The Rise and Fall

Alright... First there was a swatting incident at a recent abuse victims place, the victims being Button Mash- a little colt around Scootaloo's age- and his mother Cream Heart. Cream Heart was happy to have me spend the night to keep myself from drifting off while I drifted off the road. Woke up, had breakfast and had to take Button to my place because his mother ended up going to the hospital. I had to drop him off, put him down for a nap and head out to get Babs and apparently while I was picking Babs up he wet the bed and now I've gotta pick up some sleep diapers for him... And I know he isnt gonna like it. Right now I've got Babs sitting in the passenger seat of the car with her bags in the back seat. She was dressed in jeans and a Manehattan baseball shirt that I guess Celestia bought for her when they went clothes shopping after the incident. Even though her family still had the money for it Celestia insisted on helping them out more. Yeah... Even more than me having to bug Celestia to let them use her summer home while they got a new home built. It's actually kinda nice the way they have the house just outside of Ponyville but they are still with in distance for Babs to head to school. She even told me her first days were kinda iffy with some of the ponies there but at least they werent ones where she was bullied right off the bat. She actually was put in Cheerilee's class with the girls so she had someone to talk to if something came up. Anyways I sighed pulling up street side by the diaper shop. Paddy actually got a bit of business from Twilight both physically and referrals. Basically had to move shops to one with an actual parking lot and a bit of a bigger set up. Still had a spot to live too. Better than an upstairs loft. Anyways we pulled into a spot in front and hopped out. Paddy being his normal self greeted us as we walked in. "Ryder! Welcome to ye and your little friend there!" He said coming from behind the counter. He was wearing a long white teeshirt with a red stripe across the chest and jeans with sneakers. Hips were a bit wide but barely noticable.

I smiled looking around the shop Still kinda bare bones but a few shelves to hold more stock. Back room was still his room and basically a changing room as well. Pretty easy working in a place you live in. Stay open some hours, maybe close if you're not feeling too good, maybe close because you're 'out to lunch' and just take a nap for an hour. But anyways I looked to him. "Been a bit hasnt it Paddy?" I said. "Nice new place." He came up and hugged me.

"Thank ya kindly!" He replied breaking off after a moment. He looked to Babs who just kinda hid her face a bit. "And what might your name be missy?" Babs kinda grabbed my hand and turned away nervous. I sighed.

"Paddy, this is Babs... She's my cousin in law and I'm just grabbing some stuff for her and someone who I'm watching over at the moment... Work stuff basically. Kinda wondering if you have some stuff that's gender neutral for both of them. Maybe to share... Reaching my spending limit here soon because we're still putting some money aside for supplies to build a new house. Working out square footage and all that beforehand." He gave me a quick glance.

"Gotya. Perfect discount for ya being a veteran 'nd all. You want me to get the same size for your sister or ya want me to just get a measurement on her?" I hummed a bit looking to Babs. She looked kinda uneasy. I sighed.

"Just give me a moment. I gotta check what size the other one is first." I looked to Babs and knelt down to her level. She looked at me looking a bit embarrassed. "Babs can you go with Paddy here? I'll be real quick okay?" Babs hesitantly nodded and took Paddy's hand walking back with him towards the counter. I grabbed my phone from my pocket and looked at the screen. No texts. Not even from Big Mac like AJ said he would do.

I ended up going to my texts and starting a call to Big Mac. It took a moment but I quickly connected just to hear him give a disgruntled sigh. "What do you want Ry I'm tryin' ta get my bed all flipped AND get my new clean sheets on..." He said. "You're lucky AJ got me new sheets that Rarity picked out while she was at Manehattan... These were supposed to be for my birthday y'know! Take that as a little reminder for your dumbass to remember!" I huffed.

"Dont worry I got you something and I'm not lying like I did Hearths Warming. You still got that game you wanted didnt you?" I asked. "But enough about that I need to know Button's pant size. I'm at the shop and Babs doesnt wanna take too long... Doesnt like being seen in a store like this." He sighed as I heard his bed creek a bit as he set his mattress down.

"Just give me a sec.... AJ is washing him still.... Kinda feel sorry for the kid because all he said was he was sorry when we ran in after he yelled a bit...Kept telling him it was okay but he just kept on crying... didnt have to pry it out of him on what it was about... He's still scared about hackin' and some shit.... even misses his momma. Cant say I dont know that feelin'.... Speakin' of mothers hows yours? She still wanting to do a little flight routine with you for a big reveal?" I sighed starting to browse the aisle.

"Yeah. I'll be getting in contact with her in a week or so... How ever long it is until Button's mother gets out of the hospital... Still gotta call Twilight. Now do you have the pants size yet?" He huffed a bit.

"Yeah just give me a sec... Just got upstairs." I heard him knock on a door and wait a moment. "Applejack! Ryder's on the phone wonderin' what size pants Button wears." I waited a moment, hearing a bit of murmuring behind the door, even a little lip from the colt. Couldnt make out what it was. "Ah alright. AJ says he wears a boys large. Just... AJ had to tell em how we did it in this house and he aint too fond of it but.... it's what we gotta do just to make sure he dont ruin more pants or where ever he's sleeping..."

"Well hopefully he's not gonna wet the bed at Twilight's castle.... IF she lets us do that.... otherwise we're gonna have to have Button share a room with someone and I'm sure he'd rather share a room with Sweetie Belle.... Hope Rarity lets-"

"Ry. Call Twilight. Stop talking. I'll call Rarity, ask if it's okay if we borrow her sister for Button's sake. You just do what you need to. We'll let ya know when you get home. Now get on it. No more screwin' around. See ya soon."

He hung up on me soon after. I huffed shoving my phone back to my pocket coming back up to the front. There i saw Babs sucking on a lollipop looking a bit happier with the situation. Paddy looked to me. "All done there? Ya got his size so I can getcha in and out?" He asked. "Your little friend here told me this was supposed to be a quick stop. Doesnt want anyone she knows to see her here but I told her if anyone saw her in here she'd have to ask why they'd come in to see her in the first place. Gave her a little laugh and a sweet to boot."

I smiled a bit. "Thanks for that Paddy. Colts large for pants. Just a small package if you have any. Shouldnt be long before he kicks the bedwetting and the paranoia..." I said. I looked to Babs as she popped the sucker from her mouth. "You wear something of similar size dont you Babs?" She blushed and nodded. I looked to Paddy. "Can you find something that works for both colts and filly's? I kinda need a word with Babs here." Paddy smiled and hurried around the counter.

"Right on it Ryder! I'll be back faster than a... I'll be back!" He replied. I hopped up on the counter as he went to browse the aisles for me. I looked to Babs as she started sucking on the lollipop again.

"Babs... I know this is embarrassing but... can you be there for Button? I dont know if he's like Scootaloo and have to wear while someone else is wearing or if he's just gonna wear it regardless but.... I just know he's gonna be embarrassed about it... complain saying he doesnt need em but you know how we have to do things... Dont want wet pants, no wet sheets and just in case... no messes because you trusted your gut too much... Trust me it's happened more than you think... Long story short please just be there for him... He might want a player 2 when Sweetie Belle is busy and I know you like gaming and Princess Twilight has a few consoles for her guards and for when Luna or Twilight's brother visits or even for when Spike is bored. You can do that cant you? Keep him distracted and keep his mind off his mother."

Babs gave a sigh. "...I guess so... But... He aint gonna be like that one kid that I had to play with trying to help my dad get someone's business is he...?" She asked. "That boy... Luna had to come scare him into confessing... he... did things that I cant forget.... hit me and... even.... touched me bad...." I huffed.

"I'm sorry that happened Babs... Hope that kid got the biggest grounding if not jailtime... But no he's not gonna be like that.... if he does do something you dont like you know where to come... I'll put him in his place even if it's not gonna make me happy about it..."

"Good... I just wanna get the diapers and get out of here... I dont like being here even knowing I have to wear em..."

"We're as good as gone once we get em rung up." I smiled before we both hopped off the counter and waited for Paddy to come back up. After that we were out of there and back on the road. Had the music off this time to make a phone call to Twilight. I waited a moment while I listened for the buzzing. I turned down a few side streets just to buy me some time.

The phone clicked soon after a red light turned green. "Ryder can this call wait? I'm kinda busy right now... Guest is a bit tired of being stuck in her room and I'm trying to keep her out of there.... You're not calling to talk to her are you? You should have her number!" Princess Twilight snapped a bit. I sighed speeding up just as a light turned yellow. The roar of the engine definitely got Babs excited from the way she kinda gave a little squeal.

"No it's not that but... Would like to visit later if possible... But I have a HUGE favor to ask you. It's important and I will do anything to get this favor!"

"Alright... What is it?" She asked sounding defeated.

"Okay... So... Surely your castle was put on lockdown last night because of something happening in Town right?"

"....yeah? You werent the cause of it were you?" I turned down the road going towards home.

"Hell no! Why would I be calling you if I did do that? But ignoring that question and explaining, apparently a kid got swatted and I got called down there in the middle of the night to make sure they were alright which they were. Spent the night there, woke up to breakfast the kids mom cooked but now she's in the hospital and now I've basically got a full house and I'm wondering if we could take part of the castle for the night. I'll buy pizza, we can just stay in the entertainment room and all the kids will be in bed by nine thirty! Promise!" All I heard was silence for a moment as I stopped at a stoplight. She sighed soon after.

"Fine... You can have a sleep over here... But I will have guards at my guests door just to let you know you are NOT allowed in there until everyone else has left. And I mean everyone. Wife, kids, brother in law and who ever else is included. If you're the only one in the castle then you can see her. If not, all access is barred off. When you get here, lead everyone into the entertainment room or where ever their rooms are and report to me. Understood?"

"Understood Princess. But... Another favor?" She sighed.

"How many are coming...?"

"The family, the colt I'm looking over, AJ's cousin and Sweetie Belle. That's all but... Kinda would like a transport or two to fit us all..." She sighed.

"Two transports. Everyone better be ready when they get there. Make sure they have all they need, report to me when you're here."

"Yes Ma'am. See you soon Princess. Tell your guest I'll be well away from her until that time comes. And... If she has time to meet with me."

"I'll let her know. Over and out General..." And like that she hung up. I huffed as I started turning into Sweet Apple Acres.

Babs didnt ask who it was that was there- not like I'd tell her anyways. When we got back Button was back on the couch looking a bit embarrassed. He didnt even fight when I said he had to put a diaper on him. Told me his mother had to do it years ago when he was bed wetting more and more as the abuse went on from his father. Plus... Potty training reverted itself I guess... But still he didnt fight it. As we waited I guess we had a bit of lunch that I had to remake for Button because he doesnt like apple butter, he doesnt like honey but does like almond butter which we dont have so he just had a jelly sandwich. As we ate Sweetie Belle and Big Mac came around (yeah he left to get her after the call I had to do to get pants size) and about a little while after that we all started heading out. Babs, AJ, Sweetie Belle, Applebloom and Scootaloo in one truck while Me, Big Mac and Button got our own. Button had his bags clutched close while I had a few bags next to me. One filled with clothes, the other filled with spares both for adults- yes me- and the kids. Big Mac sighed resting a hand on Button's shoulder. "Everythin's alright... Aint nothin' to be ashamed of bud..." He said. "We've all been there before... Hell Ry's been there a good several times before... Wettin' the bed because you got scared is completely natural." I blushed a bit as Button gave a whimper.

The colt leaned on me sniffling a bit. "...I... I want my mom...." He said.

I brushed his mane a bit. "...Your mom is gonna be fine... I can check in with the hospital, see if its alright to visit..." I said. "You really need to breathe Button... Calm down... I dont want you being admitted to the hospital too because you kept getting sick or you hurt yourself having not slept or eaten... Just breathe...."

"B-but... But..." I shushed him.

"It's okay... Trust me... When we get to the castle I'll call the hospital so you can talk to your mom okay?" He nodded. "Good... Now just chill and breathe... C'mon lets do it together.... Breathe in...." We all started breathing in deeply. Button's breathing was a bit shakey but still okay. "And out...." We all gave a sigh. "In. Hold for a few seconds.... and release....." We did this about two more times before Button calmed down. I even opened up the cooler and grabbed him a juice pouch... I took one too just because I dont have that liberty all that often... Scoot and Applebloom REALLY take their juice pouches seriously. Got yelled at when they caught me drinking one that they had left over from a pack that Applebloom didnt like. Scoot let me know.

But we went and got to the castle without any more tears. Pulled in to the underground garage and we all went up together in the elevator. I had Babs, Button and Scootaloo close to me while Applebloom and Sweetie Belle talked about school and how Diamond was throwing a party soon. Big Mac and AJ were just on their phones. When we got to the top of the elevator the doors opened revealing Princess Twilight and Spike standing there. Twilight was wearing jeans and a long white teeshirt. Spike was still in his pajamas. Black tank top and basketballs shorts. Twilight smiled as we all stepped off the elevator. "Welcome everyone! Glad everyone could be here! I was getting a bit lonely here." She said.

Twilight looked to Applejack and hugged her as she came up. "Glad to come sugarcube! How's things here? Any trouble for house work?" She asked. Twilight shook her head.

"Nope. Things are being cleaned with the maids around the castle." She looked to me. "Guards bringing everyones bags up to their respective rooms?"

I nodded. "Yes ma'am. I requested them to put my bags into a room nearby where the kids are staying." I replied. "Gotta be there for Button here." I patted Button's head as he just hugged my leg. Twilight smiled and knelt down next to me looking to Button.

"So YOU'RE the little gamer colt Ryder's been talking about! I'll have you know we have a few consoles in the entertainment room just for you and your friends to play. Even got a few controllers for Bass Villain if you like that sort of stuff but watch out around Scootaloo. She's getting to be quite the professional at that game." Button hid his face into my hip kinda shy about speaking with the princess. I sighed and picked him up.

"It's okay Button she's trying to be nice." I looked to Spike setting Button down on the other side of me. "Spike! Think you can lead them all to the Entertainment room to start up a game? I gotta have a word with Twilight." Spike nodded just as Applejack took Button's hand. Twilight stood up and we both watched everyone walk down the hall. After they disappeared around the corner I turned to Twilight and sighed. "What do you need Princess?" She sighed.

"First off... Full report of what the hell happened last night... Why was I woken up out of a dead sleep that you had to go and put a stop to?"

"Swatting. Button was swatted by hackers, he and his mom were hiding in the house, they called me in and I got the guards to go away with zero injuries or casualties. I only have Button with me now because this morning his mother went into the hospital for severe abdominal pain and he thinks the hackers are after him to ruin his life. He already got scared during a nap and wet the bed while I was out... He seems to be calm right now and I'm supposed to call the hospital so he can talk with his mother. Think you can at least allow me to get that call out before putting me to work?"

"I suppose so... Make it quick. We're supposed to be having lunch soon and Spike needs help making sandwiches for everypony. It's Scootaloo who doesnt like Peanut butter right?" I nodded.

"And Applebloom doesnt like strawberry jelly. Says it gives her really bad stomach aches..."

"Good. None here because our guest is highly allergic. Now the call before we get stuck trying to figure out what stuff Button, Sweetie Belle and Babs likes." I gave a nod and pulled my phone from my pocket starting to dial up the hospital number.

I walked over to the wall putting my phone on speaker and waiting for them to pick up. Twilight came over and joined me before a moment later they finally answered. "Ponyville Medical Center, How may I direct your call." The nurse on the otherside asked. Male nurse.

I looked to Twilight and then back to the phone. "Code Golden Giant. Need to speak with a one Cream Heart. Should've been checked in this morning." I said.

"One moment please." Then came the boring music. Waiting room music that would put you to sleep. It lasted for only a moment before the music cut off having the nurse come back on. "Sorry for the wait but apparently she's due for surgery with in the hour." Twilight and I looked to each other a bit shocked. I looked back to the phone.

"Surgery? What for?" The nurse hummed a bit as he typed a bit on the computer.

"Says here... There was a sharp object in her bowels. Blood was present in her stool samples and she needed surgery after it was found in an xray. The surgery should be minimally invasive meaning she should be up by tomorrow morning. I'll leave a note for the doctor to have her call once she's finally awake. May I have your number sir?" I quickly and clearly gave him my number before hanging up. That's when I looked to Twilight and just huffed.

"This is NOT good... Button's gonna freak..."

Twilight put a hand on her hip. "Oh come on he cant be that bad!" She said. I facepalmed.

"Twilight... This kid screamed when his mom was heading to the hospital... He passed out, took a nap and woke up in soaked sheets while I was out getting Babs and even had to make a special stop just to get diapers... Hell that kid felt so awkward on the way over having to wear a diaper in between two stallions who knew the embarrassment of wetting the bed! All he could say is 'I want my mom!' Do you know how it feels to have to hear your only parent be driven away crying in pain in an ambulance after what could've been a deadly stand off with the guard? I dont know that feeling either but it hurts nonetheless!" Twilight huffed.

"Alright... Sorry before you go and flip out on me... And yeah... Havent had that... only time I had a parent be taken by ambulance was when my dad hit his head and was bleeding pretty bad... Lucky me he's still the same ol dad I've come to know and love." She glanced down the hall a bit making me look over as well. We looked back to each other and huffed. "We should just get in there before they suspect something... I can tell you that story later if you wish." I nodded and we started back down the hall.

After a bit we came to the entertainment room where I saw Applejack standing outside leaning against the wall. She looked to us and smiled. "Thank goodness you two showed up." She said. "Almost thought Ry was in a bit of trouble. Thought I was gonna have to go find him to make sure make sure he wasnt hiding away, or running back home... You know how he is when he's hurt." Applejack brought me in for a hug still looking to Twilight. She sighed.

"Yeah... He's alright. Not in trouble for much other than calling me at a bit of an inopportune time... Had a little time with you-know-who since she needed a bit of time way from her room. She's been getting a bit restless in her room and coming out of that room is rare. Only when she needs something extremely important other than a bathroom break." I blushed a bit here. She patted me on the back. "And that doesnt mean she's using her pants. Toilet connected to her room so nobody got any ideas of blocking the door just as a prank. But I'm sure if you ask nicely after everyone leaves you might be able to get a show with wifey and her."

I blushed pushing Twilight away with my wings. "Twilight! Do you want me to go into a room full of kids with a hard on?" I asked whispering. "I'd rather not have a filly hop into my lap and feel that! Its already weird enough having wet yourself in a diaper and having them in your lap even as youre going!" That happened a few weeks ago. I was watching a movie while everyone was out of the house, I was dressed in sweats, padded up and thought nobody was gonna be home for a while... wrong... Applebloom and Scoot burst through the door right as I'm wetting myself and Applebloom decides to sit on my lap to watch the movie. Dont worry it wasnt anything bad but I was freaking out just in case my diaper leaked. Nobody noticed thank god but it was nerveracking. Anyways she gave a huff.

"Sorry sorry. We really shouldnt have that!" She said blushing and rubbing the back of her head. "Just... Let me talk to her about that before I go saying anything I'll regret... But... when you go in there can you send Big Mac out? I need to talk with him and Applejack for a moment." I nodded fixing myself and making sure I wasnt at all hard.... Just had to think of Granny smith naked... Works every time. When I entered I saw Big Mac sitting in one of the chairs while Sweetie Belle, Applebloom and Babs were sitting around drawing and Scootaloo and Button were playing Bass Villain as Spike sat off to the side. I walked over to Big Mac and tapped him on the shoulder. He looked to me.

"Twilight needs to speak with you outside. I can take it from here."

My brother in law gave a nod and got up from his seat only for me to take it as he walked out. I watched as Scootaloo and Button jammed out. Button was pretty good. Played some Metallicolt on medium. Guess Scootaloo let him get the song of choice because of everything going on. Picked a good song. Forgot the name of it but it's just a power ballad from one of their older albums. Think... 1988? I dont know. I sighed as I listened to it. After a few songs I see Babs come up next to me holding a picture in her hand. I looked to her and smiled just having her blush a bit. "Here." She said handing it to me. "Made it for ya... Figured I need to do somethin' for ya when I couldnt for a while.... For uh... yknow..." I took it from her and looked at it. It was a nice drawing of me and her with her dad, mom and Scootaloo all crowded around me hugging me with the word 'HERO' written above. I looked back at Babs and brought her in for a hug.

"Thank's Babs... But you really dont need to do this stuff for me... I appreciate it though." She nuzzled me a bit. Just as I was about to set her loose she climbed up onto my lap and gave me a kiss on the cheek. This filly is honestly THE sweetest filly I've known other than my sister. I'd kill who ever hurt either of them. Straight up blood on my hands and I wouldnt give a shit after... Unless if one of the fillies saw me do it. Then I'd give a shit. I set her down and looked to her smiling and blushing a bit. "Why dont you go switch out with Scootaloo if you can? I need to talk with her for a sec." Babs gave a nod and hurried over to Button and Scootaloo as they were talking about what song to play next. Babs would probably settle it for em.

I watched as Scootaloo handled the controller off to Babs while Button just kinda blushed a bit. Scootaloo ran right over and hopped into my lap. "Babs said you needed to talk with me?" She asked. I nodded. "What about?" I sighed looking at Button.

"It's... It's his mom... Apparently she went in for surgery not too long ago and he's wanting to speak to his mother..." I looked back at her. "I know I'm taking a risk on telling you because you cant really keep secrets but I need you to distract him as best you can so he forgets all about it. Get him to draw, play more games with him, even talk music with him. If he even tries to come to me give me a signal with your wings or something so I can leave and act like I'm doing something. Okay?"

"Before I answer name one thing I couldnt keep secret!" I sighed rolling my eyes before pulling her in close.

"You couldnt keep it a secret that I pissed myself on a school run to Celestia... You knew that was supposed to stay secret right?" She blushed a bit.

"Sorry...." I huffed setting her back on the ground.

"Sorry doesnt keep Celestia from texting me asking me if I need a diaper when driving to my 'daycare'... And dont worry I'm not mad... Just getting annoyed at this point... Now go play or do something. I'll be here." She nodded and went back over to Button and Babs just as they were starting to play a new song. This one I didnt really know. Something from a new band I'd never heard of. I just watched for a while as they switched off guitars. First it was Babs and Button, then Babs and Scootaloo, then Button and Scootaloo. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle didnt play video games much unless it was those party games. Scootaloo doesnt like em and I sure as hell dont. But yeah its either those party games or those classic console games where its mostly single player and they have to switch off every time they lose a life. Dont know how many times I need to go break it up after someone says 'its my turn you lost your life!' and it escalates into either fighting over the controller. That was until Sweetie Belle broke her controller and Rarity had to buy a new one. She's still banned from bringing it over to the orchard. Only unless Rarity comes over and spends the night which is rare now. After a while Big Mac and Applejack came back in. I let Big Mac take his seat back and I joined Applejack in the back. She looked a bit flustered as I walked up. "Hey AJ, everything alright?" I asked.

Applejack nodded. "Y-Yeah... Just... Twilight had a picture she wanted me to see and... Hooboy..." She said averting her gaze.

"Ah? Was it something I could've seen or...?"

"Yeah but.... It was of you sugarcube... Got me a bit hot under the collar what I saw.... Dont flip but... Last time she had you over she took a few pictures of you after you bedded her.... Just... Hopin' ya dont mind she had those pictures...." She kinda cleared her throat a bit before looking back at me. "So uh... Everyone doin' okay in here? No accidents or cryin?" I sighed glancing at Button. Care free at the moment staring at a screen of colors rushing by on a highway of fire. Though... I know when someone has something on their mind... First and foremost being the way he's acting. He might look happy but he has a terrible tell of nervousness. He twitches his neck a bit.

"No... Not yet at least... I havent told Button yet about his mother going into surgery... She should be out by tomorrow morning the doctor said... Problem is he cant know... Otherwise he'll just think I'm lying and freak out thinking she's dead or something. He still thinks the hacker is gonna send more after him I bet you... Probably didnt sleep much last night after those guards scared the shit out of him and his mother..." I looked at Applejack again. "I wonder what his mother was thinking last night other than making sure I was comfortable.... Wonder what she was thinking before the surgery..." She grabbed at my arm and rubbed my shoulder a bit.

"She probably was glad that her boy was safe n sound. He's all she's got and vise versa. Sure you're like the big brother he never had but I'm sure he's glad to at least have you too. Someone to look up to. Kinda reminds me of you n your sister... Girl looks up to you and everyday she does she thinks 'that's my big brother and I love him!' Wouldnt doubt he'd look to you for advice nobody else can give... Right now that advise is staying calm, staying positive. I know you can do that so maybe teach him to." I huffed pulling away.

"I'm not gonna do that! He will FREAK!" I snapped whispering. "Trust me. I know! It happened with Scootaloo! It'll happen with Button!" I started for the door just to have Applejack follow me. She followed me down the hall a bit before grabbing my hand.

"Ry he aint gonna freak out if you tell him calmly. You gotta tell him sometime tonight when he asks!" I quickly snatched my hand back from her.

"Then why dont you fucking tell him huh? Tell him his mom is in surgery and THEN tell me that he's fine!" We stood looking at each other in silence. Me just mad and her scared. I huffed turning around again. "If you need me I'll be in our room... Then again PLEASE dont need me!" I stormed away leaving my wife alone in the middle of the hallway. I thought she'd call out to me but she didnt. Just let me keep on walking. Ever since we agreed to start a family with a child and what not she's been wanting to do this sooner rather than later. Yeah I kinda wanna get it over with too but she needs to realize that I'm still not ready. Sure I will be in the future but now? I need to get a control of my life, rage and all. I dont want her pregnant and I get so pissed I break something important. Baby crib on standby, toys, maybe even a lamp that sends some shards her way just to cut her a bit. I dont even want the kid to already be out, sleeping or something and I end up sending something flying and hitting em.

I ended up walking all the way to mine and AJ's room. Didnt even want to go in there I was that mad. Did anyways and locked the door behind me before just falling face first onto the bed. I lied there for a good minute before rolling onto my back and grabbing my phone from my pocket. Scrolled through my contacts. Mama Spitfire, Princesses, Button's home number, his mothers number, Gilda, Fluttershy, Dash, Rarity- nobody I could even call. I even scrolled down to one I probably shouldnt call... Especially when she has a direct line to Twilight. Though... she was my only option that could help calm me down possibly. I hit the call button and put it on speaker. It buzzed a few times before it clicked. I waited for a moment as the silence dragged on before I heard a sigh. "General.... I thought it was clear that Princess Twilight said to NOT bother me... I'm only speaking to give you this only warning before I go to her about you." I heard Daring say. I sighed.

"...Sorry Daring I just... I just got into an argument with AJ and I dont know who else to go to.... But technically I'm not breaking the rules... Twilight said I'd have to stay away from the room you're in. Never said anything about calling. But I still apologize about this..." She sighed.

"I'll look past it this once... But unless you text me before calling next time I wont answer. Now tell Auntie Daring what's got you two mad at each other." I sat up on my bed and sighed grabbing the pillow holding it to my chest.

"Were you alerted to a problem in town last night? Guards telling you where to go, maybe yelling outside your door?" She hummed.

"I was dead asleep last night. The room I'm in is sound proof inside and out. Mechanical locks installed too. Why?"

"Well... Long story short the swat team got called to a house down in Ponyville. Had to go break it up. Family of two, mother and son... Sons here because the mother needed to go to the hospital and he's about as freaked out as a scared chihuahua in the dark with fireworks going on. He's here with me and AJ wanted me to tell him about his mother being in surgery and he's already been freaking out to the point of wetting himself today... So far between then and now he's been calm... She wants me to tell him but I'm trying to keep him calm. He's just a kid... A kid who nearly had guns shoved in his face if I werent there to put a stop to it...."

"So... Before I even comment on what I think is right here.... Why did someone call the cops on a kid and his mother?"

"Big ol' nothing.... kid who did it is gonna face charges... dont care how old he is... Kid I'm with basically retaliated in a game where killing someone is legal but that someone got pissed off and that happened."

"I see... It's like that... Well I hope the poor dear is reunited with his mother soon. As for you.... I feel like you're in the right. Children are easily scarred by things. Their imaginations twisting words and blowing it way out of proportion. Your sister for example... She's about the age I was when my first traumatic experience. My mother had gone to the hospital with a terrible sickness. My father and I were the only ones home. He ended up sending me to a friends place and spend the night... I thought mother had died that night and he was giving me up to another family. You dont know how badly I cried that night.... my friend's parents brought us some ice cream, movies and what ever else to keep me distracted... When my father came to me the next morning he was told about what happened and what I was thinking... He apologized and just said he needed to get me out of the house so he and other ponies could disinfect the house just to be sure I didnt get sick."

"I'm sorry you had to go through that.... But I'm also glad you see my point. I promised he could talk with his mother while here but when I called she was in surgery. I tell him that, he's gonna think I'm lying and taking him away until he finds a new family or something... He's having fun with my sisters and their friends. I dont wanna ruin his happy mood even if he does have his mother on his mind." I could hear her type something on a computer for a moment before giving a sigh.

"Ryder, tell Twilight to meet me outside my room. I'm gonna break the rules for you. Not as myself but as your favorite writer, visiting Twilight and make a colt happy in the process. Just tell her 'Yearling's coming for a visit.' and I'll make everything better." I smiled.

"Understood. Also... Does A.K. Yearling have anything against pizza? Was gonna order some for everyone!"

"Extra hot pepper packets. Dont care what kind of pizza. Now get along with it. I'm getting ready as we speak. Daring out." I honestly got excited and hung up quickly going through my contacts to find Twilight. I got a picture I havent told her about that Shining sent me. THE cutest childhood picture of Twilight and him. Using that as her contact picture.

Anyways I got up as I initiated the call. I paced back and forth for a moment. I had a feeling this call would kinda go south but I was prepared. After a few moments my phone clicked. I didnt like what I heard on the other side... I heard Button crying, Applejack consoling him and some more music I knew. Metal. Twilight sighed as things started to quiet down. I assume she was walking away. "Ryder! There you are! Applejack just told Button about his mother being in surgery and now he's thinking she's dead or something!" Twilight said. "Where the hell are you? I tried asking AJ but she's busy with Button and Big Mac doesnt even know!"

I huffed. "I'll tell you all that in a bit. But for right now Yearling's coming for a visit. You know where to meet me." I replied. Twilight huffed.

"Ryder I swear to Celestia this better not be a trick to see who I forbid you to see!"

"Twilight i promise it's not a trick! It's something she wants to do! Just meet me down by her door and if I dont get there before you, tell your guards to let me through. If I'm lying, throw me right on out and I'll sleep at home. I'll go without word too even under escort."

"Fine... If it's true, no trouble AND I buy the pizza... If I'm wrong you're to leave and await punishment. I'd even go as far as to collaborate with Princess Celestia for this punishment..."

"Understood. Meet ya there."

I hung up before just going out of my door and down the hall. I wandered for a bit until I saw Princess Twilight and Daring dressed up in her A.K. Yearling costume. Long dress, hat, glasses and even a handbag to drive the point home. Daring's door was a plain door like any other but with a few modifications. Pin code door, auto lock door and even a thumbprint scanner just in case Twilight had to enter or if Daring forgot the pin. Though its something she cant forget from what I'm told. Yeah. Twilight told me what she did to make sure Daring was safe. Anyways, Daring smiled as I approached. "There you are Ryder! Thought you would've gotten lost making us come find you!" She said. I sighed.

"Nearly would've gotten lost if Twilight hadnt beat me here... Not like anyone would tell me where your room is anyways." I glared at Twilight who just had a bit of a pained look on her face.

Twilight sighed. "Alright... My fault there but.... For the moment at hand I did say I would pay for pizza if I was wrong... which I am..." She said. "Now uh... you heard what went on during our phone call didnt you?"

"How could I not?" I replied crossing my arms. "I told Applejack it wasnt a good idea yet she had to do it anyways... Just hope a visit from A.K. Yearling is enough to cheer him up...."

Daring gave a huff fixing her glasses a bit. "Agreed... I can only hope..." She said. She looked to Twilight as she started walking down the hallway. "You should make sure Applejack and Ryder apologize to one another just so we dont have an 'I told you so' moment. I can deal with the kids if you can do that."

Twilight glanced at us. "Yeah... Ryder can you agree not to yell at AJ about that?" She asked. I nodded. "Alright... Now when we get there I'm gonna have you stay outside the room Ryder. Miss Yearling will follow me in, sit down with everyone and maybe read a book to em if they want otherwise answer any questions they could have about you or Daring Do. Understood?" Daring and I both nodded.

We all hurried over to the entertainment room only to see everyone standing outside, Applejack was on the ground with her brother holding her cheek while Babs, Sweetie And Scootaloo sat off to the side looking a bit sick. Didnt see Applebloom or Button anywhere. Big Mac noticed us first. He got up and hurried to me. "There ya are! Where the fuck were ya when we needed you?!" He asked.

I huffed giving a slight glance at Applejack who just looked away. "Someone needed my services a bit more since I'm technically working right now." I said. I looked back at him. "What happened here? Where's Button and Applebloom?"

"Button cried so hard he upset his own stomach and decked AJ one before bookin' it out of there. 'Bloom ran after him and we havent seen em... Shoulda chased after em myself but AJ's hurt pretty bad..." I looked to Twilight backing away.

"Princess, move everyone to your living room, get a medic to check on AJ." Twilight nodded as Daring hurried over to the fillies making sure they were alright. Babs looked kinda awestruck seeing A.K. Yearling in front of her. I looked to Big Mac. "You know where they went?" He shook his head. "Alright. Lets split up. You check up this way." I pointed up the hallway where we came from. "I'll check that way!" I then pointed behind him. He didnt even give a nod before rushing off. I ran off as well looking frantically for my sister in law and a worried colt. I ran for what felt like forever until I found Applebloom just outside the elevator frantically pressing the button. "Applebloom! Applebloom are you okay?" I grabbed her away from the elevator looking in to her scared eyes.

The filly nodded looking a bit breathless. "Y-Yeah... Button just went down in the elevator... Kicked me in mah ribs... Cant breathe...." She said. I sat her down next to the elevator.

"Alright just sit here. Just breathe slowly.... Next guard you see, ask him to carry you to Twilight's living area. That's where everyone else is. I'm going after Button!" Applebloom nodded holding her chest. She started breathing in and out slowly looking as if she were in great pain. I got up and hurried for the nearest staircase. Didnt take long for me to get to the helipad. No helicopter but guards looked at me funny as I surveyed where everything was in town. Way you can tell which way the front is? Town Hall. Town Hall is always in front a few blocks away from the castle. A guard was coming to ask me what I was doing but I didnt give him the time of day before booking it towards the edge and jumping only to turn around, give him a salute before backflipping into a nosedive. I pulled up just to twist around the castle a few times before landing at the front door. Other guards looked at me and glanced upward wondering what the hell I did. I huffed a bit fixing my clothes. "Did either of you see a colt alone and running? Kids about twelve, brown mane, dark brown coat. He's run off and I need to find him. If spotted no force is to be used. Just catch him, bring him back up to the Princess. Have her call me then. Someone should still radio up, tell her I'm down here looking for him." The guard to my right nodded before I ran off again. I ran towards the parking garage seeing guards working on the door. Guess it jammed a bit. I whistled catching their attention. "Be on the lookout for a colt. Could come through the garage if he hasnt already. Report to Princess Twilight once captured. No force. MOVE IT!" The guards nodded.

One ran off while the other one focused on the door. I shook my head before taking off into the air. I thought of the one place you think he'd go. Hospital. I landed just outside the hospital. Good few blocks away. Strange how the castle planted itself just at good points between major locations in Ponyville. I landed at the emergency room and hurried inside flashing my badge from my wallet to the security guard and then to the nurse as I walked up. Nurse Redheart. White Coat, pink mane, cute and best nurse here. A very understanding one too. Applebloom told me she was the one who helped her with her constipation. Anywho Nurse Redheart smiled. "Hello sir! What can I do for you today?" She asked. I sighed.

"First off, is Cream Heart out of surgery yet? I'm helping her with something and wanted to check on her." She started typing on the computer.

"One moment." She looked over the computer for a moment. "Huh... Says here she should be out within the hour. Would you like to wait until she is? I can have you notified." I nodded.

"Another thing uh... This stays between you and me... Her son. He's twelve and ran off from where I was... This was a place I thought he'd come.... He started running in a place full of guards and nine times out of ten they should get him... that one out of ten chance... he's gonna come here if not caught. Just... be on the lookout for him if I cant... Brown coat, lighter brown mane... scared to hell." Nurse Redheart nodded. "Also... is there a vending machine around...? Kinda need something to drink.... flew from the castle..." She nodded and pointed towards the hall.

"Right down the hall to your left. Restrooms are a bit further to the right if needed." I nodded and hobbled down the hallway just to grab a few sodas from the vending machine and a bag of chips before going back to the waiting area sitting far off from everyone. Some wore masks because they were sick, others looked worse for wear. There were even a few ponies in wheel chairs. Teen, old timer and a pregnant mare who was with her husband... boyfriend... I'm not sure... just helping her with her breathing exercises. As I waited I just ate my snacks and looked at my phone. Pretzels are good with soda but... not cola. Still drank it since they were out of my senor salt. Maybe after about forty five minutes I had to go to the bathroom. Nothing interesting there. Just did my business and just made sure my clothes were straightened out and nothing was out of place. Even fixed my mane a bit... that dive from the castle messed up my mane.

After I had gotten out of the restroom I went back out to the waiting room only to see Nurse Redheart, the security guard and exactly the colt I was looking for. The security guard had him by the wrist while the nurse was giving him a stern talking to. I gave a sigh as I approached them. The security guard- a stallion I might add- looked to me and gave a grin before looking to Button. "Alright kid time to go! Told you there was a guard here looking for ya!" He said nudging him over to me. Button took one look at me and I could tell he was near shitting himself. Upon a closer look he had red eyes, a stain on his shirt, dirt on his pants and his sneakers were untied a bit too.

I huffed picking him up. He didnt even put up a fight. I looked to Nurse Redheart. "Thank you. Is there a room I can take him to and talk with him one on one?" I asked.

Nurse Redheart nodded. "Yes sir. Follow me." She said. We followed her back down the hallway going down an intersection towards a few private consultation rooms. She led us inside one. Nothing much here. Just a table for patients to sit on, a few chairs and a computer for the doctors. "Here's a good spot. I'll let the doctor assigned to this office know there's a guard in here working as to not disturb you." I gave a smile and a nod before she left us closing the door behind her. I turned my attention back to Button as I set him down on the table and grabbed one of the chairs.

"Button... What... THE HELL were you thinking?!" I snapped. He flinched a bit. "You hit my wife, her little sister, send both me and Princess Twilight into a panic trying to find you and that whole castle is now on lockdown because of you! If I had the authority over it I'd be grounding you, taking away your video games for a week. You'd just be sitting on a bed, being taunted by every console you owned and then some!" I waited on an answer. He just whimpered hiding his face. I sighed. "...I know you're scared dude... I am too... Both for your safety and your mothers.... Few reasons why I came down here... One is because I knew you'd be here. Second is because I wanted to check on your mother once she's out of surgery... Should be any minute now she's gonna be out and ready for visitors. But before we do just tell me what was going through your mind... Since last night if you can...." He whimpered and coughed a bit. "Need something to drink? Want a water?" He nodded. "Alright... Sit tight dude... Gonna see if I cant get us some waters... And dont worry... I wont tell your mom how you got here... Okay? Just breathe..." He nodded and started breathing deeply trying to calm down. I got up and went to the door opening it and poking my head out. Nurse Redheart still stood at the door watching for anyone trying to use the room. "Nurse? Can we get some waters in here if you dont mind? He looks like he's been crying for a while on the way over..."

Nurse Redheart smiled. "Sure thing. There's a break room nearby. Just a moment sir!" She said. I smiled and ducked back in just leaning against the door. I saw Button just looking at me sniffling. I sighed and went over a sink in the corner grabbing a few paper towels from the dispenser before returning to Button.

"Here. Blow your nose dude. I apologize for yelling at you... You're scared and I understand that... But I still expect you to apologize to my wife and Applebloom..." I averted my gaze as he blew his nose. I sighed. "I should probably call Twilight... Tell her to call off the search..." I pulled out my phone and sighed seeing my signal. "No bars... shit..." I shoved my phone back in my pocket and sat down in the seat looking to the little colt in front of me. "After we talk, we can stay to see your mother... I'll think of something to tell her so she doesnt know you ran here after hitting a few ponies.... I still wanna know what was going through that skull of yours since last night though..." We waited about a few minutes in silence. In that time I decided to send a text to Twilight even though it wouldnt go through. My phone does this weird thing where I can send texts but they wont send until I get signal even if just a bit. Nurse Redheart brought us the waters and we sat there for about a minute more making sure we were calm, collected and such. I sighed as he set his now half drank water bottle down next to him. "All better? Looked like you didnt bother stopping on the run down here... Just start from after I got to your house last night... alright?"

Button sniffled and nodded. "W-Well..." He started still shaking. "...I couldnt sleep... I was too scared.... Tried to keep myself awake for a while longer but... passed out around an hour or two after.... After that I had nightmares... back to when my dad was still here... dreamt that he was the one in the guard... out to hurt me and mom... I just.... I thought he was after me the whole day... watching me during my nap, following us everywhere we went.... I just.... I just couldnt take it.... And when.... A-Applejack told me my mom was in surgery.... I.... I thought my dad got to her...." I sighed.

"...Your dad is shut in tight in his cell... Wont be getting to you at all. No matter what." At least I hope so.... Dont think Celestia would employ a scumbag like him in the Elites. And yeah... Contradiction considering my father... "...I told her to keep it from you because I was afraid of this... Though... Probably would've made me feel like an ass even hiding it from you... You probably would've caught on I was hiding something anyways. I know I said we would've called the hospital to check on your mom but... Yeah... You know what happened there.... Just... Sorry if I caused you any panic dude... I just... I wanted to see you happy." He got off the table and came over just to hug me.

"It's alright... I... I forgive you..." I hugged him back kinda giving a pained smile. He was shaking slightly still... most likely the paranoia and such. I sighed and picked him up with one arm.

"Thanks... Now come on... lets go see if your mother is awake and good to talk." We went over to the door and stepped out being greeted by Nurse Redheart with a bit of a smile.

We smiled back, Button, a bit nervously. "Hope this kid learned his lesson from running away from the guard... Good I didnt hear any yelling..." She said. I sighed a bit.

"Yeah... He learned his lesson... Guess he was just a bit freaked out from something happening last night... Paranoid with little sleep throughout the night... Is there a possibility we could have him visit his mother while we're here? She's the mare I asked about when I came in."

"I suppose so. If she's not awake when we get to her room I'll let you stay until she is... Should be in a room where she's the only patient inside. A snack, a lie down and your little friend here should be right as rain until you get back to where you came from. Sound alright?" We both looked to Button as he gave a yawn and rubbed his eyes. "Alright... Get you something light to eat so you dont get sick... Looks like you have already..." She pointed to the small stain on Button's shirt. She started off down the hall. "Come on. Faster we get you to see your mother, faster you get to feel better."

We both smiled following her. Button was shaking a bit still... whether it be from paranoia or just jittery from being excited that we could see his mother. Couldnt tell to be honest. We turned down a few halls and I had to shield Button's eyes from a few ponies. Some had been sick and were vomiting, some were missing their pants.... Others looked like they had bandages with dried blood on their faces.... Like they were in a fight and lost because something sharp was involved... Part of me wanted to stop and ask them what happened just to get to the bottom of that but I've got other business here. We stopped just outside a door that was closed. Nurse Redheart looked to us and held up a finger telling us to wait a moment before she dipped inside. We waited for a few moments. To him? I think it felt like hours just waiting, anticipating what she could even be saying to his mother. She came out moments later and gestured us to walk in. When we walked in we saw Button's mother in a bed dressed in only a hospital gown with a blanket covering half her legs. Her mane looked a mess and she looked a slight bit tired but still smiled when she saw us. "...There are my boys.... Someone was worried werent they?" She asked.

I gave a nod and carefully set Button on her bed. He couldnt help but lie down next to her and cuddle up to her. "Yeah... Poor kid got sick on the way over..." I said. "...May have had an accident earlier after we left the house but dont worry. Got the keys to your place and its all locked up. You doing alright Cream Heart?" She nodded rubbing her sons head, rustling his mane up a bit.

"I'll be fine... Apparently according to an xray they did when I got here I had apparently ate a screw and something I did lodged it in my lower abdomen... It wasnt very big but it somehow got into the breakfast and well... you know the rest..." she turned her attention to Button. "Is mommy's favorite little colt doing alright with his big brother friend?" Button weakly nodded into his mother's shoulder. "That's good... Dont you worry though Button... I'm gonna be home tomorrow afternoon... they just wanna see if everything heals right... as for you I think you should get a new shirt and a small change... mommy knows a diaper when she sees one and yours seems a little wet from what I'm feeling on my legs...." I could see Button blush a bit. I sighed.

"Yeah... had a feeling something like this would happen... had an accident during a nap and we werent taking chances... Apologies if its something you're uncomfortable with... It's just... Kinda the way we do things in my house... if one accident happens, be prepared for another." She smiled.

"It's fine Ryder... I still remember a thing or two when I was potty training Button here... Wetting his pants every other day and even during preschool... Was worst when he was sick and stuck in bed... I'd have to check on him every hour just to see if he had to go otherwise he'd've wet the bed... Did a few times before I was forced to put him into training pants..." I looked to the other bed.

"Well... Think we should lie him down, have the nurse change him before he eats? I'm about to call for a transport to get us back in a bit." She nodded sitting him up for me. I took him and carried him over to the other bed laying him down in it. He was fighting sleep hard. I sat his bed up using a little controller before I went back over to Cream Heart's side. I sighed.

"Miss Heart... I just... I wanna apologize real quick... I kinda snapped at him a few times... Too much whining around the house lately... Mostly from AJ about getting ready for a kid.... Then from the girls about school work and stuff, even at my brother in law when it comes to helping his side of the orchard.... I just feel like I'm a powder keg ready to go up if the wrong things happen..."

"You sound like a stressed parent Ryder... I've been there before.... Nothing going my way and then you end up running out of the house, screaming only to go to your mothers place to bide some time and rid yourself of all the pain you feel... Maybe that's something you could do... After everything settles with everyone, take time to visit someone and stay with them a few nights... Doors open for you any time if need be... You even have my phone number if you have any questions and once you do find yourself a bundle of joy... dont hesitate to call me if you need a sitter..." I gave a warm smile.

"Of course Miss Heart... I definitely will. As for now... do you need anything? I can ask the nurses for something for you if you'd like." She sighed tugging at the blankets bringing them up a bit.

"Thank you but... I'm fine... I just need to rest for now... Go call your transport... Tell them to wait outside for you and Button. I'll be sure he's okay until you get back..." I gave her a quick nod before leaving the room. As I left the room I saw Nurse Redheart coming with a tray of food. Soup, crackers and a juice pouch for Button. I stopped her, asked her if they had any diapers to fit Button. Told me they did and said she'd change him just before I told her I was gonna be just a moment outside calling for a ride before coming back.

Though I chose the wrong pony to call... Twilight... When I called she metaphorically wrung my neck. Lucky enough I was far enough away from the entrance to the hospital. "RYDER!" She yelled. "RYDER WHAT THE HELL WHY DIDNT YOU CONTACT US SOONER?! THE WHOLE CASTLE IS ON LOCKDOWN AND APPLEBLOOM IS FREAKING OUT THINKING SHE WAS THE PROBLEM FOR BUTTON RUNNING AWAY!"

I gave a huff. "Princess I'm sorry! I found him, tell everyone to resume normal duty and to send a transport out here. How's everyone else there? Everyone good?" I asked.

"No everyone is NOT fine! Scootaloo and Babs are trying to keep Applebloom calm, Sweetie Belle had to lie down after Button threw up all over my entertainment room, AJ's hurt by you saying you were right and Big Mac is trying to keep her calm while still trying to watch over the fillies! You need to get your ass back here THIS INSTANT!"

"What about Miss-"

"WILL YOU FORGET ABOUT HER?!" I stayed silent. I could just hear her heavily breathing on the other end.

"...Need to talk Princess? You dont usually get this mad..." I just heard her start sniffling in her breathing. "...If it's something private... just send a transport to the hospital, tell them to wait for me and I'll come find you at the castle... okay?" She didnt give me an answer. Just hung up whimpering.

Skipping to the part where we head back to the castle because Button barely finished his meal before we had to head out to the castle. I gave Cream Heart a time I'd be calling later for Button to speak with her once he woke up and I had to carry him out both to the truck waiting for us and up the elevator and into a room where I had to get him all set up in pajamas... Even put him close to Sweetie Belle so they could cuddle. Once I was done there I asked a few guards where I could find Twilight. They all pointed me towards her room. As I approached her room I saw Daring standing out still wearing her Yearling costume. She took one look at me and gave a smile opening her arms like she was coming in for a hug. For all I knew she was... Until I got close and she punched me in the gut. I looked up to her as I fell to my knees. "That's from the princess. And this... is from me..." She said. I flinched hard here expecting another hit but instead I was picked up off my knees and onto my feet just to get a hug. "You did good knowing how that kid would be... Sorry the Princess is pissed though..." I coughed and hacked a bit.

"It's... fine... I... holy shit you have a hook... feels like you punched a hole right through me...." She sighed.

"Sorry sorry... Sometimes I dont know my own strength. You arent feeling sick are you? No feeling like you're gonna vomit or piss your pants?" I shook my head. "Good. I have seen enough vomit today... took a peek into the room after you left and I had lost my appetite for lunch... Lucky for you I'm still up for a pizza dinner." I took a deep wheezy breath.

"That's... Great... Now can you take me into Twilight... You... knocked the wind out of me...." She gave a sigh.

"Sure just... Warn me if you do start to feel sick... I want to get as far away from you as I can before you do toss your cookies." I gave a nod trying my hardest to breathe. She stood me up throwing my arm over her shoulder. She knocked on Twilight's door before opening it and carrying me inside. Twilight was on her bed holding a pillow to her body. Daring carried me over and sighed shoving me onto the bed. "Here he is Twilight. One guard ready to be roasted over an open flame! Want me to stay or do you want me to return to the kids and make sure everyones okay?" Twilight didnt answer. Just lied there with her face still buried into her pillow. I looked to Daring and just motioned to her to stay here. She nodded and sighed. "Alright... I'll stay in here... feeling like theres gonna be some violent tendencies here..."

I watched as Daring walked back over to the door closing it and leaning on it. My attention turned to the still lying Twilight... Part of me wanted to nudge her yet another felt as if this were a bear trap ready to take my hand clean off. I sat up holding my chest as I started to breathe a bit better. My chest still hurt like hell but I could still breathe. Though as soon as I tried to get up off the bed I felt someone grab my arm. I looked back only to see Twilight holding on to me, looking as if she's been crying... Though she wasnt pissed... well... that I could tell. I tried pulling away but her grip was extremely tight. "Ryder... Please... Dont... Dont run..." She said. She sniffled a bit. "...I.... I'm sorry... I'm sorry I yelled... I just... I got scared.... You might've been watching Button but...... it... I just..."

I huffed. "You... felt like you were gonna get blamed for what happened... right?" I asked. I saw her nod. "...Anyone asks it's my fault... I'll take full responsibility for him... You just got caught up in a good deed gone wrong... I'm just glad it wasnt any worse... His mother could've been more serious... he could've ended up hospitalized with how things were going with him... worse than that? A mother could've been without her boy because he got snagged off the streets... You dont know how fast I would've turned in my badge if that happened and he turned up dead...That would be something I wouldnt ever forgive myself for.... Not with him, not even with the girls... my sister included..." I scooted a bit closer hugging her.

"...Something tells me... if Cadence found out... She'd be coming down both our throats waiting till what ever skewer comes out the other side.... I.... Cant... I cant deal with the thought of them being mad about a kid that ran off while under our watch.... Shining probably wouldnt talk to me... Cadence... she'd say I'm not fit to be a foal sitter... If you werent here... and it was just me... I... I wouldnt have known what to do... where to go..."

"Princess... Calm yourself otherwise you're gonna end up like Button... Getting sick and be stuck in bed." I sighed and lied her back down. "...I'm gonna leave you here with Daring so you can calm down... I need to go find Applejack and have a talk with her. Come find me wherever the girls are okay?" She nodded hesitantly before letting my hand go. I got up from the bed swapping places with Daring who... may have let me slyly cop a feel before I headed out of the room.

Again I kinda wandered. Not only because I wanted to find where she was on my own. But because I was afraid of saying something wrong... to excuse myself from the house for a while. When I got to the den area I saw Babs just coming out holding a can of soda. Lemon lime. Must be for her stomach. I gave a whistle. She just took one look at me before setting her drink down and running at me. "Ryder!" She said jumping into my arms. "Are you okay? Did you find Button? Is he okay?" I nodded setting her back on her feet.

"Yeah I'm fine... he is too... might be a bit on the uneasy side for a bit but he'll be fine... Is Applejack in there? I need to speak to her... Nothing bad... If you wanna make sure you can come back out with her okay?"

"Alright... You promise it's not gonna be anything bad?" I nodded.

"Promise... Now go get Applejack... No matter what she says I need her out here... Even get Big Mac to bring her out if possible." She nodded again and ran back to the door scooping her drink back up. I again rehearsed my words in my head as I waited outside.

I rehearsed them a few times before I see Applejack stumble out a bit. She looked back into the room at who I assumed was Big Mac who just pushed her out. Applejack took one look at me looking almost emotionless. I saw Babs step out and take her cousins hand pulling her towards me. Just as she was a few feet away Babs stopped pulling her and backed up against the wall leaving me and AJ to look at each other. If the silence were butter frozen in liquid nitrogen I cant tell if it would break easily or if it would need a hammer to break it. Though what ever was needed definitely hit. She just hugged me tight and whispered a bit. "...Ry... I... I'm sorry..." She said sounding pained. "...I... shoulda listened to you... shoulda just kept my big mouth shut..." I huffed.

"It's okay... I forgive you... Told Button it was my fault trying to hide it from him... I'm just... sorry I yelled... Didnt wanna but... you kinda forced my hand with it..." I nudged her off. "But... I guess just to keep us from being at each others throats every other day I... I think I'm gonna take a break... Go off to visit my mother... leave the house for a bit... I'll call her in a bit and see if I can.... maybe ask Celestia if I can crash in Canterlot for a few days if I cant stay with my mother...." She sniffled a bit having a tear run down her cheek.

"...I... I understand sugarcube... I dont wanna be yellin' at you... not alone... not in front of the girls... not even in front of Celestia's mother or father...." I wiped her eyes away.

"I know... it might just be yelling but... who knows which way it could go if it wasnt yelling... I dont wanna think about it... Just get that time for separation out of the way.... Why dont you just take Babs back inside and I'll get to calling... okay?" She nodded and looked to her cousin. Babs had no trouble taking her hand and walking her back inside. Neither looked to me before disappearing inside. I'm just gonna cut this short here. I called my mother and she said I'd be able to come as long as I promised not to scare any recruits by being in a guard uniform, bring a few changes if need be but ask either her or Soarin away from everyone and just to try to fit in somehow to avoid suspicion. Apparently some of the rougher recruits are that paranoid. After that I joined everyone making the periodical check up on Button just to make sure he was doing okay. Woke up after a couple for hours with Sweetie Belle and had a few slices of pizza. I slept separately from Applejack and stayed close to the kids. Apparently Twilight had a room where you could fit two princess sized beds and still have room for other things. Though apparently during the night Babs snuck over and climbed into bed with me. Didnt pay any mind as I tried to sleep. Everyone else slept in a bed opposite me laying to one side or the other just to keep from anyone getting into awkward positions while they slept... doubt Scootaloo wants to wake up cuddling Sweetie Belle or vice versa. Next morning Cream Heart was released albeit with a few antibiotics and pain killers. And I guess while Button wasnt looking she may have given me a special thank you in the form of a kiss and private time if I'm ever over here and Button is out of the house.... may take her up on the offer... did I ever say I love me a good milf? Oh well. Next time.