Today... Dark day in Equestria. As always we start from the beginning. It was early in the morning and I was PUMPED. This might've been a few weeks after the poison joke incident. I used that token Zecora gave me to get a potion to give AJ a little something special for when the time was right... Saving that somewhere where Scootaloo and Applebloom... and Winona... wont get to it. Yes Winona does weird shit. No joke I had a glass of juice up on the counter, turn my back for a second to make a sandwich and next thing you know Winona is up on the fucking counter and the glass is on the ground. As for now its about... four thirty in the morning if I'm right. I was pumped not only because I had a very caffeinated energy drink but that Twilight got me tickets to see Gems n Tulips in concert in Manehattan! I was so happy when she got me a ticket. The other? Some other guard she thought deserved them... Three tickets, I got one and the other guard got the other two. AJ and Big Mac didnt wanna go and I know Scoot would wanna go but... I kinda needed a drink... or four... I tried keeping it out of my system but I needed something. Plus uh.... Celestia said I would be able to get backstage since I'm somewhat a friend of the band... that's why I was going to drink. Party with the band. But yeah it was four in the morning and AJ and I were getting ready for our trip to Manehattan. I was wearing a black jean jacket, a black Gems shirt and black jeans and my combat boots as well as a bandana wrapped around my head keeping my mane out of my face. Applejack was wearing skinny jeans, her cowboy boots, a red flannel long sleeve and her hat. Her cowgirl hat. I looked to AJ as we were packing extra clothes into our suitcases. "Ooh this is SO exciting AJ!" I said. "I'm going to see Gems N Tulips!"

Applejack sighed a bit. "Yeah that's great..." She said letting out a yawn. "...Remind me to ask ya for a teeshirt when ya go see em..." She zipped up her suitcase and huffed. "Sorry if I sound a little sarcastic sugarcube... I aint to keen on seein' my uncle... He's been askin' if I've been thinkin' about sellin' the farm and he knows I cant do it. It's home, where I got my family and where I'm gonna raise kids one day!" She looked back at me... I was kinda stunned by her. "Well... at least I... hope I get some kids some day... Up to you there sugarcube..."

"...Maybe some day AJ but... Probably not any time soon..." I looked back to my bag as I stuffed my phone cord in a side pocket. "We're uh... we're getting a hotel somewhere that's close to the ground right?" She sighed.

"Lucky you we do.... Thing is my uncle is paying for it... I chose the place and he paid for it for a few days... Says we gotta at least visit for our cousin... Been through some shit while you were away." I zipped up my bag and stood it up on its wheels and extended the handle.

"Which cousin is this? They okay?"

"Babs is our cousin from Manehattan and yeah she's good... Hopefully... Uncle wouldnt go into detail when I asked what was wrong... all that he said a client was lost outta it. Probably made some rude comment about our cousin bein an annoyance but she cant help it... She's a bit of a Daddy's girl." I huffed.

"Sounds familiar. Kinda sounds like you during the dinner." She looked to me as I started for the door.

"Yeah... I was pretty much a daddy's girl. I mean he gave me my favorite hat. I gotta go every few years to Rarity to get it patched up... Always feels worn and weathered n such...." She sighed looking at her bag again making sure everything was secure. "Just go make sure the girls are ready... Before I start to cry...."

"Well please dont... I dont wanna have Big Mac think I hurt ya with what I said... I... Didnt did I?" She shook her head taking a few deep breaths. I gave a bit of a silent sigh before leaving the room and leaving my suitcase by the stairs before walking down to Scootaloo's door. It was open and she was struggling to stay awake. She had a backpack stuffed with her things and a stuffed wolf in her arms. She was wearing jeans, sneakers, a Wonderbolts hoodie and a lunar republic camo tee under it. "Scoot? You okay there?"

She snapped her eyes open shaking her head. "Oh uh! Y-yeah I'm good Ryder." She said. "Just a little tired is all...." I huffed a bit entering the room and helping her up.

"I did tell you to get to bed earlier. Gonna listen to me now?" She sighed hanging her head.

"Yes Ryder...."

"It's okay Scoot... Next time just please dont fight me on it... A good nights sleep is good for you!" She gave me kind of a derogatory look.

"...Dont you stay up until one in the morning playing your video games?" I almost couldnt answer there. With her words, she just had my balls in a vice grip.

"Yeah... I hate it when you're right but... shows you do pay attention... Try to use that during school sis..." She gave a little chuckle.

"I'll be sure to at least try there. Can I at least get something to eat for breakfast before we go?" I rolled my eyes.

"Grab a bag of nuts from the cupboard and a water. And put your toy in your bag. I dont want you forgetting it and end up crying about it the whole time." She gave a nod and turned around to stuff her wolf into her suit case. I walked out of her room and went to Applebloom's room. But a moment of explanation. She forgot her stuffed toy one night, went over to Sweetie Belle's and ended up having a sleep over with their friend Twist. Sweetie had to call me from her friends phone, Scootaloo was freaking out of her mind and I had to get over to her friends place, middle of the night, in my PJ's and I had to bring her her toy so she could sleep.... Guess Twist's father's both understood.

But anywho I walked up to Applebloom's door. It was closed. I knocked. "C'mon in!" I hear Big Mac yell. I opened the door and there inside near Applebloom's bed was Big Mac helping his little sister get dressed. Big Mac was wearing a brown leather jacket, a pair of jeans and his work boots... always his work boots. Applebloom was looking tired. She was wearing a teeshirt and a zip up sweater. She was just getting her pants on too. "You two all ready?" I gave a nod.

"Yeah. Everything okay in here?" Big Mac nodded a bit.

"Yeah... 'Bloom was a bit hard to get up. Lucky us we got a while on the train. That means a few of us can take a nap while the others can do what we need but uh.. one of us is gonna have to stay with our sisters while they're asleep.... Draw straws?"

"Well I'm wired on an energy drink, I gotta drive and make sure everyone's ready before we leave. After you're done there with her, make sure you have everything. We arent stopping before we get to the train station. And you're lucky guards are taking my car back to Twilight's castle and giving her the keys. Celestia has us being chauffeured around by some guards after what I went through." Big Mac huffed.

"Fine... Either gonna be me or AJ that has to watch over em... getting tired of being the babysitter anyways... Cant you take over with the girls every now n then? Let me go out and have some fun?"

"Sure you'd be able to do something at least but after I get back from that Gems concert! I have to be there!"

"Look you can still go just... Dammit watch the girls on the train! Last time I was on the train was while you were away and Celestia joined us for some time in Appleoosa. I had to keep AJ from crying while watching Soarin and Applebloom AND your sister in a fuckin' bed! Celestia was even doing a damn meet and greet with everyone on the train making sure they were alright! I couldnt do a damn thing! Had to trade off with Soarin after he woke up just to hit the bathroom because I had to freaking take a shit and get some food into me. He woke up after a couple hours of being knocked out!" He kinda breathed heavily staring at me looking pissed. Applebloom was on her bed covering herself with a pillow.

"...Why dont you just take a nap with them? Little on edge there dude..." He huffed a bit getting up with his sisters suitcase and pushed me against the wall as he went outside of the room. I looked to Applebloom. "C'mon. Hurry up and get dressed. Get some food if you want. I'll go make sure Big Mac's calm for the ride to the station." Applebloom set her pillow down and nodded quickly getting her pants up and buckling them soon going for her drawers to get some socks. I left her alone and followed Big Mac downstairs. He tossed his sisters things onto the recliner and went straight for his room. I followed him in and closed the door. "What the fuck is wrong with you Big Mac? Getting short with everyone? Scaring your sister?" He grabbed at a suitcase sitting on the bed and brought it down to the floor.

"You wanna know what my problem is? Why dont you fuckin' look in the mirror pretty boy! I'm not getting any mares, you're marrying my sister and it's making me feel like I aint good enough to fuckin' get anyone!"

"You're still on that road huh? Trying to justify your actions because of loneliness! You're lucky I didnt have you arrested and tried for molesting your oldest little sister! Just. Drop. It." He released his suitcase and rushed me grabbing me by the shirt.

"Lets see you drop seeing your own sister come home with a diamond ring, from someone who's cousin is tongue fucking her best friends animal shelter and forced to watch two little fillies knowing damn well you- specifically you- have got somepony on the side to take a whack at when you know you cant go for your best buddies sister who's either working or sleeping at that moment!"

"Not only of you're jealous of me having someone to fuck but you're jealous of how flexible AJ is with me taking out violent fucking on someone who likes to take it like that?" He said nothing and just went into a nearby drawer grabbing a few things out of it. "Are you ignoring me" No answer. "Okay... Fine... Be a little bitch alone and scared! And dont come crying to me when you bust a fucking nut in your shorts when you think about me getting it on with someone!" He dropped a shirt on his suitcase and rushed me. I dipped out of the way and he ran right into the wall. Even grabbed him by the arms crossing them as if I was about to arrest him and slammed his head pinning it against the wall. "Nice try... seems I've hit a fucking nerve... Do you wanna talk or am I gonna have to kick the crap out of you?"

"Let me GO Ryder!" He snapped. "I dont wanna hit you but I will if I have to!"

"Trust me Mac... I can take you down and toss you out that fucking window.... Might be a pegasus but that doesnt mean I'm not strong enough to hurt you! It's either I let you go, you tell me what you REALLY want... Or else someone's gonna be cuffed to a bed made to watch our sisters. Sound good to you?" He huffed.

"There's no winnin' with you is there?" He sighed. "Fine... Let me go, I'll talk AND watch the girls... And trust me, I know I can take you, I just choose not to use my full strength and let you win!" I released his hands, grabbed his shoulders and tossed him towards the bed where he landed and fell back onto it.

"Please... I had to headbutt you when you were drunk off your ass and knock you out! Now spit it out!" Big Mac took a deep breath and huffed hanging his head.

"...I just... I think I might be gay Ry...." He looked at his hand and sighed. "...I started getting panicked Ry.... I didnt wanna be caught jackin' off to a stallion and have AJ catch me.... She was just around the tree I was hiding in and.... I just.... did things to her... sure through her clothes but.... I still did things to her... she fought and nailed me between the legs before just running off... Next thing I know she's driving off with Twilight and Pinkie to go getcha.... You get the rest..." I looked to him as he hugged himself. Eyes clenched shut.

"Really.... you groped your own sister because you got to thinking you were gay.... And you think SHE would give a fuck about that? Pretty sure you've gone and pounded my ass while I was face first in her crotch. Hell if I got you pictures of Fluttershy- and I know Dash would take pictures of her for you- I bet you'd go and get hornier than Twilight with a dick." I walked over and sat on the bed next to him. "...Can you see it? Dash just lifting up Fluttershy's skirt without her knowing and you see everything? 'Shy just having a vibrator strapped to her leg, teasing her own pussy.... And you can hear her begging..." I kinda readied my throat a bit. "...B-big Mac... I need your thick cock... make me cum... i-if you want to cum inside that's okay...." I nearly mimicked Fluttershy's voice... I dont know how I do it but I do. I could just see a lovey smile on his face and a hard on in his pants. I grabbed at him. "What's this here? Someone needs a bit of release!" He smacked my hand away and pushed me off. He kinda looked a bit embarrassed.

"Could you not!? I just...." He stopped and listened closely as some feet tromped down the stairs along with other things. "Give me a minute to cool down, text Dash if she cant send me somethin' of that mare friend of hers and... maybe take a drive at Gilda? When we get home? You can ask her cant ya?"

"Maybe. Might take some convincing though... If you need a bit more help I'd probably talk with Luna. See if she cant do anything to help. Right now we should stop talking, fighting and what ever. Gotta hit the station soon..." He nodded and continued with his bag.

Not long later we were outside the train station. Applejack was making sure everyone had their things out of the car. Big Mac had both his and Applebloom's suit case as she rode on his back barely clinging to consciousness. I gave a sigh having a guard come from a nearby truck. Unicorn guard, silver coat but a very short mane. He had a slightly bronze tinted armor. Most likely a recruit. "Ah General. Good to see you sir." He said. I held up my keys and handed them to him.

"Nice to see you as well... knowing I wont have to leave my car out in the open for thieves to eye..." He gave a chuckle.

"Yeah... Classic with a new look and that's one for anyone to eye. I'll be sure to be careful with it sir."

"You better. Princess Twilight will look my car over personally. Any damage I dont know about is coming out of your paycheck. Total it? So will your job be. Understood?" He saluted me.

"Yes sir! And uh also..." He reached into his back pocket and pulled out an envelope. "Here. This comes straight from Princess Luna herself. I dont know what's inside but she said you'd appreciate it." I took it and ripped the flap of it. I reached in and pulled out tickets... Train tickets by the obvious train decal going along the side of it but taking a closer look my jaw dropped. I looked to my family.

"Applejack... Can you come here for a moment?"

Applejack looked to me and back to Big Mac as Scootaloo rubbed her eye and yawned. She came over leaving our bags by her brother. "What's up sugarcube? Everythin' okay?" She asked. I handed her the tickets.

"...Please tell me I'm seeing those right..." She looked at the tickets and took a double take.

"...You are KIDDING me... Who got us a private car on the train?!" She looked to me.

"Princess motherfuckin' Luna! And I didnt ask her shit!" I took the tickets back and looked to the guard. "If and when you can... tell Luna I said thank you."

The guard gave a smile. "Funny you should say that..." He said. He looked to the truck he came out of. "She oversaw this trade off. I'd go thank her as soon as you can. Train comes soon."

I couldnt help but give a smile and a nod. I saluted him, he saluted back and hurried around my car and got in. I went over to Big Mac and grabbed my bag having the tickets in my other hand. Big Mac and Scootaloo followed both me and AJ closely. The truck pulled out of the spot it was in and the back window started to roll down revealing Princess Luna wrapped in a blanket. She smiled as I got Scootaloo up on my arm to see her. "Well now seems someone is appreciative of a special gift." She said. "I've come to see you off on your journey to Manehattan. I hope all things are well with everyone here." She leaned out the window a bit and poked at Scootaloo. "And you're doing okay Scootaloo?"

Scoot giggled a bit. "I'm alright Princess... Bit tired but I'm fine...." She said. Luna sighed a bit.

"Alright but you be a good girl now. Maybe after you're back we can see about having a sleep over at Canterlot, you, your friends, get Ryder and Applejack and their friends in another part of the castle while we have our own separate fun. Maybe invite one or two of your school mates to make friends with maybe?" She kinda cuddled up to me.

"...Maybe... I've been trying to be friends more with Silver Spoon but she's always hanging out with Diamond Tiara... Last time I tried talking with Silver, Diamond pushed me to the ground and kicked dirt on me!" The Princess and I both huffed.

"I hope you let your teacher know about that. Just remember what we said: If she's picking on you, she's jealous of something." How I wish that were true but hey. Scootaloo's a good kid sometimes but she's actually making progress with Silver Spoon. She was with Sweetie Belle that one day... or those few days I was a mare and had a little sleep over with Silver. "But for now I have to get going to Twilight's castle. She's allowing me to sleep there for a few days while Celestia is out of the country... Gets lonely around the castle without her and I need someone to be there for me. As for now... I'll contact you later but please feel free to call me if you need anything at all. Reservations for restaurants that are busy, better rooms for a hotel or even a car but I know Celestia has arranged a limo service to pick you up at the Manehattan station."

I gave a smile as I set Scootaloo down having her grab her bag again. "Alright. See you later Princess. Rest well!" I said. She gave a yawn waving before rolling up her window. We all grabbed our bags and watched as the truck followed my car down the road away from us. It hurt a bit watching my car drive off without me. But it was well worth it. We grabbed our bags and walked up to the platform where we sat for about fifteen minutes before the train came.

As we boarded we were all brought back to one of the back cars. One side of it was walled off while the other remained open with a few chairs and such. We were just on the other side of the wall. On the otherside was a pretty good sized room stretching the whole car. One big bed near one end of the car, table and couch near to that, storage area and another bed on the other side of the car. It was nearly kinda mirrored but with very few differences. Painting here, hidden toilet there- yes there was a toilet in our room hidden behind a sound and smell proof curtain. Only figured it out when a little filly had a tummy ache while her soon-to-be step-sister was sleeping in the bed RIGHT NEXT TO IT. Not to mention I had to go in there to check on her. Scoot was crying a bit but at least i didnt have to find her a new pair of pants, underwear and a shower on a moving train. And considering we had our own thing here we told the girls to stay in here and nap. So that meant nobody did babysitting. Door locked Big Mac, AJ and I decided to go to the food car for a bit of breakfast. As we got into the dining car I see something kinda strange. Four stallions, wearing some foreign looking garb... Looking Steuropean... Eastern Steuropean. Two were carrying a large box, two flanked them on either side as they took it through the door on the other side of the car. The car wasnt very full. Mare here, stallion there, small family here. There was a bar in the corner with empty seats sitting there. Small kitchen area behind. Stove, grill, oven and a fridge. The stallion behind the counter smiled as we sat down. "What can I get you three today?" He asked.

"Tea and Lemonade mix please." He looked to Applejack.

AJ sighed. "Water please." She said. Then to Big Mac.

The stallion hummed a bit. "Cola. Light ice." He said.

The stallion nodded and ducked under the counter for a moment before coming up with a few bottles. One of cola and one of water. Even came up with a can of tea and a bottle of lemonade. Just as he turned to grab a glass from a chilled cabinet I broke the silence. "Do you know what was up with those guys carrying that box?" I asked.

He looked back at me bringing down a pint glass. "They've been working this train for a couple months." He said scooping some ice out of a little freezer hidden in the counter. "They've been getting cargo ready from the back car and bringing it up to the front car to ship out once we get to its destination. Never know where it goes." I hummed as he started to combine both the lemonade and the tea into one glass.

"Guess that's... okay... strange they arent wearing company uniform." He slid the glass over to me once the tea was empty. Still had some lemonade left.

"Well they are allowed to wear what ever they want. They arent part of the train company itself but they're a collab company. They need to ship across Equestria, we need use for cars that cant stay empty or converted into passenger cars that cant have tickets sold because not many ponies use the train these days. Those who do travel closer to home. Others do it for business and some decide to take vacation outside Equestria. Think I might ask where you're headed?"

"Manehattan. Some of us here for family, others to rock out. Mostly for vacation away from a farm. Great farm but a city boy here through and through."

Applejack huffed flashing the ring I gave her. Both to me and the stallion behind the counter. "Well get used to farm life sugarcube." She said. "You're in it for the long haul."

Both Big Mac and the stallion chuckled as my face turned red. For a while we ate, talked and joked. Ended up going back to our room after paying the bill and just passed out. Just climbed into the bed with Scootaloo and Applebloom who were just cutely cuddling and went to sleep. As I was asleep I felt frozen again. Not being able to move or say anything. "...Your time comes soon.." An echoey stallions voice said. "...Again you awaken but not be able to speak my name or my words for anyone... You wont even know what would happen or when... or even... that I spoke to you..." It trailed off into a maniacal laugh that just echoed and got deeper and demonic. It quickly faded and I woke up to someone shaking me.

"Sugarcube? C'mon sugarcube get up!" I heard Applejack say. I opened up my eyes and found myself cuddling a pillow. Applejack stood over me giving me a sweet smile. "There we are! C'mon lets get up. Train should be pulling into Manehattan soon."

I yawned as I crawled out of bed. Applebloom and Big Mac were at the far end of the room. Scootaloo was just coming from the bathroom again. Looked relieved. I looked back at AJ as she helped me up. "How long was I out?" I asked. She smiled a bit.

"Couple hours. Blew right past Appleoosa, and arrived in record time. Guess they were doing some remodels to the Appleoosa station. No stops there."

"Huh... Guess that's a bit of a time saver... It's a little relieving we dont have to wait anymore than we already have to."

"That anxious to get to your concert huh?" I nodded. "Just something before ya go to it please dont go crazy and get yourself wasted. You promised you werent gonna drink yourself silly when you took over with Scoot... I dont wanna see you drunk and getting jailed because you blacked out and assaulted someone or you come back to the hotel drunk out of your mind and you pissin' yourself and throwing up being a bad role model for your sister. I just dont wanna see her getting into bad things..." I sighed.

"I know... I just... I've gone so long without a drink it hurts to not have one... I mean... you know that warmth of a shot of whiskey just sliding down your throat? Always feels good right?" I could see it in her face she was dying for a drink. "...Maybe we can get a small bottle and we have a few shots and take the rest home..."

"Maybe but... seriously sugarcube... not a good idea... Especially in front of the fillies and my uncle... he's not a big alcohol guy anyways and you showin' up reekin' of booze might think you aint fit enough to even run the guard or even be my husband!" I gave a sigh and groaned a bit.

"Okay fine... Not getting any drinks... at least not until I get home?" AJ rolled her eyes.

"Alright fine... No drinks until we get home... but even then not around the house! And if you're blitzed around our friends you're staying with them otherwise you're sleeping outside or in a drunk tank again."

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." AJ hummed.

"Better stick to that... otherwise Pinkie'll know and I'd get my rope before giving ya a ten second headstart when we get home... Got me?"

I nodded and got up from the bed fixing my clothes, fixing my bandana and making sure I had everything. Maybe forty five minutes later after we got the girls something to eat that was more filling than a bag of nuts- few pancakes each- we were just getting off the train. The station was gorgeous. Black and white marble flooring, escalators, elevators to malls and a large fountain at either side of the tracks, greeting travelers as they got off. I saw advertisements for Gems N Tulips, Stores around the area and even had a mural of the skyline sitting above the train tracks. Big Mac threw an arm around me sighing. "We aint in a farm anymore..." He said. "Ready for this?" I gave a nod and took Scootaloo's hand starting to walk out of the station. Had to walk up some stairs and out from under the mall area to the outside. Cars everywhere, tall buildings even a chopper or two.

As we walked out to the street we were approached by a guard. Pegasus guard wearing gold armor, red mane and a grey coat. She smiled at me taking her helmet off and saluting. "Welcome to Manehattan General. Got word from Celestia you'd be here." She said. "Been out here all morning waiting. Didnt know what time you'd come in."

I sighed giving the guard a salute. "Glad she let someone know where I was going to be..." I said. "I guess you're going to be the one showing us around?" She nodded.

"Yeah. I'm not gonna let you get hustled by cabbies and bums on the street. Getcha to your hotel and what not."

"And you're okay with all this? Taking us around like this?"

"Yep. Light duty for me. Perfect thing for me while others are getting into the dirty work. Besides, we get in a little scuffle you're good to take em down arent you?"

Applejack huffed. "This is supposed to be a vacation for us ma'am." She said. "My sugarcube aint gonna lay a hand on any damn pony unless he's forced to do it himself and not by order of some other guard."

I rolled my eyes and looked to AJ. "Applejack... Yeah I know its an unwind period but what's gonna stop me from getting another dangerous criminal off the street?" I asked. She looked to me.

"You really wanna know?" I shook my head. "Good... Now lets keep it that way!" She looked to our guard guide. "Now how about we get to our hotel? Fourth and Rocksmith." I watched as AJ grabbed her bag and started to roll it towards a waiting transport truck. I looked to the guard as the rest followed her.

"I'm gonna apologize for her.... Bit tired I think still but I'm still willing to do what it takes to get another dangerous guy off the streets. Just... Only if it's close by.... I dont wanna be rushing off to a shop a few blocks down the road only to come back sweaty, shaking and maybe a few bruises if things dont go right. But... Yeah for now lets just get to the hotel and check in. Her uncle is supposed to be meeting us there." She nodded and just started walking along side me as we followed AJ and the rest. I glanced at the guard. "I'm sorry I actually dont know your name." She looked over and smiled.

"Well since I already know you General Ryder. How? Pepper. She told me about you a lot! She told me to ask you if you had the time to drop by while you're here she'd like to meet your family. Name's Cinder. Pepper and I are a couple. She kept telling me how you were one of the only ones who helped her out while she was on duty. Must've been scary during the plane crash too... How did you survive?" I gave a shrug.

"No clue... Luck I guess... But enough about that. When you get a chance tell Pepper I'll see her when I can. Maybe you could bring her by the hotel room tomorrow. Got a concert tonight and it's gonna be so SICK!"

"Gems? Few streets blocked off and its gonna be at the stadium! Need me to play some in the truck? Got all the albums, even their cover album!"

"Ooh! Yes! Can we play that one please? But uh... when Kindness for Tirek comes on.... just leave it on... please." She gave a smile.

"Sure. Wont ask your reasoning but I just like that song." Glad she didnt. I hate explaining it and having people look at me crazy. But it's what ever. Took us about a half hour to get to our hotel and check in, turns out Applejack's uncle went and got us a deluxe suite. Two beds, a large bathroom, walk in shower and a TV in the mirror! And AJ said we cant have a TV in the bathroom because of room constraints.. Jury rigging time! Kidding. Applejack wouldnt even let me do that at all. We just put our bags in and started to head out once more.

We hurried out to the truck and made the long trip to her uncles building. One of the tallest ones in Equestria. Office areas, living spaces and maybe some other things in there... Mostly office space I believe. But anyways we pulled up to the building and I was just relaxing with a little hippie tunes. I was kinda nervous to be honest for meeting her uncle. Her parents were country folk that kinda just... with it. Her uncle? From what she tells me he's someone who's all business, very strict and gets what he wants... One reason why Braeburn is out on his own... Lived with Uncle Orange after Applejack's aunt on her dads side passed away. Uncle Orange took him in with open arms and promise of a job, stock and a place to sleep but after he was found with a stallion... yeah.... Didnt go well but he's doing good. Heard he got himself a pool. But anyways the truck stopped in front of the building. He was standing in front. Green slicked back mane, orange coat, dark green suit and arms crossed. How could I tell that was Applejack's uncle? By the way everyone was reacting. Big Mac was neutral more or less, Applejack had a look of disgust on her face, Applebloom and Scootaloo were kinda excited to see his Daughter and AJ's cousin Babs. Cinder got out of the truck and rushed around to the door opening it. In order it was Applebloom and Scootaloo, Big Mac, Applejack and then me. Uncle Orange smiled as Applejack and her siblings approached. Me and Scootaloo stayed back. "Well if it isnt my neices and nephew!" He said. Deep voice, somewhat of an accent. Sounded western steuropean. "How is everyone? Good trip?"

Big Mac gave a laugh. "Eeyup! Thanks again for paying for our hotel but did it have to be a deluxe suite?" He asked. I saw him nod.

"Figured you'd get it for making the trip out here. Wish you did wanna stay here but unfortunately if you did we might've had to had someone share a room plus uh... I see you've brought some guests." He looked right at me and Scootaloo.

Applejack looked back at us. "Uncle Orange, this here's my fiance Ryder and his little sister Scootaloo." She said gesturing to us. "Both them got moved in with us after their house burnt down, met his dumbass after he got booted from his apartment and... things just came to this." I felt Scootaloo clutch my hand a bit knowing everything she was talking about as we walked closer to the group. He smiled and I shook his hand.

"Well nice to meet someone who's willing to marry my sister in laws daughter... Even if you are as you are described."

I gave a huff handing Scootaloo off to Big Mac. "None taken from AJ. I admit I kinda am sometimes." I said. "So uh... where's your daughter? AJ tells me a lot about her." He sighed a bit.

"Babs didnt wanna come down to see everyone. Said she needed to eat something." He turned to Applejack. "Speaking of which why dont we get on up to the penthouse? Might be about lunch time anyways."

Applejack smiled a bit. "Guess I could eat. Train food is good but I'd rather do it when my drink aint splashin' everywhere during a turn." She said. Everyone laughed a bit. Yeah... I remembered she nearly spilled her drink all over her chest. It was around the time I finished my meal but hey cant get everything you want... that's for later anyways. Uncle Orange turned to the door. Rotating door, marble flooring and it had an amazing lobby. Must've been part hotel as well.

"Alright then. Follow me. Hope everyone's hungry. My chef can make a great batch of sandwiches. Soup to go with it if ya want." As much as i hated to say it something wasnt sitting right in my gut. As we entered I looked around and I saw those same four stallions on the train loading a package onto an elevator before closing it up. I didnt pay much mind to it before looking forward once more as we approached the front desk. Applejack's uncle looked to the mare sitting behind the counter. "Open up the express elevator would you? Got family here and we'd like to get to my penthouse fast."

The mare smiled hitting a button. "Right away sir, and I must say what a lovely family you have." She said. We walked to the left of the counter she sat at and there behind her was an elevator door opening up. Almost looked like part of the wall. Walls were a light orange with intricate designs in them. The walls just slid open. Wouldnt even be able to tell there was anything there if she hadnt hit the button.

We quickly loaded into the elevator, I had to take Scootaloo's and Applebloom's hands. Why? Applebloom cant stand tight quarters and Scootaloo thinks if the elevator stops and starts falling that we can get out through the emergency door and fly to safety... even if it does mean leaving everyone else in it.... Anywho the ride took a few minutes tops. Sped through the floors fast. When the doors opened it came out into a large open living area. Brown carpeted floor, black leather couch, large flat screen TV hanging up on the wall, stairs to another floor, a somewhat large dining hall beyond the living room area and what I assumed was a kitchen off to the left of it. Sitting on the couch was a little filly. Orange coat, dark purple mane (A bit darker than Scootaloo's) wearing a long sleeve with some Gems n Tulips markings on the arms and black skinny jeans. Her mane was in sort of a medium length bob having it just cover her face. Applebloom and Scootaloo released my hands and rushed in as we all entered the penthouse. They ran right to the filly. "Babs!" Applebloom said. Scoot and her soon-to-be sister-in-law hopped the couch surprising the filly they called Babs.

Uncle orange smiled as we entered the penthouse. Above us was a large chandelier made of crystals, some with a bit of color. Saw a few blue ones. Sucker for shiny here. It wasnt anything like Canterlot but it was nice. "Welcome everyone!" Uncle Orange said. "Make yourselves at home! Kick your feet up, watch a little TV or even head upstairs, freshen up in the bath. Might have to wait a bit for lunch but hey its going to be ready sometime soon." He looked to me as Applejack and Big Mac went to the couch. "Ryder why dont you follow me? We can have a drink and talk. Kinda wanna learn more about you!" I smiled a bit and followed him as he went into the dining room. Big table, eight chairs, lovely candelabra sitting mid table. We walked right past it and into the kitchen. Few ovens, clean counter tops few fridges but we walked right through another door and holy shit this was beautiful. Stallions den like I've never seen it. Pool table, flat screen, fully stocked bar with very own bartender, lounge couch where... a lot of staff was sat watching a hoofball game just north of here. Few earth ponies, a pegasus, and some unicorn. We walked over to the couch a bit. "Everyone! Break time over! Family is here and they need lunch. Lemon Drop, to the bar please."

The pegasus got up and flew over to the bar. She was a light yellow pegasus mare with a more brighter yellow mane wearing a black vest, white button up and matching black pants and shoes. We walked over to the bar as she leaned on it. "Usual for ya sir?" She asked.

"Yeah. And what ever here for my nieces fiance here." I smiled as she looked to me.

"Just uh... You got anything nonalcoholic? A... Soda perchance?"

"Regular cola alright? It's going in Mr. Oranges drink anyways."

"Sure. Fine with me."

I looked to Uncle Orange as the mare grabbed a couple glasses. He looked to me curiously. "Really? You dont drink?" He asked. "Pretty sure a man of your... tastes might drink a bit." I sighed as the mare set a glass near me.

"I used to drink a bit before my parents passed away but.... That all changed when I rose the ranks and had to care for my sister... lately I feel like i've been having a relapse and I wanna stay as far away from getting shit faced." The curious look turned to a bit of shock, then disappointment.

"You.... You're a guard?"

"Yes sir... General, leader of the seventh battalion of nine hundred that just got back not too long ago... barley survived a plane going down and some idiot shooting me in the fucking leg on an evening stress flight."

"...A general... dressing like THAT?! You're kidding me!" I kinda gave him a scared look as I sipped my soda. "My sisters daughter is marrying a guard and he doesnt even act like it. You have to act better than that!"

"Hey it's not like there are other guards are like this!"

"Yeah but you're no fucking recruit! Only recruits dress like that off duty!"

"Well do I care what other ponies think about the way I dress? No! Should I? WHY?" I chugged what was left of my drink- yes it was half way by this point- and set the glass down getting up. "I'm not gonna sit here and fight this shit... Wish I couldve stayed on the train or back at the hotel..."

"Where do you think you're going? We're talking here!" I ignored him and went back through the kitchen. Passed by everyone starting to prepare veggies and other bits of foodstuffs for lunch. I even walked through to the dining hall and then into the living room area.

Applejack came up to me from the couch where I saw our sisters and Big Mac just enjoying the Tv. "Well that aint a face I wanna see..." She said. "The hell happened? You werent even back there for a couple minutes! What did he say to you?"

I huffed. "Your uncle is a fucking dickhead who thinks I'm not cut out to be a guard just because I dress like this and listen to Gems." I said. "I'm not gonna sit here and listen to him belittle me and call me a disgrace to you and your mother." She huffed.

"Always like him..." She looked over my shoulder and then back at me. "Wait here, let me do the talking." I watched as she went around me. Only turned around to see her getting between me and her uncle. He looked steamed. "What in the hell are you doing talkin' to my fiance like that!?"

Uncle Orange huffed. "You shouldnt be marrying anyone your mother wouldnt approve of!" He snapped. "She'd want you marrying some farm hand who can help benefit that farm of yours since you wont sell it out to me! I could make you just as wealthy as I am!"

"And you think I give a shit about the wealth I can have? Why do that and turn my farm into a fuckin' factory when we got that good old fashion handy work? And momma would've loved to meet Ryder! She'd be proud of me getting married!"

"And how would you know? She isnt here to say anything!" I glanced back at Applebloom and Big Mac. Both 'Bloom and Scootaloo climbed into Big Mac's lap.

I looked back to Applejack and Orange as they started to yell over each other. "BOTH OF YOU! SHUT UP!" I yelled. They both looked up at me. "Can you not seeing what you're doing to the girls?! You're scaring them!" Applejack and I hurried over to Big Mac each taking our scared sisters. Babs, Applejack's younger cousin seemed a bit unfazed and just kept watching the TV. I shushed Scootaloo feeling her wings trembling. "...It's okay Scoot... I gotcha.... You're okay...."

I looked back at Applejack who went back to her uncle, Applebloom in her arms. "Now look whatcha did!" She snapped. "Sure you didnt know that little filly my fiance is holding walked in on her parents after they were shot but that dont save you from the wrath you can feel from both of us! Now apologize before my family and I go back home, trip ruined and my fiance pissed that you made his sister cry! He takes her very seriously y'know!"

Uncle Orange huffed and took Applebloom in his arms hugging her tight. He whispered something before Applebloom gave him a kiss on the cheek. He set her down and approached me. I just held onto Scootaloo a bit tighter. He could see I wouldnt budge. "What's your sisters name?" He asked. I said nothing having Scoot whimper a bit. He huffed. "Are you gonna tell me your sisters name or are you going to be as thick skulled as you look?" Oh how I wanted to beat him in front of his daughter, his nieces and nephew and his servants....

Babs huffed looking at us. "Her name is Scootaloo dad." She said. Very thick Manehattan accent. I mean... The accent was as thick as butter if you could speak in oily dairy goodness. She looked back at the TV... Hoofball game. Same one that the servants were watching. I kept my grip on her as Uncle Orange rested his hand on her shoulder.

"I apologize Scootaloo dear for what I have said. I... I truly had no idea about the tragedies...." Scootaloo continued to whimper in my ear.

I huffed. "Some apologies dont do well through word...." I said giving her back to Big Mac. She went to him like she would for me. "With her she's just not gonna let me apologize and have everything be okay! Especially over something as topical as that! Sure you didnt know but it still doesnt help that it was mentioned!"

Big Mac looked up at his uncle as he tried to say something. "Before ya go and spout off- yes that's how his sisters head works. Gifts are the only way she'll listen- even if it's somethin' small like a candy bar she'll open up her ears, even if its for a moment otherwise it takes a while. Last time we couldnt get her a gift to apologize we had to draw with her... and it was a LOT of drawing... couple hours worth, too much paper, and a few broken crayons that we had to get new boxes of. So it's either wait a few days in order to apologize or we go out, get somethin' for her and apologize then. Otherwise she aint gonna eat, talk and maybe more accidents. So I hope you know a good shop around here for a little protection for her- and you- and I'm sure you dont wanna know what I mean there." Orange huffed.

"...Fine... Give me a moment and we'll get going...." He looked to Babs. "Wanna come with us darling? We could go get some ice cream for you and your friends after lunch!"

Babs sighed just staring at the TV. "Nah... I'm good... Probably gonna get a salad from the fridge and finish the game." She said. "If anything can you bring me back a hayburger for dinner tonight? Havent had one in foreva!" Manners in this one seemed to have ran off. Her father smiled.

"Of course Babs. You just sit right there, I'll get the salad for you and a drink." He looked to me. "Would you like anything to eat or drink... general?"

I looked at him confused. "What? I'm heading out with you to make sure my sister is okay!" I said. "I'll just get something out there!" He shook his head.

"Oh no you arent! Not going out with someone with that rank who dresses like that! This is Manehattan! A high society place that's better than what ever hovel you clearly crawled out of!"

"Says the stallion who lives in a city filled with bums, crime and home of a sex trafficking ring I broke up!"

Applejack came over pushed me and her uncle apart before looking at him. "Uncle Orange, just go get him a soda and a salad, same as Babs." She said. She looked to me. "Ryder you just stay here, dont worry about Scootaloo we got her. I'll give you a call later when she's back to her ol' self. Dont worry, we'll be back in time for you to head to your concert." I huffed sitting down on the couch.

"Alright... I'll stay... Better not give me diet soda.... dont wanna have a fucking headache...." I watched as Applejack went over to Applebloom and Uncle orange went back into the kitchen area. I looked over at Big Mac and Scootaloo. Scootaloo was curled up in Big Mac's arms, just looking at me with tears in her eyes as she was trying not to cry. I'd've wiped her tears away but between me and her was Babs and I didnt wanna get in the way of her view of the TV. I just whistled at Big Mac. He looked over and I motioned to him to wipe her tears away. He did so... It hurt a bit seeing her this way... I was about to just say for Uncle Orange to stay here but then again I wanted to be on his good side.

After a minute or two he came out with a chef holding a tray of two salads, croutons, cucumbers, carrots and a few hot peppers in each... strange but I wasnt complaining. He set it down on the coffee table before us, round glass table. Wasnt much but it was something. Even set down two glass bottles of Senor Salt. My favorite but after I drink it I gotta wash my mouth out before I can kiss AJ again. You know that stuff. I watched as Applejack came over and grabbed Scootaloo holding her close as Big Mac got up. She looked to me. I kinda blew her a kiss. Not one to do such things but... shows I love her without saying anything. She knows I care. No matter how much I yell at her, ground her or how much anger is shown I still love her. "Alright. Babs you know where the snacks are if you get hungry while we're out." Uncle Orange said. "If theres anything else you need Scootaloo's brother is here to watch you while we're out." He looked to me, his bright demeanor disappearing. "And you, my servants are gone after we leave, this will be the only food you get, if you need anything ask Babs but you be nice to her. One wrong word, she'll tell me, you'll be forbidden to come here even with my niece..."

Oh I wanted to yell at him and just tell him to fuck off... but I didnt. His daughter did however give her input grabbing a soda. "Dad lighten up! It's my friends brother, the friend you made cry!" She said. "Lighten up, relax on the restrictions!" I saw him roll his eyes.

"Fine... Anything for my little girl... but when it comes to my bar, that's off limits. Servants are still gone but you'll act as a servant to my daughter until we return. Am I clear?"

I huffed grabbing my food. "Understood sir." I said.

"Good... Now enjoy your stay. We'll be back." I watched as the group loaded into the elevator while the servant went back through the dining room and into the kitchen. We sat there alone for a few minutes as the game kept going on. Even had a few bites of my salad in the awkward tension between me and Babs. After a few moments of eating I stopped and grabbed my drink taking a sip. Felt good as it slid down my throat. Calmed me. I sighed setting my drink down. "...So... Babs is it...?" I glanced over at Babs. She looked up at me setting her food aside.

The filly gave a bit of a smile. "That's my name dont wear it out." She said with a bit of a laugh. "Whatcha need? Candy? Chips? Another bottle of pop?" I sighed.

"No... I think I'm good... I just... What do you like to do?" She gave a loud burp after taking a drink. Didnt even blush at it.

"I game, I watch TV, get into a little trouble at school for fighting. Usual stuff for a filly like me." I gave a worried look.

"You fight in school...? Why?" She huffed slouching in her seat.

"Yeah so what. Why do ya wanna know? You a guard or somethin'?"

"Would it be a problem if I was?" She just kinda looked to me. Stone faced at first. Then it turned sad as she looked away. "...Bit for your brains there?" No answer. I held out my hand on the armrest between us. "...I'm only here to help... nobody's gonna be in trouble unless you tell me otherwise." I could see her glance back at my open hand. She hesitated a bit. She grabbed my hand and just leaned over. "There we are.... wanna open up now?" I kinda watched as she grabbed my food and drink setting them on the table before crawling into my lap.... it was a bit weird at first but... I forced myself to think she was Scootaloo and not my wifes cousin. I just hugged her a bit.

"...The boys... they just want me to be their... 'play thing'... picking on me, hitting me with basket balls, even... trying to force me into the bathrooms...." She curled up even tighter than she already was. "...They didnt get me in once.... told teachers about it.... Dad only said I can fight to protect myself after..." She trailed off.

"After what... if I may ask....?" She sniffled getting tears in her eyes. I knew it was something bad.... didnt know what to say to stop it but... I couldnt.

"...A boy... one of my dads clients sons... he came over with his father.... his son kept hitting me with a plastic bass guitar when my dad tried to do business... I wanted to tell but... he said if I told he'd tell that I was lying and ruin the deal... that night I had nightmares.... Threw up a bit.... Next day he comes back with his dad... when we're alone he... pushes me down... tells me not to scream or he'll hit me again and he... he..." My heart dropped hearing this. I shushed her as she started whimpering a bit.

"...I'm sorry.... Did you tell anyone about him and what he did....?" She nodded. "Who did you tell....?"

"...I... I told... Princess Luna and Celestia.... Luna came to me in my dreams and.... she brought me into Celestia's... She... she said she had Scootaloo.... told her about things.... next day I go to my dad... told him about it... he didnt believe me until Luna came to the door, guards at her side.... she confronted the son and... he confessed everything.... dad called the deal off and treated me like his princess...." She sobbed a bit. I sighed holding her close.

"...Princess Luna does help everyone around... you, me, even Scootaloo and Applebloom... wanna know why Scootaloo was with the princesses anyways?" She nodded. "...Because both Princesses wanted to help me... Scootaloo was being watched by them while I was out at war...." I sat her back in her seat. "....Maybe sometime soon I can see about getting you, Scoot and the others with Luna and Celestia for a sleep over... Probably get a chance to thank the princess for that..."

"...You... you think she'll let me in to the sleep over....?"

"Of course... Speaking of sleep... you tired at all...?" She gave a hesitant nod. "Okay... after we're done eating why dont you just head up to your bed and take a nap? Might help...." She nodded rubbing her eyes. We ate still and finished up the game. The away team won. Canterlot Crushers. Manehattan maulers were who we were rooting for. Anyways I helped her upstairs after we finished eating. Cuddled up to me a bit like she was Scootaloo. As we got upstairs I looked to Babs. Kinda struggling to stay awake. "Need to go to the bathroom before bed?" She nodded. Her upstairs was a long hallway that opened up. Two doors on the left, two on the right. She pointed to the left.

"Bathroom's there...." I walked over and set her down.

"Here. Do what you need to. I'll be right out here if you need me." She gave a nod before opening the door and going inside having the door click behind her. I waited out there for a good few minutes before hearing a flush.

"Be out in a minute... just... dont laugh when I come out...."

"I wont. I promise." I waited a bit. Heard the sink run for a bit. After it shut off I waited about another minute. Heard nothing for a while until I head footsteps come to the door. I stepped back and I saw Babs poke her head out. "So you ready there Babs?" She blushed a bit.

"...Kinda... I just..."

"...You didnt have an accident did you?" She blushed more.

"...No... Not really but.... I uh...." She pushed open the door blushing hard as she came out with just her long sleeve shirt on. Her pants and underwear- she surprisingly wears boxers- were draped over her arm and around her waist I saw a plain white pull on diaper. She averted her gaze. "...M-my dad has been making me wear these these past weeks when I sleep... wet the bed once and I dont hear the end of it...." I gave a smile and sighed kneeling down.

"...Happens to the best of us... I can say your friends have been in the same spot you are... even i've been there..." I held my hand out and she took it with her free hand.

"...You wet the bed too...? But... you're a guard..."

"Just because I'm a guard doesnt mean I cant wet the bed or have nightmares that cause me to wet the bed... Last time I did I had to wear diapers for a week and sleep on the couch.... Even ask Applejack when your dad isnt around. Dunno if he'd use something like that against me.... Probably would try to." She gave a giggle as I stood up. "Y'know when I was your age my mom made me wear diapers to school after I had an accident... Just a single accident that easily could've been prevented but it cost me my teacher having to secretly check me at recess, at lunch and if i was she'd send me to the nurse to change. Good thing I never used it once."

"...My dad almost did that to me.... Watched a few scary movies, had a nightmare that made me have an accident, we were gonna have a scary movie day at school but the teacher called it off, said we couldnt watch those because the principal caught word and next thing you know we're watching some action movie from the eighties. Serial killers arent allowed but you show us some guy getting his head blown off with a shotgun? Good trade for my bladder I guess..." We walked over into her room, right across the hall. We walked inside and it was a pretty good sized room. Sports, music and some weird posters on the wall. Some with oriental writings... orientals like how who i thought was Shadow would write in. Her bed was full sized. Messy with black and red covers, a privacy window out into her fathers stallion cave. I could tell it was a privacy widow because of the almost limo tint. Not to mention there was a switch on the wall. I helped her into bed and under the covers before tucking her in.

"Alright there... Need anything else while I'm here?" She shook her head giving a yawn. "Alright... I'll be on the couch if you need me." She nodded grabbing a stuffed lion under her pillow. I gave a smile before walking out. I shut the door behind me and hit the restroom for a bit. Had to piss quite a bit... Held it for a good while watching the game. Soda didnt help. Nearly pissed myself in front of Babs. After that I went back to Babs. She was curled up with her toy. I just took my phone out and snapped a picture for AJ to see. I sent it off to her and went back downstairs. I sat back down on the couch for about a half hour. Realized we had just left our dirty dishes there but... heres where shit hit the fan and splattered everywhere... even across the entirety of Equestria. Just as I reached for the dishes the lights flickered and the TV went dark I didnt have time to react before a loud explosion rang out and the whole building shook. The TV fell off the wall, I fell right onto the table, shattering it. The TV fell right next to me. Barely missed me. Lucky for all the long clothing I was wearing I was lucky to get back up without hurting myself. I heard screams upstairs and flew quickly up the stairs and rushed Babs' room. I ran right in to the door not being able to open it. Jiggled the knob, everything. "Babs! Babs! C'mon open the door!" I waited a moment before the knob twisted and Babs rushed me after opening the door. She looked scared and she was just soaked. Bladder fills fast for a filly and she was kinda leaking when I picked her up and hugged her.

"W-what's happening....?" I huffed.

"I dont know. Are you okay?" She gave a hesitant nod. "Okay... Quickly get changed, grab some clothes together and get it in a bag. We gotta get out of here now!" I set her down and she went for her dresser. I turned away as she tossed her used padding away and got dressed. She grabbed the pair of pants she was wearing before and a new shirt, this one was a baseball tee. Saw as she reached under her bed and grabbed a backpack shoving her stuffed lion in first and then a few shirts, underwear and socks. She put some on her feet as the building shook again before throwing some shoes on before throwing it on her back and coming back to me. "C'mon lets go!" I picked her up again and started to rush down the stairs. Not even a clear button for the elevator but with what ever was happening I dont think taking the elevator was gonna be a good idea. I looked to her. "Any way out we can take? Stairwell maybe?" She nodded.

"...D-daddies stallions den... There's an emergency staircase just in case of a fire..." I nodded and rushed through the rooms, Babs in my arms. Kicked the kitchen door open to it and ran through it. Empty. No bottles on the bar but out the big window behind I saw smoke starting to rise. I looked around for the staircase and saw it to the right of another stairs portion going up to the rooms. One of the rooms had the privacy glass cracked. I hurried for the emergency door and kicked it open only to get a thick plume of smoke hitting me in the face. Babs and I coughed for a second as we got clear. I set her down and started to take my jacket off. I put it over the hacking filly and looked to her wiping a tear from her eye.

"Here. This should keep the smoke out of your face. Just try to breathe nice and easy okay?" She nodded and climbed back into my arms. I kept the jacket over her head the best I could as we braved the smoke and rushed down the steps. Seven to eight flights. We stopped there because one flight lower was covered in fire. I opened the door to the floor and there were ponies rushing to get out through other stair cases. Best thing I thought of was to dive in one of the rooms. It was a hotel room that was left wide open. Fancy. Almost looked like a room made from penthouse stuff. But there was no time to waste. Another explosion rang out and I fell right onto Babs on a bed as the building rocked once more. I didnt hurt her but it scared us both. I looked around the room and saw a chair. Sturdy wood, leather arm rests and cloth material. I lied Babs down as she cried hard. As I picked up the chair I got scared. All I could see now was my house on fire. I was just staring down a burning hallway hearing Scootaloo- not Babs- screaming. I shook my head shaking that reality away as I hoisted the heavy chair up. I readied it feet away from a window. Backed up and charged it. First time nothing. Second time, a crack. Third time was more cracks. I backed up a bit more than the first few times and yelled, my throat and eyes burning from the ash and soot before charging the window. That time it broke showering me in a few shards of glass. I shook off what I could while clearing what ever other large shards were stuck to the window and dumped the chair outside. I went back and quickly grabbed Babs sitting her in my arms once more. I looked to her. "Okay Babs I want you to hold on to me very tight! Arms, Legs, everything as tight as you can. We're gonna be falling very far, very fast. Dont be scared. I gotcha!" I waited a moment as she wrapped her arms and legs around me gripping tight. I think she wet herself more because I felt warmth run from my stomach down to my crotch. I held onto the jacket and backed up before running and jumping onto the window sill before just jumping out of the building, wings extended. Everything went in slow motion as we started to the ground. Again I got scared and now saw myself falling towards the mountain side after the plane was going down. I shook my head and squeezed the screaming filly as we dive bombed into the city. The lower we got I was straightening out. One more explosion rang out, this time it sounded extremely loud. I felt the heat behind us. As we land the unthinkable happened. I saw the building start to crumble. It fell straight down a large wall of smoke, soot and debris out and up. As the wall raced towards us I looked around and saw a building that looked abandoned. I went to the door of it and took my jacket off of Babs putting it over me as we hid in the corner. I felt harsh wind rush behind me as I shielded my fiances cousin. Even heard emergency sirens everywhere. I started hacking again after a few minutes and picked Babs up who was also coughing very badly. We walked out into the ash filled street and off down the road I see red and white lights flashing. I used the jacket as a flag waving it in the air. "HEY! HEY OVER HERE! HELP US! HELP US NOW!"

I was relieved when they flashed the headlights of the emergency vehicle. Ambulance, pulling up right in front of us. An EMT hopped out. Stallion, dark blue uniform, purple coat, lavender mane. "Whos hurt? Everyone okay?" He asked. I hacked and tried to pry Babs off of me. She didnt let go and I leaned to the side and just hurled I was so panicked. She just couldnt stop coughing. Neither could I. "Here get in! Get you hooked up to some oxygen! Obvious signs of smoke inhalation and stress induced vomit." He helped me and Babs both into the ambulence and lied us down on a gurney inside. He tried prying her off me as well. Nothing.

"...L-leave her! Just strap us in! Get oxygen! Now!" I looked at us and we were both covered in ash, dirtier than anything. Even started to cry myself, worried about Applejack, Scootaloo and the rest. This was a moment that would change Equestria- and me- forever...

Author's Note

To be honest this was gonna be a trigger warning but... no trigger warning. This is just something I want to talk about. This was an old idea of mine. Got the idea around 9/11 in high school. Wasnt too long ago but long enough ago. I dont live in new york, didnt lose anyone in the tragedy that was 9/11 but... it was mostly a secret thank you to the first responders of that day and a memorial for everyone who was lost in both the plane crashes and the collapse of the twin towers.

And I wanted to ask this: Do you remember where you were on 9/11?

Me? I remember where I was. September 11th, 2001 I was walking with my dad to my kindergarten class. Didnt live too far from my school but as we walked up we saw that the gates were closed. Nobody there, no lights on in the classes. Nothing. Guy from across the street comes over and says 'Hey take that kid home, turn on the TV.' My dad asked the man 'why?' His response? 'Twin towers have been hit.' And immediately we go home. My dad was originally from New York. Bronx man. At the time I didnt know what tragedy was. Didnt know what death was. These many years later I cant forget where I was.

Share your story if you wish in the comments. Thank the next police officer you see, thank the next EMT or fire fighter you see and hell, thank the next soldier you see. They deserve it for all they do.