as ever, though, he noticed two stallions guarding the stairs upto the rooms, and chuckled, “Well, isn’t this nice.” Ray said, nudging Luna, who smiled and nodded, “Quite, let’s get a drink.” she said, leading them to the bar.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray couldn’t tell how long they’d been there, but it was a while. Most of the customers were upstairs at the moment, and there was a dancer on the stage Ray was watching, taking the occasional sip of his whiskey out of a glass. Luna, on the other hand, was drinking from a bottle, her fourth bottle.

“This is nice.” Luna said, watching the stage, “I always wanted to be a dance when I was younger.” she continued, leaning towards Ray, yelling over the music. Ray nodded, “I’d bet you’d do great.” He yelled back, grinning ear to ear. This is fun. He thought to himself, watching the dancer make her way off the stage, letting out a sigh.

“Well Lu-” He turned to face Luna, but she was gone, “Luna?” Ray asked aloud, looking around for her, only to notice her step onto the stage, wearing one of the flapper dresses, smiling at him.

Music began to play.

Ray suddenly felt his heart lift, leaning forward far more interested now.

An owl and a squirrel watched a happy couple~

Spooning ‘neath a tree

And they heard him say

Be my honey and I’ll be bumble bee~

He whispered listen to me, dearie

I always want you to be near me

Don’t ever, ever stay away

When you hear me call “Yoo-Hoo”

Ray was standing now, right at the edge of the stage, staring up at Luna. He felt angry with himself, at the world, at her. He didn’t want to admit something to himself.

When you hear yoo-hoh-hoo-hoo

You'll know I’m waitin' for you

We’ve got some lovin' to do

Under the moon

Ray could only stare. Why was she doing this, to scare him, to tell him she loved him? We’re only drunk. He thought, wanting to believe it.

The skies are starry and bright

The birds are sleepin' at night

And there is no one in sight

Under the moon

Ray couldn’t think about the negatives anymore, and only watch Luna, her eyes closed, singing into the microphone.

Close to my heart

I feel your tender embrace

Never to part

Like birds in June

Nothing, would get in Ray’s way now. Not in the way of her.

I’m calling yoo-hoo-hoo-hoo

You know I’m waitin' for you

We’ve for some lovin' to do

Under the moon

Luna finished, and opened her eyes, smiling as the small crowd clapped their hooves and Ray helped her off the stage, “Did you like my singing?” Luna asked, smiling, stumbling slight. Ray nodded, “I did… It was.. Beautiful... But why did you do it?” he asked. Luna chuckled, “You said you thought I’d be good, so I wanted to see if I was.” she said simply, grinning.

Ray nodded slowly, feeling down, “I see.” he said, wobbling slightly. Luna placed a hoof on his chest, balancing him, “Ray, I’d like for you to wait for me outside, I’ll be there in a moment.” Ray nodded, and headed out.

Standing there, Ray began to realise what an idiot he’s been. I was about to go against my morals… for some fuckin’ pony. He sighed, and leaned against the wall. Looking to the sky. Night already? He thought, shrugging.

The door opened, and Luna came outside, trotting past him, “Follow.” she ordered, and Ray almost said ‘no’ but he sighed and followed.

They walked in silence, walking down the path to Fluttershy’s home, “Why’re we going to Shy’s house?” Ray asked, stumbling every now and then. Luna sighed, “We aren’t.” she said simply, turning to follow the river. Ray groaned, “Then where are we going?” he asked, looking at the sky, and thought he saw something move. What was…

Luna coughed, taking his attention. They were in a small field, beside the river, and she levitated a blanket out of a saddle bag Ray now noticed, laying it out, “Sit.” she ordered, and Ray did so. She sat beside him, sighing, “I’m tired of my sister Ray… I hate her.” Luna stated, staring at him. Ray shrugged, “What’s that got to do with me?” he asked.

Luna laid down, and showed herself to him, “Comfort me.” she said simply.

Ray was flabbergasted, shocked, and any other words you could think off. … Fuck it.

Author's Note

I'd like to let everyone know, what happened at the end, was caused due to inebriation, anger, and some want. It will not last, and there will be hell to pay. So don't shoot me.

Let me know about mistakes.

Good day.

The Force of The Sun (7)

Ray could feel a thumping in his head, coupled with the fact he couldn’t remember last night, he knew he was hungover. He felt well though, his blanket over him, his bed under him. His bed felt… odd however, like it was tattered. Ray could feel someone shift under the blanket, starting to move away, “Margaret, stay in bed…” he said dumbly, trying to get closer.

“Margaret?” Luna’s voice asked, causing Ray’s eyes to snap open. They were in a field, he could remember last night, and he felt… he didn’t want to think about it.

Ray jumped up, wrapping himself with the blanket around his waist, “What the… “He looked at Luna, who was just sitting there, smiling, “Good morning Ray.” she said simply, and began levitating his clothing to him, Ray began quickly putting his clothes on.

When he finished, he looked to Luna, “What hap-” “Who’s Margaret?” Luna asked, cutting him off. Ray thought for a moment, “It doesn’t matter.” he stated, folding the blanket. Luna shook her head, “Was she your partner?” she continued to pry, making Ray groan.

Ray just turned, and walked to the river so he could splash his face. Luna had followed, sitting beside him, “Just tell me, Ray, it’ll help you come to terms with what ever it is.” Ray looked at her, “She’s dead, I’m alive, that's all that matters.” Luna nodded slowly, sighing as she looked at the morning sky, “Well, I need to go to Canterlot to deal with some business; there's some ponies I’d like you to meet.” Luna said, ruffling her wings.

Ray nodded, “Yeah, I’ll go. I need to stop by the farm to grab some things first.” Luna nodded, smiling.

Ray began walking, and Luna followed beside him, “Listen… About last night, that was-” “It’s alright Ray, just don’t talk about it.” Luna said simply, looking straight ahead, her smile still plastered on her face.

Ray nodded slowly, and shrugged. Soon they’d be at the trail, and walking along it to the farm, “I forgot to meet Flim and Flam damn it…” Ray said aloud, realizing he’d forgotten about them. Luna shrugged, “They don’t really matter, do they?” she asked, looking at Ray, “They…” He realized that Luna could help with his business, “Would you like to be business partners Luna?” Ray asked, giving her a dashing smile. Luna nodded, “I thought you’d never ask.” she said, grinning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray opened the front door of the farmhouse, and was greeted by Applebloom jumping at him, “Ray!” she yelled, landing in his arms, takes to his quick catch. Ray smiled, hugging Applebloom tightly, “Hey there, Bloomers.” he said, ruffling her mane, much to her enjoyment.

A cough brought the moment to a screeching halt, and the three of them looked at Applejack, who was sitting in front of the fireplace, judging them.

Ray let out a dry chuckle, and set Applebloom down, patting her head, “Go play with your friend Abby.” he said, and she did, galloping between his legs to go play. Ray and Luna finished entering the building and Ray closed the door. Aj stood, glaring at Ray, “Where in tarnation have you been?!” she yelled. Never lets anything go. Ray thought dryly.

Luna smiled, “You see, we lost track of time last night.” she said, trotting past Aj, heading for the stairs, leaving Aj there, mouth agape. She slowly turned to face Ray, “What does that mean, Ray?” she asked, venom dripping from her tone. Ray shrugged, “We talked about business.” “What kind?” “Oh you know, construction work, helping the foals.” Ray said, smiling as Aj narrowed her eyes.

Aj left the house, shoving past Ray on her way out, “Yer shit is upstairs.” she said, leaving Ray there in shock. That was new... He thought, watching her trot towards town. Shrugging, he left it and went upstairs, going to his room, where Luna was overlooking his notes.

“These are very nice.” Luna said simply, levitating pages to her face, reading each of them, a look of thought on her face. Ray grunted, rubbing the back of his head, “I assume you want me to pack?” he asked, getting a nod, “Yes, you might be staying in Canterlot for the next few days, or weeks, so call those who need to know.” Ray nodded, and looked around, seeing the large crate in the corner.

Walking to it, he noticed it had already been pried open, but shut back, and so, he opened it. Bullets, the crate was full, stocked to the brim. Ray felt giddy, and began to chuckle, getting Luna’s attention, “Is something funny?” she asked sharply, looking back at him, noticing the crate.

“What’s in there?” Luna ask, sounding far calmer, making Ray sigh, “Bullets.” he said, happy. Sitting in front of the crates, he slid the clip out of his PMM, and began reloading them, humming quietly.

Luna sighed, and began packing for Ray, taking mostly his new clothes, “Be sure to tell those that need to know where you’re going.” she said plainly, folding a pair of pants, admiring the stitch work.

Ray nodded, sliding the clip back into his PMM, and placed it in his vest, the spare clip into his left pocket.

Smiling, Ray stood, gave a stretch, and left the room, heading downstairs. Noticing Mac sitting on the couch, he walked over, “Hey, Mac, I’m gonna be heading out to Canterlot for a few days. Was wondering if you wanted to come.” Ray asked, smiling as he patted Mac’s back.

Mac looked to be in thought for a moment, staring at the empty fireplace, “Why?” he asked simply. Ray chuckled, “You’re my friend Mac, and a good one, I need you man.” he said, looking at Mac, trying to be assuring. Mac sighed, nodding as he looked up, giving Ray a smile, “Of course I’ll go wit’ ya.” he said, patting Ray’s side.

Luna coughed from the stairwell, looking at the two, “So we have a travel companion?” she asked, levitating Ray’s trunk, placing it down beside herself. Ray nodded, smiling, “He’s a good guy.” Ray said, grabbing up the phone.

“Operator?... Flim Flam Brother please…” Pause. Click, “Yes?” Flam could be heard saying, “It’s me Ray, I’m gonna be up in Canterlot-” He hung up on Ray.

“Well, I suppose I’ll have a surprise the next time we see each other.” Ray said, receiving a giggle from Luna, making him look back at her, “I’m serious.” she only nodded.

Mac picked up Ray’s trunk and hefted it onto his back, grunting somewhat before getting used to the weight. Ray opened the door, Applebloom was sitting there, about to knock. She went to speak, but noticed Ray’s trunk and how it looked like they were getting ready to leave.

“Are… Are ya leavin’ us?” Applebloom asked, fearful of the answer, then looked at Mac, “And you too brother?!” she was ready to cry. Ray knelt, holding out his arms, and Applebloom rushing into them, hugging him tightly, “Was ah bad?!” she asked, tears beginning to run down her face, “No…” Ray said, rubbing her back, “I’m gonna be back in a few days, I’ll write to you, once I’m where I’ll be staying, then you can send me letters.” Ray said, trying to reassure her.

Mac trotted over, “I’ll do the same sis.” he said, trying to calm her, Luna only watched them, smiling.

Applebloom sniffled, “Ya’ll promise?” she asked, not willing to let go of Ray until she got a yes. Ray kissed her forehead, “Of course… You can even sleep in my room if you want.” he said, smiling at Applebloom, who rubbed her face and smiled, “Alright… ah… Ah love you guys.” she said, hugging both Mac and Ray, smiling happily.

Ray eventually pried himself free, and sighed, “We’ve gotta go make the train Abby. Stop worrying about us, we’ll be back.” Ray said, but it made him feel odd; he shrugged off the feeling.

Luna trotted out past them, “Come along then, Ray, I need to talk to you about some business things.” Ray nodded, following, followed by Mac.

Applebloom waved them off, smiling as she closed the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the train, Ray found himself very bored. Fluttershy had seen him off, and gave him some wrapped fish. Sighing, Ray couldn’t help but chuckle. Fluttershy was one of his only friends, but it was starting to worry him. When she saw him off, she was wearing a cross around her neck. He shuddered. A religious war would probably not get very far with their ruler. He thought grimly.

Luna sat beside him, watching the world go by outside, sighing as she ate some chocolates she bought from a trolley. Ray ate a few, but after the third, a hoof crack against his hand, and he hadn’t tried since, rubbing his knuckles.

Mac was laying on a cot near the back of their train car, snoring quietly. Ray smiled, hoping that maybe he could work Mac into his business. Thinking about it though, Ray really couldn’t believe he could convince Mac it was a good thing.

Sighing, he slumped in his seat, watching the world go by. Wonder how Aj is… Even if she’s a broad. He thought, shifting slightly.

Yawning, Mac rolled over, looking at the two of them, watching, thinking. Ray looked over at him, smiling, “Awake now?” he asked, getting a nod from Mac, “Why’re we goin’ to Canterlot anyway?” he asked, staring at the two of them.

Luna looked at Mac, “To help Ray meet some ponies that could help him.” she said simply, “My sister will be at the station to greet us, so make sure you’re presentable.” she continued, looking at Mac in particular. Ray nodded, “I’m pretty sure that we’re presentable.” he said, smiling as he dusted himself off.

Luna nodded quickly, “Good, we’ll be there soon anyway.” Luna got a look of thought on her face suddenly, scrunching up her face as she looked around. Ray looked at her, “Everything alright?” he asked, raising a brow. Luna nodded, “Oh it’s fine, I just got a strange magical sense for a moment, but I don’t think it was anything.” she said, smiling. Ray nodded, “Mkay.”

After a quiet thirty minutes, the train conductor announced that they’d be stopping in Canterlot soon, and Ray sighed, standing to stretch. Luna did the same, feeling the train slowing down over time, before coming to a complete stop.

Luna shook her head, looking around, “I keep… Nevermind, let’s head out.” she said, leading them off the train.

Standing out the train, shouldered by ten guards, was Celestia, a smile plastered onto her face, and a fake look of joy on her face, “Good day… I…”

Celestia looked around, her horn lighting up as she began to sense for magical residue. When she got to Ray, she stopped, a look of serious thought on her face. Then, something terrifying happened. It contorted, into a look of rage and pure anger. Ray didn’t see the levitating bench coming, as it slammed into his side.

He felt something break, and screamed out in pain as his right arm suddenly felt like it was on fire, wrathing in pain.

Luna screamed something, Mac rushing to Ray to help him, but he could hear through the pain. Seeing was impossible, his vision was swimming and he felt sick, his eyelids heavy.

He felt himself be levitated, and sat on someone back, he assumed Mac’s, and a bumpy ride began, like however he was on was going full speed down a dirt road. The screaming became distant, like a bad memory fading away. What… he couldn’t figure out what was happening, it was all happening so fast.

Bright lights, white walls, yelling, it was all so… Surreal, he couldn’t really tell what to make of it, only that he hurt a great deal.

Finally, he felt a prick in his left arm, and he felt really heavy suddenly. It scared him; he didn’t want to die twice. That would suck.

Just before his vision went dark, he could see a red blob above him, saying something, trying to comfort him, but he couldn’t make it out, “Good… Friend…” Ray said, slipping into the darkness.

Author's Note

I had to force myself to write this chapter, because I just really didn't feel like it. hopefully with the next one, I'll be in a far better mood.

So yeah, Celestia is pretty pissed, which is evident. Luna has some explaining to do, if Celestia is willing to listen. Rya is in big trouble, and has only been in Canterlot for thirty seconds, gotta be a record.

Remember to point out mistakes for me.

Good day.

Starting Recovery (8)

Author's Note

I've started my Senior year of High School, so updates might become once a week, maybe more. Also, I rushed this chapter, because I kept sitting on it, not wanting to write, so I just pushed through it.

Please let me know about any error, which I'm sure are there.

Good day and enjoy reading.

Starting Recovery (8)

Pain. Not something you’d ever really enjoy feeling. It something that lets you know something is supposed to be there, or something is wrong; from how Ray felt, something was very wrong.

Letting out a loud groan of pain, Ray shifted under what felt like a blanket. He didn’t really know what to think of his situation. His right side felt like it was on fire, but it was at least a weak fire.

Opening his eyes, Ray found himself staring at a white ceiling. He let out a dry chuckle. Don’t be on the receiving end of angry magic creatures. He thought dumbly, smiling, then let out a hiss, his ribs beginning to hurt.

Hearing the door to the room open, Ray looked over, smiling again as he noticed Mac trot in. Ray shifted to sit up, he chest flaring in pain, but he did his best to ignore it, letting out a hiss. Mac stopped beside the bed and Ray noticed he had a saddle bag on his side. Mac began digging through them, silent as a rock as he searched. Maybe it’s a warrant. He joked to himself, and found himself grinning when Mac pulled out a bottle of Daniel’s Whiskey

Ray reached for it with his left hand, which wasn’t comfortable with how he was positioned and grabbed the bottle, biting and pulling off the cap, spitting it out onto his lap. He proceeded to take large gulps, feeling the warm run down his neck and his stomach become warm from something besides pain.

Mac chuckled, “I’m sorry ya ended up in here, Ray. Luna also took some of your stuff to see a friend.” He shrugged, “Something to do with notes and product.” Ray felt his eyes narrow, “She took my notes without my consent?” he asked, looking around for his things.

A table to his left, thankfully, had an assortment of things set on it, on of which was his PMM and it’s clips.

Sighing, Ray relaxed. At least I still have my gun...He thought, looking back at Mac, “How long was I out?” Ray asked, curious. Mac kicked at the floor before speaking, “Two days.” he said simply, We’ve been checking on you everyday, Luna would stay here overnight.” he continued.

Ray smiled, thinking it was funny Luna would watch over him.

Mac rubbed the back of his head, looking around the room, “Need any help?” he asked, to which Ray nodded, “Help me up.” He said, looking down to see his right arm in it’s cast.

Mac trotted around, and help Ray out of bed. Once up, Ray took a few steps, stumbling slightly, but Mac helped to steady him, “Thanks.” Ray said quickly, balancing himself. Mac nodded, rubbing the back of his head, stepping away from Ray.

Ray made his way to the restroom through another door. Once done, he stepped out, seeing a shocked doctor staring at him, Mac trying to calm the doctor down.

“You shouldn’t be walking!” the doctor said and being a unicorn, tried to levitate Ray back to the bed.

“Put me back down! Right this moment!” Ray yelled, scared of being lifted by nothing. The doctor shook his head, but Mac trotted over, and lightly tapped the doctor’s horn, causing the magic to stop, and Ray fell to the floor, groaning.

The doctor glared at Mac, “What do you think you’re doing?! This is my patient!” he yelled, getting in Mac’s face, who didn’t really care, “‘He’s my friend.” Mac said simply, trotting over to help up Ray. The doctor growled, “I’m calling security.” he said, leaving the room.

Once Ray was standing, he smiled at Mac, “Thank pal…” he said simply, but Mac shook his head, “Don’t call me pal.” This confused Ray, but he nodded slowly.

Ray sat back onto the bed, looking around for his clothes, which were nowhere to be seen, which only upset him more, “They took my clothes?” he asked, looking to Mac, who nodded, “Eeyup.” Ray sighed, rubbing his face. I don’t need this greif. He thought, looking back to Mac, “Can you go get my clothes?” “Nope.” Mac replied simply, causing Ray to stare at him.

Before anything else could be said, the door to the room opened, revealing Luna, who trotted in and looked at the two, “Good morning.” she said simply, levitating in a fresh set of folded clothes and briefcase. Ray rose a brow, but smiled when the clothes landed beside him, starting with the underwear and pants, putting them on under the gown.

“I hope you’re alright Ray, my sister was…” “Crazy?” Luna nodded slowly, “She… Could sense a magic within you, and that's my fault… She could detect my magic…” Luna looked at Mac, how was looking back and forth between them, confused, “Wait, how did your magic get onto hi-...” he stopped, a look of realization took his face. Luna sighed, “Yes, fine, we did, but that’s not important. I calmed her down, and I’ve also talked to some ponies I know.” she said, smiling at Ray.

Ray rolled his eyes, taking off the gown, beginning to put on his shirt and vest with the help of Luna’s magic, “So, your sister attacked me, is this bad.” Luna nodded, “She wanted to keep a much closer eye on you now.” she continued, sighing as she opened the briefcase, “Now, I have some papers I need you to go over; they revolve around your gun and the designs.” she explained, turning the briefcase to reveal papers and bags of bits, “He’s very interested.” Luna continued.

Mac cut in, “Wait, you two are makin’ guns? Those are illegal in Equestria.” he said, looking back and forth between them. Luna nodded, “Yes, and selling them illegal would make a great deal of money.” she said calmly, giving him a look. Mac only shook his head, sighing. Ray nodded slowly, “Listen Mac, the money could help your farm, and you could even help Granny have a better life.” Ray said, smiling at him.

Mac looked around the room, thinking about it. After a short amount of time, Mac let out a sigh, looking at the two, “Fine, but I don’t like it.” Luna nodded, closing the case back, and waited for Ray to finish putting on his shoes.

Once he finished, she stood straight, turning to the door, “I’ll be paying for a personal care pony, who will be making sure you recover properly and don’t overexert yourself.” she said, opening the door, exiting. Ray quickly moved to followed, backed by Mac.

Heading down the corridor, Ray noticed doctors and patients here and there, talking to each other, or just lazing about.

Before he could really begin to think about it, Luna coughed, getting his attention, “You’ll be standing at the Deluxe Blood Hotel.” she explained, trotting along, Ray moving to walk beside her, “You’ll have a telephone, so call those you need to let know, and I’ll be assigning some of my Lunar Guards to ‘watch’ you.” Luna continued, Ray nodding along.

Bodyguards, that’s nice. He thought, chuckling, causing Mac to give him a puzzled look, “What’s so funny?” he asked, Ray shaking his head, “Nothing, don’t worry.”

Eventually, they got to the lobby, where Luna quickly checked out Ray, using her position to overrule him needing to stay longer; and so they left.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was a long walk to the Hotel, and Ray wasn’t really in the mood for anything else anymore. Considering, they’d forgotten his painkillers, his side was on fire and he had a raging headache. He was currently leaning on Mac as they entered the hotel, making the pony behind the Check-In Desk look up, her eyes widening, rushing around the desk, “Oh my, are you alright sir?” she asked, helping Mac lead Ray to a chair. Ray smiled, “Oh, just my doctor forgot to give me my painkillers.” he said simply, getting a gasp from the pony, “That’s awful!” she said, making it seem like the worst thing ever.

Luna coughed loudly, getting the Mare’s attention, gesturing to the hanging keys, “I called in advance, for a VIP room?” she asked, trying to get the pony to hurry.

The Mare blushed, and quickly scampered to retrieve the keys for Luna, hoffing them over, “There you go ma’am, top floor.” she stated quickly, smiling as Mac helped Ray backup, “I recommend the elevator.” she said simply, watching as they slowly walked by.

The elevator ride was taken in silence, no one spoke until the door opened, “So.” Ray started, Mac helping him out, “VIP huh?” he asked, getting a snort from Luna, “My sister wasn’t willing to let you stay in the castle, so I booked you a room here. I’m sure you don’t mind, right?” she asked sarcastically, looking at him flatly over her shoulder, “Mac, you’re gonna stay with Ray.” she said, making Mac stutter, “Wh- what? What ab-” “I already told Aj you’d be staying in canterlot for a while longer” Luna stated, glaring at him, shutting him up.

Ray was confused, she was more… upset? Than usual. Maybe him getting his ass handed to him affected her more than he thought.

They got to the room door, opening it with the key. The inside was impressive. The room itself was massive, desks lining the walls, along with blank white posters on the walls. There were also multiple mini fridges, each labeled by what was in them, liquor, snacks, food, the usual things. The bed was a king sized waterbed, making Ray grin.

Luna looked at Ray, levitating him suddenly, causing him to yell, “Put me down goddamn it!” He was glaring at her when she sat him in a chair by a window. Looking out, Ray’s breath was taken away, he could see most of Canterlot from there, and could probably see more it he switch window. Great sniper spot. He thought absently.

Luna sat beside him, “I need you to stay here and rest for a few days, maybe longer. The magic in you is speeding your recovery, but you still need rest, and I’ll go and get the production of guns underway.” she said, smiling at him darkly, Ray shuddered. She’s taken a very great interest in guns… He thought, beginning to worry.

He nodded slowly, “So you… just want me to sit here.” Ray asked, and Luna nodded, “You’ll find a way to entertain yourself.” she said, grinning as she turned and left with the briefcase, leaving Ray and Mac there.

They stayed quiet for a moment, before Mac spoke up, “... Wanna drink?” he asked simply, to which Ray responded, “Yes please.”

And so, they drank for the rest of that day.

A Break and Small Things (9)

Author's Note

I redid this chapter, and I feel much happier with it now, even though it is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT from the original. I do hope you all enjoy this chapter.

Be sure to point out errors, and give your opinion.

Good day~

A Break and Small Things (9)

It’s a beautiful morning. Ray found himself thinking, looking out the window of his room, watching the sun rise slowly over the horizon. Canterlot looked so peaceful at night, and Ray was pretty sure that’s something Luna didn’t like, but oh well, it wasn’t his problem.

Mac was asleep on the bed, having asked Ray if he could sleep on it since his was softer than Mac’s bed; he allowed him.

Letting out a deep sigh, Ray stood from his chair, groaning as he stretched. Relaxing, Ray took this time to pour himself a glass of whiskey. When he finished pour it, he looked at the glass, then shrugged, tossing it out the window and just drank from the bottle. I deserve a fucking vacation. He thought dryly.

Sitting back down, Ray slumped into the chair, just watching the clouds go by as the sunlight began to come into the room.

Ray could hear Mac groaning on his bed, and turned to look, seeing Mac slowly getting up of the bed, rubbing his muzzle. He looked up, and took a look around the room, yawning before he spoke, “Where am I?” he asked, confused. Ray chuckled, beginning to respond, “Sleeping on my bed… You came in here last night, looking for a softer bed? So I let you, been up ever since.” Ray explained, Mac nodding as he began to remember, “Oh yeah.” he said simply.

Sighing, Ray realised it was nice out, since the sun had stopped rising, setting the time to morning. He also noticed it began to rain, the Pegasi working today for whatever reason, Ray couldn’t really care.

Mac trotted over, looking out the window, “Think there’s a bar in this place?” he asked, looking at Ray, who gave him a look that said, ‘Really?’ then actually spoke, “Mac, it’s a city, of course there’s a bar.” he said, chuckling, “But I don’t want to drink, I want to take a walk about the city.” Ray continued, fixing his vest and pulling his pants up properly.

Nodding, Mac began ‘fixing’ his mane, and proceeded to flatten out the fluff on his chest, nodding when he finished.

Ray smiled, finding it funny, but nodded too and they left the room, backed up by a Lunar Guard, the other staying to watch the room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The rain wasn’t too bad, and luckily, the Lunar Guard had provided an umbrella for both Ray and Mac. How, Ray didn’t really care, since it kept him dry, and that was all he really cared about.

Walking through the city however, was something he quickly found out he didn’t enjoy, due to the fact that the snobs would point and stare, some laughing at him like he was an animal. Mac, of course, was practically growling at those who came close, which didn’t really help, and Ray found himself wanting a drink after all.

After looking around for a decent while, the finally came across what looked like some kind of club, and they had some trouble getting inside.

“You can’t bring your pet in here.” A Gryphon said, giving a flat look to the guard, making Ray groan, “I’m not a damn pet.” he said, very much annoyed, causing the Gryphon to look at him, startled. Regaining his composure, the Gryphon coughed, “Well, though you may have the correct attire, I’m afraid I cannot let-” “We are associates of one Princess Luna.” the Lunar Guard said calmly, making the Gryphons eye’s widen.

Thinking for a moment, the Gryphon nodded, noting the Guard’s armor, “Very well, you may enter. Do not cause any trouble.” he warned, letting them by.

“That was pretty slick.” Ray noted, Mac nodded, “What’s your name anyway?” Ray asked, looking at the Guard who looked up at him, “Gunnulf…” he said simply, then walked off, heading for a bar. Ray noted the name, and looked at Mac, “I’m going to go listen to some music.” he explained, hearing a violin playing somewhere.

Walking around, Ray noticed that most ponies here were dressed nicely, or dressed poshly. He found most of them parting a way for him, which he thought was nice, but couldn’t help but feel like they feared him, which they probably did.

Finally, Ray came to a raised platform, where a gray mare with a black mane was playing what Ray assumed was a Cello, but he didn’t really know, he wasn’t all that interested in instruments.

The music was beautiful though, Ray could admit that, and he found himself entranced by the way he mare played, she was clearly a pro.

Sadly, the music ended, the crowd clapping lightly as the mare bowed, Ray too clapping, smiling as it brought back memories of the early 30s, when he was just a child. Sighing, Ray walked away, heading back towards the bar, noticing Gunnulf sitting by himself, eating fish and drinking what looked like water or vodka.

Walking over, Ray sat beside him, “So, what made you join the Lunar Guard?” Ray asked, curious about it. Gunnulf only looked at Ray slowly, and took another sip, “I have a deep set sense of loyalty. The only ones I believed wouldn’t abuse it, was the Princesses, but Celestia was too good for me. I serve the night now, with a great sense of pride.” Gunnulf explained, taking another sip.

Ray nodded slowly, “Interesting.” Ray looked at the tender, “I’d like some whiskey.” he asked, and the tender nodded, beginning to find the bottle.

Ray looked back to Gunnulf, still wanting to know things, “What did you do before the military?” he asked, rolling his shoulders, they felt sore, probably an effect of getting pounded by a bench.

Gunnulf shrugged, “Nothing really, I worked freelance as a mercenary for nobles, doing work in other countries, though, I never enjoyed the work, since it would involve killing innocents.” Ray nodded, then asked, “How old are you?” Gunnulf only looked at him, raising a brow, “I don’t think you need to know, Ray.” Gunnulf simply stated.

Ray felt like he was insulted, but pushed the feeling aside. If Gunnulf didn’t feel like telling, he wasn’t gonna force him, especially considering that he was a military trained solder.

A double glass slide in front of Ray, courtesy of the tender, who only nodded as Ray nodded back. Licking his lips, Ray shot back the drink, smiling as the warmth and taste hit him, letting out a sigh, “That’s nice.” he simply stated, relaxing.

It was at that moment, that Ray felt someone lightly tap his back, and he whirled around, reaching into his vest, only to see the gray mare standing there, looking startled by his speed, “Oh dear, I’m terribly sorry for scaring you, but I just had to talk to you.” she explained, then blushed, “Oh, my name is Octavia.” she stated, smiling as she held out a hoof.

Ray shook it, not liking the idea of kissing hooves. Octavia smiled, “I saw you watching me play, you looked so at peace, what did it remind you of?” she asked, leaning closer, Ray leaning back, “It just reminded me of a simpler time.” he said, noticing the tender refill his glass, smiling.

Octavia leaned away, nodded, “That’s nice… I never got your name.” she said, looking at him with big eyes. I just want to drink damn it. He thought sourly, but sighed, then smiled at her warmly, “My name is Ray Tanner, but you can call me Ray.” he said calmly, making Octavia smile wider, then she took a look around, “I think you should meet my husband, he’s a charming fellow, but awfully secretive.” she said suddenly.

Ray shook his head, “That’s a kind gesture, but I don’t think he’d find me very interesting.” Really, that what I came up with? He berated himself, realising that he’d be pretty interesting. Octavia chuckled, “Darling, you are one of the most interesting persons I’ve met in a while.” That only drove the point home.

Sighing, Ray down the second drink, then stood, “Alright then, let's go meet this Pony.” he said simply, figuring he may as well get it over with. Octavia turned to walk, but Rat felt someone grab him and he turned, glaring back, finding Gunnulf there, “Don’t get in trouble.” he simply said, giving Ray a look.

Walking away, Ray felt a lot less comfortable about this, even more so when he noticed they were headed towards a VIP area. Ray decided to speak up, “Where are we going exactly?” He didn’t feel like getting involved with any other mad business.

Octavia smiled at him, “We’re going to my husband’s table, he’s currently talking to a business owner, hopefully he won’t mind us.” she explained, Ray nodding along, though he hoped the Pony would mind.

Once they reached the VIP area, she practically dragged him, much to his discomfort, to a lone table, where a jet black pony with a golden mane sat, sipping from a wine glass, seeming bored with a paper he was reading.

They got to the table, causing the Pony to look up, then rose a brow, looking to Ray, “I can’t buy it, honey.” he said simply, and Ray grit his teeth. Are you shitting me? He thought to himself, growing more upset. Yanking his hand from Octavia’s grasp, he scowled, “I don’t like being referred to as something to be bought.” Ray said firmly, gaining a much more serious look from the Pony.

Octavia let out a huff, “He can talk Nova!” she said grumpily, but not really upset.

Ray turned, wanting to leave, but felt magic grab him, and pull him back. Whirling around, Ray reached into his vest, “I’m done here ‘sir’, let me go.” Ray ordered, glaring, and ‘Nova’ just grinned, “Well aren’t you tough tiger.” he said, making Ray more uncomfortable than angry.

Ray felt his hand wrap around the grip of his PMM tightly, “Let. Me. Go.” he repeated, “Fucker.” he added, not caring if he offended either of them. Nova’s eyes widened, and Octavia looked shocked, “I think I should teach this ani-” Nova was cut off by a hoof hitting his face, knocking him to the ground.

Gunnulf stood over Nova, glaring as he snarled, “This man is the Business Partner of one Princess Luna, and you have threatened and Magically Assaulted him. I’m gonna have to bring you before the Princess of the Night.” he stated firmly, quickly putting cuffs on Nova’s hooves, and a ring around his horn.

Ray had been impressed with Gunnulf’s speed. Now that he looked at the Earth Pony, he was huge, almost as Mac, but slightly smaller.

Gunnulf had stood Nova up, and looked at Ray by the time Mac walked over, “I’ll meet you at the room, don’t worry.” he said simply, moving past a shocked Octavia with Nova, Ray grinning, his grip finally releasing from his gun, “That was cool.” he said dumbly to Mac, who nodded.

Octavia growled, “Stop him!” she yelled at Ray, who just shook his head, “No. He didn’t listen, and he should have known better, but he thought he was above me.” Ray said, smiling as Octavia scowled, and rushed after Gunnulf, who’d already left the building.

Mac watched as she left, then looked at Ray, rubbing the back of his head, “Wanna go to the castle garden?” he asked. Ray looked at Mac, then smiled, “Yeah… That sounds swell.” he said honestly, tired of the club.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After they’d left, it was a relatively long walk, but they endured it, joking as they went. Ray would look at building as the walked past, noticing barber shops, clothing stores, jewelry stores, and other things he didn’t find too interesting. They, while walking, he noticed a smaller Pony in an alley, stopping to look at them, causing Mac to walk past him.

The Pony was small, it’s coat a grimy brown, covered with dirt and grit. Their mane was a midnight blue, or, at least it looked like it, but the red blotches and dirt made it hard to tell.

Ray sighed, walking into the alley, kneeling by the foal, noticing it was likely a filly. Ray looked around, noticing Mac wasn’t with him. Oh lord. He sighed again, then gently nudged the filly, making her shift, before she looked up at him, her eyes a bright blue. They then shot wide open, but he pressed her down gently, so she wouldn’t bolt off.

“Relax, I’m not going to hurt you.” Ray said calmly, though the filly didn’t stop trying to get free. Gently lifting her, Ray could feel the poor dear’s hip bones and ribs. Feeling a scowl come to his face, Ray forced it away. Who the hell would let a child get to this state? He thought angrily.

“Shhh, don’t panic. I want to help you, maybe get you a warm blanket?” Ray bribed, causing her to look at him, wide eyed and a small smile cracked through, before the frown returned, “Please…” she said softly, coughing once. Ray only nodded, “Of course.” he said, “Just hold on.” he said, gently setting her down, and began removing his vest.

After having put his pistol in his pocket, he wrapped the filly with his vest, and picked her back up, standing slowly, so not to hurt the frail filly. Turning, he found himself looking at Mac, who was only smiling, “Think we should go back to the room?” he asked. Ray nodded, and they exited the alley together.

Ray couldn’t help but feel like he’d been being watched, and looked around before going into full step.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was when Ray and Mac had almost gotten back to the hotel, that Ray had noticed it was Gunnulf who was following them, which explained the feeling of being watched.

When they got into the building, Gunnulf came in soon after them, sighing as he rolled his shoulders, “That mare had a powerful punch.” he said simply. Ray didn’t care, he had something more important to deal with.

After having gone up the elevator, they got to the Penthouse suite, and Ray opened the door, ignoring the babbling guard, who’d been wondering where the filly came from.

Ray found himself stuck, staring at his bed, which Luna was sitting on, staring at him with a bemused look. She coughed before speaking, “I see you’ve found a little one?” she asked, but it was rhetorical. Ray nodded anyway, setting the filly down gently onto the bed, Luna moving off it to make room.

Luna looked at Gunnulf, “Wait outside.” she said sharply, and he left, closing the door behind him. Luna then looked to Ray, “What on earth were you thinking?” she asked, very clearly upset. Ray groaned, “I was thinking I could save her?” he said, giving her a look like ‘really?’; Luna only scoffed.

Mac came up beside Ray, “I think what Ray is doing is the right thi-” “Of course it is, but Canterlot orphans come with more baggage than you could ever expect.” Luna said curtly, cutting off Mac, much to his annoyment.

Ray chuckled, “Nothing I can’t deal with.” Ray said simply. Gathering up a clean rag, he ran it under some water in the bathroom. He came back, going to the filly, helping to put the rag in her mouth, so that she could suck out the water. Luna just watched him, wondering what Ray was doing now.

Ray unwrapped his vest from the filly, now noticing her wings. They looked… Alright, but not very many feathers remained, but that was something he could worry about later, “Mac, I’d like for you to go down stairs, and ask room service to bring up some food, soft things.” he said simply, not entirely sure when the filly had last eaten.

Luna trotted over, placing a hoof on Ray’s shoulder, “I’ll help her Ray, I know healing magic.” she said, trying to help now. Oh now you want to help. He thought bitterly, but sighed, letting Luna use her magic.

After a few silent moments, Luna stopped, looking at Ray. “She’s malnourished, but you already knew that. Aside from that, there is some damage to her vocal cords, likely due to crying or screaming.” Luna explained, looking at the filly.” she looked at the filly, then back to Ray, “Why’d you save her?” Luna asked, genuinely curious.

Why? That’s simple. Ray thought before speaking, “I have my own children Luna… I can’t just let a child lie hurt in an alley.” he explained, kneeling by the bed, “I couldn’t walk away.” he added.

Shaking his head, Ray stood, regaining his normal posture, “Tomorrow, I’d like to meet those Ponies you told me about.” he stated, smiling warmly, and Luna nodded, “Agreed, but I do think you need to make sure this one will be alright.”

Ray nodded, smiling down at the filly, “I will.” he said, and he meant it. Luna looked at him, a newfound respect for him developing, “Got a name for her?” she asked.

Ray nodded, speaking quietly, “Rose Diamonds.” he said, keeping in theme with the world around him.

The Settling of Things (2)

Ray had to admit, he was impressed. Twilight had gone into great detail about the world he was in, and answered a great deal of his questions without fuss;she even gave him a small bag of bits, at least fifty, to get him through the week. Kind thing. He had thought to himself.

However, now he wasn’t paying attention. Twilight had began to ramble on and Ray had instead decided to look around the room. Rarity was reading what looked like a newspaper. Applejack had left. Thank God. He thought to himself. Fluttershy was asleep in a rocking chair. Rainbow Dash was outside the room, talking to Zecora. And finally, Pinkie was at his side, drawing on a piece of paper, occasionally showing him her process.

This is just cute. He thought to himself, looking at all of them. Then he thought about something, “Excuse… Uh, Rarity?” He asked, trying to get her attention. She looked up, “Yes dear?”

Ray smiled, “I’m afraid the only clothing I have is ruined, and when I was walking with your… sister.” He said slowly, hoping this wasn’t the mother instead, “said you could fix them.” He finished, since she didn’t correct him.

Rarity smiled warmly, “Oh, but of course, I’d gladly help.” She said, setting the papers to the side a came over, “I also noticed this already. Such a nice outfit, ruined. Rocks, right?” She asked, confusing Ray, “Rocks?” He asked back, getting a stare in return.

“You fell on rocks? That’s why it’s torn and there’s a bruise, correct?” She pushed, and Ray nodded, “Yes, sorry, I didn’t quite understand what you were asking.” He said.

Rarity nodded, looking at the damage, “This is easily fixable, but when you’re feeling up to it, why don’t you swing on by Carousel Boutique, and I’ll take your measurements. It’d be a fun challenge for myself.” She said, pulling the covers back onto him. Aren’t you quick on the draw. Ray thought to himself, chuckling, “I feel well now… It’s only my arm that hurts.”

He took a glance at Pinkie’s drawing, “It’s coming along nicely.” He said, rubbing her head, then looked at Twilight, “And I’m sorry for having cut you off.” He said, to which Twilight smiled, “Oh please, it’s fine, I was only rambling anyway. I’ve got to head home to spike anyway.” She said, turning to leave, “Please, stop by my library if you ever get the chance.” She continued on her way out.

Ray sighed, and Rarity began to leave as well, “Well, you have my address, please do stop by.” She said, leaving. Pinkie was still drawing, and Fluttershy was asleep. Seems like a good enough idea. He thought to himself, scooting further into his blankets to rest for a bit.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray eventually woke up again, taking a glance around the room. Fluttershy was gone, and his bandaged had been changed. Sweet thing. He thought, then noticed Pinkie, out like a light on the side of the bed. Ray smiled, and gently pulled the picture out from under hooves, taking a look at it.

It was him, and the six of them, all in one group, he in the middle. Ray found the smile on his face widen, and he folded the picture, putting it into his vest. Then he proceeded to look Pinkie over.

Pink fur, hair, balloons on her rear. Wait… He looked at her rear, staring at the three balloons, “Is that a cutie-mark?” He asked himself, not expecting to get an answer. Oh way, Twilight Sparkle explained them earlier. He remembered, shaking his head.

After a few moments, he sighed, and decided to get out of bed. Pulling the covers off himself, he turned, putting his feet on the floor. Cold. He stood slowly, then proceeded towards the door. Opening it, he walking into the next room, finding this one much bigger, and full of even more trinkets.

Ray noticed a cauldron in the middle of the room, and walked over. Seeing the steam, he kept his hands away from the metal, and smelled the brew. He grimaced, “The hell is that?” He asked aloud, “It’s my brew, something I was making for you.” He sighed, hearing the rhyming behind him. Turning, he smiled at Zecora, “Good day miss, I must give you my thanks for helping me in my time of need… Where is my dog?” He asked plainly.

“The CMC, you see. They took him home…” Ray cut her off, “You don’t have to rhyme, it just makes talking harder.” He said simply, looking at her. Zecora looked offended for a moment, then she sighed, nodding, “Yes. The little ones took your dog, I do not know why.” She said, “Are you leaving?” She asked, watching him go to the door, where his shoes were.

Ray sat down, beginning to put on his shoes, “Yes, please let Pinkie know.” He said, standing once he was done, and turned to the door, “I enjoyed the company, and thank you for the help.” He said, opening the door and left, closing it behind him.

Tapping the tips of his shoes on the ground, he began walking, heading down the way Twilight had told him. As he went along the path, it split, and he could see it lead to a small, very natural looking house, but Ray let it go, and continued towards the town.

By the time he could see the town, he was beginning to actually feel better, the fresh air helping a great deal.

Ray could see the town at this point, and even a farm, though, he found it odd that there was only apple trees. Must be where Aj lives. He thought to him, walking along side the picket fence. He could smell the apples, and he really wished he could get one, but he was pretty sure someone would snatch a kink in his ass for just taking one.

Once he was finally at the town, a great deal of the locals noticed him walking through town. He could tell quickly that maybe outsiders were not liked so much, but he looked around, and noticed a few waves and smiles.

Eventually, he found Rarity’s place, and knocked on the door, “It’s open~!” He heard Rarity say, in a sort of sing-song voice. Opening the door, he noticed the great deal of creepy pony mannequins. Stepping inside, he noticed piles of fabric, and sewing kits seemed to line the walls, “Impressive.” He said, hearing Rarity gasp the next room over.

Rarity came rushing out to meet him, “Oh dear, I didn’t expect you to be here so soon, I thought you’d be at least tomorrow.” She said, smiling at him, “Well? Come along now, let’s get those measurements. Ray followed, smiling as he looked around. Reminds me of my mother. He thought, chuckling to himself.

Rarity brought to a raised bit of the floor, “Stand her please.” she requested, and so he did, “Also, please remove your clothing, I need accurate measurements.” She said calmly. Ray chuckled, “You know, I usually wait before I let a lady see my trousers.” He said jokingly, to which Rarity blushed lightly, “Please dear, professional.” She said, Ray nodding, “Sorry.”

Ray took off his vest, then his shirt, setting them aside, then kicked off his shoes, and removed his pants, revealing his red and white striped boxers.

“Can you remove that as well.” She asked, “No.” Ray said simply, “I’m afraid I can’t just show everything and startle you.” He said, jokingly, then stopped, “But no, I can’t.” Rarity just nodded, and began taking measurements.

“How’s business?” Ray asked, curious. Rarity smiled, “Fairly well darling, though, some of my customers have odd tastes, very much so when you know they’re Gryphons.” “Like from legends?” Ray asked, getting a confused look in return, “Legend?” Rarity asked, to which Ray chuckled, “Sorry, where I’m from, Gryphons are very rare.” He said simply, waving it off.

Rarity nodded, “Ah, I understand.” She said, eventually finishing with the measurement, “Do you have any preference?” She asked, smiling warmly up at him. Ray nodded, “Yes, I generally like to wear suits and such, Purple and Silvers, you see. They’re my favorite colors.” He explained, to which she smiled and nodded, flipping her mane, “I see. At least you have taste.” She said.

Ray had put his pants back on, and was beginning to put on his shirt when he heard the doorbell chime, “Rarity!” He heard a young boy say, “In here dear.” Rarity replied, helping Ray with his vest, “I’m sorry I can’t fix those now, I doubt you’d like to just sit about. I should have new clothes for you by tomorrow.” She said, her smiling bright and genuine.

A young lizard thing walked in, stopping when it noticed Ray, “Who… Who’s this guy?” He asked, sounding slightly worried. Rarity smiled at him, “Just a friend Spike.” She said plainly, looking at him, “Are you here to help me for the day?” Spike nodded, “Good, start bringing me fabric. I’m sorry Ray, but I’ll be busy the rest of the day.” She said, waving him out.

Ray nodded, heading out the door. Once out, he took a look around, taking in the sights, buildings, and those trotting around. I miss my sons. He found himself thinking, then shook his head. They’re better off without me anyway… I left them everything, I hope their mother doesn’t try to take it from them. He thought to himself, beginning to just walk through town.

Ray noticed a nice looking bar, ‘The Boardwalk’. Interesting name… He thought, deciding to give it a shot.

Upon interesting, he was stopped by a relatively big stallion, still shorter than him, “Who’s buckin’ pet is this?” A hoof was placed against his chest. Joy. Ray smiled down at the fellow, grabbing his hoof, “You should be nice to paying customers.” He said, glaring.

The Stallion's eyes widened, and he stepped away, yanking his hoof away, “Excuse me sir.” He said, looking down and moved aside, letting Ray by, who quickly went to the bar, and sat, taking a look around.

The place was nice, and had a old time feeling to it. There were six tables, and the bar. Posters of mares and stallions lines the walls, with big cursive writing on them. He noticed a stage, where a young looking stallion was singing, and clacking his hooves on the stage to the song’s rhythm.

“Oh, the dumber they come, the better I like 'em, 'Cause the dumb ones know how to make love~!” He chanted, many of his listeners cheering their agreement. I could get used to a place like this. He thought, facing the tender, “How’s business.” He asked, smiling. The tender only stared, and sighed, “Not well, the Apple Family is raising the price of their liquor, and the good stuff is hard to come by.” the Tender explained, “What do you have?” Ray asked. The Tender looked under the bar, and Ray noticed a large lack of bottles on the wall.

The Stallion popped back up, sighing, “We have Hard Cider.” He said, giving Ray a look like it was the best thing out there. Ray just stared at him, “Is that… It?” He asked, wondering if it was a joke, “Yes.” The Tender said. Ray slumped, “Of course.” He said, then got an idea, “What if I helped you with your business?” Ray asked, causing the Tender to look at him, “Did I mention my name is Daniel?” The pony said, smiling. Ray grinned, “I’m Ray, Ray Tanner.” He said, holding out his hand, “I’ll come back in a few days, and hopefully have a plan set up,” He said.

Daniel shook his hand with his hoof, smiling, “Wonderful.” He said, nodding as Ray stood to leave.

Once Ray was out, he thought about something. Where the hell am I staying?

That thought stopped his whole momentum, causing him to worry, “Ah hell.” He said aloud, “Wha’s the matter.” He heard a thick southern accent speak, looking up, startles to be eye to eye was a large red ponies, “Jesus!” He said aloud, jumping.

The Red Pony chuckled, “Sorry if ah done went and scared ya.” He said. Ray waved that notion away, “It’s fine… I just realised I ain’t got no where to live.” He said, shrugging. The Red Pony looked to be in thought, “Well shoot, ya’ll can come ‘n’ stay at the farm. We need more workers, Cider Season is almost here.” He said.

Ray smiled, “That’s very kind of you, my names Ray, and you are?” “Macintosh.” He said simply, nodding. Ray shrugged, “Alright Mac, lets go.” And so they went.

Author's Note

Big Mac, to the rescue.

Ray is starting to get comfortable in the town, asking around about business, seeing if there is any lines he could step-in on.

Good Day.