Mothers Return

Chapters

Prologue
Succubus Stone
Robbed of Childhood
Delayed by the storm
Down To The Wire

Prologue

I thought I'd've been done with my personal life but... This isnt part of it I dont wanna share.... but things are quite shocking. A few days ago I was tasked by The Doctor to take care of Ditzy while he got some medicine... I sat at Ditzy's bedside inside her home in my costume. Had Rarity fix the dress that I destroyed showing Cilantro and Spearmint my home. They're actually doing well. Their father couldnt believe it when I walked up to their door. I was in town staying with Princess Twilight and I had to pick up my niece- who Cilantro and Spearmint have made great friends with. And they even kept my secret! Well... that's enough side tracking for now but... I sat by Ditzy's bedside in my usual attire. My mother's dress, a new yet similar sunhat to the one that got stomped out and my red frame glasses. She was having a bit of soup with garlic, hot sauce and a tiny bit of rosemary. The room flickered with the light of a TV set across from her bed with Ditzy's favorite cartoon series playing. It was a bit dark in the room because we had most of the blinds that opened up out into the open roads of Ponyville and had a good angle of me. Only one we had open was with a tree blocking it somewhat. I sighed looking to her."...Doesnt this bring back memories Ditz?" I asked. "Me at your bedside when you were sick? We'd normally color, play with our toys or even just do our own little things making sure we didnt get in the way if you were really sick."

Ditzy sniffled wiping her mouth with a towel. "...Is dot really any differnt than when Doc does it... but yeah... I missed this..." She said. I looked to the TV.

"...Ditzy...?"

"Yes sissy?" I glanced down at her hooves... I polished them for her, gave her a little pink coloring with swirls.

"....Do you.... do you ever wish we could go back.... convince mother to stay with us....? She missed a lot of important things in our lives..."

"....Mommy was mean... Doesnt you 'member Daring?" I looked back at her getting misty eyed.

"...Yeah... she was but... I learned not to hold grudges.... even to those who wronged you.... badly.... I've been back at our home Ditz.... Her room... Ours.... Daddy's stuff.... I went through all of it finding things that... made me remember how much we did when we were so young...."

".....can we not talk mommy no mores? I dont want my sissy cry... sissy not want me cry?" I sniffled.

"Sorry sis... I'm.... I'm not sure what's coming over me...." She started coughing a bit. I kept her soup stable as to not get it all over the bed. After she was done she whined a bit.

"...Owies...." I shushed her and lied her back taking her soup aside.

"It's okay Ditzy... Doc should be back with medicine to help you... Do you want me to get you a drink?" She weakly nodded smiling. I got up and walked out of her room... I walked out into the living room and looked at the door... Remembered how good it felt to be back in my sisters arms after a while.... even sharing that moment with Princess Twilight... She's got a lot of fans in her guards... Especially this one guy. Weird but he kept his cool.... Think he was a General... No matter. I grabbed a glass from the cabinets and ducked into the fridge for a moment. I stopped seeing a sealed package of strawberries... Even were covered in that sugar made from that plant I'm allergic too. And to clarify: Yes I'm allergic to that plant AND strawberries. Didnt mean to confuse anyone last time. I've kinda grown to have a fear of them. Not as much as spiders but... still scared. I took a deep breath and went for the orange juice bottle grabbing it and shutting the door to the fridge like it was gonna be coming after me.

I quickly poured Ditzy's juice and looked at the pictures out on the fridge. Mostly drawings from Dinky. Drawings of her and the doctor, her mommy and even her friends... even an old picture... A picture of me, her... and... dad... I stopped pouring her juice and just stared at it. This was before he had gotten sick... Before we lost him. I was only broken from my trance by a knock at the door which kinda startled me... lucky this dress was made with extra weights... More conditioning and it keeps my wings from extending out which kinda strengthens them.... I guess. I was hesitant to go check at first until I heard someone call out. "Derpy! Derpy honey open the door!" They said. It was the Doctor. I hurried over to the door and opened it hiding behind the door just out of view. The Doctor huffed as he came in with Dinky, Doc carrying some bags full of stuff and Dinky holding a small bag with the markings of a mortar grinder for medicine practice out in the wild. The Doctor looked to me as I closed the door. "Ah Lady Daring! Thank you for opening that. I felt if I were just about to drop everything." I helped him set down the bags nearby. "Is Ditzy doing well? She was sneezing an awful lot when we were going out." I sighed.

"Yeah... she's fine... Was just getting her some juice." I averted my gaze as Dinky ran into her mothers room. The doc put a hoof on my shoulder. I looked to him. Mane spiked up all nice, warming smile on his face, and a new bow tie that Ditzy got him for their two year anniversary... weird they've been together for two years when it seems longer.

"Everything okay Daring?" I shrugged. "...Do you wanna talk? Ears always open for you..." I thought about it for a moment before taking his hoof and walking over to the kitchen...

"...I dont know why but... lately I've been thinking about mother... how she was there for us... how she cared for us until Ditzy's accident... and when Daddy died.... Is it wrong to wanna go back and have her stay...? Maybe save Ditzy...?"

"Look... I'll look past the 'Saving Ditzy' part of it... but... somethings just have their set course.... your father leaving the mortal plain, your mother running off.... even that wretched nanny.... I hope karma caught up with her..." To be honest it did. She was a notorious thief under a surname... Guess who snuck into her hideout and made off with her families money and put in an anonymous call to the guard! Yeah she got karma'd alright.... Not saying how I found her out but it was funny to watch her in the trees as she got hauled off... thank Celestia for gillie suits... like... seriously thank her because she GAVE me a gillie suit in case assassins were after me for some reason. "Why would you be thinking that?"

"...Mother has been on my mind since I went digging around in our old home... its heartbreaking to see things just... broken and decrepit... things that we had in a place we lived... I just.... I have so many questions... Where is mother? Is she still alive?" Doc shushed me grabbing the mug of juice.

"Daring... Take this to Ditzy and say goodbye. You obviously need to go before Dinky starts asking about her grand mother and I cant tell her! Nor can Ditzy! She was already abandoned once by a deadbeat of a father after her mother died."

"And that happened to us but vice versa!" I whispered angrily. "And I cant believe you're kicking me out!"

"You're delusional Daring. You need to go home and get some rest!" I huffed.

"Call me delusional or what ever but you must do but my thoughts are my own and my feelings are my own as well." I started walking away from The Doctor with the drink in my grasp.

I walked into Ditzy's room to see Dinky sitting on the floor next to her mothers bed watching cartoons with her. I set her drink down giving my sister a weak yet warming smile. "...Thanky's Daring... I needed this...." She said. I gave her a tissue and she took it blowing her nose. I huffed.

"You're welcome Ditz... Anyways I actually kinda have to go home now..." She looked to me and I looked away.

"Why...? Why's you gots to go?" I sighed.

"....You can blame The Doctor on this... kicking me out basically... I dont wish to go but I feel if I stay longer he's going to get mad at me..." I looked back at Ditzy. "...I'll try to return soon... perhaps with a gift for everypony here." I looked to Dinky... Just had her eyes trained on the TV screen. "See ya later kiddo... maybe we can get some ice cream after I come back... Maybe as a family once your mom is all better..." She looked up and got up hugging me a bit. Gave her a kiss on her forehead before she broke the hug and sat back down to watch cartoons.

Didnt even give The Doctor as much as a glance as I went to the door and walked out. Very few ponies noticed. Those who did I gave a smile to... maybe an autograph or two until a guard noticed I was getting a bit overwhelmed. It was the general of all ponies. He escorted me back to Twilight's castle keeping ponies away from me. And maybe about an hour after that I was on a train bound for my home near Canterlot. But as I left the station... someone started following me... I couldnt tell who they were but... I knew they were following me... Cloaked figure, bag over their shoulder following me. Almost dressed like a monk as to slip by ponies that passed. Even ignored me because of how high class Canterlot is... Not saying that it's lower class that like my books but... Canterlot tolerates me with my work and the way I pack up city streets when doing signings. Now when it comes to the other cities... worst has to be Manehattan... But anyways I couldnt go to the guard... what if they knew something about me? What if they found me out and blabbed to the guard. Basically something I had to do myself... as dangerous as it was. I kept walking for a while until I just ducked into an alleyway. Everywhere I roam whether it be city or jungle or even remote forest I have a map of sorts. Forests and jungle I have topographical maps while cities are just normal. Detailed as well. I ducked down into the alley as fast as I could running to the end before running around a corner and hiding. I waited until the hooded pony was just on top of me before pouncing and tackling them. I pinned them after a brief struggle and... I just about had a heart attack... I shook my head and even rubbed my glasses with the sleeve ...I... Saw my mother....Silver mane but still looking full of youth... Just as the day she left us.... She looked up at me giving a smile as I backed off. "...Well... That's no way to greet your mother Daring!" She said. Her voice even sounded the same.

"I... What... HOW?!" She got up and shook herself off.

"Dont think I didnt see what you're doing with your life... I'm very proud of you.... And getting by without showing your real identity? Seems you havent changed a bit, trying to hide things from dear old mommy!" I looked down the alley and huffed looking back.

"Will you be quiet! What the fuck are you doing here and WHY show your face this late into the fucking game?!"

"What? Mommy cant see her little girls from time to time?"

"Bullshit! You havent seen us since you left the house, us with it! I ought to give you a busted lip for even following me the way you did! I honestly could've started screaming and everyone would've gotten the guard on you while I hid away! But you wouldnt sell out your own family would you? Put your daughter in danger? What about your daughter that was injured and you never gave a shit for?!"

"I cared for her! I cared for her as I did you!"

"Showed that REAL well with a fucking nanny and a note and not a trace of your fat ass!" She jabbed me in the chest with her hoof.

"Dont you dare talk to me that way! My flank isnt fat and you've got the worst potty mouth!"

"I'm not your little girl any more! I'm a grown mare! I can say what I want!" Before mother could respond we heard a sneeze and looked down the alley to see a stallion standing there wiping his nose before continuing on. I sighed. "Follow me, keep your distance... we talk when we get to my house...." She nodded knowing we couldnt be seen in this alley way... like I'm arguing with some old whore... seems like my mother did that the way she was.... Wouldnt doubt she sold herself out at all... even if she took some of the fortune with her. She followed me all the way home.... and I mean all the way... over the bridge out of the city, under the fallen log through a chasm, and even over a rickety wooden bridge that had enough strength to hold just one pony at a time. My home was secluded in woods. Just how I like it.... how I grew up obviously. Large cottage almost like my childhood home. Inside was... I'm not gonna explain. I had everything laid out like my childhood home. Small differences here and there but it was like I never left. Treasures where our living room was, a writing room upstairs (fathers room), my room next door (mine and ditzy's) and my mothers? More treasures and some portraits as well as a stash of books I can hand out to lucky fans. Mother looked to me as we entered the door.

"Guess you didnt wanna go far from home... Why dont you let your sister live with you?" I sighed.

"She's got a family, I've got a niece, your fucking grand daughter... Now tell me why you show up at this moment when you could've come back and spent time with your damn family!" I could see her expression turn from smug to sad.... She looked back at the bag on her back before taking it off and losing the cloak revealing her pristine coat and wings... untouched by time.

"...This... this isnt a social call Daring... I.... I need help... Your help...." I looked at her confused as I ditched my hat and glasses on the table in the middle of the foyer.

"Help? Help with what? Fixing the family? Too late for that! Dad's dead, Ditzy and I are grown up, Doc is dead as well as the gardener!" Yes I lied to her face about The Doctor. She doesnt need to know he's immortal... sorta.... I still dont understand how he works. But she sighed hanging her head.

"...It's... It's all my fault...." My confused look even had me tilting my head even more confused. "....It's... It's about time I come clean with you sweetie... I.... I want to die...." My heart sank... I looked to her bag and backed away.

"...Th-that better not be some explosive to take someone with you...."

"...Like I could get my hooves on that without trouble..." She looked to me sitting down. "...but it's not that... it's... something worse than death... extended life..." She nudged the bag forward. Curious as I was... I hesitantly opened it fearing something could jump out or go off in my face but... All I saw was a golden idol in the shape of a monkey holding a glowing red jewel. "...I... I found this years ago... before you and Ditzy came along... before your father was barely a teenager.... it was outside of a cave entrance... I thought it looked nice and decided to save it as a little trinket... but... I've noticed things started happening... I havent been aging... Yet... who ever I was with died to a strange sickness.... Ones who i've loved the most.... " Tears started to build in her eyes as she stood up. "....I... I was responsible for your fathers death.... he was sick because of me.... and... I didnt realize it until a few stallions later... It... it was only a matter of time and... I'm afraid it's gotten to someone closer than a lover...." I gasped having my heart sink lower and my eyes widened.

"...No... no tell me you're lying and this is some trick!" She didnt say a word. "... N-no... not... not Ditzy... she's... she's sick... this... this has to be some fever dream I have... I ... I should wake up from any minute...." She walked over to me and hugged me. I latched onto her... my sister was going to die... I was going to lose her. She shushed me.

"...Its okay... Its okay... She's... She's not gonna die... not unless we do something..." I sniffled a bit.

"...W-we cant... she's not gonna get better.... I... I'm losing my best friend.... and my only real family!" My mother slapped me across the face. She looked me in the eye and wiped my tears away.

"...She... isnt... going to die... we can fix this.... You've done this sort of thing before havent you...? Kept catastrophe's from happening? Just by returning the thing?" I held my cheek and sniffled. I've honestly returned maybe a few items realizing catastrophe could occur if off its pedestal for a long period... This? I dont know anything about it... well... other than that it steals the life force of those loved by whomever had the relic. I dont know its name and where its from. "...Will you help mummy fix this? Please? I... I dont want to lose Ditzy... Nor do you it seems...." I sniffled.

"...O... Okay.... I'll help.... but... please... just... dont touch anything in here.... I want to help... not to hurt... but I will if it means protecting my things..."

"You do that and... we might lose Ditzy... but... you have my word... For now... rest... yes?" I sniffled and nodded. She shushed me. "...Dont worry.... everything will be okay... Ditzy's gonna be okay....." I honestly had flashbacks of when she would tell me dad was gonna be okay.... But this could be different now that I know about this.... Hopefully...

Succubus Stone

I didnt sleep well last night.... All I could think about was Ditzy.... losing her... I was scared... I maybe slept collective of four hours.... but mother kinda helped lull me to sleep.... warm almond milk and some much needed cuddles. We went and had a bit of a quick breakfast and left with the artifact which I have dubbed the Succubus Stone because of what it does. Steals the life force of loved ones and makes it so that the owner lives through everything... Sickness and life itself. And... apparently my mother is just a bit over a hundred and thirteen.... She said she had it before my father and her even met... that he was barely a teenager when she found it. Amazing that I've known three immortal beings and two of which I didnt know were immortal until recently.... But as of now my mother and I are a couple miles due west into the wilderness staying away from main roads. She's wearing that robe which apparently she had gotten off of... an old and long dead stallion she was married to... he was a monk and she disappeared without a trace. Thought the order he was in would point to her after his death. Nope. Just laid him to rest, thought nothing of the woman he was with and moved on with their lives. I looked to my mother as we were crossing a rock bridge over a stream. "Mother.... Might I ask something....?" I said.

My mother sighed. "I owe you a lot of answers dont I...?" She asked. I gave a nod not even meeting her gaze as I kicked a few rocks aside. "Ask away... I'm nothing but a library to you for now...." I hesitated a bit.

"I know this is strange for me to ask... I feel as strange for even asking it... How many stallions have you been with...?"

"...Hard to say. I've had multiple lovers, some I tried to keep as close friends who I ended up falling for and losing them all to the same fate. Your father was the one I got with the furthest.... Married him, settled down and had you two.... I had a stallion other than him at the time just to keep him alive a little longer but it wasnt long enough until he passed. Only a matter of time before the stone consumed your father as well... Now you see why I quickly distanced myself from you and Ditzy... I hate myself that its come to this but... this stone is causing nothing but trouble for me and now... for you..." I sighed.

"How long do we have before we lose Ditzy? I wanna make sure that stone gets back to where it was and save my sister." I looked back at the nonexistant path in front of us veering off at a tree in front of us.

"Hard to say. Few days? Months? Hours.... How long has she had this sickness?"

"A week or so. Thought it was just a common cold... only until you showed up. I'm actually glad you did even though it was a face I didnt wanna see at all for the rest of my life...."

I had honestly come to resent my mother after she had left us when we were fillies. Ditzy hurting, me trying to be there for her and the doctor doing everything he could to see us happy, healthy and safe. I still remember the days after mothers departure. Me and Ditzy were at home, I was at the kitchen table with the nanny mother hired before leaving. Mare was young but old enough to know what she was doing. Late twenties to early thirties if I remember correctly... The nanny was an orange coated, redish maned mare. Cant rightly remember her cutie mark. Wore a dress most of the time... sometimes my mothers old ones. Think that day she was wearing a dark blood orange dress. I was just coloring sadly with a sandwich right next to me. PB&J with a blueberry jam made with an alternate sugar. It was around that time we figured out it wasnt strawberries but the certain type of sweetener from those plants. Gardener made all the jams, jellies and what not. Blue berry was my favorite. What was I coloring? A little picture of our... family... drew the doctor, me and Ditzy flying around, dad in a cloud and mom nowhere to be seen. Had the gardener under us with the doctor around a few fruit baskets. The nanny looked to me as she finished her sandwich. "Daring sweetums? Arent you hungry?" She asked. I gave a shrug. "Still sad huh...? Well please dont go crying. Dont want your tears making the sandwich soggy!"

I gave a sigh thinking about life without daddy or my mother... its been a month or so at this point that mother left us and dad passed on. I had nightmares about mom coming back... hurting Ditzy more. Or me... I wont ever forget the last look I ever had from my mother... the one of regret from when Ditzy and I were carted off to the hospital for some time. When I was so young I didnt think we'd even make it this far. Thought one of these days we would've been carted off by the doctor, gardener and nanny all at once for the last time... I kinda spaced out with my drawing. Just stared at me and Ditzy. Almost got teary eyed as the nanny left me. Stopped myself as I heard another set of hooves and a whimpering filly. I looked behind me and saw the doctor walking in with Ditzy on his back. She still had a busted arm and a bandage over her eye but the one I could see was always looking straight forward. The doctor smiled warmly at me as he set Ditzy down carefully on the counter. "There we go.... Careful now Ditz. Stay as still as you can!" He said glancing at Ditzy. He looked at me as he crossed the kitchen and grabbed a bowl from the cupboard and went into a fruit bowl grabbing a few apples and a banana out of it. "Daring you make sure your sister is alright while I make her some apple sauce. Gonna take me just a minute!"

As he turned away from us I looked to Ditzy. "You doing okay sis?" I asked.

Ditzy sniffled a little. "...I-it still hurts....." She said. We didnt really know how much damage she went through until maybe a few months after this. So... at this point she was still the same ol' sister I've known before the accident.

"I know it does... but... you'll be okay... you're gonna be better soon!" I gently climbed up on the counter and nuzzled her a bit. "...I'm gonna be here for you... always and forever..." I didnt really know how much that would ring true. Knowing I'd be there for her for many years beyond mother leaving after fathers death gave me hope for the future I guess. I sat back down carefully moving my sandwich out of the way swapping it with my drawing. "Look! I drew you something!" Ditzy looked it over, smiled at a few parts. She looked back at me realizing someone was missing.

"Wheres mommy at...?" To be honest I wanted to say it but my mind forbid me to even say anything about my mother after she left. She hurt me that much. I missed her sure but part of me would bite her for causing Ditzy's injury. Showing her the pain I felt seeing Ditzy hurt like that. Talking about her was a swear in my mind. The doctor looked back at us.

He kinda gave a huff because I've done this before. Ditzy refused mom was actually gone forever. Even with evidence of the note and mom not even coming around the house or even our room to say goodnight. "She didnt draw her in yet Ditzy." He called out putting a few slices of apple into the bowl. "Daring do you think you can help me here for a moment?" I huffed and flew over to the doctor landing on the counter next to him. "Daring sweetie... is everything okay? The Nanny is telling me you arent eating.... You need to eat sweetie otherwise its back to those mashed peas. I know how much you hate that stuff but its all your stomach can take when you're sick. So please eat?"

I sighed. "...But... I cant... I just.... " I looked to Ditzy who was just staring at us. "Can... can we talk later Doctor...? I... got something to say... just... not in front of Ditzy..." He met my gaze and I looked away.

"Ah... I see... Well... at least eat something... half the sandwich the nanny made if you can... we can talk after Ditzy is fed okay?" I nodded and flew back to my seat. I ate what I could of my sandwich, talked with Ditzy, see how she felt, asked if there was more I could do. She asked me if I could at least do a puppet show later. She loved those. The nanny thought them up to keep Ditzy entertained sometimes. All of us took part at times. Sometimes it was just me, others it was The Doctor and Gardener. Other times it was even me and the nanny. But anyways after I ate a bit I went upstairs to mine and Ditzy's room. I sat there for maybe ten minutes cuddling with my stuffed rabbit. I know I gave it to Ditzy but Mr. Bunbun was the only one to keep me calm, collective and comforted. I was thinking of mom and the way she left... dad and when he died... Questions ran through my mind as I lied there in bed. My cute little mind not even comprehending anything about the concept of death or abandonment. I sighed as The Doctor came in shutting the door behind her. "There. Ditzy's all fed, the nanny is keeping her distracted... What's on your mind kiddo?" He sat down on the bed next to me as I cuddled up to Mr. Bunbun.

"...Does... does mommy even love us anymore...? Why did she leave us...?" The Doc sighed.

"She left because she regrets lying to you about your father... you kinda knew what was happening but... it just... its not easy losing someone you love... I would know... but... she should've told you the truth... At first I thought he was going to recover but as I kept checking him over, looking at him closely, medicating him to see if he could kick it I saw his decline... I wanted to say something but... that day he was going to changed things... I didnt know what to do when you girls left the house for the hospital. And your mother? She never spoke a word to me the whole time... we said goodbye to your father... long and heartfelt... I just wish I could've saved him... done better... but... he was proud of you girls..." He looked out the window. Almost the way mother did when she was trying to tell what time it was. "But your mother... when she left she just had a bag packed and ready. Told me to give you two a letter and said she wouldnt be back for some time... but... after reading the letter I dont think she's gonna be back at all..." He looked back at me. "You're lucky you still have me, Ditzy and the gardener around. Sprout and I will be here for you no matter what... I swear when he saw Ditzy hurt he wanted to cry. We both did... You're a big girl for standing up for your sister when she couldnt.... Its a little secret but your mother didnt much trust medicine she didnt see me make. Yet... hospital was the only thing saving Ditzy from getting infection... Those arent fun. Trust me. But... to the point even though I've rambled enough... Your mom does love you... she left because she did love you... she regrets lying but... she wanted you two to grow up, be nice to each other and even be there for each other." He pulled me in close and hugged me. I hugged him back. I feel this was the only time I cried for my mother. Sad as I was these cries were kinda for wanting our mother back in our lives to no avail.

After my crying episode The Doctor and I were starting our walk into town. I kinda rode on his back most of the way. Just kept close to him. He basically suggested Ice Cream and I kinda agreed that sounded good. But as we walked I couldnt shake the feeling about something. Something I just couldnt put my hoof on. I just started getting panicky for some reason. Unsure why but it didnt sit well with me. Later that night I just went to bed but had a nightmare. My mother was there.... We were in the foyer of our home, I was crying just begging her to stay. I was just holding onto her hoof as she dragged me along upstairs. As we got to the top of the stairs she just looked back at me and didnt say a thing before just bucking and sending me flying all the way back down. I woke up and screamed starting to cry. I was just lucky Ditzy was medicated enough to where she actually could pass out and sleep without a problem. I got out of my bed and ran for the door opening it and flying out into the arms of the nanny who was just at my door. I quickly just latched onto her like one of those weird alien spider things in those movies... ugh... "Daring! Daring sweetie what's wrong?!" She asked. All I could do was just cry.

Then came The Doctor from his room. And the gardener. "What's going on up here?!" The gardener asked from the stairs. He was kinda panicked hearing me cry. To this day I wasnt sure why he was still up at that time.

The Doctor sighed. "Clear Cut go back to bed! We got this here." He said joining in on the embrace. I heard the gardener sigh and walk back downstairs. The Doctor turned his attention back to me. "It's okay Daring... you're okay..."

I sniffled and just... Just mumbled something. "...M-mommy...." I said. The Doctor sighed looking to the nanny.

"Why dont you go back to bed too? I think I can handle it from here." I felt the nanny nudge me towards the doctor and kiss me on the forehead before going back to her... well... my mothers room. The Doctor got me up onto his back and we went into his room. He sat me down on his bed and sat with me, covering us both up a bit with his covers. Warm. "...Daring did you have a nightmare about your mother...?" I nodded sniffling and sobbing. "At least you're honest... Do you wanna tell me what happened?" I hesitated. "It's okay... just us here.... take a few deep breaths... Do you need some water?" I kinda hesitated but nodded. He got up and went to his dresser. Always kept a pitcher of water near his bed. He poured me a small glass of it. I took a few sips before setting the glass down on his nightstand. "Alright... just tell me ... Slowly and calmly okay?" I nodded again.

"...I... I want mommy back... sh-she has to come back! She has to!" The Doctor sighed.

"...Daring... I think... I think its best if I just tell you but... please...dont hate me for this... I'm here for you... to help you, to hold you... Okay?" He held me close. "...I know this isnt what you wanted to hear but... mommy isnt gonna come back... She loves you yes but.... she told me she just cant handle being a parent without your father... sure she had me and Clear Cut to help but... she told me we were in charge as well as the nanny... She could barely handle the situation with Ditzy.... but... you need to be a big girl about this Daring... for your sister... i'm sorry if you do end up wanting to hate me for telling this to you this late... but... I was gonna tell you at some point... it was eating me up inside seeing you just mopey, sad and such...." Oh how badly I wanted to scream. But... I didnt. Didnt hit him, didnt scream, didnt run away. Just sat there and cried. He held me close and shushed me. "It's okay... Docs here... I gotcha.... always gotcha..."

I guess I fell asleep after that because I dont remember much after there. Snapping back to reality My mother and I had walked a long way. From that rock bridge to what was now... oh say a few miles away in the middle of a field. We sat on a few logs around what was once a campfire from ponies camping. Mother sighed as she sat down setting the bag with the succubus stone inside. "How do you even do these things Daring?" She asked. "I raised you to be a lady but you're dodging traps, fighting monsters and trekking through harsh terrain!"

I huffed. "You didnt raise me at all growing up!" I snapped. "My cutie mark basically raised me! The Doctor and Gardener did after that wretched nanny made off with most of our inheritance! I'm surprised you didnt even take that or any of your clothing with you!"

"And what? Remind myself of home killing you both faster? Honestly I didnt plan that nanny taking that much of the family fund. I took what I needed, worked for the rest of it. You and Ditzy should've gotten half each!" I took my saddle bags off and dug into them taking out a flask full of water passing it to my mother.

"Here. Drink this. Be quiet. Let me talk." My mother took the flask from me and popped the cap open. Took a big swig of water. "I had to give Ditzy most of that fund because she was going to need it the most! My part was a fraction of what she had! I only had enough to print out my books, hide away in an apartment in Canterlot and once my books took off I secluded myself fearing something like what you pulled coming to my home and scaring the living shit out of me! It could've been ANYONE! Murderer, rapist, thief looking to rob me, make millions off all the treasures I've collected over the years! It even could've been a pony who seeks objects to end the world, possibly rule said world! Change it to what they wish!" I watched as my mother capped the flask and tossed it back to me.

"Look I'm sorry I needed help so badly! I'm lucky to even have found you at all! What would you have done if Ditzy up and just passed away?!" That shut me up. My anger kinda got the best of me in that moment but receded getting me lost in a sea of thought. I looked around me. "Your sister would be gone. Your beloved sister you gave everything to. Gone in an instant. You'd be a wreck. Maybe you'd fall ill just like her, yet nopony would know what happened to Daring Do. Only A.K. Fucking YEARLING! No conventions, no book signings maybe not even a funeral! With the way you're acting right now I bet nopony would even care that you'd be dead!" My heart dropped. Sunk like a rock in a box of cotton. Made me think back... to... To... My mother looked at me as I started tearing up. "What now? Big baby book writer gonna cry? I thought you were supposed to be tough!" I clenched my eyes shut trying to stop the tears.

"SHUT UP SHUT UP JUST SHUT THE FUCK UP!" I heard nothing but the wind blow. Silence. Until I sobbed a bit looking to my mother. "You would care... knowing I died because of your screw up... And its not like I havent tried to take my own life because of you!" She looked to me curious. "One year after you left I fell into depression. I remembered Dad making his pancakes for me years prior and then the way we'd cuddle by the fire place on cold nights and even the games we'd play... But then I thought of how he was ripped away from us by death... The way Ditzy got hurt because of your LIES. The way you fucking left us to fend for ourselves. Were you expecting the doctor and gardener to just up and leave knowing they wouldnt have anyone to pay them? Anyone to call boss? Well they stayed and I'm glad for it! That year after you left I nearly died. I grabbed a fork, hid away in a room for a while, thought about things. You, Dad EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENED TO ME THAT YEAR. And I took that fork and shoved it into a power outlet. I got hit with so many volts of electricity it could've killed me but didnt! The doctor found me barely awake. Started preforming CPR on me until I started breathing on my own. Within a few breaths I cried. He had to keep watch over me for two days, one or two hour naps in between just to make sure I didnt do that again. The Gardener had to take his shifts for those hours. Keeping an eye on me. Ditzy even talked me out of trying it again. The Nanny barely cared. Played it off like it was an accident." I took my pith helmet off revealing my mane. "This is forever going to be a reminder of that day. All of the pain you caused me and I tried to end it." I put my helmet back on and hung my head. "...I hope you're happy knowing what you caused."

I sobbed a bit and hugged myself. Couldnt tell whether it was hating myself for doing that, remembering that and having to yell at my mother about that or just the fact that she told me nobody would love me or miss me if i died... I sat there crying for what felt like a long time before I felt my mother hug me. I wanted to push her off so badly but this hug felt so warm. I hugged my mother back just tightening my grip on her. She just hugged me, trying to calm me sitting there until I fell asleep. Yeah. I passed out crying here cuddling with my mother. Combination of fatigue, not enough sleep and me crying definitely made that easy. But as I slept I found myself running through a forest alone, scared out of my wits from what ever was chasing me. All I heard were roars, barks and what ever else was there. Only until I came to a cliffs edge where I stopped but not in time. I tipped over my balance point and just saw the fall before me. Jungle below, sharp cliff rocks and a small river. Small... Barely enough to aim for for a slight chance of survival. But I didnt fall far. Only about a few feet below the cliffside. I looked around and saw I was just... floating. Not flying but actually floating mid air. Nothing under my hooves. It was trippy but I'm used to trippy. I saw a cloud of dust behind me before hearing some roar but it turned to violent coughing. That of a mare nonetheless. I saw a shadow shoot up from the dust and use wings to blow away the dust before landing back and extending their wings before looking at me. Before me now stood Princess Luna, Princess of the night, walker of dreams and such. She cleared her throat before looking to me. "I know who you are Miss Do... but I say nothing except I sense the troubles in your mind." She said. I flew up to the cliffside and landed on the other side of her bowing in respect.

"...You're right about that Princess... I... I'm going through lots of emotions at the moment... fear, sadness, confusion... only one feeling i dont have is happiness at the moment..." I collapsed onto my stomach tearing up. Luna sighed making the environment disappear.

"Clearly. Do you want to let thy princess aide in your problems?" She sat down at my side and rested a hoof on my back. "When you're ready you can talk with me." I sobbed a bit.

"...M-my mother... she abandoned me and my sister when we were young... nearly caused a suicide by electrocution... its been revealed that... that she's in possession of a magical item that... that st-steals loved ones life forces... and... grants her immortality... M-my sister is gonna die if we cant get rid of it... it needs to stay out of possession from ANYONE...."

"Hm... So... your mother caused dozens of unexplained deaths using an artifact that sucks the life out of somepony due to sickness and such... And now your sister is next?" I nodded hesitantly. "Ah... I've heard of this stone before... I thought it was locked away long ago during my banishment. Somepony who created it knew powerful and prohibited magic. They enchanted it so who ever he took on as a suitor he'd live forever but things didnt pan out the way he thought. He was too in love with himself for his creation and died as a result. Strange for it to steal his own life force but it had no life to take or to give once created... so it took on his life. I'm not sure how many have taken it on but your mother must be the last one to have it. Return it at all costs, even move through the night, few hours of rest if needed. But do this quickly. Your sister must survive this. Dont let her be just another statistic for your mothers nefarious deeds... And I know you said she abandoned you but... please at least try to accept her back into your life. If she's willing to come back to save your sister she might be worth saving. Understand me?" I gave a hesitant nod. "Good. No matter how much pain, how much hatred you have because of them youre supposed to still love them... My sister learned that lesson during my thousand years on the moon. Now for you its time to wake up, continue thy journey. Eat something if you must. I sense hunger within you." I blushed as my stomach growled and everything started to fade.

As I woke up I saw my mother setting up a tent. I was laid out on a bedroll with the stone in front of me. The wretched thing... I got up and stretched. Felt the cool air brush by me, sending the warm smell of a burning fire. I stretched a bit. Mother looked to me as I shook the dust from my mane. "Ah Daring! You're finally awake!" She said.

I cracked my neck a bit, stretching my wings out a bit. "Mother... Where did you get all this?" I asked.

"Nearby town. They offered to put us up but I just said we were camping and forgot our gear. Bought a tent, a few bed rolls and a few bowls for food."

"And did you get food?" My mother dropped what she had of the tent and huffed. "You didnt get any food did you?" She said nothing before just dropping the rest of the tent and walking off the camp site.

"...Allow me to get out there... Get what ever I can."

"Canned foods, snacks, granola, perhaps some drinks would do. And mother?" She stopped and turned back to me. I dug into my tail and pulled a small bag of bits before tossing it to her. "See if you cant pick up a medkit. Dont want any owies." She gave a smile and walked off, bit bag dangling from her mouth. To be honest that which what I said was a bit of a bad choice of words on my part. Basically made a joke of my own sisters injuries... Regret that but hopefully mother doesnt catch on. I had a map tucked away as well. Always had a mark to where my home was. As I pulled my map out it felt... heavier than usual. I carefully opened it up and a scroll fell out of it. I looked around a bit frightened. Wondering who was around.

I picked it up and carefully unraveled it. It was tied together with a dark blue ribbon. I saw words forming as if they were being written at that moment. 'Daring. No need for alarm but I hope this scroll found you well. My sister and I have been practicing these new spells to keep a scroll for us to read when someone writes to us, Twilight Sparkle for example who I must say is a huge fan of yours. If you would I would ask for you to meet with her after this is all said and done. But as for now I gave you this as a form of keeping in touch with whomever you wish to speak to. Usually we burn the enchanted notes we wish to send. New formula of the parchment used is causing some wheezing and coughing in some ponies who either receive or send. I used a duplication spell before sending this to you. The duplication spell should be active on that one still so please send it to who ever. I can actually suggest Twilight. Her assistant can write back and you can ask her to give you updates on your sister. Even advise going to the hospital for at least some medical equiptment. Any and all medical bills will be handled by me and my sister out of good faith for you. Stay safe, stay quick. Princess Luna. PS: Remember what I said about your mother.'

I watched in the light of the fire as the text disappeared. All I could do was think who to write to. Twilight? The Doctor? Luna again? I couldnt decide but... my decision came with my thoughts of Ditzy... Sick and such... I took a deep breath and sighed. "Um... Dear Doctor Whooves.... Its Daring... I've been given a magical scroll to speak to as weird as it is... Do not say anything to Ditzy about this. But... I... It's gonna be okay... I'm trying to find a cure for her sickness strangely enough. The weirdest thing is I'm with... someone who abandoned us long ago... I'm not crazy... not sick.... I just... found her... Scared the hell out of me... I'm having to deal with her at the moment but... I must say even with all my feelings it just.... it feels nice to know she's back helping me find this cure... But again please do NOT mention any of this to Ditzy. If she asks just give her a shortened version without the mention of... you know... Just tell her I'm looking for a cureall plant I've had to use in the wild on my adventures. But please please please PLEASE... I cant stress this enough... keep her happy, keep her well. I should be back soon. No telling how soon but hopefully before this is all over. Daring. PS... Give Ditzy a hug and a kiss for me.... Maybe not a kiss but... Do kiss Dinky goodnight for me and tell her auntie Daring loves her." My eyes kinda welled up with tears as I spoke. I just looked to the sky. "Please... let me save my sister... I love her too much to lose her..."

To be continued.

Robbed of Childhood

Mother returned with a few bags of food last night. Enough to make the trek there and back. Even some packs to carry it all in. Since I was the stronger and could endure more abuse I carried more. We were a good ways east of where the town was. It was a rural area. Mostly farmers and such but they were nice when we passed through after looking at my map. If I hadnt looked at my map we would've been going the wrong way entirely. Even had the villagers help us. Now we were kinda going up hill. Sun at our backs and it was kinda hot out. Cool breeze helped kinda. Mother was at my side best of what she could do for being a prissy pony who still did her own chores but was alluring enough to not ever do them. She looked to me giving a huff. "You do this too much to even be my baby girl. My little girl would be playing with her dolls, not mucking around in dirt!" She said.

I gave a snarky smile. "Well your daughters cutie mark told her what she does best and that is find her way!" I replied. "Deserts, savanna, taiga and even forests and jungles. Treked them all and even climbed mountains. I find my way while your other daughter wanders where ever she goes. Somehow still ends up finding her way but thats Ditzy for you!"

"Besides what's happening... has Ditzy been a good girl?"

"Yeah... She's been great. Started a family and everything. She did have some trouble finding someone but settled down with someone we both kinda know. Helped us for many of years even after you ran off." Of course I was talking about the doctor. For those who dont know apparently the Doctor is a strange being who can shift his form if gravely injured. Either that or just gets too old for his form. Told me he's had that a few times. Apparently he also deals with some other weird shit. More... alien than magical. Might see if he could take me on one of his adventures if he needs to get some alien artifact to save Equestria. My mother looked back to the road or rather path ahead.

"Well... who ever he is I hope he's taking good care of my baby girl..." That kinda hurt. Gave no attention to it. She glanced back at me. "Did she heal well after her accident?"

"Bedridden, busted blood vessels in the eye, her eye is forever cocked, no doctor could fix it, ours wouldnt dare try to fix it on a filly that young, and could barely walk for months. She was even subjected to verbal and physical abuse by ponies who were her friends. You should've seen her after one of the only slumber parties we've had.... Broken, written on and the tears... We threatened them with the guard to get them to leave. I had to help Ditzy clean herself up, hold her in bed and make sure those assholes werent gonna return... Gardener would've taken care of them. Scared em good with a blade. Did that with a robber who threatened to violate me. Nearly ran off without a tail. Nearly." She huffed.

"My poor girl... I hope she's been well though... I know with the circumstances its hard to picture what else she's been through." I stopped and huffed.

"What about ME?! You have two daughters! Need I remind you?!" She stopped and looked back at me. "I'm your daughter as well! I was hurt the most when you left! I nearly killed myself!"

"Oh uh... I'm... sorry Daring... I just... I guess I worry about Ditzy too much...."

"And look where that led us!" We stared each other down for a moment before I broke off and just started walking forward again. "C'mon. Lets keep moving."

She followed me begrudgingly. Only thought of Ditzy as we walked. Didnt say. Only felt she was. Earlier in life we had just been out and about a few months after Ditzy's birthday. She was still a filly at heart coloring and what not every day which I loved. Drew with her a couple times back home. But we were out spending time together. Ponyville at the time was developing into what it was today. City hall was being built up a bit. I looked to Ditzy as she was just fluttering around me as I walked. I gave a sigh enjoying the cool spring air. "Smell that air Ditz! Flowers and sweet fruits OOH I just wanna run over to Sweet Apple Acres and get a bucket of those apples!" I said. I was as happy as could be here. Not a care in the world other than the care I have for my sister.

Ditzy laughed landing right next to me. "Those apples are YUMMY!" She exclaimed. "I wants some green ones and a red one juuuust for my sissy!" She cuddled up close to me kinda hugging me with her wings. I blushed hard as some ponies looked to us.

"Alright calm down Ditzy! We can get two of em just for us... maybe if they're in good moods they can sneak us a few more!" I sighed a bit looking to the sky. Something mother did for checking the time since she didnt trust clocks if you remember. I learned how that worked early on. Find a point on the horizon. Time at the horizon was around six or seven when the sun set. Time now? Four thirty ish. Dont get me wrong I trusted clocks but I didnt have a pocket watch anywhere on me so I had to learn from The Doctor how she did it. Guess he taught it to her. I looked to her. "Maybe if we hurry we can get back before it gets dark... Just hope the Doc doesnt get mad at us like last time..."

The Doctor got mad at us because he set a curfew he never told us about one night only because it started raining that night. We had to be walked home by someone at the bakery. Think it was Mr. Carrot Cake... Either that or his fiance at the time... Ditz and I took a quick shortcut by flying to the road towards the outskirts of Ponyville. The view at the time was beautiful because it wasnt obstructed with a giant castle in the middle of town. That's where we'd push a cloud, sit down and just look out over Equestria, mostly to see Cloudsdale in the distance. If the sun was just right you'd get a good colorful shine off in the distance. Anywho we flew to that path and landed just to walk the rest of the way. When we got there we found the mother- who was married to the owner at this time- to the current owner of Sweet Apple Acres- sitting at the front gate to the orchard. The mothers name was Pear Butter. Orange mane, cream colored coat. She was expecting her next foal within a couple months so her belly was protruding out a bit. She smiled as we walked right up. "Well now... If it aint Ditzy and Darin'!" She said. "You come all the way out here to get yourselves some of the harvest today?" I smiled.

"Yes Ma'am. Four apples if you can spare em!" She laughed a bit standing up.

"Anythin' for the mares that bring a smile to my family's face anytime we se em... But I'm afraid we're just about picked clean today from our reserves. Could offer ya a pie or a half a dozen fritters but... if I remember from whatcha told me Darin' you're allergic to that sugar we use to caramelize the apples to make em."

"Ah yeah..." She hummed a bit leading us into the gate going back to her home.

"Tell ya what girls. If you go out into the orchard to the right of the house and find some apples that look good you can have em. No charge."

Ditzy laughed a bit. "Yay! Apples!" She said. "I wants a red one!" We all walked together towards the house where we saw the father playing with who the owners are now of Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack and Big MacIntosh. Nice ponies. They didnt notice us because they were so distracted that they were.

I looked to Pear Butter as we neared the side of the house. "Hows the baby coming along?" I asked.

Pear Butter looked over at me. "She's doing mighty fine here thanks for askin'. Just wish this little filly didnt make me so darn tired all the time..." She said. "Should probably have my husband help me inside... maybe get us something to drink. You girls want anything?" I looked to Ditzy as she ran off into the trees just looking for apples to pick. I just sighed and looked to the pregnant mare.

"No thanks for right now Miss Pear. If we need anything we'll come for it. You just get inside and relax!" She smiled.

"Alright. I'll tell my husband you're here and that I okayed the apple pickin. You just keep your sister's noggin safe. Dont wanna have to go home with another bump on her head!" I nodded and hurried after Ditzy leaving Pear to her rest. To this day I knew I should've alerted our Doctor to check on her condition... She sadly passed away during child birth a few months later and the father took his own life with a broken heart few months after that. But Applejack took her parents work to heart and the orchard is still alive today.

When I caught up with Ditzy she already was munching on an apple getting the juice all over her face. I had one too and we just ran around for a while playing hide and seek like the little fillies we were. Though we did lose track of time. When we realized it was nearly dark we picked our last apples and headed back to the house of the Apples. When we came from the trees we saw Pear Butter's husband outside with a lantern ready to look through the trees just hanging on a big wooden collar like he was about to pull a farm tool or a family cart. He looked to us sighing. "There ya girls are!" He said. This was Bright Mac. Yellow coat, red mane and a green apple that was cut in half just shining on his rump. "Wife told me you girls were here but never saw ya leave! We gotta get you girls home right now! Radio said there were thieves about preying on mostly fillies like yourselves." ...I realize its a bit cliche to do something like that but that's actually the way he said it if I'm remembering right.

Ditzy cuddled up to me scared. "...P-Ponies gonna take things from us?" She asked.

"Not if we stay together and get your tails back to your house. I'll even cover your flanks, just say you stayed to play with the kids."

I smiled a bit. "Thank you sir. And I know we're gonna be pressed for info after you leave on why we were this far out." I said. He smiled as we started down the road.

"Dont worry. Just stick to the story and you should be good. You came to get apples, played with the kids for a bit, lost track of time. Understand?" I nodded. "Good. Now stick close." He started jogging in front of us and we followed as close as we could without losing our apples saved for the gardener and the doctor. Apple a day keeps the doctor away? Lie. We live with one! Stupid joke...

Back to today my mother and I were going up a hill inside of a small forest. Forest here was nothing to be seen. Just trees and a slight incline. Mother was in front of me insisting she carry the idol while I carried most of the other things. If it werent for my training and high stamina I'd be stuck half way up probably on my back. She looked back at me. "We should stop up here and rest. We've been walking so far!" She said.

I huffed. "Mother you asked that ten minutes ago... AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE FOREST!" I snapped. "I just want to get as far as we can before nightfall! At the top of this hill we can rest for a little while. We arent setting up camp, we arent taking a nap we need to cover as much ground as we can!"

"Well Daring your sister is definitely priority but you dont understand that mommy needs to sit down and rest for a while and perhaps use the little fillies room!"

"Pick a bush. I wont be far!" She huffed.

"I am NOT using a bush!"

"THEN USE A FUCKING TREE. SIT ON A BRANCH AND JUST GO!" She stopped dead and I trudged past her. I managed to reach a flat area just a few minutes ahead. I set down the stuff, stretched a bit before sitting down looking at my surroundings. Trees, leaves, tracks... didnt know what but they looked too small to be anything dangerous. I went into nearby bushes just to keep an eye on our stuff while I went and watered the plants. I needed a lot of water here and my canteen was mostly hogged by my mother... if she had done this a day in her life she'd know how easy it is to ration water... Lucky this thing takes in moisture from the air- if any- and converts it into clean drinking water just in case. Deserts are a special case though and its hard to get through those with this thing. If there is any body of water nearby all I do is dunk it in and it fills with the freshest water ever. All sediment material gets filtered out. Somewhat of an alchemy bottle if you think about it. I dont really understand how it does the things it does but it works. I sat here for a while before my mother showed up with tears in her eyes. She sat down with her back towards me.

"You... You yelled at me... even when we need to save Ditzy...." She said. I huffed.

"...Mother I'm sorry but this is what I go through every day. If I dont feel safe on the ground, I sit on a branch to go. Knowing you the one who's used a toilet their whole life you dont feel comfortable going anywhere you're unfamiliar with..." I got up and slowly walked over to her only to sit at her side. "There was a time where me and Ditzy needed you the most..."

"...Y-You didnt need me... dont lie..."

"But we did mother. Someone broke in and threatened to kill us... violate your little girls..."

This was late after we got home that night we were getting Apples. Dinner was cooked by the Doctor, the gardener helped out sometimes and tonight he just provided ingredients for a fresh home made pasta sauce. Garlic and pepper tomato sauce with a hint of lemon for a little tang. Ditzy and I were both eating good portions of it. Ditzy was still on her first bowl while I was on my second. Even with an apple in my system I still felt hungry enough to eat what ever. Clear Cut turned in early after dinner since nothing else needed to be done and he didnt like down time. Felt like it would make him lazy. I guess I took a page from his book though and added it to mine. Down time I cherish but only so much before I feel lazy. Anywho I finished my second bowl of pasta as the Doctor finished wiping the mess from my sisters face. "Ditzy you silly girl! Food goes in you not on you!" He said. He always treated her like a foal the way she was but she didnt mind. As you saw she still acts like a filly even given how old she is.

I wiped my face with a napkin as Ditzy giggled. "I was savin's it!" She said. I couldnt help but laugh at her.

"Well we can save some in a bowl for you in the fridge! You dont want sauce in your mane again do we?"

"No not again!" The Doctor looked to me.

"Still hungry Miss Daring?" He asked. I picked up my glass of juice and drank a bit.

After I was done i set my glass down and looked to him. "I'd say yes but then we'd have none left for Ditzy's face!" I said laughing a bit. Ditzy whined a bit and it made me stop.

"Daring be nice!"

"Sorry Ditz..." I rubbed the back of my head smiling nervously.

Ditzy looked to me as the doctor finished cleaning her face off. "It's okay! Just jokes right?" She asked.

"Just jokes." I leaned over and gave her a hug.

The Doc gave a laugh as we hopped off our seats taking each others hooves. "Alright girls you head on up and relax now. You've had a long day and it's almost time for bed!" He said. "Bath tomorrow night though! Anymore and you're gonna stink worse than that rotten tomato in the garden!"

Ditzy and I both nodded before going upstairs now holding wings. We found out the hard way holding hooves while climbing stairs isnt the best. Someone fell down and hurt her flank. That was me surprisingly. Ditzy was fine but she was worried about me. But that's not about today. That was about a couple years earlier. As we got upstairs we both took turns in the bathroom since we always kinda shared the same bathroom... that and Ditzy always checked for spiders because I didnt wanna be doing my business and be just brought up on a mound of my own excrement if a spider came down in front of my face. If she sees one, she tells me to wait and tells the doctor to get it out. No spider this time. Though this time I didnt feel the need to use the restroom at all. Just went straight to the room. Went to bed. And dont worry. I didnt wet the bed this time. Though maybe... oh two something in the morning- when I had to rely on a little lantern to light my way to the restroom. Couldnt turn on the lights because I'd wake Ditzy. As I exited the restroom this is what would've gotten me scared shitless even though I was at this point. A stallion wearing nothing but dark clothing and a mask jumped me and wrestled with me making a whole lot of noise and even breaking a few things. We stopped when he pinned me under his heavy ass. "Well now what have we here?" He said, his voice as rough as the sands of southern Equestria. "A little filly to play with..." I gasped a bit but he covered my mouth right quick before I saw a knife floating in his glowing green magic. Unicorn. "Ah ah ah! You scream and my knife cuts a hole in that beautiful neck of yours... you might do just as well but its not the same without hearing you gag, begging for air!"

I whimpered a bit as he pushed the blade up against my neck, grinding himself on me. "...D-Dont hurt me... please..." I whispered under my breath.

"Oh now why would I do that? You have things that I need... big house all alone in this forest? Looks like you got a bunch of goodies just for me... especially the one back here..." He patted my flank a bit... made me almost sick to my stomach. "Where're the valuables kid? Tell me and I promise I wont be as rough...."

"...G-Get off me... let me grab my lantern... I'll show you...."

"And how do I know you wont run huh? Or scream for that matter...? Just tell me and-"

"NOT ON YOUR LIFE RUFFIAN!" I hear someone yell. My gaze was blinded for a moment as the lights turned on and the knife in front of me gleaned only with a few specks of what to this day I swear was blood from someone he had done in earlier. I looked back around after my vision returned and there at the top of the stairs I saw Clear Cut, my gardener standing there with a machete- which I now carry to cut through the jungles and ropes if im ever captured- in his magic. The stallion got up off me but kept me where I was. Even kept the knife where I could see it.

"Back off! Otherwise she gets it!" I could see the gardener wasnt about to step down. The other doors opened and I could see Ditzy out of the corner of my eye coming out of the room rubbing her eyes only to see us when her golden eyes shown. The other corner of my eyes with a slight turn of my head I saw the Doctor who just looked as if he were about to witness a murder of someone he cared so much about. "Back off and lose the blade! I'll do it I swear!" He pressed the blade up to my neck and holy hell I thought this was it. That this was where my life ended. One swift move and that would've been it for me. But no. The Gardener made his machete disappear and he sat where he was holding his hooves where we could see them. "Good good..." He looked to the doctor. "You! The safe! Now!" The doctor sat frozen still gawking at us.

Tears started running down my cheeks. "...D-Doc... do as he says... please!" I said. The doctor still stood still. He was frozen. I clenched my eyes shut as I felt the thieves blade push up against my neck just before I hear something metal hit a hard object making the thief scream out and drop the blade. I opened my eyes and in front of me I see my gardeners machete floating in front of my face with... blood... dripping from it and on the floor? The tip of the robbers horn on the floor. I mustered the strength to throw him off and run to the gardener just to hide behind him. I watched as the gardener held the long blade to the robbers neck. The horn jutting from his mask was orange. Blood steadily dripped from the broken tip even as he had the mask ripped off his face. Orange coat, red mane that looked messy. Was about the length of the Doctors give or take.

The gardener grinned widely walking around him. "Well now... We have two options here... Option one being you run as fast as you can and as far as you can and you keep the rest of your horn..." He said. "Option two? Keep threatening my family and the owner of this house with either violating her or violating her late parents items... Your horn, and other appendages will be gone... The easy choice is the most obvious one... Three Seconds...." Didnt even take him three seconds to make the choice of pick his stuff up and run. He just grabbed his horn in his teeth and booked it downstairs and out the front door. I ran up to Clear Cut and hugged him tight crying into his shoulder. Everyone ran up to me and checked on me, asking if I was okay... I had to climb into bed with Ditzy to get back to sleep.

That very next morning I got up from a bit of a shock to the sound of a knock at the door. "Daring? Daring are you awake in there?" I hear the Doctor ask. I looked around and Ditzy wasnt in the room. She got out of bed some time earlier and replaced herself with Mr. Bunbun. I tossed my stuffed bunny friend aside and got out of bed looking around. I felt paranoid that this was some trick, someone had gone and hurt my family, impersonated them and they were just waiting for me to be vulnerable to make their move. This wasnt the case. I opened the door and there was the Doctor standing right outside my door. I quickly latched onto him. He hugged me back. "Hey hey... it's okay bad guys LONG gone.. You're alright..."

I broke the hug and looked around. "Wh-Where's Ditz? Is she okay?" I asked.

"Yeah she's fine. She's talking with the guard downstairs and we need you too. They think they have the right guy who broke in... think he went straight to the hospital to get it attached. Can you compose yourself long enough to talk to the guard?" I nodded and followed him downstairs.

Back to today I was in tears laying in my mothers lap. She huffed. "Why did the doctor not help you when you needed it?" She asked

I sniffled letting a few sobs escape. "...He... He was scared... he doesnt fight... he's not like me..." I said. "He would've put me in more danger if he had done anything... he's... he's clumsy at times you know this! Especially under stress!"

"He is?"

"...Right... you werent there because you didnt care about us..." Mother sat me up hugging me.

"Sweetie I DO care about you and your sister...why do you think I left? I wanted to save my little girls from the same fate as their father. If I hadnt this idol would take you and your sister from me.... you were always my favorite Daring... a tough filly who almost didnt take no for an answer... Only reason your sister has fallen ill first is because I... well..." She hesitated a bit. I looked to her.

"You... what?" I asked.

"I...I was planning to visit the old homestead... see if it was salvageable or even be able to be lived in... It wasnt and I couldnt even find my favorite dress... Your fathers old clothes were there, some actually wearable but I found nothing... As I left I thought I'd go through Ponyville... So much has changed in all these years... The new Princess, her castle and even some new shops that popped up around town. But... Then I saw your sister. Flying around, looking as happy as could be, delivering packages to ponies who even got mad at her because they got the wrong package. It's not her fault she has extensive damage to her head!"

"Yeah that was YOU AND YOU SCREWED US AGAIN!" I tried pushing her away but she held me closer.

"Daring! Daring i didnt mean to! Yes this is my fault but it's not my fault that we crossed paths and I started thinking about you girls again! It's just... That moment I saw Ditzy I wanted to give her a hug when she started crying... She ran away when I wanted to... not to mention a random mare coming out of nowhere to hug some random mail mare... They'd look at me thinking I was crazy... not to mention Ditzy. She would just be scared of me... and if I had meant to get her sick... would I be here trying to help cure her? NO! So stop blaming me.... please..." I sniffled just sobbing over her shoulder not even saying anything. She just shushed me. "Daring sweetie just calm down... mommy's got you..."

"...M-Mommy... dont let your baby girl die... I... I dont wanna lose my sister..." She shushed me and kissed me on the forehead.

"Dont worry... we'll calm down and get back on this until sundown. Perhaps we should eat something now too." I nodded into my mothers shoulder.

We ate a few hooffulls of granola. Even opened up a can of creamed corn soup and drank it. It's not as good cold. But it was something in my stomach. After we ate we grabbed our things and my mother actually took half of what we had and carried it. Though in that time all I could think about was my sister. When we settled down in an open field I set up a fire and just sat there in the dark with mother sleeping nearby. The moon lit just about everything. I was looking to the sky, counting all the stars I could see. Always did that when I had something on my mind. Best thing is we were far enough away from any large cities just to see the stars shine above. As I did that magic scroll appeared and just... smacked me in the face. I quickly grabbed it and unrolled it just before the fire to see the words.

'Dear Daring Do

Ditzy is doing alright for the moment. We're doing everything we can to keep her healthy. Juice, soup and medicine. I know the medicine isnt needed but it helps to keep her awake in the day time and asleep at night. Unfortunately she's already had an accident or two in bed but we've remedied that. The Princess even came by and offered to help but I declined for her. We know what you're doing and if I recall your father was sick for a month before he passed... sorry if I had to bring up bad memories. And... that someone you ran into... is... is it your mother? If it is... I hope you arent being too harsh with her... perhaps when you're done bring her by after you're done. I'm sure Ditzy would love to see her. And dont worry I wont say anything about that... Dont even let her know I'm still around but if you did... I guess I have some explaining to do. As for now just write back on your whereabouts. And if you're safe. Write back soon.

Love The Doctor, Ditzy and Dinky Do too.'

I had to admit that was cute. Made my heart warm up but worry a bit more for my sister. I sighed and took the note into the darkness far away from mothers ears. I set the paper down and sighed. "Dear Doctor..." I started. "I'm fine but I'm scared... worried. Mother revealed some things that just scared me. I had to tell her what happened after she left us when we were younger. Told her about the robber, the nanny and... even that dark part of history I'm reminded of everytime I look into the mirror. I dont mind it though. It's probably making her regret ever leaving. To be honest I dont really know where we are but tomorrow we're gonna start heading north to see what town we are near and perhaps get some real food to eat. Granola can only take us so far and we have to stock up again... perhaps a warm meal will help. I'll hurry as fast as I can to get back to Ditzy. I'll be back as soon as possible, love you guys... Goodnight to everyone. Let everyone know I'm alright and that I'm okay. Make something up that I'm gonna be off on another adventure soon." I looked to the moon once more. "And pray to the goddess above that we get through this safely... all parties involved..."

To be continued.

Delayed by the storm

It's been a bit since we've set out. Few days trekking across Equestria. We got a bit sidetracked yesterday because of a storm and it hasnt stopped yet. We've ducked into a small roadside inn for the night hoping the rain would let up. Innkeeper was nice, old but secretive. Told me barely anyone comes here anyways but they still do. Though I couldnt help but sit in my bed, looking at the moonlit rain drops cascading down the windows, remembering what had happened long ago during a storm. Thunder rolled and it startled me making me dart from my bed to my mothers. She woke right up as I started whimpering. "Daring? Daring honey what's wrong? Is my baby girl afraid of thunder?" She asked. I nodded. "It's okay... it wont hurt you... Just a loud sound." She sat up and hugged me. "....Come to mama... I'm here for ya... What's got you scared of the thunder? I dont remember my brave little girl being scared of thunder..."

I lied down next to my mother curling up tight. "...Y-You werent there when it happened... That's right..." I said softly. I saw the lightning flash and I held onto mother tight who even braced herself with me. A crack of thunder followed maybe five seconds after. Five miles away from being in the eye of the storm. I looked to my mother who knew what my worried look meant. She picked me up and walked with me over to the toilet for me to go. I did tell her I had that accident when my wings were molting. Worst embarrassment I've ever felt but she thought it was cute... I didnt correct her there. She did give me a little tease telling me I go out into wilderness to use trees and bushes as toilets and that I'm embarrassed about wetting the bed. Not everyone urinates where they sleep unless diapered and I havent touched diapers since I was... well...potty trained at five.... When I was done we went back to our beds and sat on mine looking out the window.

"What has happened that made you so scared Daring? Before my departure you'd be sleeping through the night... thunder or no thunder..." I whimpered a bit.

"This was after my birthday... Years after you left... Even after my little accident..." But this was even after Ahuizotl. Since Ahuizotl never let many see him other than his 'goons' that are survival specialists live with him and even go get supplies. One had actually come to us and asked us if we would accompany them in a camping trip. This was just after the gardeners death so we were still a tad grief stricken. None of us could even go into the room which we had converted shortly after. Ditzy thought it would've been haunted... I thought there was a nest of spiders there. Doctor always went in there for his studies. I wish I could've kept that home as a home because this would've been the best spot for my treasures and such. Didnt because we were forced from it when I started my book series. I left, then Ditzy and the doctor did. Though I didnt know until recently Ditzy married the doctor.

Where to begin though? I guess I was in our room just sitting on the bed reading Jade Singer's first ever book. She and I are great friends actually though... she only knows me through my pen name. I'm not gonna lie when I say that her books inspired me to write. I sat there on my bed flipping through the pages before hearing a knock at the door. "Daring? You in there?" I hear The Doctor ask.

I glanced up at the door from my book. "Come in Doc. Just doing a little reading here." I said. The door opened and in he came right to my bedside.

"Daring we have a visitor downstairs. Say's Ahuizotl sent him and he checks out and needs everyone downstairs. By the by a new shipment of epipens came in and I'm keeping some in my office and in case of emergency I'm also giving one to Ahuizotl when he's with us and I think I'm giving that to him soon."

"Considering the stallion he sent?" I glanced up at him after bookmarking my page. He nodded. "Considering he saved my flank from his own actions- which I still know is accidental- I guess he can have one if we ever do what we're doing." I grabbed my book and pinned it under my wings getting up from my bed.

"Good you still trust him. Could've sworn you were gonna turn around on him and say he actually tried to poison you."

"Well not everyone knows about my allergies. Cant blame them if I accidentally have a reaction."

I followed the Doctor outside my room and followed him downstairs where we saw Ditzy sipping on a juice box at the bottom of the stairs and a stallion dressed in military like fatigues I've seen some off duty guards wear. We got to the bottom of the stairs and sat down next to Ditzy who just leaned on me nuzzling me a bit. The stallion in front of us smiled. "Alright is that everyone Doc?" He asked.

The Doctor smiled back. "Yes sir. All accounted for." He said.

"Well my boss said there was another here but uh... We'll let him stay back and watch the house." Yeah... The gardener. I hugged Ditzy making sure she stayed strong. "But anyways my boss would like to invite you three to visit his campsite in the middle of Everfree forest for a training exercise in a survival situation. Food, water and tents will be provided but techniques on finding food and boiling water to purify it will be taught to those who wish to learn. Other than that this will be a standard camping trip. Personal effects may be brought, hygienic things are necessary and it is advised you bring something warm to wear. It's gonna be cold later tonight and there's a chance of rain over the net few days. Waterproof bags will be distributed for your things if you plan on bringing anything. It is unknown at the time if this rain will be harsh or light but in the event of a possible flash flood- which will be in the event of harsh rainy conditions- the exercise will be called off and all parties will be escorted home or to the nearest inn to get out of the rain."

Now at the time all I cared about was reading, relaxing and trying to figure out where I wanted to work so our fortune didnt dwindle as much. Was thinking librarian at the time since I loved reading so much. Though... it was more well deserved for the Princess in ponyville now... even though she got the place destroyed. Wasnt her fault. It's scary facing down a demonic centaur attacking you only to steal your cutie mark magic. Ditzy giggled a bit like Clear Cut wasnt mentioned. "Yays! Camping trips! I want smores!" She said.

The Doctor smiled brightly. "Gladly! Anything for an old friend!" He said. "Two for three and Daring has the pull to make it a full three for three!"

They all looked to me and I sighed a bit. "Fine... I'll go but I wanna stay reading my book." I replied taking my book from my back showing it to the stallion before us. "Hope Ahuizotl is alright with that."

The guard shrugged and huffed. "Alright now does anyone have any questions?" He asked. The Doctor raised his hoof like he was in class.

The stallion pointed to him. "Those tents we'd be staying in. Are they going to keep us dry in the event it does start raining while we sleep?" He asked.

"Tents are created from a thick and waterproof material to prevent tears, less than average temperatures and keep all creepy crawlies out. They're even raised up a few inches just to keep even small rodents crawling across the ground. First aid kits are on standby for injuries, allergy meds to keep severe reactions at bay until we get proper medical attention." The doctor looked at me.

"Good thing we've got your epi pens. No strawberries or south equestrian agave nectar for you." South Equestrian Agave Nectar. That was the plant I am severely allergic to. We had to narrow it down to the exact protein in it and it was hard to do because I didnt wanna get a needle test. Doc understood and just gave me the benefit of the doubt and just said it was the entire plant. I itch when I get touched with strawberries but the plant it comes from is alright. Still not touching it though.

"Anymore questions from the ladies?"

I looked to him. "What are the foods we're gonna have. As you heard I've got some allergies that get fairly severe." I said.

"Plenty of food including a lot of canned vegetables and fruits. Once we get there I'll separate everything that includes anything with strawberries or SE Agave Nectar." ...Yeah he actually said it like that. "Rations will be split evenly among everyone. And yes we will have stuff for smores!" Ditzy laughed clapping her hooves together. Didnt know if that were true or not at that time. "Now if there are no more questions we need to head out now. Gather everything you need and be back down here ASAP." We all nodded and Ditzy and I took off from our seats before heading to our room. Each of us grabbed a warm jacket. I had one that dad kept aside for when it was cold. Thick military style jacket. He always had an eye for the classics. Ran his kitchen just as tight as an army regiment. Even grabbed a small duffel for everyones stuff. My book, everyones toothbrushes and tooth paste and even a brush for mine and Ditzy's mane.

After a quick bite to eat we set out through Ponyville. I dont think I ever got a chance to properly say thank you to Ahui at this point because I remember looking all over the place for gifts and such for him. I've even contemplated getting him a machete but I say I've thanked him enough with companionship. It took us a while to go through Everfree. The stallion leading us slashed through bushes and brambles with a sugar cane machete. Cut through a palm frond- which I was surprised grew there- like butter. We did learn a few things along the way. Some poisonous plants, plants that are safe to eat, some berries that we could even eat. Red and Yellow kill a fellow but Purple and Blue are good for you. Heh... strawberries fit into that there rhyme. Also wild blueberries taste really good. After about forty five minutes of trekking through the forest we came on a campsite. Three large tents in a line, four other stallions working out what went where and even setting up a fire pit. One of the tents unzipped and out stepped Ahuizotl stretching in that weird cat way. Yes we know he was a cursed panther. Told us at this point in time. He smiled seeing us. "Ah welcome everyone! Welcome welcome! Glad you could join me!" He said.

I sighed a bit. "Thanks for the invite. Wasnt really planning anything but that changed real quick." I said hugging him. Ditzy hugged him next. She was wearing a pink hooded coat that made her look like a cute wall-eyed dragon and last but not least, The Doctor. He was wearing just a zip up weatherproof jacket. Thick enough to stay warm and keep water and wind from penetrating.

The Doctor laughed a bit as Ahuizotl went over and grabbed a bottle of water from a nearby crate. "Always good to learn something new." He said. "Who knows? Some of us might use it one day." Honestly this should've clicked with me. But no. I wanted to just read my book and kick back. "Ahui why dont you show us around? Give us a rundown on where things are and if needed where we should uh... go if needed." Ahui smiled.

"Well tents are right here, Center one is mine, one on the right is for my aides and the one on the left is for you three. Sleeping bags are provided. Latrine is anywhere outside the camp but make sure when you do go make sure to either bury it or use something nobody will walk through. I've been using a hole to the east." He pointed back from where we came but a little to the right. "Feel free to dig holes around mine. Each tent will be equipped with a lantern just in case of a late night call of nature." He pointed to our right. "Here we have food being portioned out." He pulled me in close. "And yes I told them of your allergies to South Equestrian Agave and strawberries. You'll have an alternate choice to choose from and for you we have canned tofu beans, some creamed corn, tomato soup and beats both diced and whole for vegetables and for fruits we have cups of apple sauce, mango chunks, pears, grape jam that I made myself and we've even picked up a loaf of bread and crackers. We have all the dried goods held inside of a moisture proof container inside the aides tent and if you ask nicely they might just make you a sandwich or two if you're hungry."

I wasnt really hungry but... something I did eat was making a resurgence. I buckled a bit and looked to Ahuizotl. "Yeah great but um... You wanna... take this stuff and give me something to clean with?" I asked. "...Something aint sitting right and I gotta go... NOW..." He gave me a slight smile and took my duffel with his tail hand and snapped with one of his other hands only to have an aide come running up to give me a roll of TP. I took it and booked it into the trees back from where we came. I went deep in there and... well... it was uncomfortable for me to go out in the open... especially a forest where- at the time- I was afraid something would just crawl up there. Yeah... I hated going to the bathroom in nature. Only because either the doctor or the nanny caught me in the forest after lunch 'watering the plants' as a little filly.

I didnt have time to dig a hole but I made sure it was nowhere someone would track some mud. Bush by a tree. Bramble covered bush too. I had rushed back after cleaning myself because I was actually pretty scared of what ever was in here... went back to camp and kinda felt bad. Just felt drained. I didnt know where Ditzy, The Doctor or Ahuizotl were but an aide came up. It's not important to tell them apart. Yes they are individuals, yes they all dress differently but i can never remember their names. The aide gave me a bottle of seltzer water. "Here drink this. Should settle your stomach." He said. "Do you need something in your stomach too? Might help if you eat something."

"Please?" He happily nodded and went for the food crates. "I'm gonna go... lie down for a bit." I went for my tent and climbed in laying down in the center of the tent. Nice little tent. Warm and cozy. I cracked open the bottle and sipped from it before capping it back up and setting it aside. The aide brought me food and I just spent how ever much time reading that book.

Back to today I couldnt bring myself to tell anymore of the story before I started slurring my words. The rain outside had calmed down to where the thunder didnt happen anymore. Rain still pelted the window though. My mother shushed me and lied me down in bed. "Daring sweetie we should at least try to go to bed..." She said. "...You've been up too long... we've got more to do tomorrow... faster we get to bed the more ground we cover..."

I whimpered a bit looking up at my mother. "...But..." I said. She huffed.

"Daring no buts. Bed time now. We can finish this story up tomorrow during breakfast." She covered me up before going back to her bed. I couldnt muster the strength to stay awake. Passed right out.

As I slept I found myself in the darkness. I felt like I was just adrift in the void nowhere to fly, no where to land. Though as I floated a cobblestone path formed under me and I landed upon it gently. I trotted along and just saw a park starting to form. Trees, benches and even a little play area. At that play area I saw Princess Luna and at her side was the two little foals I've come to know and love. Cilantro and Spearmint. Luna smiled as the two kids rushed off their swing set and hugged me. "Seems I dont have to make someone promise not to tell anypony.... I assume they already know your real identity?" Luna asked as I brought Spearmint onto my back.

I smiled at Luna. "Yeah... Found out when I was showing them my real home." I replied. I looked to Cilantro. "Speaking of which how are you two doing? Everyone being nice to you?"

Cilantro sighed. "Yeah but the teacher of our class just took my sisters toy you gave her." He said. I looked back at Spearmint who was just hiding her face.

"Spearmint? You got Mr. Bunbun taken away?"

The filly whimpered a bit. "...I... I didnt mean to..." She said. "...H-He was in my bags.... one of the others took him out and started playing with him and got him taken away... I tried telling the teacher it was mine but she didnt listen... my daddy wont even get him back for me.... Says I'm too old for that toy..." I huffed.

"Well your father needs to lighten up and learn nobody grows up that fast." I looked to Luna. "Perhaps you could contact Twilight in town to help get it back for her. Consider it a favor." The princess hummed as she took Spearmint in her magic bringing the filly onto her back now.

Spearmint just cuddled up to her. "I suppose I could have her help but... what if the teacher doesnt do anything?" She asked.

"Then we make something up, tell the father to be a father. Maybe do it as a wellfare check. Concerned citizen or what have you."

"Ah yes but... I've heard this father of theirs isnt the... kindest since their mother um... went to sleep... perhaps someone should look into things... I can volunteer for that if you wish." I hummed a bit pacing in the sandbox housing the playtime instruments.

"Seems like a good idea but... use it only as a last resort." She smiled.

"Right. Do you wanna say a few words before I send these two back to sleep?" I nodded as Cilantro and Spearmint came to my side.

I looked to them and just smiled warmly to them. "Are you gonna be by to visit Daring?" Cilantro asked.

I nodded and pulled them both in for a hug. "Yes I will but right now I'm out of town at the moment." I said. "But... I have a favor to ask both of you... My niece Dinky is going through a tough time right now since her mother is very sick. What I want you to do is be there for Dinky. She's very worried for her mother just as I am. You can do that for me right?"

Spearmint wiped her eyes a bit still feeling bad that she lost the toy that I gave her... Hope that little shit who took it from her and got it taken away got grounded... "Y-Yes ma'am..." She said hesitantly. I focused on her.

"Spearmint dont you worry... I'm not mad.... not even the slightest." I said releasing her brother. "You're a big girl right now but you have to stay strong without Mr. Bunbun until you get him back. Alright?"

"...O-Okay..."

"Good... Now go see Princess Luna so she can send you back. I'll be sure to contact you as soon as I come back to town. Promise."

"Super duper sibling promise?" I couldnt help but chuckle a bit rolling my eyes.

"Super duper sibling promise. You just give it your all and I'll be checking up on you and Mr. Bunbun." She couldnt help but just hug me happily. It lasted for a good moment before she joined her brother at Princess Luna's side. Though... my emotions left me as they faded away leaving only Luna before me.

Princess Luna walked over to me as I just hung my head. "Art thou sad that thine foal friends are gone?" She asked. I shook my head. "What is the matter then Daring?" I sighed as she sat next to me.

"...I'm just... I'm very worried about my sister... that and it was raining here... brought some bad memories..."

"Oh... My apologies... seems troublesome when rain brings something like that around... Perhaps I ask what this memory is?" I stayed silent. Just dug my head into her chest. "Ah... I see... Something very sensitive... Have you told anyone about it?"

"My mother... She knows but... I couldnt finish telling it to her before I passed out." The Princess rested a wing on my back.

"Hopefully it's not another bedwetting story." I blushed looking up at her. "Dont worry. Just because I picked your brains while you were dreaming the other night doesnt mean I'll tell all your little secrets. But just know a time or two Celestia called me into her room to help her change her sheets because of one of my pets scurried into her room and found itself on her pillow. Scared her outright and lets just say my little pet became no more of a nuisance to her or you... and certainly not to our General. He despises those things!" I laughed a bit.

"Seems your general and I have much in common."

"Yes he is one to scream even seeing the littlest of spiders but he does enjoy your books. Perhaps I can ask a favor you sign a few for him?" I shrugged.

"Why not? Seems like a fair trade as a favor to me. As long as I know where that little bunny is I'm content."

"Well... Perhaps I can talk to Rarity and see if she can take a special order for a replica of said toy you gave to little Spearmint. She seemed quite fond of it. Yours from when you were her age?"

"And Ditzy's. I gave it to her after she had her little accident that made her look the way she does." I hung my head again. "...I was kind of surprised to find that toy under my bed when I gave it to Spearmint... she seemed so happy getting it... reminded me of... well... me..." I blushed a bit smiling. Luna smiled and laughed a bit.

"Ah yes... Perhaps you could do something for me not as a favor but.... maybe an order if you're willing to take it?"

"As if I have a choice... what is it Princess?" I looked to her curiously.

"I want you to follow your own word. Follow the things you said for Spearmint to follow. To be strong for your sister. Knowing if she was at your side seeing you scared of the thunder she'd want to hug you and lay with you in bed to keep you safe. Make your memories your 'Mr. Bunbun.'" She kinda snickered a bit at the mention of my beloved companion. I let it slide because I went deep in thought. I've done fine without him for a long time... yet the thought of a replica of him sat in my mind. I didnt tell her this but I have trouble sleeping in my own home at times. Sometimes its because I stay up late writing my last book, other times its because ... Well I'm not sure... one is definitely the storms that come around rarely. "Daring? Little lost in there?" Luna startled me causing me to jump a bit. I looked to her and smiled.

"Yeah... I guess I can do that... If she can be brave without Mr. Bunbun... I can too!" Luna smiled brightly.

"Good. Now wake up and get back to your story but be strong about it."

I nodded and hugged the Princess. She hugged back before I felt her fade away. When I awoke I was alone in bed and tired but nothing a little stretching couldnt fix. Woke me up a bit and I hit the bathroom to fix my mane, my wings and my tail before heading out. I found my mother in a dining room downstairs. Nothing special. Decor looked like it was made with tools and hoofwork, around four tables, eight chairs and not much else. Mother was sitting at one of the tables enjoying a cup of tea with a cup even set out for me. Mother looked up at me and smiled. "There you are sleepy head! You sleep okay sweetums? No accidents if I go back in there?" She asked. I blushed hard. She giggled. "Kidding kidding! I'm just joking so just sit down and drink some tea. We can rest but not for long!"

I sat down and poured myself some tea. Hot brown liquid poured from the spout and... It seemed... Off. I looked to mother. "Mother... What kind of tea is this?" I asked. She sighed as she set her cup down.

"It's a special blend. Foal Mountain Frozen leaf warm tea, sweetened with a south Equestrian..." She stopped herself.

"...I'm gonna get coffee before you lose two daughters..." I nudged the cup away from me and got up. I looked around for a moment trying to pinpoint a kitchen or small cart with coffee stuff on it. There was a door just to the right of where I came in. I went right for it and just huffed. I didnt think this was intentional with my mother trying to poison me. Then again... She only knows my strawberry allergy. At least I think she knows about the agave allergy.

The old mare was in the kitchen making pancakes. She looked up and noticed me. "Good morning miss!" She said. This old mare had her grey mane, cyan coat and her cutie mark was a tidy looking home from the outside. "Did you come to make a request?" I nodded.

"Yeah um... You see... That tea that was made for my mother has South Equestrian Agave in it and I'm deathly allergic to it. Perhaps I could get a cup of coffee or something please?" The mare nodded.

"But of course dear! I'll even bring out some jam and toast."

"Grape jam if you will. Strawberries are an allergy too."

The mare nodded and I went back out to my mother sitting with her once more. She looked to me as she set down her cup. "So uh... You okay to continue that story at all?" She asked. "Do you even remember where you left off?"

I nodded and just tried remembering where we did leave off. Last thing I remember I was laying down due to a stomach ache. I was deep into my book. At this point I was snacking on dried fruit chips and that seltzer water. The book was entrancing me, word for word, letter for letter and all that punctuation in between. I admit i felt a little better getting something into my stomach. After about fifteen minutes or so of reading Ahuizotl and the others came back to camp. "And that's actually one of the most dangerous plants that grows here!" I hear Ahui say.

I heard the doctor huff. "I dont know how you memorize all these crazy dangerous flora!" He said. "I can barely memorize what experiments I've completed and ones I've abandoned." There was silence for a moment. "Excuse me but has the other mare that was with us returned yet?"

Again I heard nothing. "Yeah she went and lied down with a few snacks." I heard an aide tell him. "Seemed alright and didnt look sick but did she eat anything before coming out here?"

"I'm sure she ate something. Sandwich i think." At this point I blushed because my appetite had gone down and I neglected to say I didnt eat much of that sandwich he made me. Daisy sandwich, rest thrown away after I ate half. Night before was a bowl of soup and I may have spiked it with pepper sauce. I do like my food spicy at times.

"Well the way she ran made it seem like something else ran too. If I were you I'd let her relax for awhile longer and regather her strength."

"At least let me check on her and make sure she's alright. She's pretty much under my care at home anyways."

"Feel free but i'd let her relax." I rolled my eyes hearing hooves trot closer before the tent unzipped and the doctor hopped in. He smiled as I popped another chip into my mouth.

"Feeling better at all Daring?"

I nodded. "Yeah... Wasnt expecting all that..." I replied swallowing the chip and popping another into my mouth.

"Well it sounds like we either need to change your diet or something. Tell me did it burn a bit when you went? Was it solid? Could you go back and bring me back a sample?"

"Doc... I'm fine... just leave me be please!"

"Now Daring I have to determine if being out here is going to be alright for you! It's cold and the rain is on its way so I gotta know if-"

"Doc... I'm FINE! Just dont worry about me! I'm a big girl I can handle myself!" He huffed.

"Well... okay but... if you start sniffling and sneezing I'm taking you straight home and putting you in bed!"

"You're not gonna hear much from me if you leave this tent and me alone! Please? I just want to relax!" He just looked at me in silence, then sighed.

"Alright I'll leave you to it but I do expect you to be out here roasting marshmallows with your sister! I've even made sure these ones didnt include that agave!" Yeah not many things I eat do but he has the need to check everything considering my recent allergy attack at this point. Even thinks I'm gonna find something like that to off myself with he was just that paranoid! I watched as he stepped out of the tent and closed it up a bit.

I ended up closing that book right up before setting the chips and my seltzer aside before climbing into my bag to nap for a bit. I could hear everyone talking outside though. I heard Ditzy sigh. "Sissy Daring okay?" She asked. The doctor sighed.

"Yeah she's fine... just a bit uncomfortable but she's eating. I'd just stay away for now and let her rest."

I heard someone unzip another tent. "Well if anyone wants it my tent is open for a nap if anyone needs it." Ahuizotl said. "It didnt seem like Daring is willing to share at the moment."

"We can sleep later. I'm just wanting to keep going with exploration around camp. See if I cant find anything to study while I'm here."

"Ditzy are you alright to still walk around? Or would you wish to rest here and have a snack?"

I could hear Ditzy laugh which made me smile a bit. "Snacks please!" I heard her say. She was always such a hungry one Ditzy... Ate just about anything the doctor put in front of her. At least she didnt eat anything bad... at least from what I knew.

"I do suppose it's time for lunch anyways. Come now lets eat. You too Doctor!"

There I heard nothing but silence until about an hour later. Rustling of bushes and a low growl. "TIGER!" I heard one of the aides yell out and I just got up faster than anything. I unzipped the tent flap and there it was creeping into the camp having his gaze affixed onto one of the aides who was cowering behind the bench covered in knocked over food stuffs. The other aides were trying to get around it to either run or attack it. One tried attacking it with a machete which it slashed at, knocking it out of the aides hoof having it fly and land towards the tent. I quickly grabbed it and stepped out charging at the large cat. I lopped its tail right off and bucked it. I was sure I was imagining this because I had drawn blood on a wild animal and bucked it. I was sure it would slash back at me but... no... no it didnt. I turned back only to see it starting to run away, the tail still twitching and oozing blood on the ground and the blade that I held dripping with blood and... a tuft of its tail fur! I was shocked. I dropped the bloodied blade to the ground yet still acted like I held it as the aides cheered. The targeted aide grabbed a hold of me hugging me while the others started securing the perimeter.

I collapsed onto him feeling very weak from knowing i hurt an animal. Only reason I felt this way was because when Ditzy and I were younger I accidentally stepped on a baby bird that fell from a nest and it died. I was so distraught I'd vow to at least help the creatures of the forest and woodlands. Either that or leave them be. The aides had sat me down by the fire and gave me my seltzer and such and just calmed me down. I just stared at the fire, the crackling colors and burning embers just hypnotizing me. I only snapped out of it when I heard one of the other aides call out. "They're back!" They said. I looked up to see Ahuizotl coming back with Ditzy and The Doctor behind them all of which were carrying leaves with wild fruits. Some of which I didnt know grew in Everfree at the time. Twilight told me this was all some magical creatures doing. One I'm apparently glad I missed. Anyways the one aide stayed at my side as the others mobbed the trio, taking their fruits and distributing them in the basket. One stuck around long enough to tell them what had happened.

I could see Ahuizotl eye me before looking to Ditzy (who I'm glad wasnt paying attention) and the doctor who just had this scared look on his face and telling them something. I was still listening to the fire crackle. Ahuizotl then looked back to me and came right over trading places with the aide. "Daring honey it's okay... you're safe and you've saved someones life!" He said. "Just breathe... You're alright... that mean ol' kitty is gone..." I leaned into him as tears came to my eyes. He just shushed me as I sobbed softly. "It's okay... you're not in trouble.... it's okay...." He shushed me more.

I sniffled and wiped my eyes. "...I... I didnt mean it... I... I dont know why i did that..." I said.

"You're still not in any trouble... its your fight or flight response. Your brain told you to fight instead of run. You saved one of my aides and this camping trip." He brought me onto his lap. "Would you like to learn how to set up some rope traps just to keep unwanted predators out? Dont wanna wake up to something like that now do we?" I shook my head. "Alright i'll give you time to calm down and go check on the Doctor.... Just to let you know he actually told me he might take you home earlier than planned. I'll tell him you were just scared to see someone die so you stepped in. He might say something but he can change his mind."

Yet... I didnt know what to say after that. Ditzy came and sat with me thinking I was just still feeling icky but it helped calm me down, a bit after Ahui taught me to hook up a rope snare. It's confusing when you know it doesnt work like it does in the comic books. There its just a rope and done. In reality you have to find a tree for a lever, set up a tripwire, make sure you have strong material- we used some reeds from a creek that was a bit outside the camp. Babbling brook made it a calming sound but worse for bathroom needs. I had to go into a nearby bush and go though i feel the Seltzer was more of a cause to that. Anywho after we set our snares up- with chimes made from empty cans- the doctor took me aside. "Daring are you CRAZY?!" He asked as we walked outside the camp. "You could've gotten yourself killed! All it could've taken was one quick slash at your throat and neither me or Ahuizotl's help could've saved you! You'd've been meeting your father up at the pearly gates and I'd be taking Ditzy back home and telling her the fortune would be all hers!"

I huffed. "Well what else was I supposed to do? Let you come back with a tiger feasting upon another pony it just mauled to death?" I asked. "If not him then it could've been you or Ditzy! I know it could've been me too yes but from where I sat it was distracted long enough for me to just..." I stopped myself. "...well... it started running but not with its tail between its legs..." I gave a nervous laugh and looked to the doctor smiling, trying to act if I was alright. I was but... still disturbed with my own actions. He sighed.

"Look... I'll let this go since nobody got hurt. But next time you need to be more careful! I dont wanna see your sister cry again after losing someone else she loves. She's lost so much already and it hurts too much to see a sweet girl like her cry!" I hung my head. Ditzy's name rang in my head and all the tears I remember could fill up a river or a small pond.

"Doc... You can worry about me all you want but I'm not a little girl anymore. Yes I know I could move out, do what I please but I love you guys too much to leave you. Whether it be moving out or... the other way... Just breathe a little and lighten up on the leash. For me... Please?" The Doctor stopped looked me up and down sighing.

"I'll think about this... but I still want you to refrain from trying to dine with the fauna of the forest. Agreed?"

"I agree Doc. Can we go back to camp now please?" He smiled and nodded and we hurried back to camp. That night we had our food, marshmallows and such for desert and we just couldnt help but sit by the fire.

Though we didnt enjoy the fire long. As we did it started raining. Ahuizotl stood up as the aides started putting the food crates into the tents, most going into Ahuizotl's tent. He had a big enough one for a few of us. I ate my marshmallows raw while Ditzy just got all sticky with smores, melting chocolate and graham cracker crumbs. I'm gonna admit it was the cutest thing seeing her laugh while the doctor was trying to wipe her face off. "Alright everyone considering we have rain now we might need to turn in early!" Ahuizotl said. "I do advise everyone to use the latrine before going to bed. Lanterns are in your tents and there are ear plugs that are going to be distributed if the rain gets too loud for some of you." The Doctor, Ditzy and I nodded. I went first and i went fast. Doctor next but Ditzy didnt. Didnt seem like she had to go and usually when she didnt she actually didnt. And yes that means we had to remind her at points because her memory got that bad at times. She's fine most of the time with that though.

We climbed into our tent and dried off with towels that Ahui gave us before it rained. Just in time too. We all dried off and retired to our sleeping bags. The rain was light for most of the night and we slept soundly through it. Well most of us did anyways. Sometime a few hours later Ditzy got up from her sleeping bag and walked right over me, nudging me with her hoof. I woke up only to see nothing but darkness. I'm only assuming she nudged the doctor too. "Doc? Wake up! I gotsa go potty!" She said.

The Doctor yawned. "Ditz... just.... put on your rain coat and go fast... I'll be here when you get back..." He said. I just heard Ditzy whimpering a bit as she walked over to the tent flap, struggled with the zipper and just opened it up before going out, closing it behind her. I slept more after that but... it was interrupted with a big heart attack. That and a stunning hoof to the chest.

"Daring! Daring wake up!" The doctor said poking me in the chest.

My eyes snapped open and I could see him in the dim lighting of the lantern. "Doc...? What's the big deal?" I asked now over the pouring rain I heard. "I was asleep..."

"I know but we have a huge problem!" He glanced over to where Ditzy slept. I looked over there too and... she wasnt there... flat sleeping bag. "Ditzy never came back from going to the bathroom! You gotta wake up one of the others to go find her!"

"YOU DIDNT WAKE THEM FIRST?!" This just sent me into a panic. I got out of my sleeping bag pushing the doctor off just pacing back and forth, my breath being unsteady. It took a few tries for the doctor to grab me but when he did he held me tight.

"DARING!" He snapped. "Calm down."

"YOU FUCKING CALM DOWN!" And this? He actually slapped me. Yes. He slapped me. Right to left, across my face. I just looked to him shocked that he would do that.

"DARING LISTEN! I'm sorry I had to do that but you left me no choice! I didnt want to do this in all my years of taking care of you. But this is something I cant look past is losing Ditzy! You need to go find her NOW!" Tears came to my eyes as I held my cheek.

"But... I thought you didnt want me to be the hero."

"I know what I said but you need to do this! You're the only one who knows where to go! Your cutie mark says so! Ditzy could've wandered so far by now and she could be somewhere and hurt! Wake someone up, get out there AND SAVE YOUR SISTER!" I didnt say anything. Just nodded and gathered my things. Jacket and the lantern before opening the tent flap and hopping out into the heavy rain and mud. The fire we once had now lie in a puddle. I thought as fast as I could and went to Ahuizotls tent not even giving the courtesy of a knock just opening it and hopping in. Ahuizotl looked peaceful sleeping the way he was. Even had a little battery powered night light but you didnt hear it from me. He was all curled up in his cat like ways. I charged him getting my muddy hooves all over him.

"WAKE UP! AHUIZOTL WAKE UP PLEASE!" He swatted at me with his weird paw hands. "AHUI PLEASE! WAKE UP!" I turned around and bucked him causing him to groan loudly and wheeze standing up.

The now pissed off and tired panther just looked at me, rubbing his chest where I bucked. "Daring! What the hell are you doing?!" He asked. "What has gotten into you?!"

"Ahui I'm sorry I need your help REALLY badly right now! Ditzy went to the bathroom long ago and she hasnt come back yet. With you we can cover more ground to help look for her!" He huffed getting up.

"Give me a moment to get my stuff ready and we'll head out. Just breathe. You're a bit too worked up but... well for good reasons." He stretched, cleaned the mud off him and he grabbed his coat.

When we got outside he and I started running in opposite directions to cover more ground. I went to the right, he went left and we just started running. All I heard around me was just heavy rains pelting my mane, face, the ground, the canopies above and my own screams for my sister. I doubt they went far because of the noise. I sent yell after yell for my sister out into the frigid moist air. Thunder rolled above but I didnt even see any lightning. Tree canopy was that thick. I felt like I ran a long way. Either that or I've been encircling the camp. Well... I actually ran a while. Remember the creek? Yeah. Havent run into that yet. I kept running until I came upon a large brick structure. And what made me worry? I saw Ditzy's rain coat on the ground. I grabbed it but before I could look more a flash of lightning and thunder struck something on top of this structure which sent sparks and debris tumbling to the ground forcing me to take cover inside. I found a door and ducked inside holding the door shut behind me. I was soaked but this place seemed dry from where I was. I set the lantern down and looked at Ditzy's muddy coat in my arms... I hugged it tightly whimpering... thinking the worst. Well... That was until I thought I was going to die when something came barreling down the hallway before I just screamed, cowered and expected to feel claws or something tearing into me but... no... I felt a tight grip hug me with soft sobbing I only opened my eyes just to see a wet blonde mane covering my eyes. I pushed the entity away a bit only to see it was Ditzy! Oh I tackled her and hugged her rolling around on the dusty floor. We stopped amidst our crying just to comfort each other. "D-Daring! You came for me!" She said wiping her eyes.

I sniffled wiping my tired eyes on my sleeve. "Of course I did! You scared everyone half to death!" I snapped. "What happened? You went to the bathroom hours ago and never came back!" She coughed a bit sniffling.

"Well... When I went to go potty I... I got distracted by a big kitty and followed it. That's when I got scared and hid in here...."

"Without your jacket?"

"Well... it was warm in here so I took it off!" I huffed handing her her coat again.

"Here put it back on! We need to get back to camp so the doctor will stop worrying!" I coughed because I was still sobbing. After she put her jacket on we opened the door again.... yet at the worst time. Lightning and crashing thunder scared us back inside.... and I guess she didnt notice the wind sweeping rain inside and pooling on the floor below. Ignoring that we looked to each other. "Wanna find somewhere to sleep the rest of the night? Too dangerous out there...." She nodded and we started exploring deep into the ruins. I didnt realize this at the time but we were inside the old castle for Celestia and Luna. Years and years and years, way before even my great great grandmother (Yes my mother is old but not that old) this was where Princess Luna went crazy with power and turned into nightmare moon and tried to take everything from her sister.

We did end up getting back to the camp just to find Ahuizotl and the Doctor sleeping in the same tent, both looking very tired yet all the aides were working like they hadnt noticed anyone was gone. They helped us warm up after last night, gave us medicine because we actually got sick running around that storm. Later that day we ended up packing it up and heading home just to get soup in bed. Ditzy and I actually spent the night in the same bed because we were that scared. Back to today we had just left the inn with all our things. We paid the innkeeper- who insisted we didnt need to- and just went off on our way. My mother looked to me as we followed the muddy cobble path. "So you and Ditzy stayed the night in a dingy and dirty castle?" She asked. I nodded. "Ew! What about the spiders, the dust or even the animals that could've been in there!"

I sighed looking to mother as we came to a crossroads. "We found a clean looking blanket and used it to cover ourselves by making a makeshift tent in a corner." I said. "If there were spiders we were too tired to care. Same with the dust. But I was glad to have found Ditzy even if it meant spending the night in a bug filled, dust lung giving castle.... Also if it meant giving me terrors thinking Ditzy would go missing again and nearly die to something out there."

"And let me guess... that's what caused you to start your book series?"

"Yep." I looked out over the plains before us. "Ahuizotl came by to check on us, make sure we felt alright and suggested I come with him on some exotic adventures to find treasures. Some of those treasures were meant to signify the end of the world if brought to certain places but Doctor Calebrion will never get his hooves on them!"

"Good to see my little girl saving the world... Surprising to hear AK Yearling to even talk about her personal experiences at such an early age..." I laughed a bit nudging her with my wing. I sighed looking to the sky.

"Mother... I wish to apologize for the things I said at the start of this adventure... the stress of hearing you caused fathers death, Ditzy being sick... You coming back after so long of being nowhere near us... I wish this time was spent earlier and without the need for death..."

"I suppose but without me AK Yearling wouldnt have written her first books and Daring Do wouldnt be just a 'fictional character' so to speak."

"A fictional character talking to her dead mother. Sounds like another story I can write if I wish to get a variety in." We would've joked more but we were stopped by a magic scroll coming out of thin air. It scared my mother a bit causing her to back up.

"What is that?!" She asked as I picked it up. I glanced at her as I sat on the side of the road.

"I suppose it should be said now that we should nearly be done. I've been keeping in contact with someone who's been taking care of Ditzy in her current state. Princess Luna is aiding me, keeping me strong through this tough time and she gave me this to see how my sister was. All I do is read what it says, speak to it as if I were telling someone to write a letter and it sends it off to them."

"What does it say? Well? Open it!" I smiled shaking my head at my mother rushing me.

Though as I read my smile faded.

'Daring! It's the Doctor! We have a serious problem. I hope you're nearby that place to cure Ditzy because she just went into the hospital! I had to give Dinky to her friends sister to watch her for the night while I stay with Ditzy in the hospital. They're running tests on her and if this is what I remember from caring for your father that this is the last few days for her. I want you to hurry as fast as you can! Your sister can only last so long without that cure.'

...I dropped the letter just staring off into the distance, my hear pounding in my chest starting to sweat profusely. My mother held me upright and hugged me. "Daring! Daring honey you just lost all color! What happened?" She asked. I pushed her off and just took off my pack scrambling for my map. I grabbed it and lied it out on the ground in front of me. I drew an X over where we stayed the night before, a trail to where we stayed the next and the end goal circled just to the right of Manehattan. The only problem with taking a train- because my mother asked one morning before we headed out- is that if she were referring me by my real name and not 'Miss Yearling' someone would find out... And yes its hypocritical for many ponies already knowing my identity but i'd rather keep random ponies who arent friends to know and just mob me in the next book signing. Not like they do already. This was the safest way for me to do this and without putting my own life in danger. We were close.

I looked to my mother and huffed. "Mom. I hope you're willing to hoof it for a while because we have only so long for Ditzy." I said. I could see her eyes widen and all the color drain from her as she saw in mine. I quickly put my map away and grabbed the piece of magical paper. "Doctor please do EVERYTHING with your might to keep Ditzy going. I hope you have someone good keeping Dinky distracted with what's going on. We're so close to achieving our goal. Just try to hang out a little longer. You get on making sure my sister stays as healthy as she can. I promise when we're done we're gonna have a family reunion!" I looked to my mother as the words appeared and I just tore it setting it ablaze with my own hooves. It burnt up fast before the smoke was carried in the wind.

"The Doctor? HE's caring for Ditzy? How is he still alive?!"

"I'll explain along the way! Just hurry!" And with that we grabbed our things and we were off again.

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

This chapter was WAAAAY longer than it needed to be but I'm gonna start to think about what's going next. Brainstorm mostly.

Down To The Wire

Right now I'm running with my mother at my side as best as an old mare like her can keep up. We had just gotten a letter from The Doctor informing us Ditzy is on the last legs of the sickness caused by the Succubus Stone- an artifact that mother had stolen long ago that took the life forces from everyone who she had loved, even my father. She distanced herself because the stone doesnt care how old somepony is whilst taking their life forces. She didnt want us to be taken at all despite her coming back to Ponyville- our hometown I guess you could say- and seeing or starting to think about Ditzy. I'm so in a panic right now I barely remember the details. I've only had to stop for a moment to memorize a map of where we were, where the cave was that was supposed to house the damn artifact and such. As I ran my mind went into freak out mode trying to keep myself in good spirits even with the cards I've been dealt. I didnt even stop once to drink something or rest until we got to the cave. I stopped and collapsed out of breath, my mother stripping me of my pack and dropping hers as well also out of breath. "Daring! Daring sweetie get up! We're almost there! Its just inside!" She said.

I quickly scrambled for the canteen. I'm lucky we had refilled it before we left the inn this morning. I drank for a good minute before giving it to my mother. "I.... I'm sorry I had to run.... I dont wanna lose Ditzy..." She said. She quickly hugged me and shushed me for a good couple of minutes... A couple of minutes that still didnt feel any better because it was a minute on being closer to losing my sister.

"Daring please calm down! You're going to make yourself sick! Just breathe! Stay calm! D-Ditzy will be alright if we get this done..." I sniffled a bit tearing up. I was shaking vigorously, wings were all frizzy and my mane if not messed up by the wind was definitely messing up now. Even under my pith helmet.

"Th-This is just... this feels like the day I left all over again..." The day I left.... It was a day yes but it felt like it lasted a few days just to be real. We were still getting over the time outside in the storm... Maybe had been a few weeks and storms were still on and off.... Ditzy and I had to cuddle during the night and The Doctor had to make sure I went to the bathroom before I wet the bed- which I can admit had happened during a thunder storm a few days after we had gotten back home. It was embarrassing but this time Ditz was happy to have me in her bed after I washed up. Tonight there was no storm but I was sitting in the study and I was up Contemplating my life after I had nearly lost Ditzy. I was so good at finding my way as if I was always looking at the north star. Even during the day. Ahuizotl came to us a few days ago to check on us and make sure we're doing okay.

I think I was reading a book... 'Mythical treasures around the world, rumors of the old world.' I think the title was. The lantern I had nearby flickered next to me on the desk my father used to sit at.... One of these days I'm paying a cleaning company to clean up the old home, a moving company to help move everything that can be.... The cleaning company because... well you know what happened last time I was there... Spiders and a few lucky children figuring out their favorite writer is also their favorite character. I'm sure it was still bound to slip out even if Twilight and her friends hadnt caught me with my pants down, quite literally I might add. I heard the door creak open behind me. I looked back only to see the Doctor coming in rubbing his eyes. "Daring? What are you doing up this late? You should be sleeping!" He said yawning afterwards. I sighed flipping the page to this book.

"Yeah... I know but I cant... I just... I keep thinking about my cutie mark... helps me find my way when I dont have a map.... I mean... if I hadnt found Ditzy who knows what could've happened to her..." He came in and sat down next to me nudging the book shut in front of me.

"Well you saved her which is great... I just wished it wasnt raining that hard... Honestly wished I could go back and accompany her while she had gotten up... I didnt realize she would've wandered so far... And to the Princess' old castle.... Werent you scared of what could've been lurking in there? Animals, insects... all that dust? I'm surprised you didnt come out of there with black lung or any sign of inhaling black mold!"

"Who ever built that castle knew how to make it sound and sealed tight from the elements..." I sighed getting up. "But think of this... what if I could find more places like that to explore? Perhaps bring something home to show off?"

"Daring... That's insane you could get yourself extremely hurt... Besides if you were thinking about going for that treasure in the book you're reading I'd look for something that doesnt have 'myth' in the title...." He held up the book before sliding it back onto the desk. "...Do you want some warm milk before you sleep? I dont wanna see you ruining your sleep schedule or crashing during your daily flights too and from Ponyville just because you're losing precious hours of sleep!" I stretched a bit, feigning a yawn as I did to hide my eye rolling.

"I'm fine without it doc..... Just go back to bed and I'll go back to mine." I grabbed my lantern as he huffed.

"I'll go back to bed when you do.... I know you're a mare of your word but I'd rather see you go to bed rather than find you anywhere else but your bed... You could still hop in bed with Ditzy if it makes you feel any better to sleep." He knows me so well. When we were younger I'd stay up and play with my dolls until I got caught by mother... She took the toys she knew I'd love away if she caught me again. I tested her on this and she took Mr. Bunbun away... I cried so hard that night within hours she gave me him back and I learned my lesson. I had to be taken to Ditzy's bed to cuddle with her and Mr Bunbun just to calm down... Still surprised she never woke up while I bawled my eyes out.

I felt like I was herded to my bed like cattle to a barn for the milking. I tried making a needed stop to the toilet, Doc tried to stop me but he remembered how I was when my feathers started molting and now he doesnt try to stop me from using the bathroom when I need to. But yeah it was something he knew not to do. I knew not to stay in the bathroom too long during my uh.... Mare time... Caught with my hoof where it didnt belong... doesnt mean I dont do it... After that I was brought back to our room where I hopped in bed with Ditzy. She cuddled right up to me but I just stayed awake thinking about things. Well.... For however long it was I laid there I still managed to pass out without even realizing it. The next morning I found myself alone in the bed, Mr. Bunbun in place of Ditzy. The room was a bit warm even if I wasnt all the way under the covers. I kicked the covers off and went to the vanity in our room grabbing the brush off the counter and started tugging at my mane and tail. Wings were preened soon after. Normally didnt do it myself. Ditz always knew the best way to do it. Even if she pulled a few feathers out accidentally. As I stepped out I smelled something that.... Well... that reminded me of my fathers cooking. "Yaaaay! Pancakes!" I hear Ditzy say, her cheery voice echoing through the halls. I quickly glided downstairs following my nose smelling the fresh pancakes, syrup and such.

I landed just outside the kitchen and trotted my way in just seeing the doctor setting out plates for him and Ditzy with one waiting for me right by the skillet. As the Doctor set the plates down he smiled. "Pancakes Doc? I thought you hated mixing the batter...." I said.

The Doctor smiled as I took a spot near Ditzy as she started digging in to her short stack covered in blue berries and whipped cream. "Yeah I do but.... I feel like it's been a bit since any of us had a good breakfast like this in a while. What do you think I was doing up so late?" He asked.

"Checking to see if I was still inside the study reading?"

"...Well that was one reason... the other was to try to find your fathers old cook books and I tried to replicate the taste as best I could. I used everything I could to get that taste and even without using the sugars you're allergic to. Brown sugar, mixed in with the batter and I've got blue berries, bananas and even some home made syrup from a sap farm up the road." Ah yeah... nearly forgot that was there.... Think the trees died off or something because what's there now is just a bunch of homes... Either Ponyville expanded officially or unoffically... Either is the answer because what lies there now are fenced off homes for the rich. Their syrup still pops up from what I taste every time I have pancakes or waffles or the rare sandwich I make with tofu bacon and some fruits. Hopefully they still work on it and its not exported to some sort of factory...

"Well... Good of you to do this Doc... Home cooked meal is the best rather than one cooked over a camp fire... or from a can...."

"I totally agree. Couldnt imagine what the only thing you ate for that time would've been good for your digestion. Tell me have you been feeling a bit uh.... strange when going?" I shook my head blushing.

"Can we talk about this after breakfast Doc? Kinda hungry here!" He gave a smile and nodded turning back to get me a plate of pancakes. He even surprised me with a bit of whipped cream and powdered sugar on top. I managed to eat what I had in front of me and two more pancakes with just syrup on it. It was delicious. Loved it. After that I volunteered to do the dishes. Doc had to help Ditzy clean her face up. You should've seen the blueberries stuck to her upper cheek! It was too cute! But alas... those days are long gone. The doctor still cares for her yes but... what's going on now is making me wish I can go back in time... change all of this and keep it from happening... Though Doc has a bit of a theory about time changes... one of us couldnt exist, maybe neither of us exist, possibly he couldnt exist...

That day started like any other but things were definitely not what I was expecting. Back to what was currently happening. Mother was having me do deep breathing exercises. My breathing was deep yes but I was shaking... still afraid of losing Ditzy.... "There we go... in.... and out..." Mother said. I followed directions. Mother kissed me on my forehead, giving me a bit of hope by standing me up on my hooves and giving me the canteen. I sipped from the lukewarm water... "Feeling better now sweetie?" I gave a hesitant nod. "Good.... Now I want you to keep breathing..." She started digging into our packs before pulling out the wrapped up idol. "Here. Take the Succubus stone and take it back to where it belongs... I want to see this put to rest... and not your sister so hurry! Please!" She placed it on my back, tied it down with a leather strap and nudged me along after taking the water from me. "Go! Now! We havent much time!" I nodded looking back at mother before turning back to the cave and setting in to a light jog. Inside this cave was dark... Good thing here I always had a small light in my vest pocket. I took my helmet off, grabbed the light and afixed it to the band on my helmet before flicking it on. I looked around as I walked through the dark cavern.

I watched as natural light was replaced with the artificial slowly. Well... I had planned to go further but I froze just to wet myself seeing a spider just... hang itself from my helmet. I screamed and just turned out and booked it expecting to get away from it. I didnt realize it was from my helmet before I just bucked wildly outside the cave sending my helmet flying. "MOMMY! MOMMY SPIDER! KILL THE SPIDER MOMMY!" I screamed.... Yeah... Yeah I did that.... I had to do that for the first few weeks after mom left... just making sure she wasnt playing a mean old joke. Mother came over to me grabbing me and sitting me down to cry before she picked up my helmet shaking the spider off and kicking it away before putting my pith helmet back on me.

"There we are! Its okay Daring the spider's gone! See?" I grabbed onto mother holding on to her shoulder just bawling... "Sweet Celestia you're soaked! Did my baby girl have an accident?" I sniffled nodding into her shoulder. "Oh no its okay sweetums! You're okay! No mean ol spider's gonna scare my baby and get away with it!"

My mind went right back to that fateful day I left It was maybe an hour or so after breakfast and I decided to wash up but... I guess while I was washing up a spider made its way onto the wall... Something similar happened here but I was already wet. I had to be wrapped up in a towel sitting outside the bathroom with Ditzy and I sitting down on a towel just so we didnt get water anywhere that it wasnt already. The Doctor came out of the bathroom with an opaque bowl and plate stacked on top of each other. "There! It's as good as gone Daring! You're good now just breathe!" He said. "Ditzy help your sister back into the tub and make sure she keeps breathing nice and deep okay?" Ditzy nodded before taking my hoof and leading me back into the bathroom. She stripped me of my towel and helped me back into the tub.

I looked to Ditzy as she just stroked my hoof. "It's okay sissy big scary buggy is gone!" She said. "You okay?" I sniffled nodding a bit before sinking a bit lower into the tub leaving enough room for my nose to stick out of the water. The bathwater was still warm but I shivered like it was ice cold. You know by now about how bad spiders scare me... ripped and destroyed clothing, urinating on myself... one of these days its just gonna be a straight up heart attack. "Da-RING! Say sometin!"

I whimpered. "...Big... Big bug..." I muttered bringing my head above water. "....Th-they're all over me... the... the spiders are all over me!" I was about to thrash again feeling my skin crawl but Ditzy held me in the bath, even getting into the water with me hugging me.

"Nuh-uh! No buggies here! Take breaths sissy!" She started leading me in breathing deeply.... Spiders dont panic me as much now but they used to just get me to where I'd be on the floor for hours after. Depending on where the spider was. Could be on the floor, on my bed, in another room entirely or even up on the cloud depending on how big the thing was. I dont remember how many times I had to cuddle up to Ahuizotl outside of a cave or in tent while his survivalist teams shook out blankets, sprayed bug repellent around our tents and even check the bags because one non poisonous arachnid found its way into my mane. We sat there in the water, breathing deeply and calming my nerves as I'm doing now. After a while Ditzy climbed out of the water, dried herself off and helped me wash my mane as best she could. She did shove me under the water slightly with how hard she did use her hooves but it was just how Ditzy was... Screw something up because her motor skills arent what they used to be. Once done she helped me dry off and brushed my mane, yanking knots out in the process. My mane gets kind of knatty when wet so it was expected.

After that I was back in the study, reading books. I was calmed down enough after preening my wings a bit to make them as smooth as I could. The book I read now? Survival: an Apocalypse Ready Survival book! Why my father had that in a collection I dont know but my mother always thought there would be some end of the world thing and honestly... Mother always believed in such things but more of a religious end with the Devil and The Goddess above fighting it out, with the good saved in the clouds and the rest to rot down here. Though... you wouldnt believe how many artifacts i've found that actually could end the world if given a chance to. I'm keeping it out of those hooves that would use it for evil.... Dr. Calebreon... I flipped past causes for the end and how to survive out in the wilderness. I'm pretty sure my mind was more on camping rather than doing work on my books. There was a knock at the door that startled me into closing the book almost like I had been caught with a naughty magazine.... which i've only seen on shelves and- oh who am I kidding its light reading material for bed when I'm at home... take with that what you will. Anyways I looked back to see The Doctor at the door looking in at me with a tray with some tea on it. Tea pot, cup and a few sandwiches. "Oh! Sorry for startling you Daring... Just... Thought you needed something to snack on while you read..." He said trotting his way in carefully. Once at the desk i was at he slid the tray on to the right side of me and my books stacked to read when I get to them. "Also... I may be prying and I apologize if I am but... is something the matter Lady Daring?"

I gave a sigh as I poured myself a cup of black tea, warmed with a hint of blue berries... my favorite. "Have you ever done something that you know you want to do again but you're afraid to just to make it seem worse?" I asked. He sat next to me on the floor.

"All the time... When I had started working for your father I was a bit nervous helping out with you and Ditzy as foals and your mother... Well she was a wildcard... Thought I was doing things too hard, giving her the wrong things to treat ailments and such. She didnt believe I knew what I was doing until you or Ditzy came down with a fever... And with how young that you were I couldnt figure out how much of what medicines to give you but I remembered some herbal combinations that were safe no matter how much you took. Had to calm you down just to feed you because I guess it was a lot of pressure on your sinuses or something but we couldnt tell. You took the medicine and it just worked... Im still glad I had saved you otherwise your mother would've cast me out and I'd be up a tree without a ladder to stand on..." It didnt hit me at the time but he's saying something dark here... could probably tell what... I sighed sipping from the teacup. The warm berry flavored leaf water trickled down my throat nicely.

"Well... For me its different...." I replied. "...That camping trip went and caught my attention to something.... I'm wondering if I could do something like that for a living... Camping out, finding my way to interesting sights and perhaps be a cartographer or something.... Perhaps there are things that have been missed out there in the world that the public could see... Perhaps I could just... Become a park ranger and be out in the wilderness a lot more... I'm not sure but I just have that draw to do so..." He hummed a bit looking through my books. I had novels of adventure, novels of outdoor survivalists, and some biographies of those who had gone and conquered the wild whether it be a forest, desert or even mountains. There were- keyword were- a group of ponies long ago that had to resort to eating each other to get through a harsh winter after they took a wrong turn going to Apploosa... Yeah... Came from up north, went east instead of west and they started eating each other. Still no survivors. Diaries were there for someone to find and reread the horrible adventure and publish it into a book. Didnt have that one here gladly.

"I'm surprised you'd wanna go camping after Ditzy got lost... hopefully you dont go alone if you do just in case you're ever attacked by a wild animal or you accidentally fall on one of those southern equestrian agave plants or a strawberry bush with sharp branches."

"Of course I'll have someone to go with me! I'll have some assistant if I'm a cartographer or a partner if I'm a ranger. They can administer first aid, give me my epipen and hurry me to the nearest hospital or med center."

"But what if they cant? What if they misplace it or cant carry you? Then you're dead unless they know how to immediately get the toxins out of your system!" He stood up. "Do something where you're NOT putting yourself in danger by being around wild animals or even plant life you're allergic to! I dont want to see you on a missing poster or in the obituaries because you were found in the woods all puffed up from allergies or sewn back together just to see who you are!" I gave a sigh and closed my book.

"Doc you want me to do something useful with my life and I'm trying! I dont want to live off the fortune that mother took half of leaving me and Ditzy with you and a thieving nanny who needed to be locked up way before us!" I got up and walked out of the room. He followed.

"Yes I want you to do something with your life but doing that is completely out of the question! I'm trying to be the voice of reason here. You cant just say you wanna do things without thinking of the ramifications of things that could happen!" I stopped at the door to mine and Ditzys room. Ditzy wasnt in there I'm glad to say.

"WELL I'M A GROWN MARE! TREAT ME LIKE ONE! I'M NOT A CHILD ANYMORE!" I yelled before shutting myself into the room and sitting against the door hugging myself. He didnt even knock, didnt try to force the door open and didnt even try to coax me out.... No promises of gifts, no promises of my choice for dinner... Not even Ditzy tried. I stayed in there for hours... Didnt nap, didnt even go out to use the toilet- and no that doesnt mean i pissed out the window or in the corner. Didnt even cuddle Mr. BunBun even though that was an option to make myself feel better.

After that few hours I did get a knock at the door. Didnt open it, didnt acknowledge them. Just huddled into the corner of the doorway. They knocked again. I didnt recognize the knocks.... The Doc does something musical, Ditzy just bangs on the door a bit, and even though I'm not on the otherside of the door I knock with a burst of three and two after a pause. It changes slightly but I always use that combination of knocks. Then the voice came... "Daring? Daring may I come in please?" They said. It was Ahuizotl. "Daring let me in, I just want to talk. You and me, mono e mono. Nobody else."

"...We can talk through the door! I'm not opening it just in case The Doctor is on the other side...."

"He's not here. He let me in and left with your sister to do shopping. Can you please let me in? You have my word that its just us in the house together. I'll give you a few minutes and come back up. If you dont wanna wait I'll be downstairs in the den waiting for you." I listened as he walked away and down the stairs. I know he didnt fake it because the second to third step down decides to squeak and creak if you step on it a certain way and I heard it trigger twice. The Doc did that one time when he was gonna punish me and I fell right into that trap. Bar of soap shoved in my mouth and I'm in the corner in the study... potty mouths are bad if you're a child especially if it was towards the nanny you actually made cry. Yeah... told her to fuck off weeks after mother left. Unsure if that was one of the causes to have her steal from us or not but I got her pretty good when I told her nobody loved her and that her mother didnt love her just like ours did. Little did I know until now at least.... I waited a moment before getting up and stretching a bit because I was in one position for so long. I opened up the door and flew downstairs narrowly missing the chandelier and landing just by the front door like I was about to run out. It was the safest spot to land because of the rug we had. Didnt wanna buff out hoofprints from us landing anywhere else. I walked over to the den entrance and saw Ahuizotl with a newspaper open in front of him in what used to be my fathers seat. It was near to the fire place with a table nearby and a wet bar. There was always a stash of alcohol in there no matter what. Pretty sure there still was alcohol last I was there... may have to check for wine or whiskey... maybe champagne? Dunno.

"Ahui?" I said alerting him. He set the newspaper down and smiled.

"You finally came out of your room eh? Told you nobody else was here." I blushed taking a seat just across from him in the middle of the room. Was my mothers chair when she was feeding us as foals.

"Yeah... But... Why are you here? Surely it was for the doctor but he was leaving for shopping right?"

"As you'd think but... No.... I would like to extend an offer if you will. Your survival skills in our last outing were something interesting. There have been times where I've had to go deep into the woods, nail something to a tree that points the way back. Sometimes that doesnt necessarily work and someone has to go, memorize a path to go and come back to lead us and even the rare occasion where someone finds us and helps us out. Payment with bits, food and other survival tips. You? You found your way to your sister, no map needed, no compass other the one on your rear end and not even the threat of slipping in mud nor falling trees or even dangerous animals had deterred you from completing your mission."

"Can you cut to the chase please? It's like you're kinda stalling...." He huffed.

"I can forgive that slight paranoia... Dont want the doctor to catch you out of the room... Point here being is I'm wanting you to come with me, camp out and perhaps find somethings that nopony has seen before. I hear theres a lot of money in it for some things museums have been looking for and they'd pay a lot of bits for those to be donated and I happen to know about some treasures and details of how you could go about it and the best part: Those treasures are supposedly a myth." I was... Shocked a bit. Was he telling the truth? Or was it a ploy to pull me out of my comfort zone to show me how wrong I was?

"I.... I dont know what to say..."

"Take your time Daring. Think on it. Talk it over with the Doctor when he returns. Do you need me to fix you something to drink? I think theres still tea things from uh... that... time...." The time he accidentally poisoned me but saved my flank. Thank goodness I told him where my epipen was.... Theres two under my bed just in case of emergency now because of that and one in the kitchen and... a couple more in the Doctors room... Well... was.... there was.... But I have one braided firmly into my tail just in case I get scratched out in the wilderness or eat something that has strawberries in it and I dont know. Ahui actually has a few more just in case too.

Anywho I was still thinking at that point and I thought for hours more because apparently the doctor had to help someone out in town. Heart attack victim, saved his life and such. But back to today... I was calmed down and dried off by my mother using a rag we had in our bags... I was still sticky and embarrassed by it. Mother sighed sitting aside as I paced back and forth breathing deeply. "Daring... Its now or never sweetie... I dont know how much longer Ditzy can last..." She said. "You can do this! Save your sister and lets be a family again!"

I paced back and forth. "...Y-Yeah... A... A family... I can.... I can do this... I'm a brave girl...." I told myself. "It... It's just a cave.... There's... Nothing to be afraid of... You've dealt with scarier things than sp-spiders.... rock falls, poisonous plants.... M-magma.... spilling out of the walls.... snake pits, and angry tribals...." Yep... No joke when I say way south east there are tribes of pony who prefer to be alone and when we showed up we had to run... lucky they were mostly peaceful and couldnt aim for shit. "You can do this... Do this for Ditzy... Do this for Ditzy, mother.... daddy.... and... For the Doc and Dinky...." I looked to mother as I faced the cave. "Mother... I think... I think I'm ready..." She nodded.

"Do it then! I'll be right here when you get out of there!" I nodded and kept my breathing as I walked towards the cave entrance again. I slowed for a moment checking my corners for spiders before starting to jog straight into the cave. My light still worked thank Celestia. About twenty yards into the cavern it started to descend down oddly built steps... like they had been here a long time. Longer than I had been alive, possibly- no... definitely longer than mother had been alive. The steps were carved out level by level... I swear I felt pickaxe marks under my hooves. Or at least something that felt like it.... for all I know it was moisture erosion that dried out long ago. As I descended I stepped on a trigger tile. I stepped on it, felt it give and heard it slide down. I quickly got myself to the side of the cavern and waited for something... Spears to shoot out from the walls, doors to close behind me or even poison tipped darts to rain down from above. Nothing. I waited for about a minute before giving a sigh and hesitantly continuing on. I looked around at the walls and they started to get some archaic designs on em... Not like cave paintings but... etchings of hieroglyphs and other images. I didnt have time to determine from when this cave was made or what tribes had made it if any... As I walked faster there was more of a natural light coming from torch holders afixed to the wall. It was... kinda strange that there would be a light switch in the floor. I soon came unto a large room. Torches lined the walkway, lighting up what could be seen around. The room was still dark despite the torches lighting the path. The room around me had collapsed pillars, some still clinging to the roof, others standing tall with little damage. There was even supports made from old wood, rotting slightly but still standing tall. In front of me was the altar bedecked with gems, tarnished by time, the shine from them gone because of the dust and-upl- webs... all over the altar... No spider in sight thank goddess above. No bags to counteract traps, no other idols, not even any tools or long dead bodies showing signs of habitation. I carefully took the Succubus Stone from its wrapping... The gold gleaming in the torch light and the gems on it glowing brilliantly as if it sought out its home much like I did. I set it carefully on the altar and backed up and waited. And waited.... My heart began to sink...

"Wh-What...? No glow? No.... No rumbling? No release of some trap finding its trigger being pushed in?" I asked myself inspecting all parts of the room around me and the altar up and down. "Is... is this even the real altar? Is this even the correct artifact? I... I swear I never let it out of my sight... Mother wouldnt hide it from me.... Would she?" I started tearing up starting to fear something was wrong... "No... I... No.... this... this cant be right... this has to be some sort of joke! I.... I cant be losing my sister.... I CANT BE!" I rushed the altar shoulder checking it to no avail. Hurt myself a bit but I didnt care as I started crying hard. I bucked at the altar screaming, tears coming down my cheeks.... One of those bucks caught the succubus stone and I just froze seeing it teeter for a moment. I stayed frozen watching it come back and forth on its bottom but... it went too far forward and fell onto its side and I dove for it. I was there to catch it but... it landed just between my arms smashing before my eyes. But that did it. It sent out a burst of magic sending me flying across the room. I rolled stunned as the room started to glow a bright blue. The flames on the torches turned blue as I carefully got to my hooves fixing my helmet and rubbing the dust from my eye. When I got up and looked to where the broken idol was I froze... not because I felt scared not knowing if what I did was right or not but... what I saw before me. Four stallions, transparent, glowing and... I might not have recognized three of them but one... I could never forget his... It was my father... I hesitantly approached not even breaking my gaze. "...D-Daddy?" I asked.

My father smiled. "Daring... My little girl all grown up... I see you've gone and made something for yourself..." He said, his voice was reverberating slightly. Not enough to distort but enough for me to notice. "How did you know to destroy that thing and save us?"

"I... I.... I didnt... I just... I started throwing a tantrum... thinking I had lost Ditzy..." He sighed and stepped away from the stallions to hug me. It was weird to feel... It was cold yet... I still felt him rest my head on his shoulder.

"I hope you arent too late.... your sister doesnt need the torture we've endured..." He broke the embrace and stepped away. "If you do see your sister... Tell her I love her and miss her... Thank you for releasing us Daring... Be a good girl now... I... I have to go..."

"N-No! Please... Stay! Dont go!" I reached out for him but he just.... Gave a face of regret.

"I... I wish I could but... the mother in the sky calls... Send a prayer later... I'll be sure to send good fortune your way for this... Farewell my beautiful daughter." I'm not gonna lie here I wiped tears from my eyes smiling. I got to see and hear my fathers voice for one final time... Even after his death.

"...Alright... I will... Goodbye daddy... I love you...." I watched sniffling as each stallion faded away... my father was the last one to go. After that I went and looked at the scraps of the idol that lay on the ground. I didnt know which parts were cursed or if all of it were cursed. Either way I kicked it all behind the altar and went back topside. The walk felt longer than usual on the way back up. I was nervous returning to mother... I wanted to tell her that I talked to father again... Ask her if she thinks we saved Ditzy and that if she wanted to come back with me to see her... But when I did get to her she was on her side... I thought.... I thought she was sleeping... Tired from waiting and deciding to nap but... when... When I tried to wake her she didnt... Took a pulse... Listened for a heart beat.... nothing. Not a single heart beat. I even tried to perform CPR to get her heart started again but to no avail... No breaths, no heart beat... I just lost it there... I screamed and cried for her to wake up and stop playing around... I wanted this all to be a horrid nightmare that I'd wake up from, thinking the idol in the cave broke and the magical blast from it sent me into a wall knocking me out... I bit my own arm to check but no... Nothing... just pain. I had to check my map with tears clouding my vision and my sobs choking me up too much to even send a letter to who ever I could contact for aid. I used a blanket to cover my mothers body before taking off for a village due south. I felt as if I flew for days with how hard I was crying. I landed at their guard outpost, 'donated' a bag full of bits to shut them up and told them to get a cart for my mothers body to be retrieved... They got to it post haste and had me guide them... They had lied me and my mother down in the back... Her wrapped in a body bag and I asked to be brought to Canterlot or Ponyville... that one of the Princesses, Twilight or Luna... Or even Celestia for that matter would allow me inside.

Along that way I had passed out with no energy to use to keep myself awake. I found myself falling deep into sleep where I started to dream. I found myself on a cloud pathway... Darkness around me but I saw a light ahead. I started running to it. Things got brighter as I ran for the light. The path got wider and wider until I came to a golden gate. When I got to that gate I saw one pony skipping around outside... It was Ditzy! I quickly rushed her and hugged her starting to cry yet again. "Daring? Daring I'm all better! No sickies no mores!" She said.

"....I... I'm too late.... I lost you...."

"Lost? I's right here! No cry Daring!" I just couldnt stop crying at this point. She held me tight and close.... almost as if I were there with her. I cried with her for but a few moments before I feel a hoof rest on my shoulder.

I looked back only to see Princess Luna standing over me. I went from my sister straight over to her and she just shushed me, rubbing my back. "...Daring... Calm down... You're alright and so is your sister..." The Princess of dreams said. "I must say you're lucky... I had to fight hoof and feather to get this arranged. Not many are lucky to walk the clouds above and see their loved ones... You two are out of me, Celestia, and two other ponies granted this liberty of visiting the cloudy heavens."

I looked around. Golden and ivory pillars dotted the cloudscape, golden shining gates stood just before us and above the gate brilliantly written in cursive was 'Heaven'. I looked back to Luna. "....Princess i.... Is this... really the afterlife?" I asked sniffling. She nodded.

"Yes. Thou art seeing the afterlife for the good ponies who had done good in their lives. I had a few strings pulled and well... it wasnt easy but I convinced my mother- the goddess herself- to allow your mother to come here after sacrificing herself to save thine sister.... She's here... reunited with your father and happy together..." She stood me up and wiped my tears with her wings. "Come. Allow me to lead you to them." She beckoned Ditzy to my side and had us follow. It felt nice holding Ditzy's wing in mine... Knowing I'd be able to do this again and again when alone or walking somewhere in the dead of night comforted me. We walked through the gates and past ponies who looked happy to be here... running along side their loved ones who had passed on, new friends they had made and those who looked at peace for their lives ending the way they did. Some old, some young... some too young for me to even want to know how they got up here in the first place... Luna looked back at us. "Seeing the sights?" I met her gaze and nodded. "Good. Its a sight to see all these good ponies... some gone too soon... others gone when it was their time. Most I've had the pleasure of meeting before they passed... Some I wish I had met and talked with them when they were alive... Those that take their lives are either brought up here or spend eternity down below... others? Neither mother nor father know where they lie and they still walk amongst the living never to be seen or heard... Perhaps after you meet with mother and spend time with your parents I might ask that you meet somepony from history for you to ask a question of."

"I would but... perhaps another time... its... Still kinda hard knowing we're here to visit with our parents... And me... you know...."

"Trust me I know... Those other two ponies I mentioned? Ponyville residents. Brother and Sister. They had just arrived back at home just to see their parents after they were murdered in cold blood... The sister screamed and cried both at home and at school every time someone mentioned their parents for months until I stepped in and helped. They visit every now and then to make sure things are alright and that nobody is thinking anything dark... The brother nearly took his own life until I had given him a purpose to live. General of the guard just to protect his little sister. He is a fan of yours by the by. Perhaps I can arrange something for him if you wish?"

"I think I know him. Twilight introduced us and he was nervous as anything but he warmed up when I showed him some appreciation via a few autographs." And... A night we both wont forget but it shuts him up knowing he slept with me. Yeah... I slept with a guard. Wasnt really the first thing I wanted to do but when I heard it was is birthday I had to make an exception. Oh the way he looked after the fact was kinda funny but it was under the order of a princess... Nonetheless it was an experience.

"Exactly. He and his sister are granted time up here with their parents as are you. All you need to do is ask." She looked forth yet again. "Ah good. Speaking of parents mother is here." I looked around Princess Luna only see my parents, white wings on each talking with a tall Alicorn Mare, taller than Celestia. Pure white coat, red mane and golden gates as a cutie mark. "Mother! Oh mother! I have brought their children as requested!" The alicorn looked to us and Ditzy and I both bowed in respect. I looked to Ditzy.

"Ditz.... Why dont you go to mother and father? Show them how grown up you are."

Ditzy smiled and nodded pushing her way past the two alicorns in front of us. I saw her just hug mother with father joining in. The Alicorn mare looked to me and smiled. "So you're the one who saved your sisters life and set your fathers spirit free!" She said. "My word.... That relic kept souls from reaching their intended destinations and kept the soul that had the relic from passing on which in most cases would get you a one way ticket to meet my husband but with the way your mother came to you and acted like a mother... And a little nudge from Luna... I can make an exception and absolve her of her sins. What is thy name?" I swallowed. Do I tell her my real name? My pen name?

"M-My name is uh... D-Daring Do... And... A.K. Yearling ma'am.... I write books of adventures I have and i... exaggerate some of the things that happen in them... And you must be the mother in the sky." She smiled brightly.

"Yes. Heavens Light at your service. Pleased to make your acquaintance Daring. Your heart is in the right place if you're helping your family the way you do. I'm happy to allow you and your sister time with thy parents. Luna told me what happened with thy parents when you were young and I am sorry for that..."

"I... Its okay but... if you had said that when I was younger I would've said otherwise... Can I just... Talk with my mother and father please? I.... I hoped to have much more time with my mother..."

"Very well Daring. Take as much time as you need." I gave a nod before joining my sister.

When I did my mother took hold of my sister who was crying into her shoulder while Father took me aside. "Daring.... I... I wish I could've seen both of your cutie marks...." He said. "...I'm proud you and your sister got yours at the same time even when it was under the circumstances.... What happened to your sister to have her eyes the way they are?" I sighed sitting down next to him.

"...She overheard mother trying to say you were okay but we both knew you werent... Ditzy ran off, flew out the window and hit some trees after a bird hit her... she fell so hard I almost couldnt look her in the eye without crying weeks after..." I looked to him. "...I wish I could've at least said goodbye to you... But with Ditzy the way she was and how mother lied to us... I just...." I started tearing up again. He brought me in and hugged me.

"It's okay... I understand.... You're sisters and you stay together no matter what... I still remember a time we couldnt have you two do different things without one of you crying to get your sister involved. But now that I know what you really do? I'd say I'm extremely proud of my little girls... If I could've cooked you one last breakfast as a farewell... I'd make it so breakfast was all day, every day.... Just so I wouldnt have to leave..." He kissed me on my forehead holding me close shushing me until mother and Ditzy came over.

Ditzy had tears streaming down her cheeks and mother was holding her hoof. "Here we are.... Come on hug your sister... She's here for you...." Mother said. Ditzy grabbed a hold of me and squeezed me and father tight. "There we are.... Daring I... I want to say I'm sorry for putting you and your sister in danger with that stupid thing... I wish i hadnt found it in the first place but then... where would you be...? My beautiful baby girls...."

I lied Ditzy's head on my shoulder looking to my mother. "Mother... I honestly take back everything bad I ever said about you since you left... and trust me it was a lot when I say that..." I said. "...You truly did love us... I didnt realize that until now to change my mind... I... I apologize if I gave you any attitude during our adventure mother.... I had even hoped to take you back to Ditzy... introduce you to her daughter and have dinner with us possibly..."

"I would've liked that.... Though if I had known this would've taken the life out of me I'd've told you and I would've gotten to say goodbye instead of you finding me the way you did. I'm sorry about that...." She joined the embrace.

"You didnt know... But... If its one thing you do its leave without saying goodbye.... But I forgive that.... I hope you can at least forgive me for the way I acted...."

"I do Daring... I forgive you..." She too kissed me on my forehead. And for once I felt as if we were a complete family, not bound by time, hatred or anything... but bound by love...

For the rest of the time Ditzy and I spent time talking, playing and sitting with our family members. When it was time to go Ditzy and I cried... Luna promised we can see them whenever we wished though Ditzy would be brought here when feeling down or something. No doubt she'd say something to the doctor about all this... Saying she saw mother in a dream and such... He'd chalk it up to her passing since if you remember when my father passed he did. I told Luna I didnt know if I could thank her enough but she told me it was not necessary. When I woke up I found myself in a familiar yet... unfamiliar room. It was one I recognized but one that just made me feel weird wondering why I was here. It was my old room... Ditzy's bed except a tad bit bigger And the window looking out? It was a painting of a forest... The forest I saw once as a little filly. My stuff was tucked into a corner, my helmet on top and my vest folded neatly under it. I turned to the door and hesitantly opened it. To my surprise I saw the inside of Twilight's castle. And pacing outside the door was Twilight herself. The click of her hooves almost masked the mumbling under her breath. I opened the door all the way and just rushed out surprising her as I hugged her. She hugged me back. "Daring thank goodness you're awake..." She said. "I am so sorry for your loss... With your mother and just.... I cant imagine that happening..." She pried me off of her. "Are you okay? Do you want something to drink?" I tried speaking but my mouth was as dry as a bone. "I'll take that as a yes. Tea, water, anything you need is yours. Wont even object to alcohol but I have to limit you after what you went through." She took my hoof and walked me all the way to her dining room just a few doors down from where I was. "By the by... Luna gave me the idea for the room... Do you like it?" I gave a nod as she sat me down at her table.

"It's a very sweet gesture..." I said wheezing slightly. "Now... Something to drink? Water for now and.... Maybe something to snack on? I feel like I havent eaten for hours... What time is it?" She looked to a clock she had on her wall as she went to the fridge. I couldnt see rightly what time it was.

"Its about nine at night... You slept most of the day....Did you get any rest last night?" I shook my head being as truthful as I could. I watched as she used her magic to put together a daisy sandwich and take a pitcher of water from the fridge and pour it into a glass she pulled from the cabinet. "I hope it wasnt due to your sisters sickness..." She set the glass in front of me preparing a quick side of cucumber slices around the sandwich. I took the glass and sipped carefully and nearly drank the entire glass I was so thirsty. Felt so nice. I set the now half empty glass back onto the table.

"No. It was from a storm... It... Scared the heck out of me i must say... brought back memories about something that happened in my youth... When it rains I'm alright... But once it starts pouring with Thunder I just get scared... Badly... I might add..." She sighed as she now set the plate in front of me. I snacked on a few cucumber slices as she sat next to me.

"Sounds like Ryder... He may be a pegasus but when it storms, his sister has to go to her friends house and he's gotta go somewhere to sleep... most likely here for me to soundproof the room..." She looked to me. "I can allow you the liberty if you're ever in the area again..." I smiled a bit.

"Thank you... I... I feel like I might be in town for a bit... Both for my sake and my sisters sake... And now I can just hope I can have mother buried in the cemetary... next to father... it's what she would've wanted...." I hung my head, still with a smile on my face as a tear streamed down my cheek.

"Please dont cry more.... The guards said you were almost hysterical crying about your mother..... I dont wanna have to use my old foal sitters magic on you too..." I wiped my eyes sniffling a bit.

"...Sorry... Its just.... She's been gone most of my life... left me and my sister when we were just getting our cutie marks.... left the same day of actually... Worst part was it was the same day father had passed from his sickness and the same day Ditzy started looking the way she does..."

"Understood.... I'm here for you though. I can see what I can do for you to give your mother a resting place here in Ponyville... I.... I can have you stay here if you desire until then... shouldnt take but a couple weeks if that." I thought as I sipped my water more, the cool liquid still felt good.

"...That sounds wonderful.... Though I might need to step out.... Do you have the spare dress, glasses and hat so I can step out incognito?" She nodded. "Good... Being cooped up is something I'd rather not be... Speaking of being cooped up... Is there any way we can have my sister come here? I..." I got a bit choked up. She rested a wing on my back.

"I'll get her over here just for you. I can have her here immediately if its not too late or I can have her here tomorrow morning. Which ever is better." I sighed.

"Its late... I shouldnt-" Just then I heard the clang of armor and the click of hooves come down the hall. I looked to the door and in comes a guard.

He was a pegasus guard His mane was a dirty blonde that almost tapered off into a black color. His armor was golden, wings were a bit messy but he never cared. "Princess I-" He said stopping when he saw me. This. This was Ryder... and the guard I slept with... Not bad in bed. "Oh uh... Miss Yearling.... I.... Good to see you up and awake..." I smiled.

"It's fine... It's just us here sir..." He looked back down the hall to his right.

"I'd agree but... Princess uh... we have some unintended guests... It's that 'Hooves' Family... they say you're expecting them. Do I need to swear them to secrecy or hide 'Miss Yearling' here?"

Twilight sighed allowing me to take a bite of my sandwich. "No need to do either... General you're about to learn something I was glad to know..." She said. "I was more glad to know this than to know the turth about who 'Miss Yearling' really was. As for now lead them up and swear your secrecy to keep this close to heart as you have with Daring's identity."

The guard gave a nod blushing a bit before turning back out of the room and trotting down the hall. I swallowed looking to Twilight again. "...He's gonna flip hearing this huh? Just like you did." I said. She chuckled slightly as she used her magic to get a tea set to appear on the counter nearby.

"That's gonna be an understatement. He's always making sure your sister's alright when something happens to her. Either when its her fault or if someone is being an ass. He's even walked her home a few times when there were dangerous animals about that Fluttershy had to calm... Mountain lions are a pain when they think attacking ponies is a good way to ask for help with a thorn in its paw... Though he's gotta make sure everyones okay just for the sake of his sister..."

"Sounds a lot like yours truly... Make sure everyones okay just for my sister... Though I cant fix everyone..."

"Nor can I... Or even Ryder for that matter and he's pretty much the local engineer and fixes just about everything he can...." She got up as she put some water into the teapot before setting it on the stove and turning it on. "Now sit tight and eat. I'm gonna go make sure Derp- I mean... Ditzy.... feels right at home in your new room... Its always gonna be open if Canterlot is too far for you." I smiled.

"I'd... I'd like that Twilight... Thank you..." That night was fun. Ryder got to see the Do family for the first time and within a week mother got buried. Doc, Ditzy, Dinky, me, Twilight, her friends and Ryder all came, Ryder because... well... a guard has to be near a Princess at all times. I'm not saying I cried but... Ditzy and the Doc had to hold me close while they lowered the coffin into the ground. I stayed there for hours with Ditzy to say my goodbyes as many times as I could before Ryder had to lead us out of the graveyard and back to town. Told us he was starting to get an uneasy feeling and might cry if he stayed too long... Didnt know his parents were buried just a few plots over. And even though Twilight had a room for me and Ditzy... I stayed in Ditzy's guest room for the rest of the week before going back to my home outside canterlot. I even stopped at the alley way and just gave a sigh sitting near it.... hoping mother would surprise me again... and that i'd be able to start anew... Sadly that didnt happen... I went back home and started writing the new book... Changed names, changed roles and even the setting... I had the hardest time writing this book knowing all the details, the panic I had endured and the emotions I had to go through just to get to this point. But... There are more adventures ahead. Remember the good times, forget the bad. Love who you can before they're gone... It might be soon, it might not.... it hurts all the same. As for now... Until next time.

Author's Note

I'm not gonna lie I had a hard time writing this last chapter. I may or may not have more Daring Do and Ditzy Do related stories in the future I'm not sure. But I knew I needed to complete this just to tick it of my list of things to do. While you're here check out some of my other stuff. Sonata's Ryde will also make a comeback and that will be finished soon too. I might even look at some older fanfics, decide whether or not they're worth going back to at this point.