The Rise and Fall

I got a call from Luna the other day to come to Canterlot and see what Celestia was doing and try to fix her. What happened? She yelled at me telling me to change my clothes, yelled at the guards under me forcing them to clean the floors, yelling at those who didnt deserve to be yelled at and the worst part? She threatened to kidnap Scootaloo, keep her from me and raise her as her own! This caused me to call in Rogue Princess, take her into custody and Luna and I went off on her in front of her mother who went and stripped her from her magic for the forseeable future. Right now it was only a few minutes after what had conspired. I was sitting inside my parents heavenly abode with Scootaloo in my mothers arms and my dad pacing back and forth. "I can NOT believe it... Celestia, Princess of Equestria wants to take OUR daughter away from her brother, away from her new mother and her family?!" He snapped. "This is absurd! I do hope you gave her a reason not to mess with the Wheeler's!"

I huffed putting my feet up on the coffee table. It still didnt feel real... the way this place looked. "I did but it seemed she didnt give a flying you know what at all." I looked to Scootaloo. "You doing alright? Still a bit scared?" Scootaloo nodded. "Well its okay... Dont be afraid..." I looked at the door. Still heard Luna and her mother talking. "...Maybe see if Luna and her mother would let you have a few free swings at Celestia for scaring you..."

My mother sighed. "It wouldnt hurt to ask... Scootaloo deserves a few punches.... She trusted her and threw that trust down the toilet!" She said standing up. She looked to Dad. "Honey come on. Back me up here." He nodded. I just ended up getting up going to the door opening it up letting everyone out before I followed.

When we got out there Luna and her mother were speaking in their old tongue. Same with Schrivechnya except this was... NOTHING I even recognized. Celestia still laying on the table, her face healed and she had tears in her eyes from what I was seeing. Luna noticed us first. She turned and smiled. "Someone ready to wake up now?" She asked taking Scootaloo from my mother.

My father sighed. "Not just yet. Was wondering if you could let Scootaloo have a little 'word' with your sister Princess... And I'm not talking about just talking..." He said.

Luna looked to her mother. Heaven smiled a bit. "I suppose so. She did scare her after all." She said before looking to me. "Sit her up and hold her still." I nodded as she took my sister from her daughter. I flew over to the table and forced Celestia to sit up. She just looked at me, wordless and sniffling as a higher table started appearing before us.

Heavens light set my sister down on top of it to balance for a moment. I held Celestia as still as I could. "....S-Scootaloo...." Celestia mumbled. "...Scootaloo please.... I-I'm-" She was quickly cut off by my sister decking her right in the cheek actually forcing Celestia's head to the side a good bit before she took a swing from the other way.

Scootaloo even launched a kick getting her right in the jaw before Scootaloo looked her dead in the eye. "SCREW YOU!" She yelled before she turned towards mom and jumped right into her arms. I lied Celestia right down and she just started bawling.

I looked to Luna as I hopped down from the table. "Wake her up. I think we're done here." I said. Luna nodded and encapsulated her in a bubble before walking towards the door. I just watched as she shoved the bubble in, snapped her fingers and not even a moment later a burst of air came from the door as it slammed shut and disappeared.

Luna came back over acting like she was clapping dust off her hands after taking out trash. "There. I think my sister gets the message on what's going on." She said. "For right now we shall return to Scootaloo's dream, I'll explain to both of you when Scootaloo wakes up. Now say your goodbyes you two." I gave a nod and went over to my parents who were already hugging Scootaloo between them.

I went and joined in. Dad huffed. "...Always hate doing this when ever we see you kids...." He said. "....We know this isnt goodbye but... Hurts nonetheless..."

Mom huffed handing Scootaloo over to me. "See you later guys...." She said. "Come back anytime kids... We miss you very much..."

Heaven's Light sighed resting a hand on my shoulder. "Perhaps we can plan a quick visit for the entire family. Even the inlaws if its at the homestead." She said. "Consider this a quick gift from me for what has been going on. Now off you go." I nodded and just looked to my parents giving a smile and a nod before joining Luna.

As we got to Luna's side things around us faded. She sighed. "...I'm glad we got our aggression out..." She said. "After you left us Ryder, Mother and I were speaking about what is going to be done and we've decided its a two day ban on using her magic and she cant order around her guards or maids until its over and she apologizes to both you and Scootaloo about this. She obviously felt very bad about it."

I set Scootaloo down taking her hand as we walked to the door Luna made for us. "I heard. She tried apologizing to Scootaloo before taking a few hits." I replied. I looked to Scootaloo. "Get all your anger out sis?" Scootaloo nodded. "Good..." I looked to Luna. "Do you think she might be due for a bit of a break? Kinda feeling like heading to the beach if that sounds good." Luna hummed thinking.

"A beach day sounds... pleasant... Its been quite a time since my sister and I were at the beach..." She looked to me. "Perhaps later we can contact Twilight and the others, see if we cant get a few of them along... Maybe get Gilda out to Manehattan for a beach day. We can even make room for a bit of a sleep over and I hear Shining and Cadence are visiting the memorial for the fallen tower... Perhaps you could join them?" I looked to Scootaloo as she clung to my leg then glanced back at Luna.

"I will but... As long as I'm not made to give any speeches or anything.... I dont want anyone else to know I was even in that shit...."

"I'll send word. As for now lets let Scootaloo wake up and we you down too." I nodded and looked to Scoot.

"Be right there when you wake up... Kay? Love you sis..."

Scootaloo hugged my leg tight. "Love you too Ryder..." She said. I pried her off my leg and just walked out of the door with Luna at my side. And this was kinda sad. I looked back seeing the door close and Scootaloo was just standing in the dark alone. It was like one of those cartoon things where the main character of the episode is having a crisis and they're just left alone by friends or family. I looked to Luna as we went to the exit of her bathroom and stepped back into her room.

"You mind if I just borrow one of your energy drinks? Still somewhat in a bad mood here..." She sighed as we went for Scootaloo in her bed.

"Go on. They're in the coolers in the entertainment room. Up for a few games before I raise the sun?" I gave a nod. "Alright. Just get on with it. I just need to make sure she's comfy." I nodded again before heading out to the hall. I stopped by my room, padded up and changed clothes into what I was wearing before mostly. Just grabbed my jeans, socks and shoes and a spare Nukes Galore shirt I had brought.

When I got to the entertainment room I grabbed a cherry flavored drink from the cooler. Felt good. I waited there until Luna got there and we ended up playing for a good four hours with some matches of a shooter, she gave me a bit of time to explore in Nukes and even she helped me with a puzzle to get some gear. We checked the time and it was only about three hours since we left Scootaloo's dream. Was about....Four in the morning. We just turned things off and decided to part ways while Luna raised the sun to the horizon. I decided to go check on Celestia and get an update from her guards. As I approached her door the guard saluted me. "General We werent expecting to see you this early." He said. "Is everything alright sir?"

I sighed. "Everything is fine. Coming for an update with Celestia." I said. He nodded and turned to the door opening it letting me enter. Inside were the other five guards. Three at her bed, the other two at the windows surrounding Scootaloo's bed. Celestia was on her bed curled up with her hands still behind her back.

"Well as of about... two to three hours ago she woke up screaming a bit and started weeping. She's pretty much been struggling to stay awake and trying to speak with us. We've ignored her as per your orders."

"Good. Gather the guards, wait outside." He nodded and whistled. All the guards looked to us and he nodded outside the door. I looked back to him as the guards started heading for the door. "You wouldnt happen to know a temporary binding spell perchance?" He nodded. "Good. I need you to bind that anti magic ring to her horn for the next few days. Until it comes off, nobody is to take orders from her but I still want a few guards here to keep watch over her until the morning meal." The guard nodded and followed me around the bed to where I could see Celestia's face. Tired, red eyed and looking as if she were bawling her eyes out. She couldnt even look at me. One thing I never understood is why anti magic rings keep those from using magic but can have magic used on them. He even tested it by trying to pull it off himself after he used his magic on it. "Good. Now go join the others. Leave the keys for the restraints." He looked to me as he grabbed the keys from his pocket.

"Are you sure its wise sir?"

"You have tranq guns dont you?" He nodded. "Then that's all you're gonna need. Now get outside. I need to have a word with her."

The guard nodded and hurried out leaving me with Celestia.. First I took the wing restraint off and then her wrist restraints. The legs took me a moment because they were backwards and the latch was under her. I had my guard up just in case she tried something. I came back to the head of her bed and just stared at her. "....Just.... Just say it.... I fucked up...." She mumbled.

"You did fuck up. Royally. I do apologize for having to run you through a fully stocked bar but you know how i feel about someone trying to take my sister away from me. Especially by force. Rogue Princess is still in effect, going to last for a couple days. It may be cut short if you agree to the terms that my job will not be terminated for what I've already done, that you will not lay a hand on Scootaloo or her friends and that you will not ask anyone to take that ring off your horn. Not me, not Scootaloo, not even Twilight and her friends... NOBODY! Do I make myself clear?" She sniffled a bit holding back sobs. "I said... Do I make myself CLEAR?!"

"....Y-Yes.... General.... Loud and clear...." I huffed.

"Good. You're lucky I'm willing to trust you on this. I easily could have left IMMEDIATELY with Scootaloo and told Twilight what you were planning! I'm even damn sure Luna wouldnt hesitate to throw you into the dungeon for this. When the morning meal comes, you need to apologize to your sister, my sister and get a bag together. Your sister said we can visit the beach in Manehattan."

"...I assume she didnt tell you about the beach cabana and our private beach did she?" I shook my head. "...Ah... Well... I assumed it was gonna be a surprise... oh well but... I just...."

"I'll be sure to get Scootaloo to listen whether she wants to or not. You want to apologize and I want you to apologize. She'll have to listen but if you know her, her trust isnt won back and not easily.... Now please... Get at least some rest.... Do you need something to drink?"

"....Please....?" I nodded. I flew over her bed and landed at the door poking my head out. "I need someone to get the Princess some water. I'll be in until the water is brought." One of the guards nodded and teleported away. I went back to the Princess' bed and sat with her holding her hand.

"...There we go.. That's the Princess I know.... kind and caring.... May be regretful but... its something we can work on...." I sat her up and hugged her. She just latched onto me crying softly and all I could do was just comfort her. Not long later the guard came back with a water bottle and handed it to the Princess. I made sure she drank carefully and I even had to help her to the restroom and... Well we know where Scootaloo had her accident. Celestia stepped in a puddle. Had to grab a towel and lied it down. She was fine getting back to her bed but when she got back into that bed she collapsed. I left the room and as I did all the guards except for two went back in. I looked to one of the guards. "When the morning meal time comes wake her if she's not already up. She is to be escorted to get her clothing and to the dining hall. From there I'll be taking over along with her sister. Anything else comes up I'll be sure to let you know."

The guard nodded, saluting me before I walked away. I managed to meet up with Luna on the roof and watched her raise the sun. She struggled with it a bit but she managed to get it. After that we went back to playing games for a little while and I was keeping an eye on the time. When the time for the morning meal came around I went to go get Scootaloo from Luna's room. Found her cuddling with her stuffed wolf and the blanket barely up to her knees. I sat on the bed and crawled to her side giving her a slight nudge. She jumped and gasped waking right up before looking around. She looked to me and huffed throwing her stuffed toy at me. "Ryder!" She snapped. "Dont scare me like that! I thought you were the Princess...." I huffed.

"Sorry Scoot. Just wanted to wake you for breakfast. Wanna get up and get changed? Got a big day ahead of us because Princess Luna wants to get us out to the beach and get everyone out there. You'd be alright with a beach day in Manehattan would you?"

"Manehattan... Why there...?" I took Scootaloo's hand helping her out of the bed as she clutched her wolf again.

"It's gonna be okay Scoot. Nothing bad's gonna happen this time." I could tell she was worried about like what happened when we were there before. Yeah... THAT... "I know you dont like to be in places that scared you... But it would've happened sooner or later whether or not you want it to happen.... Need I remind you about when we went to Celestia's ski lodge in the mountains? Yeah.... I know that only really affected me but I still went back there didnt I?" She nodded. "Good... Now I'll be fine and so will you.... If you start to feel scared you're welcome to hug me, Applejack or even go to Princess Luna... Everyone coming will be there for you... Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie... Even Gilda will be there for you. Now c'mon. Get you changed and into something better than what you're wearing right now." She looked down at herself and blushed a bit trying to pull down her shirt with her plush clutching hand.

"...And nobody could bring me clothes?"

"Sorry. Wasnt the first thing on our minds... First thing was trying to make sure you were safe and comfy..." I picked her up sitting her on my arm. "And dont worry. Anyone wants to laugh I'll give em something to cry about...."

Scootaloo nodded and we left the room. We passed guards who barely gave a glance, some saluted me, others saw me and looked away when they saw Scootaloo. Skipping how Scoot had an accident, had to clean up in a restroom near where we were gonna be sleeping in our room... Guess I had something to do with the accident since when I woke her it 'jarred something loose' and she just wet her self mid walk. Well she didnt take long to wash up or get dressed. She ended up getting into a pair of jeans and a Gems tee she got as a birthday gift from the band. Still a lucky filly. When we got to the dining hall we saw Celestia and Luna sitting at the end of the table and a few guards around them. I could tell that Scootaloo was feeling a bit uneasy as we started to walk towards the end of the table, her hands turning a bit clammy and having a bit of a tighter grip. She almost tried pulling me to the other side of the table with Luna. She didnt wanna take me up on going to Celestia's side. I could tell. But she followed begrudgingly. When we sat down she sat on the other side of me. Luna smiled. "Good to see you two here!" She said. "Breakfast is being made as we speak and I do hope it's alright I've already preordered your food." Scootaloo didnt say anything. Just gripped her arm a bit trying to ignore Celestia at the end of the table. I looked to Luna.

"I wouldnt worry about it. Faster we get food, faster we can make calls, get everyone together and get everyone together."

"I agree but I've already contacted Twilight and informed her on what's happening and she's gonna get everyone together. Shining is even sending a Private train for us to use. Should be at the station within an hour or so so once we eat we head out." She looked to a nearby guard. "Go and collect the generals things from his room as well as the filly's. Have them ready by the front door and be sure to check EVERYWHERE for their things. Under covers, beds, tables and such. Even send someone to check my room and my sisters room." The guard nodded before Luna looked back to her sister. "But before we do... Is there anything you'd like to say sister?"

Celestia sighed before looking to Scootaloo and I. "...Ryder... Scootaloo.... I.... I apologize.... both for my actions and my attitude...." She said. "...I shouldnt have let someone push me around and it ruined me... made me rethink everything. Ruined my demeanor towards my guards, my cooks, my maids.... My friends... if you will still allow me to call you friends..."

I sighed. "Well... Pretty sure you know my answer. You were blinded by someone else's words and you tried to scrub that filth away by trying to make things in what ever image you saw." I said. "We understand you're a ruler and having someone like that irritates the living shit out of you. But how that was? Not the answer. Dont bend a knee to them. Stand tall, stand strong and be the brick wall that keeps your ideals safe." I looked to Scootaloo. "You got anything to say?"

Scootaloo huffed crossing her arms. Didnt even look at anyone. "...I dont have anything to say to her..." She told me.

"Scootaloo be nice." My sister looked to me.

"I have NOTHING to say to her!" She snapped. "Mommy always said if I have nothing nice to say then to not say it at all! And I'd be a heck of a lot nicer if she didnt want to take me away from you!"

"Scoot please at least-" I felt a hand grab my shoulder and force me back into my seat.

That hand was connected to Celestia with a pained expression on her face. "Ryder... It's fine... I can see she's hurt by what I did... I can accept that...." She said. "...And she's right.... She doesnt have to say anything if she doesnt have nice things to say.... And trust me when I say she's used some colorful language towards a certain someone while you were away... and I'm pretty sure you know who I'm talking about..." She didnt have to say more than that. She was speaking of the fucking murderer. I sighed knowing I wasnt gonna finish this fight.

Luna huffed and used her magic to take my sister from her seat and sitting her next to her. "Well at least she apologized... That's gotta count for something...." She said. Nopony said anything. Not me, not Celestia and not even my sister. The air felt tense for a moment. "Well... Lets at least get a plan of what's going on and where we're going to be. First after we leave here we're gonna meet the train at the station and from there we're going to meet everyone else at Ponyville and picking them up there and I did have Twilight tell Applejack to get more things for you and your sister together. From there we're going to separate into cars to rest, make plans for our time in Manehattan and it will be a few days trip so we will be providing meals and transport if anyone wants to go somewhere, malls included. Anything else is entirely up to you. I'm even willing to give someone a bit of spending money for something special. Nothing too expensive so dont go asking for new cars alright?"

I sighed. "That was one time and it was a joke in a game!" I said. "I didnt think you'd buy me the best car in the game!" I sighed seeing movement come from the door to the kitchen. "Now lets just drop it. Think the food or something is coming out." And I was right. Food and drinks all at once. For me and Scootaloo, hayburgers and fries though we had to get juice to drink. Celestia and Luna shared a plate of pancakes since Celestia's appetite was a bit shot from the night she had. After about forty five minutes because Celestia and Luna had to get their bags together and we had to go in separate transports because we couldnt fit both Princess and two other ponies inside the same car. Not to mention Scootaloo... She didnt wanna be anywhere near Celestia... That left me and Celestia in one car with the bags and Luna and Scootaloo in the other. We immediately boarded the train when we got to the station.

The train was a cool one. Private cars like the one going up to the Crystal Empire with the family. This time with six cars. One food car, three bed cars and one entertainment car. Me and Celestia went straight to the bed car furthest back. It was their private bed car for the long commutes that they need for going to the more southern areas of Equestria... Some of the more mountainous terrain likes to cause avalanches that block tracks for a few days... I've read logs about how many guards have had to patrol the area around the train to protect the train. As we set the bags aside she sighed. "...Ryder... I know you accepted my apology but.... Scootaloo... She.... She wanted to stay with me after she injured me... she had the opportunity to go elsewhere..." She said. "Cadence would've taken her, brought her home and watched over her.... Perhaps stayed at Twilight's castle.... But she wanted to stay with me.... But after I say things I didnt mean...? It's like she doesnt want anything to do with me...."

"You did say some stuff that even I thought was too far.... It's why I reacted the way I did.... It could've been much worse and that bed of yours could've been streetside with ponies on their balconies wondering what the fuck happened." She took my hand and walked over to one of the beds and hoisted me up as if I were a child that couldnt even reach.

"I'm glad you showed some restraint... Realized that when you drug me through a fully stocked bar in front of my mother... I'm even glad my sister brought me in via a dream... Not just dragging me out of my bed.... Pretty sure my face would've made some guards question what happened...." I huffed.

"Yeah not to mention I would not want visible scars on your face and my record which is already got some scars here and there." I rested my hand on Celestia's shoulder. "But dont worry... You're gonna get Scootaloo's respect back.... You'll figure something out... I know deep down she still trusts you... It's hard to believe but you know how she is..." She sighed laying back on the bed.

"Unfortunately.... But... What if she still refuses the gifts I buy for her to gain her forgiveness? Surely she'll even decline coming to Canterlot even if it was just for Luna's sake..." I sighed climbing onto Celestia's lap and straddling her a bit.

"I realize I could've come alone but I didnt because she wanted to come as much as you would love to see her. I'm not one to keep you apart after the things you've been through, her with the realization I'm not gonna be around all her life and you with the love you have for everyone you make friends with. She's gonna go back to being friends with you when she realizes that friends forgive friends... Maybe later we sit her down after she has some time to defuse and you try to apologize again.... if she doesnt forgive you, tell her what you forgave her for. Sound good?" She nodded. "Good. Now why dont you get a nap in before we hit Ponyville? You still look tired from last night." She yawned a bit.

"Sounds good... I'll wish to be awakened when we get closer to Manehattan...." I climbed off the Princess allowing her to fix herself in the bed. I smiled as she lied down on her pillow. Just as I tried to step away she sat up. "Uh... General... Before you leave... Tuck me in please? There should be a blanket under the bed." I nodded and knelt down at the foot of her bed and checked under her bed. Pulled out a large slide out drawer from under the bed. Inside was a blanket, a toy... Yeah... Not for the kids.... And some snacks and a bottle of lube... Yes... For the toy... I grabbed the blanket and took it out. Apparently there was a hidden gun in here tied down and with the safety on... Just in case the train was raided yes. As I came back up I got quite the surprise... Princess legs up, pants to her knees and a spread pussy. "Surprise General.... Think of this as a gift for when we get to tonight..." I sighed reaching up and pulling her pants back to where she was almost covered.

"Princess if that was to get me to take that magic suppression ring of forget it. It doesnt come off until tomorrow. Bribing me with sex could go and earn you another day..." I knelt down again and grabbed the toy tossing it to her before setting the blanket down on a fixed side table. "I'll let this off as a warning... Anything more and a day gets added on... Is it understood Princess?" She sighed grabbing the toy.

"Understood... Just put a guard at the door to my car... Make sure the fillies dont find me with my pants around my ankles... Or a plastic cock stuffed inside me..." I huffed turning around.

"Good.... If they do somehow get around the guard, then I'm having Cadence explain what you were doing... Neither me or AJ are explaining that stuff to our sisters..." I didnt say another word before leaving the car. As I left I looked to the first guard I saw only to whistle, snap my fingers and point at the ground by the door. He knew what to do.

This car was another bed car. Three beds, one big enough for Applejack, me and Big Mac, the other two maybe able to fit the fillies and the last one fitting Dash and MAYBE Fluttershy and Twilight if they can fold up their wings. Passed through that car and came into a car with a TV, a pullout couch and a few other seats stacked in the corner. Sitting right on the couch was Luna just cuddling with Scootaloo while they watched TV. I sighed sitting right next to them. Luna glanced at me before looking back at the cartoons playing. "Has my sister lied down like I asked?" She said.

"Yep... Tried to bribe me to take the ring off..." I could see Luna try to think of something her sister would use to bribe me. She looked to me and glanced at my sister. "...I'm just gonna say it wasnt something I even wanted without Applejack's approval... and I know with what happened? Not worth it." I looked to Scootaloo. Didnt break her eyes from the screen. Luna glanced over a bit confused and I just mouthed 'sex'.

"Ah... I'd say its definitely not worth it there. Certainly not even if she allowed it. What about you? Do you need some rest? You're welcome to have a lie down while I watch Scootaloo here." I sighed looking to the TV.

"I'm fine for the moment... May try to get some rest after we've picked everyone up from Ponyville... Last I checked Dash or Gilda has been having trouble sleeping lately... dont remember which but hopefully one of them wouldnt mind someone in the bed with em." She shrugged and we all just watched TV for a while. I dont think anyone but me went to the toilet. There was a hidden spot in the corner of each car. So private you couldnt even see anyone outside but each car had at least one or two gaurds sitting or standing idly by.

Around the time we reached Ponyville we went into the food car. This one seemed a bit bigger than the others. Fully stocked bar, kitchen area connected, long table in the middle of it and many chairs. Guards were posted in corners, one was working the bar and they were talking with the chef. We passed through and went into a combination storage car and a second entertainment car with a gaming console, mounted TV and a few Bass Villain controllers. And there we sat holding onto the bars by the door, Scootaloo just holding onto Luna as tight as she could as we pulled into the station. The stop was slow but a bit violent when we actually came to a stop. I opened the doors and stepped out with Luna. The station was baron. Nopony here. Some guards came off at the separation of the cars. I looked to Luna giving her a signal to wait while I hurried over to the entrance to the station. Not even a ticket handler here. I came out of the station and saw three guard transports pull up. They all came to a stop almost simultaneously. I could only watch as guards got out of the cabs and went for the doors to the back areas. One by one they opened the doors. From the back first I saw Big Mac hop out with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle each toting a duffel bag packed full from the looks of it. Bought em those just in case we needed to get outta dodge for what ever reason. From the middle truck came Dash, Fluttershy, Gilda, Pinkie and their bags each stuffed full. And in the front? Applejack, Rarity, Twilight and Babs! Babs saw me and just ran right up to me as Applejack grabbed her bags. "Ryder!" The little filly said hugging me. I laughed picking her up.

"Hey Babs! What are you doing? I thought you were with your dad for the weekend!" Right... Babs was still with her dad at the Summer Home... Her mother went out of town to try to pick out either tile flooring, carpet or something.

"Dad said he was going to go meet one of his friends somewhere in town and sent me to your guys place with my stuff and when I guess Applejack called my dad before sending me there that I was invited by the princess to go to the beach! I havent been to the beach for so long!"

Applejack laughed as she hugged me. "Look at you two! Sweetest stallion I could ever marry and the sweetest little filly he coulda met!" She said. We both blushed as everyone funneled past us talking with each other... I think Gilda grabbed my ass... Felt it but I didnt really try to react. Applejack broke the hug. "You and Scootaloo enjoy your time with the Princess at Canterlot?"

I huffed setting Babs down taking her hand as we started into the station. "Not really... But if we go out on a date just know I have a new dressy get-up to wear when we do..." I replied. "...Celestia freaked out because someone was criticizing everything all over Canterlot and made me go out to look presentable... Thank you Luna for lending me the funds for it..."

"Well maybe we can go out a bit later to one of them Manehattan restaraunts and maybe ask the Princess to get us a good table like when you proposed." I gave a laugh as we watched the others board the train.

"Well if we do lets hope we dont have to go in armed to the teeth again... Still feel bad for having you be in the middle of that." Applejack kissed me on my cheek.

"Well you dont gotta keep apologizin' for that sugarcube. If it were a work thing and you needed to go and reschedule something I'd understand... well... Now anyways..." I yawned a bit... well.... A lot if you count a big yawn as a lot. Even rubbed my eye trying to hesitate on it. "Awwww 's wrong sugarcube? Someone need a nap already?" I nodded slightly as we stepped onto the train handing the bags to a waiting guard.

"Yeah... Being up since one in the morning making sure Scootaloo was alright after a nightmare... Already took steps to make sure that nightmare doesnt come true..." I released Babs hand and she ran on to the next car before I looked to Applejack.

"Yeah... Heard from Twilight... Luna called and told her about that damn nightmare... warranted a visit to the parents and some time to work out some frustration... Right?" She winked. I nodded. "Good. Now you just get on somewhere to lay down. Y'all want some company? Think Babs wouldnt mind cuddlin' up to ya considerin' where we're off to and I wouldnt worry. Got some extra protection on her and I'm surprised you didnt notice." I huffed.

"Well... Hard to notice when you're out of your mind tired and pissed off... Been running off caffeine since around midnight... maybe a bit after... Dunno.... Think you'd be able to help me stay dry when I lay down?"

"O'course sugarcube. I got a few in your bag as well as your swim trunks and a fresh change of clothes. Why dont you just get on to a room and get a head start." I gave a nod before giving her a kiss on the cheek breaking away from her. Had to walk through a few different cars passing by everyone before I just grabbed one of the bigger beds. Didnt take me long to just pass out.

I slept for maybe about an hour, hour and a half only to wake up to someone jumping onto me. Woke up to find myself missing my pants and shoes but wearing my boxers over a diaper. And on top of me? Babs holding me tight whimpering. I looked at the other beds. Nobody in them. I sat up and held Babs close looking out the window. All I saw was the open fields of Equestria. Without her even saying anything I had a feeling I knew why she was here... Having the same scared thoughts of returning to a place filled with pain... filled with the realization you basically could've died... I sat there for a few moments until the door opened. Just covered my legs up with the blanket. I looked to the door and saw Luna coming in. She sighed seeing me with Babs. "There we are... Someone got a little scared and I think you know why..." She said.

I huffed looking to Babs as Luna sat down. "Babs ... I know you're scared... But you gotta be strong..." I said. "...I'm honestly just as scared..."

Babs sniffled a bit before looking up at me. "...B-but... You arent scared of anything...." She said. "You're a guard.... Guards arent scared of anything..."

"You'd be right but... That day I saved you? I was scared... more than anything... Before I moved in with Applejack I was in a plane crash... almost died... Was in the hospital for a while getting surgery to replace a wing that the Princesses were nice enough to make it look and feel real... But after that? My house burned down... Scootaloo was out of the house yeah but... I lost my home too... the one where I grew up... The one where I saw my baby sister come home for the first time... and the one where our parents were murdered... Yeah... I still have my mother but... At the time... those were my parents... I had to be strong to get through all those things... Can you just be strong here... for me? If not for me... maybe your father? Pretty sure he'd want you to be a big girl here..." Luna huffed taking Babs from my arms.

"It's true Babs... Every time I've checked on you, I noticed there's been less and less nightmares since what happened... Less about being up high, less about losing your father... Accidents still happen yes but... you are still far from being diaper dependent which is a good thing... Only way to stop having those accidents is to stand tall and know everything will be okay... You have a new home on the way, good memories of your old one... I've had to teach Ryder that a few times since he lost his home... He's been so scared, so worried but he's alright... You made a big step on coming willingly.... Last time Ryder went somewhere willingly it was where the plane crashed... He passed out only because of the height and where he was going... Now? He's staying strong despite what happened... Can you try and stay calm for Ryder? We dont want you panicking anyone or for you to get yourself sick... Just take a deep breath and say to yourself 'everything will be okay'." She looked to me. "Why dont you get some pants on and join the others? I'll be fine here. Everyone should be having some lunch and I'm not sure if you're wanting a snack."

"Yeah... Just bring her out when she's calmed down... Could use a soda anyways..." I rested a hand on Babs shoulder. "Y'know I'll be here for you Babs... Just wanna let you know I'm gonna go by where your home was... if you wanna try and come with me you're welcome to but if you dont want to I wont make you... And I swear I'll listen if you dont wanna even leave the transport if you change your mind... I remember what happened last time I didnt listen..." Luna looked to Babs as I got up grabbing my pants from the floor.

"Hear that Babs? He could use you for comfort after what happened... I'll be there as well as one of Ryder's friends who was there for him last time when we went to see the plane crash site. If you dont wanna go with him he'll still have someone with him and I'll be sitting with you... You dont have to make that decision now or at all... Just calm down, think and talk with Ryder about it... I'm sure he'll understand either way." I threw on my pants and grabbed my shoes before going through to the food car. Everyone was there either sitting at the bar or at the table. Didnt see Celestia so I assumed she was still asleep. At the table was Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Twilight and Fluttershy and at the bar was Gilda, Pinkie, Applejack and Big Mac leaving a seat open for me. It was right between Gilda and Applejack so I just took it. Gilda was chowing down on a tofu burger and what I hoped was some apple juice.... Applejack and Big Mac were eating bowls of salad. I'm really gonna be honest here... Not much happened the rest of the time we were on the train. I may have had to check in on Celestia to make sure she wasnt in any compromising position before returning to the entertainment area where the girls started watching cartoons with Luna.

When we got to Manehattan we were loaded into a few different transports. Celestia and Twilight into one by themselves with some of the luggage and everyone else was loaded into a limo while me, Babs, Luna and Gilda were loaded into one last transport. I sat next to Gilda holding her hand as we rode through the streets. I admit I was a tad uneasy as we passed the hospital that Babs and I were treated at until we were released into Celestia's care. Babs was just holding onto Luna's arm. Gilda looked to me. "You still got this Ry? It's understandable if you wanna just tell the driver to make the next turn towards the beach." She said.

I huffed. "I'm good Gil... " I replied. "I'm more worried about Babs..." I glanced over to the filly who was trying her hardest to stay calm. She was doing alright for the time being. "I mean... We were both there but... she's just a filly... stuff like that sits with you for years... Scootaloo would know...." Babs didnt even look at me as I said that. Just... Stared out the window behind me. I just reached across and nudged her leg a bit. She just jumped like she had been scared by someone sneaking up behind her. "Babs? You alright there?"

"Yeah kid... You got that thousand yard stare I've seen this dweeb have..." Gilda nudged me.

Babs nodded taking a breath. "I-I'm fine... Really I am!" She said.

I sighed as I knocked on the separation between the front and back seat. "Want some music Babs? I can let you borrow my phone for a bit until we're done." I said as the divider came down. I looked to the guard in the passenger seat. "You guys have a pair of headphones the filly could use? Willing to give someone Forty bits for a new pair of earbuds if she can keep em." Saw one guard dig into the glove compartment before pulling out a pair of wired earbuds. Just handed them straight back to me just as I pulled my wallet and gave him forty bits. I plugged em in, started my music app and handed it over to her. "Here. Listen to what ever you want. We're here if you need us." Babs nodded sticking the ear buds in. I looked to the guards in front again. "ETA on when we're gonna get there?"

The guard in the passenger seat looked to the GPS they had in the center console. "Ten minutes with traffic." He said. "Kick back and grab a drink." I nodded and just opened up the cooler just as he shut the divider and grabbed a soda for myself, juice box for Babs and some energy drinks for Gilda and Luna.

That ten minutes actually went by fast. As we pulled up I saw Shining and Cadence both wearing something dressy and surrounded by guards looking at a stone tablet with a picture of what the building used to look like. There was even a wreath with the Emblem for the Crystal Empire sitting nearby. Luna looked to Babs tapping her on the shoulder. She just took one earbud out. I could hear loud guitar solos from the tiny earphones. "Alright we're here... Do you wish to get out with Ryder or stay in here?" She asked. Babs looked at her. Then at me. Then at my phone. I only watched as she stopped the music, unplugged the headphones and tossed my phone back to me.

Babs got up and looked back at Luna. "...I think I'm good..." She said. "Are you coming Princess?" Luna smiled a bit.

"I would but I'm alright. This is more for Ryder than it is me. Now go on." I stepped out. Gilda followed and helped Babs onto my back.

Gilda closed the door behind us and took my hand before we stepped forward. One of the guards around my friends went over to Shining and whispered into his ear. He turned right around and smiled. "Ryder? Got the stones to visit here eh?" He asked.

I gave a nod as I hugged him. The hug was a tad awkward with Babs on my back. "Yeah..." I replied. "...Just... Feels like I should..." I glanced back at Babs. "Got someone else here and I gotta say she's being very strong right now..." Shining looked over my shoulder at the filly clinging to me.

"And who's this? Could've sworn you were Scootaloo at first..." Babs didnt say anything. She was just almost hiding her face in my shoulder. I sighed.

"That's Babs. Applejack's cousin. She's the one I saved when this place went down... it used to be her home..." He smiled a bit more.

"Well good to meet you Babs... Guess our friend here was in the right place at the right time for you..." He looked back at me as Gilda patted Babs on the back. "Up to say something to pay your respects?" I gave a nod before looking back at Babs.

"Babs? You wanna stay here with Gilda for a bit? Got something I need to do...."

Babs tightened her grip. "...C-Can I just stay with you... Please?" She asked. I looked at her surprised.

"Are you sure? You sound a bit scared still..."

"I'm sure..." I huffed.

"Alright... Maybe as a precaution do you wanna get down and hold my hand just in case you have an accident? I'm not trying to be mean but... I dont think I wanna have to bug the Princess to get us some new clothes because you got a bit too scared...." She nodded and hopped off my back before taking my hand. Her hands felt clammy but she still had a tight grip. We walked up to the stone tablet and I felt like things just froze as I looked at the tablet.

' Here is the memorial for those who have been lost in a tragic attack on Equestrian soil. Many ponies, innocent lives that didnt need to be taken in four explosions and apparent collapse. First responders who saved as many ponies as they could, most succumbing to over exhaustion, flames, smoke and being crushed under rubble or trampled. Let it be known at twelve thirty seven in the afternoon the first explosion rang out on august fourteenth. The last explosion that bisected the building rang out at twelve fortyfive causing thousands throughout the city to run. Many were lost among the dust cloud that burned eyes, suffocated many and others were never found. Their memories are left in the reflecting pool, their faces in the clouds above. May all five hundred victims of this tragedy rest in peace. '

We both put a hand on the tablet, bowing our heads. I said my wordless goodbyes and apologies to those lost in that mess. Apologies because... well... I couldnt save more. I honestly wouldnt doubt Babs lost some friends in that building... Too afraid to ask. Cadence huffed as I wiped a tear from my eye. "I'm glad you came Ryder... To even know you saw this disaster happen..." She said. She lowered herself down to Babs level taking her hand. Not even a tear came to her eye. "And you... You're a very brave filly... Ryder could barely keep himself calm going to the mountain from what I heard..." I smiled looking down at Babs as she just hugged my leg.

"I definitely agree... Think for this I might just call my mother, see if she's free for dinner here soon..." She held me tighter as I looked back at Cadence. "You two good for a beach day? Everyone else is there at Celestia's and Luna's beach house... Well... Except for us and Luna of course." Cadence looked to Shining and then back at me smiling.

"Give us an hour and we'll be there." I gave a nod just before she looked to Shining. "Shining we need to get back to the hotel and grab our things, maybe stop by the mall and pick out a bathing suit." Shining nodded and started for the transports they had waiting.

I grabbed Shining by the shoulder just before he managed to slip away. He looked back at me. "You good dude? Need something?" He asked.

I nodded. "Yeah. Just need to let you know I had to call in Rogue Princess on Celestia. Under no circumstances are you to remove the ring on her horn." I said. He looked at me a bit shocked.

"You called in what? On who?!"

"I had a good reason to. Luna will explain later if needed." He rolled his eyes before joining his wife and the rest of the guards going back to their transports. I looked down at Babs. "You good there Babs? Any accidents?" She looked up at me clutching her pants a bit giving a blushing nod. I sighed starting to lead her back to the truck. "It's fine. You were still very calm here..." I looked to Gilda. "Able to search up any local shop around we could just get her cleaned up at. I'm gonna tell Luna what we're gonna do real quick."

Yeah... Skipping here... Found a place, Gilda had to go in somewhere to help Babs clean up while I bought something from the place... Stupid rules but I guess it helps cut down on the riffraff.... Bought a couple sodas for us. When we got to the beach I gotta say it was a nice area. Saw everyone either playing in the sand, sunbathing or messing around in the water. The beach cabana? Mansion sized, palm trees everwhere you looked. Even a bar on the beach where I saw Celestia sitting with Twilight. There was even some changing rooms out by there. When we parked we all got out and went to find our things which were actually left outside of our respective rooms. And something tells me Big Mac didint wanna be stuck with the girls tonight... Why? Because Babs bag was right next to mine and there were five beds in this room... big room, looked out over the ocean. The good thing? Nobody had to change in the rooms. We just went out, split up and changed in the changing rooms outside. I had some trunks that Shining gave me long ago that he couldnt fit anymore. Babs from the glance I caught at her as she was running out into the sand was wearing swim trunks and a bikini top. I walked out in the open just to get in the warm sun. Just then I heard a door open behind me. I looked back to see Gilda stepping out wearing her bikini. Green camo, skinny strings and her bottoms? Sitting high up on her hips. She stretched and sighed. "Man... I dont know how long its been since I've been to the beach...." She said. "And... A bit longer since I've had sex on the beach...." She grabbed my flank making me blush and carefully nudge her off.

"M-Maybe later Gil... I'm technically still on duty..." She hugged me and tugged at my shorts a bit.

"Oh come now... Pretty sure the Princesses wouldnt mind if you took a small break... with your shorts around your ankles and me giving you some... stress relief..." I glanced over at Celestia and Twilight at the bar. Twilight was just looking over at us. I looked back at Gilda.

"If we can get out of view of the kids, maybe... Just gotta hope we're lucky.... Now I'd suggest getting out there and throwing Dash in the water before I have to explain to Twilight why I'm hard with fillies around and I'd rather not..." Gilda sighed.

"Fine. But if you feel that itch.... Dont be afraid to ask someone else to watch em while we sneak on down the beach, find something to hide behind for a quickie...."

I sighed just watching her walk into the sand... that bikini was flossing her ass.... Almost regret not asking Twilight to watch the girls while we dipped back into the changing stalls.... Anywho I made my way over to the bar and sat next to Twilight looking out at everypony having their fun. Twilight was wearing a bright blue one piece swimsuit while Celestia wore a white and gold bikini with a matching skirt covering most of her lower half. Twilight rested her hand on my shoulder. "Got a call from Shining and apparently he's kinda pissed at you for not telling him what happened..." She said.

"Well excuse me for not wanting to scare an already frightened filly by saying Princess Celestia wanted to kidnap her friend."

"And with that I agree with you but you still could've told him while having Gilda take her aside. You're just lucky he's agreeable on why you did what you had to do." I looked to Celestia.

"Wouldnt need to if...." I looked away. "Not gonna finish that thought... She already knows..."

Celestia sighed. "Ryder... Just say it... Yes I already know I've messed up but I deserve it..." She said. "...I honestly was thinking about seeing about picking up a few things for Scootaloo... Video games, toys...? I'm not even sure what's going to be enough for scaring her this much... She didnt deserve to be scared... by me especially..."

"Look... She'll forgive you sooner or later... Just get her something you'd think she likes, I can give you a list of video game stuff she's been bugging me about and maybe something extra as a surprise just to show you're really really sorry about it." She sighed.

"...I suppose that's a good idea...." She looked to Twilight. "Maybe you can aid me in that Twilight? I might bring Cadence too if she wants to come and help..."

Twilight smiled a bit. "I think I'd like that..." She replied. "Definitely been a while since I had a bit of time with Cadence and I'm sure she wouldnt mind a little mares only time..." She looked back at me. "Any limit to what we can do?"

"No going past three hundred bits. Nothing too much for her to be spoiled even though someone already did a bit while I was away." I sighed looking out at the beach. The endless ocean. I looked back at Celestia. "Princess... How Private is this beach here?"

Celestia sighed looking to the barkeep slapping the bar a few times and he just started grabbing bottles of alcohol. "If you're worried about an invasion dont worry. No submarines get in without Equestrian forces knowing." She said. "Not even invading warships.... If any are detected those mines dont just hit submarines but no military is stupid enough to even invade and even if they do we have the advantage on the homefront." Yeah... and I certainly dont have my knowledge of the Manehattan area from a video game where enemy forces invade Manehattan and destroy monuments, kill innocent civilians and shit... Oh you dont know how satisfying it is to just dome the fucking villain of that game... Something I hope to never become. A power hungry, do what ever the fuck it takes to make me look like the good guy in a war I apparently had a hand in creating. Yeah... That was apparently the plot of the game. Anyways Celestia looked out at the beach. "You know Ryder there's enough of us here for you and Applejack to sneak off and have some fun." I huffed.

"I would but I'm technically on duty because there's three princesses here, soon to be four and a prince. And since your trust is barely believable I think I'm gonna pass."

"But... I thought you forgave me." I looked to Celestia as the bartender set out three drinks. Martinis. Not one for them but I grabbed one and downed it. Sweet. Burned on the way down but that good burn.

"Forgiveness is different than trust. I forgive you for saying you were taking my sister away but my trust for you is about as much trust as a half ripped tape on a diaper. And trust me when I say its not very strong." She huffed.

"Then what do I have to do to gain your trust back?"

"A: Not pull that shit like you did on the train! And two: for you to keep that ring on your horn until your mother tells me it comes off. So until then I wouldnt even trust you to wipe my ass!" I set the glass back on the counter and started walking off into the sand. "I'm going to sit with AJ... If you need anything you know where to find me..."

I walked right through the warm sand. As soft as it was I still felt as if I were just gonna fall through or step on something hidden in the sand... Well... Maybe not the first part as much as the second part. There's sand by a lake near ponyville and Dash stepped on something sharp last she was there... Lucky it wasnt a needle. Or a busted beer bottle. Sharp something though. As I neared Applejack I saw she was laying with Rarity both suntanning. Rarity was wearing a two piece purple bikini and Applejack was wearing a one piece red swim suit. I sat down giving a huff right there next to them. Rarity looked over at me. "Is everything alright Ryder?" She asked. "You dont normally just plop yourself down like that if you dont have an issue."

Applejack glanced over. "Yeah sugarcube... dont normally do that but... I've got a feeling I know why..." She said. "...Just relax sugarcube.... Dont let her get under your skin... She fucked up, she knew she fucked up, dont go stressing about it."

I looked to my wife. "I honestly think she's trying to pull some shit..." I said. "She tried pulling something last night, it hasnt even been a day and she could be pulling something else. Call me paranoid but just because someone is playing nice doesnt mean they couldnt be planning something."

Rarity sighed. "As much as I hate to admit it there is a possibility its just a ploy to try something else." She said. "And with the Princess... This could be some political tactic to make you believe everythings okay and then we get blindsided with something unexpected."

Applejack looked to Rarity. "And you believe him?" She asked. Rarity nodded. "...Fuckin'.... I swear if it aint him bein paranoid its someone backing him up that annoys me...." She looked over at me. "I'll check with Luna once she gets her ass outside if she's got any tells, then I'll try to talk to her without trying to make it too obvious... Just go on and do what ever sugarcube... I'll be keeping an eye on the girls." Honestly couldnt really relax all the way. Stayed on my guard both for the Princesses and my sister even with Applejack helping me watch them.

To be continued