Life Anew

Its been... a few days since I came back from Griffonstone where I helped save some citizens from their jails for being what the Griffonstone population 'cheapskates' .... Yeah they kinda were but really not many tourists that go to Griffonstone- or ANYWHERE for that matter- do their research or have common sense to just... not be rude. Or racist. Like... seriously. You dont know how many calls guards get A DAY just because some racist bitch sees some zebra running about being 'suspicious' when all they were doing was going on a run or doing their job of trying to look around a house seeing if its fit for sale. Either that or just yelling at someone to speak what's being spoken here.... I've even been walking around in uniform only for someone to tell me about someone who looked to be stealing.... Walked up to the guy, said hi, guy smiled and just started jawing a while. Even asked me if I wanted a coffee for my service. Politely declined and watched as he went up to the registers. Either that or just someone screaming because they werent getting their way because they 'felt threatened'. But right now I'm in the bathroom holding my wifes mane as she was puking into the toilet. It was early in the morning and I'm honestly... SUPER tired....I was only asleep for a few hours... half asleep kinda.... before I felt Applejack just throw the covers off and run to the bathroom. I had to get up and follow her close and grab her mane before anything... Worst thing about us was we were just in our underwear. Not to mention she's lucky I'm starting to get an iron stomach around this. I gave a sigh rubbing her back. "Well... there goes dinner...." I said. "Made special and everything.... guess baby doesnt like it...."

Applejack spat into the toilet and grabbed some toilet paper before wiping her mouth. "...Guess eating for two even when cravings get in there....." She said. She looked into the toilet. "...Maybe it was just a mix of dinner and that candy before dinner.... Sweet and sour are good... baby just dont like it one bit...." She quickly covered her mouth before spewing again.

"Want me to get your snacks before you go back to bed?" She flushed as she came back up.

".....Just.... Just get Scootaloo or Applebloom to get em.... I dont think I'm-" ....Yep... again..... I just sighed.

"They have school in the morning... probably at least one of em is up hearing you lose your dinner....Once we're done I'm gonna go grab you something to calm your stomach....." After she was done- which was maybe twice more and then about five minutes of waiting making sure her stomach was settled- I had to carry her back to the room before heading downstairs to grab her a lemon lime soda and some crackers. Morning sickness doesnt always mean it happens in the morning..... Shit she's.... what? Four months pregnant I think? Maybe five. Not sure. Had other things on my mind. Applejack understands. Really. She does!

Anyways I had to sit up with her while she ate her crackers and drank her soda. While she did I checked my phone. Twilight and Rarity sent me pictures of Gallus making sure I knew he was alright. Apparently he loves racing games and he raced with Spike the entire night after Rarity went and had him model some outfits made for griffons. Maybe some pegasus but with how scrawny he was it was just like any other piece of clothing. Next week he's going with Fluttershy to help take care of animals. Even Luna got him a phone, gave him my number and he and I talked each and every day since then. He honestly seems happy with his new life here.... Still doesnt mean he might not be hiding some scars that cant be seen even if in the open.... You only know those signs if you look for em. Anyways after half a pack of crackers and a can of Soda Applejack passed out. I stayed up for a little while more... just watching her in the dim light of the moon. That was until my phone started vibrating in my hand. I have to keep it on vibrate at night just so I can answer it and it doesnt wake half the house. I checked it. Twilight. I sighed and opened up the window before flying out and sitting on the roof. I just waited a moment hearing someone mumbling to themselves. I gave a sigh looking around in the dark. Its been getting cooler and me being in my boxers didnt make it any better. "Oh!" I heard the Princess say. "Ryder? I am SUUUUPER Super sorry for waking you but I need you to come to me as SOON as you can!"

"....Does sometime after sunrise count as soon? Is it really that important that I have to get dressed right now after watching my pregnant wife lose her dinner and then pass out after getting something to ease her stomach only to leave after she went back to bed?" She gave a sigh.

"Alright... after breakfast tomorrow.... either that or first thing when you wake up. It seems our mutual friend has had a breakthrough with her research and needs to leave town for a bit." I clutched my chest a bit.

"....No...."

"I'm afraid so but she'll be back around. I promise. You'll be the first one she sees when she comes around."

"This..... This honestly hurts.... Its like seeing a best friend just up and move away with little much more than a letter or a word good bye...."

"I know but heres the good news about this. She's wanting you to escort her to her destination. She'll even give you a map for me to keep just in case we need to head out there."

"I swear if she's just trying to get herself into another bunker and hide away for weeks on end..... I'd wanna stay with her but I need to be with Applejack..."

"That's something else. She's meeting someone whos coming with you just so she wont go crazy nor will she go hungry because she's missed a few meals.... And I can say she's had to tell a guard to get her some food only to find out she's missed a few meals and didnt even get any snacks in her room. Just missed a few meals, had to get help to her chair and someone running out to get her some hayburgers and a pizza or two to keep in the mini fridge in her room." I sighed.

".....Lets hope she's fully stocked and with foods that can easily be replaced if something goes bad.... I'm not making a grocery run from here to wherever she's going...."

"Dont worry about that. She's gotten access to the magic cooler things. If things go bad, it will be replaced. So no worries there. If you want to come here with Applejack and the girls I'll be glad to watch them, maybe introduce them to Gallus."

"....Lucky she knows what happened in Griffonstone.... little does she know how dangerous that chasm was.... will she ever find out? Maybe but not today." Twilight sighed.

"If she does.... I'll try to be there to calm her down if she's going off on you. As for right now just get some sleep, meet me tomorrow morning."

"I'll have Big Mac take the girls to school then meet you and AJ at the castle. Its either that or he stays home... Knowing him he's gonna be wanting any reason to get out of the house."

"I'll have him take Spike digging for gems. Gives him something to do that isnt babysitting... Well.... Kind of.... isnt babysitting..."

"With Spike being more... mature I'd say, he really doesnt need a babysitter but still kinda needs a guide through life here and there so he doesnt do anything stupid.... Now I'm gonna get some sleep.... Longer I stay up, less likely I'll be any good as a bodyguard."

"Understood General.... I should be getting some sleep here soon too... Couldnt sleep because... I honestly know how you feel.... Just... I just hope she'll be okay...."

"She will be.... Might see if she has things set up for a video call every now and then..... Rest well Princess. Deep breath." I could hear her take a deep breath. "....I would wake her up, if she isnt up already.... ask her to keep you company before she leaves... Okay?"

"....Okay...." Twilight squeaked.

"....Night Princess..." I hung up and went back inside putting my phone back on the charger, closing the window and hopping back in the warm bed. I stayed awake for... maybe about five minutes before passing out. I spooned with AJ sleeping soundly. My alarm went off and I just hit snooze because AJ was still asleep.... didnt wanna get up it seemed... too tired. I had about a half hour until the next alarm. Stayed asleep but heard everything outside the door. Scootaloo and Applebloom complaining here, fighting over the bathroom before Big Mac went and told em to be nice, came checking on us but let us sleep, even heard him open and close the door, fire up the truck and just get on his way.

When that second alarm went off Applejack just reached over me and grabbed my phone shutting off my alarm before setting it back down and shaking me. "....C'mon sugarcube." She said with a yawn. "...Time to get up...." I kinda started acting little a bit..... little. Just groaned a bit not even wanting to get up like that was gonna change anything. "I know you're tired but we gotta get up.... I gotta get something to eat, you do too." I just turned over starting to hog the covers. "....Alright.... somethin's wrong here..... C'mon.... tell momma what's wrong...." She started stroking my mane.... Something that just makes me happy...

"....Twilight called last night after you passed out.... and she had some news....." Applejack gave a disappointed sigh.

"Girl want you to work on something important huh?" I nodded. "What is it sugarcube? She want you to go off on a mission of peace again?" I shook my head.

"No.... just.... our friend that's been staying there has to leave..... I gotta be the one to see her off....." Applejack just gave a pained noise.... One that was just like seeing a stallion get hit where it counts with a baseball bat.

"Oh sugarcube.... I'm so sorry.... Must hurt like yours truly broke your heart..... I'd never think of doing it but that's how I'm thinking it feels....." I gave a hesitant nod. "....No way she can stay?" I shook my head. "....Well you still should get up.... Dont wanna have Twilight put someone else into your shoes for this.... And I know what you're thinking... I'll be fine sugarcube...... Twilight'll get Dash and Gilda to help me out just so you dont have to worry...."

"....I know she will.... and hopefully I can at least get a little 'sorry for leaving like this' present....."

"Maybe she will sugarcube.... I know how Darin' is with you.... Hell she told me about your little.... short comings when you first met." She laughed while I blushed. She sighed. "C'mon sugarcube. Get on up now, get dressed and cook some breakfast. Think of this like a bandage. Faster this is done, easier it is to get over the pain." I sighed uncovering myself.. Went and grabbed some clothes- pants, a shirt and one of my service shirts... went and grabbed one with the cut off sleeves. Just threw those on and went downstairs and into the kitchen. Just grabbed some pancake mix, poured it in a bowl with water and just made some pancakes. had some blueberries in the fridge but didnt wanna upset AJ's stomach.

As I cooked I grabbed a bottle of cider to wake me up and I just started stacking pancakes. After about six flapjacks Big Mac came back. Just opened the door and there he was. He huffed as he set his keys down on the coffee table before joining me in the kitchen... honestly looked like he just got out of bed.... Pajamas but he had shoes on. "What gives? Thought you were taking the girls to school today!" He said. I huffed just sipping my drink and flipping a few fresh pancakes. He just looked to me. "....Tired eyes, looking like shit.... drinking something sugary..." He looked at my wings. ".....Feathers messy but you just woke up..... Should brush em out a bit at least....." He hummed as I placed some of the pancakes onto the pile and putting more batter down. "Oh yeah.... that's the look of heartbreak..... Aint AJ breaking your heart.... Probably woulda found you in the dirt outside in your underwear if that.... Gilda?" I shook my head. "....Who then? She's the only other one who's tail you'd wanna tug on while you plug em but... aint saying she's the only one you did..."

I gave a sigh downing about half the bottle of cider. I set it down and looked to him. "....You know that mare you went with to save my ass from staying a fucking Timberwolf?" I asked.

"Miss Yearlin'? The hell does she have to do with you bein-" He stopped himself. "...She didnt... She didnt die did she?"

"No... If she was you know Dash and Twilight would be just crying and I'd be with them faster than anything.... But she's apparently leaving Ponyville and Twilight's castle...." I turned back to get the last few pancakes off the pan. "I gotta go escort her out after breakfast.... Might be gone a few days.... Not sure though...." He sighed and just rested a hand on my shoulder.

"Man.... Sorry you were given the short straw... I'd go with you if I could but I know damn sure AJ wouldnt wanna be staying with Twilight at the castle and having the girls be there the whole time worrying about us.... Best if we just stay around here..."

"I promised Twilight AJ and you guys would be there. She already said Gilda was gonna be there for AJ just in case she-" I heard the bathroom door upstairs slam before hearing the muffled sounds of AJ vomiting again. "..... does that... you mind? I did it last night..." He huffed and just hurried upstairs while I got everything ready. Put a few plates out, set pancakes out, got some drinks ready. Juice and milk. AJ still ended up eating but went back to bed while I left. Big Mac said he'd get things together for AJ and the girls for a few nights in the castle. I didnt bother getting a bag ready. Just hopped in my car and left.

I almost didnt wanna go straight to the castle. Just went and drove around 'missing turns' until I felt like I had to take the turn. I arrived at the castle and I swear I felt like I was just walking up to my own execution. It was like all that shit I did? Killing in the war, killing to protect my own family? It was like there was someone either waiting for me in the elevator waiting with a gun waiting for the doors to open to cut me down. Lucky for me and my pregnant wife there wasnt. I loaded into the elevator by myself and rode it to the top. When I got to the top Twilight was there to greet me. She was in her pajamas, her mane a mess and two cups of tea in her hand. She handed one to me as I stepped off. I sipped it. Lukewarm. Sweet. She sighed. "....I know.... it hurts... I almost didnt wanna get out of bed with her there...." She said. I gave a sigh as we started down the hall.

"...Yeah.... Why do I have to be the one to do this?"

"Its not because I want you to do it... its because she requested it...." She replied. "When she was eating dinner last night.... I just... I lost my appetite hearing she was going to leave.... she hesitated to say but.... She knew she had to say it. She went to sleep, I couldnt until I had to invite her to my room after the call we had...."

"....And I hope I have the same liberty before I depart from her side...."

"I think you will Ryder. Speaking of someone being at your side.... Where's AJ?"

"Resting after she lost the snacks she had this morning before our call. Lost her dinner before that... Maybe after she gets here, take her to the infirmary, make sure everything is okay with her.... I know this is morning sickness but.... I just want her to be okay." I sipped my tea as Twilight sipped hers. She lowered hers and sighed.

"No worries there. She'll be taken care of."

"And maybe get Gilda to help?"

"Already here. Dash is out of town with Rarity. She just came in, plopped down in Dash's room and just kept to herself most of the time. Only time she didnt was when she had to ask me if she could eat some of my leftovers." I downed the rest of my tea before she took my cup. "Here. Why dont you go get yourself ready? I got supplies for you and Daring to use. Even got you a change of clothes and a few other things. Stuffs inside your room." I gave a nod and walked off.

I got to my room even though I didnt want to go there. I changed out of my sneakers into boots I had waiting for me. I had a pack stocked with RE Rations, a few shirts, another pair of pants, a water canteen that was filled with ice cold water and I even had a knife and gun sheathe all ready to go just in case. Gun not included. I strapped the sheathes to my belt and grabbed the pack before heading back out and just started wandering the hall until I found the entertainment room. There I saw Gallus and Spike just playing a coop game. I leaned on the couch a bit just giving a sigh. Spike looked up to me and smiled a bit. "Hey Ryder! What's up? You good dude?" He asked. I just shrugged. "Thing that Twilight has you doing?" I nodded. "Yeah.... I honestly feel bad for you knowing how you are.... Especially with our guest."

Gallus hummed a bit. "Already met her if you meant A.K. Yearling. Always loved reading her books at the orphanage and the Princess even lets me read her books as long as I dont dog ear the pages or touch them after eating." He said. "Shame she has to go."

I huffed. "You're telling me...." I replied. "The Princess loves her books as much as I do. Hell.... She's only here because of me. Couldnt find the right environment for trying to stay focused trying to write her new book. I dont have any clue about it, nor does the Princess and Miss Yearling wont tell us so dont ask."

Spike sighed. "Yeah... Figured as much with that." He said. I sighed looking to Gallus.

"You doing alright Gallus? Anything going on?"

Gallus groaned a bit as he died falling down a pit. "....I almost had that! FUCK!" He exclaimed. He sighed setting his controller down and looking to me. "....I guess I'm alright.... Been having nightmares about what happened..... Guess I'm still scared about..... y-y-you know...." He kinda leaned back in his seat and just hugged himself. I sighed and walked over to his side and rested a hand on his shoulder.

"....I know that feeling.... Scares the living hell out of you that you nearly did something you didnt want to.... especially when you now have someone who cares about you.... I didnt save your ass to see you back on the streets.... I brought you here for a new hope, new grasp on life. Roof over your head, warm bed and three meals a day..." I huffed and sat on a chair arm next to him. "Spike.... Pause the game and go ask the nearest guard to take you to Twilight... I.... I have some things to say to Gallus that I dont want you to hear...."

Spike scoffed. "Come on Ryder! I've seen you bloodied and bandaged in a hospital bed!" He said. "You had twigs and bite marks all over your body!"

"Spike.... I'll tell you later after I get back. But I want Twilight to be there..... Both for me and you.... But for now just go to get her.... Please.... Big Mac will take you out to dig for gems later. Gilda's gonna be taking care of Applejack...." He could tell I was serious about this. He paused the game and got up leaving the room. I waited for a moment before I looked back to Gallus. "....Gallus.... I want you to tell me to stop if any of this makes you uncomfortable..... Please please... PLEASE..... if you're thinking dark thoughts do not hesitate to reach out to the Princess or tell a guard.... Understand?" He nodded. "....Alright.... When I was training for the guard.... it was just after my parents were murdered in cold blood.... my sister- who you might meet later- saw our parents dead.... I had collapsed thinking what I was gonna do, where I was gonna go.... I didnt have a job yet... I was only snapped out of a stressed out trance to my sister screaming for help... She was being taken away by a guard.... Not sure if they were taking her away to try to put her in an orphanage.... to console her.... I just flipped out, punched the guard and they ended up arresting me after my wife took Scootaloo to my cousins place.... I was taken to prison but I wasnt put in a cell. I was put in a drunk tank by myself..... Spent two nights vomiting up my guts not sleeping... All my distraughtness caused me to have nightmares, puke.... Even nearly shit myself. After those few days one of my friends came in. Checked on me, gave me food... Even asked me to come with him because he thought I was guard material. I met Celestia who wasnt happy I decked her guard..... But agreed to train me.... They made the mistake of taking me to a gun range where I blacked out and nearly shot myself.... My friend knocked the gun out of my hand, knocked me out and had to hold me down until guards came in to get me and assess the situation.... That stuck with me even into me becoming a General after I was.... more or less stable. Didnt stop me trying again and cutting myself infront of my mother, my cousin and my friends.... it took a stare, one quick punch and Princess Luna to check on me and make sure I was alright.... If it werent for the thought of me getting home to my sister after the war I easily could've asked for a mercy killing on the mountain where my plane went down..... I could've hung myself during the war. But what kept me going was that thought of my sister..... Maybe if you ever feel like doing something like that? Think of how much I care.... same with the Princess.... She agreed to take you in and feed you... I cared enough to risk my own ass to save you from your own death.... Hell I'm even glad you stopped to talk to me.... There was hesitation there.... Strength showing you didnt wanna do what you did.... yet something pushed you to say yes and jump.... We wanna help you any way we can.... we're your friends, your caretakers, your support.... Each time I got close, a friend stepped in to save me..... Let us help..... Tell us if you're thinking dark things..... We just wanna help....."

I could see him hesitate. He just wanted to reach out but.... He was really uncomfortable..... Like I read him like a book..... Knowing something was going on.... I looked to the door and whistled a bit. The closest guard who heard came right in. I snapped and pointed to Gallus who instantly hugged him and just broke down. The guard looked to me. "....Orders sir?" He asked.

"...Take him back to his room.... I'll contact Celestia for him.... He's still hurting.... Gallus... if I went too far I'm sorry.... I just wanna see you not making the same mistakes twice....." The guard huffed and picked Gallus up like he was carrying a child... probably weighed about as much as Scootaloo if not a bit more.

I sighed and took out my phone getting up and shutting off the console they were both playing on. I called Celestia as I put the controllers away. As I set the first controller down she answered. "Ah General perfect timing." She said. "I wanted to ask you to-"

"Princess I need you to ask this after I get back with what Twilight has me doing... hurts the hell out of me more than anything.... But I need to request something real quick.... I need a Nightlight for Gallus..... He needs some help and bad..... I told him about... my darkness... I either scared him or he still has something going on in there and I just hit him just right to where it ticked something off....." She sighed.

"Luna has her work cut out for her with him.... I suppose you tried to tell him how you got by..... even with your attempts...."

"Yes Princess.... Told him the regret I felt and why I felt it.... Even.... revealed some things that I didnt reveal to you..... I'm fine mentally right now I swear.... This was before my attempt with my mother..."

"I wont ask.... But I will ask you stop by on the way back from.... what ever you're doing.... Its.... its important. Nothing dark, nothing that needs... special.... attention. We just ask you come here. We'll explain when you do. You go now. I'll wake my sister and have her aid our friend there.... I do hope he hasnt been contemplating again..."

"If he has.... i hope he isnt going to now.... Especially when he's being an awesome friend to Spike.... I honestly feel like he's even a little brother I never had that I care about.... I love Scootaloo dearly but... I wanted a little brother growing up.... Still glad I got the best sister I could ask for..."

"I know you love her... I wont say anything.... Just go now. I'll handle things from here.... Guards are still searching his room when he's not in it? Carefully going through everything?"

"They are and they should be. I sure hope they did lately otherwise I'm having some words with them...."

"Understood. Now go. Faster we nip this in the bud, the earliest we can stop this flower from blooming."

"Understood Princess. Over and out." I hung up and shoved my phone in my pocket just waiting for a while in silence. Not long later I was approached by Princess Twilight, Spike and Daring in her A.K. Yearling costume.

Spike looked to me. "Where'd Gallus go? I thought we were playing...." He said. I sighed.

"I'm handling it Spike.... now just.... I dont know find another game to play or something.... I need to have a word with Twilight and...." I huffed choking up. He just hugged me for a moment.... Then backed away nodding. I huffed giving a bit of a smile. "Thanks Spike.... Keep Gallus entertained while I'm gone...." He gave another nod as I got up and walked out of the room with Twilight and Daring.

Twilight looked to me. "What happened with Gallus....?" She asked as we walked out of the room and down the hall. I huffed.

"....Told him something of my past.... he started crying.... and hopefully Luna can help him...."

"...I hope so too.... Guards told me he had an accident last night.... They went and helped him clean up, washed his bedding and what not.... Nightmare I'm guessing pushed him into the pool as I say."

"Hope he doesnt mind diapers for a few days.... Dont want him to keep soiling his shorts every time he's scared.... Now.... About my mission Princess? I dont wish to dwell on him until I return."

"...I understand. I'll see to it he's comfortable... Even... Just ask him if he's willing to wear something to protect him...."

"Good... Tell him about me.... And the guards are checking his room while he's out?"

"Yes. They're checking every other hour he isnt in his room. Everything is placed back in its original place like you said. So far nothing. We even have his restroom checked for pills or blades he's stashed if anything."

"Good. Now... Mission please?"

Twilight sighed and hesitated trying to tell me. That's when Daring just sighed resting a hand on her shoulder. "Ryder.... I know this hurts but I need to leave...." She said. "It's mostly personal security reasons. The guards around me are nice but recently Twilight has been getting... Threats.... Mostly from a previously acquainted stallion who is a bit on the angered side because of her rejections of his advances. Guards are handling it but just in case I'm being moved out to a secure bunker. And yes, I will have contact with you and Twilight. I have your numbers and Twilight has given me your screen name for your video chat app. And I know what you're thinking..... Will this be like what you got me out of in Vanhoover? No. It wont be. I'll have someone to talk to, I'll go out under my disguise, even might visit occasionally until Twilight knows she's safe. You'll get to meet my friend. We're meeting him first thing once we get to Canterlot. And when we get to our destination? You're welcome to stay the night before going home. You're to be our bodyguard on our way to our destination and when coming back you'll be driven by a guard detail we're meeting after we meet my friend."

"Got it.... Guard detail. And I take it we're gonna be hiking a bit? I mean... why else would I be given a survival pack with a knife and possibly a gun?"

Twilight huffed. "We're giving you the gun before we leave." She said. "Gallus was venturing around your guys rooms when we were getting things together. I had to have guards take the gun as we left just in case he got curious and saw it... Knife only responds to your cutie mark energy and mine. We've had Daring test it out and she couldnt even take it. Speaking of which...." She looked to Daring. "You wanna try again? See if it'll give?" She nodded and grabbed at the knife at my side. She tugged on it a bit. Nothing. No give. She looked back to me. "General? Why dont you give it a look? Make sure I got the spell right." I gave a nod and grabbed the handle of the knife pulling it. It came out easy and I even recognized the knife.

"Wait a .... What?! You made a carbon copy of The Land Walker's knife?!" Story time: The Land Walker was a character who was killed before the start of one of my Nukes Galore games. He killed a bunch of enemy raiders with his blade which just was a sharpened machete made to look like a combat knife and was serrated on both sides like a saw. Blood was even spattered on the blade but it wasnt known if it was his blood or the raiders he slew. I gave it a once over and just put it back in the sheathe.

"Yep. Had Luna commission this one under secrecy and we were gonna give it to you as a birthday present. We're obviously gonna have to rethink that...." She huffed. "...And now I guess.... We're going to need to just get this done so you can get on your way...." She looked to Daring. "....It was an honor having you as a guest at my castle.... You're always welcome here, day or night, days, weeks.... even months... I just.... I just wished it wasnt some asshole pushing you out of here...." I could see the tears in her eyes building up.

Daring sighed. "....I understand Twilight... It hurts for me to leave as well... meeting all the ponies you've brought around, spending time with you and even teasing this guy over here." She said gesturing to me. "...If I'm ever around I'll drop by.... Might even see about staying with Princess Celestia for some time if I leave the bunker." She brought Twilight in for a hug and Twilight just latched on and started BAWLING. I just sighed and joined in on the hug. We sat in the huddle for a few minutes before Twilight had the strength to try and push away. "....You have my number Princess... I'm just a call away."

"...I know.... but it wont be the same...." She said rubbing her eyes.

I huffed. "....Princess... forgive me for speaking out of turn but its something at least.... She could be without contact with ANYONE...." I said. "....We can give you a call when we get into Canterlot if you want.... For right now why dont you go sit with Spike, get a drink and relax.... Applejack and Big Mac should be here soon...." She sniffled and nodded before looking to the guard that was with her.

"...Lead them to the transport.... give the General his weapon and send them out...." The guard didnt even give a salute, a word or even a nod before she ran into the room hugging herself. The guard just beckoned to us to follow them. Daring and I followed closely behind. It was almost silent in the elevator going down. I had the pack held by one strap at my feet. Once in the garage I threw the pack over my shoulder, collected my weapon and just went with Daring into the transport. I set my pack aside and even took the belt off my just to have my weapons sit aside as Daring and I cuddled on the seat.

Daring sighed. "....If you werent the only one I trusted with this I wouldnt be having you do this...." She said. "You'll be getting similar treatment as the Princess. I'll give you my number, a little special time together and I'll drop by if I'm ever in the area. Same with having a video call if you need to."

I sighed. "....Almost wanna believe this isnt at all real... That I just had someone hit me over the head somewhere and I'm just hallucinating this...." I replied. "....Maybe I'm still asleep at home.... Cuddled up with my wife and I just think this is an anxiety dream that's basically showing me what's going to happen while I'm away from AJ...." She sighed.

"I understand.... Pregnant wife and all that but... if this were a dream would you be able to feel this?" She kissed me on the lips passionately and used one of her hands to feel me up.... even unzipped my pants a bit sticking her hand inside and just rubbing my balls. She pulled back and just grinned zipping my pants up again... which now had less room than I remember. "Do you think Luna would let you feel that in a dream?"

"...She would but would never be that forward about it... she would at least put me in a situation where its not so sudden or still feeling like shit about having to do this.... She'd probably put me in a stripclub with you on display...." I sat up sitting her up and next to me as well. "...If we can still do something later I'll go for it. I'm already bringing attention to us with a survival pack and a weapons belt attached to me... Dont need it with a hardon only to have paparazzi see us and think something went on in this transport that can be done later...." She huffed.

"You're right... you're on duty right now... Never know who could be watching... My apologies General."

"Dont worry about it.... Just keeping a careful eye out for a scandal that could end careers." She nodded and punched the seat between us bringing up the cooler. We both just grabbed a cold drink and just sat in silence listening to the radio. It was pretty much the same for most of the train ride.

We brought some attention to ourselves both with me being somewhat in uniform and her being AK fucking Yearling. I actually had to stand by her with my badge on display. Made the encounters a bit easier and quicker if they did happen. Had a few kids who got their books signed, one guy who was a bit of a nerd trying to explain everything he had of the 'Daring Do series' and one guy who just.... stared.... yeah... made both Yearling and I uncomfortable. I kept an eye on him as we waited for the train. Thankfully there was a personal car reserved for us. Didnt see that guy at all for the entire train ride. Not even after. When we did get off the train I made sure I had everything, made sure Daring had everything and just walked her off the platform. There were guards waiting for us who just hearded us into a waiting transport... but as we entered the transport I saw a strange stallion. I nudged Daring back just as he smiled. He was a unicorn. Had a beard that was just like a ponytail on his face and he had small round glasses mounted in front of his eyes. He was wearing... what I honestly could only describe as a familiar outfit. Jeans, boots, but a battle coat that had an insignia I knew. He gave a smile. "Woah there! You got a Geiger counter there fella?" He asked. ...I knew this phrase. Latest Nukes Galore game. Yes the one with the cars.

Daring poked her head in. "Its in the shop bucko." She replied. I just looked to her confused. She looked to me. "What?"

I shook my head and huffed. "How the HELL do you know that phrase and why the fuck is this guy sitting in our transport?!" I asked. I looked back to him. "And why are you wearing the battle coat of the Steel Knight Commander?!" Daring pushed me in and just squeezed past sitting down. I couldnt help but climb up on the seat.

"Allow me to explain Ryder." She gestured to the stallion. "Ryder, I'd like you to meet my contact Sunburst. He's a bit of a nerd just like you but he's done more for me with finding my next treasure whilst I'm writing my books. He's also the one who was calling me when you caught me with my pants down." I sighed.

"I'm still honestly embarrassed about that...." I replied blushing a bit. I looked to Sunburst. "Well... Nice to meet you I guess.... Names Ryder.... General of the Royal Guard, bodyguard for you two until we get to your destination."

The stallion smiled and put out his hand. I grabbed and shook. "Nice to meet you as well sir!" He replied. "As our... mutual friend here said I find her treasures, she goes and finds them and somehow manages to find just the biggest evidence of something she swore up and down didnt exist!" He gave a chuckle as he shot her a glance.

Daring kicked back and gave a smile. "Well I do hope you enjoy shaking that 'evidence' hand...." She said. "You remember that video I sent you with those pictures of what happened and those runes on the stage of the Gems and Tulips concert?" He shot her a confusing look as the door was closed and we started heading out.

"You're kidding! THIS is the stallion who caused that damage and made those runes like that?"

I released his hand and chuckled. "Not to mention the same stallion who survived the Manehattan Attacks, a plane crash in the Foal Mountains and I've got quite the reputation." I said. He looked back to me shocked.

"...You were in the Manehattan Attacks?!" I gave a nod.

"Yep. I was watching my little cousin in law. Put her down for a nap, next thing you know I'm rushing her to get dressed, get a bag together and then we're just falling out of the building as its collapsing. You do NOT know how pissed my wife was at me for not saying anything when the phone lines were clogged up so badly."

"Sweet Celestia..... That day I was just watching TV when air raid sirens went off here... Everyone was rushing inside and even I had to take in a few ponies that were too far from home until we got the all clear. Took until the next morning.... Was good for the company and the karma I got from that...."

"Yeah.... That plane crash was a different story...." I looked away. "Where are we even going?"

"We're uh.... going to my home first. The guards are to take us there then to the outskirts of Canterlot but no further."

"....So... To your place to do what? Couldnt you have brought it?"

"Well... Yes but id rather not have important research where it could be seen or damaged.... Not to mention I had prior business to attend to before we left."

"Prior business?"

"Yes well you see I have another side job as curator for a local museum and I research magic artifacts every now and then. Might not be the best job trying to find new exhibits but its always a joy to find something new and teach ponies young and old a thing or two about Equestrian history. Like an old tribal once said-"

"History is only history if someone knows it?" I gave a bit of a grin.

"Why yes! Its strange having someone know what you're going to say especially when you're referencing something that nearly nobody knows and just thinks its a phrase you coined yourself." I couldnt help but chuckle as if we werent talking about my dark past.

"Yep. Gotta love that.... You know for my service during the war Princess Luna commissioned a clothing maker to make the tribals coat and in the Scarred Republic version. Always love chaos. 'Chaos walks with the Nameless Stallion as he entered from town to town.... Bodies piled high, morale in the next town low because they knew they were next.'."

Daring sighed. "Seems like everywhere you go you are either escaping from the chaos or causing the chaos.... Princess Twilight told me about that time she screwed up a spell and made everyone lose their memories. Even showed me the damage of the vehicles you destroyed. I'd ask how but she tells me you get.... crazy... when your wife doesnt have you on a tight leash. Its obvious she keeps you grounded when you're feeling threatened. Keeps you from accidentally hurting innocents in case something does happen." I huffed.

"Dont remind me.... I paid for that and just.... I swear when I get back I need to get her to delete those pictures.... Dont know what she's doing with those pictures but she really shouldnt have those...."

"Sounds like she deleted them dont you worry. Perhaps you can take some frustrations out on a few things outside of Canterlot. Even show our guest why you're the well revered General of the Royal Guard."

I took a deep breath and just nodded as we went along our way. Took a few turns and came upon the rear of the museum. I left my bags and weapons inside here since they were gonna stay out here waiting for us. We followed Sunburst through the warehouse, storing old exhibits, paintings and such. We got into an elevator and went up. Daring held my hand assuring i was alright after my run in with Gems and... that... issue. As we got to the top we came out to a small room with book shelves and a chair with a table right next to it and a lamp... extend the room a little and add a fireplace and you've got Hellfire's den. "Alright you two turn around! Secret code to the back door of my home just in case anyone decides to break in for a heist." He said. We both nodded and turned around. We heard a lot of noise. Books being flipped open, latches being switched, gears turning and even magical spells being cast. After.... honestly what felt like forever the door was finally open when we heard a creak. "There! Cant be too careful. Always gotta have complex locks." We turned back to see the bookcase bisected with some books actually in half but the pages stuck together as if it were still closed. Through the door? Stairs. All we saw. We followed him up the stairs and once we got to the top I just about shit myself. At the top I saw a carbon copy of what looked to be the Grand Mage's quarters from Mountain Madness! Made by the same guys who did Nukes Galore. Swords and shields and... surprising use of magic when unicorn arent the main magic users. I always play a Dragonblood Jewel thief. Why? Gold. I swear I'm a griffon at heart in games.... Same with a fucking psychopath.

I just stepped forward just looking at everything from an ingredient garden to an enchanters table which I guess was a dining table and just.... Oh I was having such a huge nerd boner right now. "No... fucking.... way.... I expected either a Stable door underground.... but this? PERFECT for a museum!" I said looking at his weapon racks. Staffs and such looking like it was ripped from the game. Sunburst chuckled a bit.

"I thought you might like this. This was my own work right here.... Everything here was made to look just like everything down to the flower in the terrarium. Some stuff I had to have commissioned, others were gifts, but everything is a faithful recreation. Go on, make yourself at home while I gather my things." He looked to Daring. "I have extra clothes if you wish to change out of what you're wearing there Daring."

Daring huffed looking down at herself. "...I guess I should.... No use in walking through rugged terrain in a dress..." She said. "Hopefully you have something in my size."

"Not to worry. I have spells for that." I watched as Daring walked off with Sunburst and they disappeared up a set of stairs behind a wall. I went to go look at the weapons on the racks. The staffs were made wonderfully but inoperable by anyone who couldnt channel magic. Mostly for unicorns a little short in the horn department. Havent heard of someone yet who has lost their horn that practiced magic like Sunburst or Twilight. There were blades, some unique to the game they're from, others just part of the common finds among bandits. There was one weapon I always loved no matter what build I did. A warhammer that was just apparently thrown into the sky one day and would only come down for the one to find it planted in front of them. Skyfall. It was crafted out of ebony yet was as light as one made of wood. Though being light it does the best damage of all warhammers. Faster swing speed and with the right perks and you're smashing heads like watermelons. But that gave me an idea. I reached for my back thinking of that hammer and pulled my magical hammer. And as I thought my magical hammer was indeed now Skyfall. I swear I'm telling Shining and the others about that.... See what they make of it. I quickly put my hammer away and just explored more.

I was amazed by just about everything in here. Minus the nonperishable food on the shelf in the kitchen area. Those were just normal stuff you see in any grocery store. After a while they came out. Sunburst still had his battle coat on but now he had a briefcase cuffed to his wrist. Daring was now wearing another familiar piece of armor. This was a set of Lucky Looters armor. Black armor with a big ol leaf clover on the breast. Even wore matching pants with implanted ballistic weave in it. Her mane was tied up in a bandana and in braids. She sighed extending her wings just as I gave a sigh and a smile. "There we are. We ready to go now?" I asked.

Daring gave a nod as she let out a sigh. "Good to let the wings breathe....." She said. She looked to me. "I swear General you need to visit this museum more often. Maybe you and Sunburst can see about dressing up for the next convention to coordinate costumes." I sighed.

"Might do just that if he's willing. Lets just get going...." My mood suddenly dropped realizing there was still much to do.... that this wasnt the final stop. Daring sighed and came over hugging me.

"Its alright Ryder... It hurts I know but this isnt goodbye...." She broke the hug and took my hand. "Come on now... Faster we get to the bunker faster we can make the beast with two backs." I kinda blushed with how forward she was about this. We went back downstairs with sunburst right behind us.

Sunburst gave a huff as the door closed up behind us as we loaded into the elevator again. "Alright... Got my research and Daring's... All we need to do is get back in the transport and prep for the walk." He said. He looked to Daring as she just rubbed my back. "You have our supplies stashed near our drop off?"

"Yep. Hidden in a safe that blends in with everything. If its missing when we get there, we didnt hide it long enough." Before we went out of the museum I had to make sure we were fine to move into the transport. Gave me a chance to put on my belt again and get my weapons ready. When it was all clear we hopped in and started for the outskirts of Canterlot. And Daring would let them know where to go and where to stop. When we did stop we were a good ways out by a forest. We all hopped out, made sure we had our stuff and then pushed into the forest a bit. Daring looked to us. "Be on the lookout for a box safe hidden in a bush. I should've hidden it well enough for it to be around here for a while... Unless someone was specifically looking for it." We both gave a nod as we started weaving through the bushes. I had my gun drawn just keeping it ready just in case some wild animal decides to make a break for one of us. Though I didnt have to keep it drawn for long. I went through a bush and I swear I felt a rock... Nope my dumbass kicked the safe. It hurt for a moment but I think my boots and my strength went and dulled it down to where it just felt like I lightly kicked something.

I looked back to Daring and Sunburst as they still searched the bushes. "Found it!" I called out resheathing my gun. Made sure the snap was there too. I reached into the bushes and hiked up the safe. I felt the weight on this but this weighed probably as much as Big Mac if I threw him over my shoulder. Hefty but I could manage. I trudged through the bushes before setting it down in front of Daring and Sunburst who honestly looked surprised more than I was at his own home.

Sunburst looked to me as Daring started fiddling with the dial on it. "How in Celestia's name did you do that?!" He asked. "Those things are at least 300 pounds empty! And you're a pegasus! No offense you're supposed to not be able to pick up more than say.... 75 pounds on your own! You should be writhing on the ground with a busted shoulder, herniated discs and maybe a dislocated wrist! And that's putting it lightly."

"Well that's a secret there. You're welcome to study it when you're not busy. Just uh... No cameras, hidden or otherwise though.... Rather wouldnt have the Princesses breathing down my neck because I was caught on camera throwing trees and such..."

"Uh... Understood General sir... Just.... If there's a way I can be put into contact with a Princess without trouble just allow me to speak with them. Please!"

I huffed and just as I was about to respond Daring stood back up. "Uh... Ryder could you possibly help with the safe real quick?" She asked. "Seems either the weather rusted the tumblers a bit or I forgot the combination..... Could you uh... use your strength to rip the door off possibly?" I gave a nod and tipped the safe onto its back. Now I usually have tools for this.... like Paper Clips and a screw driver. But all I had here was a gun, a knife and my hands. I'm not damaging the knife, the gun isnt gonna work so.... I just grabbed the pins, yanked em out before grabbing the door and taking it off. Inside was a few packs looking stuffed full with stuff. Daring and Sunburst grabbed their bags throwing the straps over their shoulders making sure they had everything. I saw military grade everything. Knives, entrenching tools even a flask. Wouldnt doubt filled with other gear as well. "Alright. Got it." She looked to me. "You can either dispose of the safe or bring it with us and you can take it home. Your call on that." I looked to it. Do I have use for a safe? Eh... Could bring it back to Twilight, see if she could have use for it... Though... I should see about resetting the tumblers for a new code. I huffed and put the pins back in the door making sure it was set right before hoisting it onto my shoulder again.

I followed them through the woods weaving through the path Daring and Sunburst weaved for me. We walked on for quite a while going further and further out before we came upon what looked to be an abandoned concrete building with graffiti everywhere.... Some almost looking like something gang related but I couldnt tell... nothing I recognized. We entered the crumbling structure and found stairs. Though... this place looked nowhere near as abandoned on the inside as the outside did. Walls were clean painted, maybe a few chips here and there but nothing to reflect it. As we walked down the stairs we came into a corridor where we walked on for a little while more. Again paint and working lights here just said this was definitely NOT abandoned. When we came into the more open area I just looked to Sunburst after looking at probably the most obvious thing I expected.... Yeah... Stable Door from Nukes Galore. Marked with the number 26 because in the first game that came out a bit before I was born this was the first Stable door we see going to save the world from the Mutants. And I guess our food supply. Anywho I looked to Sunburst. "So.... Whos idea was this?" I asked him as I set the safe down away from the door. Daring looked to me.

"Well... his idea.... Luna had to get everything prepared and this took quite a while.... Safe to say this is definitely nuclear war prepped and honestly whoever finds it better know the code..." She looked to Sunburst. "Speaking of the code. You mind?" I sat on the safe watching as Sunburst nodded and started messing with a nearby console that I've missed completely.

I watched as he started pushing buttons and turning dials. He turned to us as he put his hand on a glowing green button. "Alright... Ryder... You've probably opened enough of these doors to know they're loud as hell." He said. "Plug your ears. I'm opening the door!" Daring and I nodded plugging our ears just before he pushed the button. Hidden lights started flashing and I could hear alarms going off. Slowly the door pushed itself out sending a loud metal on metal screeching before being pushed out and then started swinging outward towards the right. These doors are supposedly so heavy they cant be moved by normal means and thick enough to even a direct blast with nukes wouldnt be able to penetrate.... Even though one Nukes Galore games centered around one faction who disproved that fact. Literally took a nuclear warhead up to one of these doors in a mountainside. And despite not having a working Colt Companion this one opens and in game you apparently need one to open these things. The flashing lights kept flashing but the alarms fell silent. We all took our fingers from our ears and looked to each other. Sunburst gestured to the door. "Mares first." Daring nodded and started walking. I just followed behind her and Sunburst followed behind me.

We entered the bunker and walked across a catwalk that extended out for us. I couldnt help but just breathe in the air being filtered through the system. Fresh. Cool. Like we just opened a fresh car nobody has even bought yet. I looked to Sunburst as we went deeper. The walls had markings of where the door was, where the atrium and even where security and even the 'diner' area... the diner in some of these Stables were just a kitchen and a mess hall... one even making residents cannibalize their own.... Lucky that one was going to be put in one of the latest games but was cut because they thought it was too dark even for a game where killing, raping and blowing bodies apart are things... Rape is a thing because apparently you can hear raiders in one area talk about it.... not going any further there. Anywho I looked to Sunburst. "So.... uh.... Is it rude to ask about something to eat? Kinda need some lunch for now." I said. He nodded.

"Lunch will be soon. Lets just find our rooms, drop our stuff off and get eating." Cutting this short we found our rooms and I guess this is supposed to be an operational bunker just in case of war that comes here.... Hopefully that doesnt come. Has working power station, entertainment area with games, movies and even a few computer terminals. We went to the diner and it was almost like a legitimate diner. Even themed after ones you'd find in the wasteland. Ate our food which he just made a few hayburgers for us and after I went and explored a little more with Daring until we found a shooting range in the security area.

Daring sighed as we started looking at everything. Found targets, a locked locker full of weaponry that I could see... Some other weapons i've seen in game and I still havent even shown the knife to Sunburst. "So you seem to be becoming fast friends with Sunburst...." She said. "What do you think of him so far?"

I gave a sigh as I started rifling through the targets. "He's honestly awesome. Like a brother I never had." I replied. "Dont tell my sister this... but I always wanted a brother.... not an in-law but... someone to basically like the same stuff I like.... Kinda be able to understand each other no matter what.... I love my sister a bit more than that though...."

"Well," She said grabbing a standard shooting target from the piles before hanging it. "He told me while you were setting things in your room and geeking out that he really would like to get to know you a little better. Not only because he's seen what you can do and stay on your good side but he already considers you a friend and an ally." I gave a sigh as she sent it back. I just handed her my gun and she set it down on the counter. "Still kinda sad I'm gonna be out here huh?" I gave a nod. She just came over and hugged me. I latched onto her.... and its almost like she just pressed a button on my back that my eyes just welled up with tears and I just started sobbing. "....Aww come on now dont cry..... I'm not gonna be gone forever.... Just until things get safer...."

".....I know... this just.... its like I'm helping one of my best friends move and just..." ....I couldnt find the words. Just kept crying. She shushed me and kissed me on my cheek.

"....You're mad.... Not at me for having to leave... probably at the Princess for having you do this.... arent you?" I sniffled and shrugged. "....I think she'll understand if you are.... But she and I were the only ones to trust you to do this without revealing to anyone my whereabouts or my identity.... I sound a bit contradictory now that your whole family knows about me.... but that doesnt matter. We trusted you and only you to do this... I didnt want some random guard out here only to have my face all about the news.... Sure the Princess' would do something about it but it might cause uproars about who i truly am. Am I Yearling? Am I actually Daring? You know but no matter for how much money in the world you would never reveal who I am...." She took my hand and started leading me out of the range. We walked over to a bench and sat down. She reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone and just handed it to me. I knew what she wanted me to do. Just unlock it. I did so and handed it back to her. She just opened up the video chat app and found Twilight's contact hitting it starting the call. Yeah... I was connected to the internet in here. Surprisingly stretches throughout the complex.

I could only watch as she started the call with Twilight. I kept my face out of the camera.... just hugged myself, wiping my eyes. Twilight answered maybe a minute after. "Daring! I was wondering when you'd call!" I heard Twilight say. "But uh.... What are you doing with Ryder's phone? Is he....? Did you uh....?" Daring sighed.

"No not yet. We're just waiting for our food to settle. I just called to tell you that.... I guess Ryder doesnt like it that you sent him to accompany me leaving...." She looked over to me. "I dont blame him.... He's been distracted most of the way here because of my contact but I had a feeling it wouldnt last forever...." Twilight sighed.

"....Yeah... You told him why right?"

"The danger, the breakthrough, everything.... Even tried getting him worked up a bit but he's serious about his job."

"I get how much you mean to him.... I mean... Just.... I've caught him coming out of his room with one of your books in his hands and a bit of a bulge in his pants." I blushed as Daring chuckled.

"Yeah... He's revealed that to me when I first revealed myself to him.... Quite literally I might add. I think nothing of it despite.... some shortcomings.... He's been quite the stress reliever as well as good company.... Perhaps even a rather interesting specimen being General of the Royal Guard and topic of my next book.... Not to mention something I've seen out here.... I'm not going to lie if he didnt have a wife A.K. Yearling might've taken on as her own." She threw an arm around me. "Speaking of his wife I'm sure he'd like an update on her." Twilight hummed as I just tried to hide my face with my wing.

"Well she's doing alright... Gilda definitely took a beating when she started yelling at a guard for staring at her too long.... Still has it in her mind that the guards think she's fat..... I swear the guard looked like he was back at boot camp... Checked on him after Gilda took a few punches and he told me he felt like he was with the drill sergeant again.... Caught a private out of uniform and just went on a rant that would probably take you back to the principals office after you got in a fight at school.... Ear blistering, you felt like crying and just.... yeah...." She huffed. "Think they're taking a nap right now but holy hell that was something.... I'm just hoping that she doesnt go and attack any of the guards.... I'll stop them from arrest but these mood swings are getting violent.... like seriously...... I feel like she's getting more and more mad with this.... Lucky Gilda knows a thing or two about taking a hit...."

"Sounds like someone else I know.... But really I'm gonna ask this.... for him since he's uh... You know...." I sniffled more just trying to hide my face. "....Maybe when he gets back.... I'd say give him a few days off.... Maybe keep him at the castle.... I have a feeling this is just breaking his heart so much.... having to do this...."

"Agreed.... Ryder.... When you return I want you here at the castle.... Not only for Gallus' sake.... but you seem like you need that 'breakup care' routine.... Might see if Rarity wants to help.... She's got Ryder's favorite ice cream always stocked though she eats it herself most times.... I'll have her come by, get Dash to watch the girls and Gilda to help with AJ still.... Also uh.... May I speak with Ryder alone Daring? I have an update about someone he saved.... I'll give you details later unless Ryder give you the story." Daring sighed.

"I uh..... I'm not sure if he does wanna say anything with the state he's in...." She looked to me. "....May she tell me about what happened?" I hesitantly nodded. She looked back to my phone. "He says you're good to tell me."

"Alright.... So.... A little while ago Ryder was sent to Griffonstone on an errand for Princess Celestia.... That errand was done but on his leisure time he encountered a suicidal griffon- Gallus an eighteen year old griffon- who tried jumping into the legendary gorge they have there.... And he saved him by jumping into that chasm and if you know that Chasm... You know how close he was to death. But.... The update.... We checked his room after you caused him to cry. He thanks Ryder for putting that fear of death into him.... I'm... I'm not sure how but.... I'll ask you about that later.... But when we checked his room we found some pills I had in a medicine cabinet in the bathroom he was in.... He apologized and that made me go through all the cabinets in the castle and even make magic cabinets for cleaning supplies and even some medicines. Only guards and I and other trusted ponies have access. And if he needs anything he's to ask one of us and take the pills in front of us. I'm even keeping the sharp knives drawer in the kitchen under lock and key only to use if someone needed to use em to cook. I'm also recommending Luna aid him with this as well. But I'm still having you sit down with him when you return. Maybe spend some time with him. Games and what not."

Daring handed me the phone and tickled me a bit forcing me to put my wing back into place. Dont know why it does that but probably not good if someone wanted me to give up on flying.... hell Gallus could've done it if he knew... I didnt even know! Anywho I sniffled. "...I'll have a chat with him.... when I get home..." I said. "....Just... Keep him playing with Spike.... Have guards keep watch here and there..... I'd even have guards or medical staff check him for cuts or bruises as well... Just to be sure."

"Understood General... Now you just.... Go relax with Daring... I'm sure you need her while she needs you.... Just deep breath, take a drink. You'll be fine General... It'll hurt for a while yes but as we keep saying this isnt gonna be forever. Just until its safe again.... And even though this does involve the guard we dont need you to investigate." And with that she hung up. No 'bye' no room for argument, not even to have her tell AJ I love her.

Daring took my phone and sighed. "A drink sounds good...." She said. "Why dont we fire off a few rounds and think drink a few rounds before you and I... Have a little adventure.... Maybe we could go topside and enjoy the elements as we go at it..... I'm sure Sunburst didnt close the door yet but we can let him know not to close it.... Or would you rather he join in? Maybe we're in front of him and he just lets loose... gives you and I a shower before just glazing us both... Yet only you can venture inside my cave....." She started feeling me up.... Cant hide it I was harder than the rock surrounding this bunker. She hummed. "Tell you what.... We go back in there, three shots each, one handed. No two handed stabilizing. You get the closer shots and we go at it, anything goes. I get closer then I get to take control.... and seeing how you're in control a little.... insubordination from yours truly could just turn you on even more...."

I honestly just picked her up and threw her over my shoulder. "Fuck it. I lose." I said. "Missed every shot now lets do this!" She gave a bit of an excited giggle.

"I'd say you sounded off before the start but..... I've seen that before.... Now hurry on to my room. I have got from the Princess to surprise you!" I hurried as fast as I could to her room without hurting her or missing a step. Had to give her my phone to make a reminder to grab my gun after we were done. Once in the room I set her down and just stripped myself down while Daring just started digging through her bags.

As she dug through her bags the door opened and Sunburst came in looking at papers. "Daring I was just looking at the notes you jotted down and I had some questions about-" He said stopping as he looked up. He blushed hard. "....Did.... Did I interrupt something?" Daring looked back as she pulled a familiar bottle with a pink liquid inside it.

"Kinda... Wanna join?" She asked shooting him a horny grin. "Go on, set the papers down and out of the way. I can tell you're as curious for this as you are for the work....." He just swallowed and nodded before setting his papers on a dresser nearby.

As he fiddled with his belt buckle.... the logo for the same faction his battle coat was from.... He took it off somewhere between when we finished eating. I got up and walked over just planting a kiss on him and helped him undress.... Unbuttoned his shirt and loosened his pants before just slowly dropping to my knees and making him hard. Just kissed at his junk, fondled him until his cock just was resting on my face. "Seems he wishes to help me show my inner slut....." I said. I glanced at Daring. "May I start with him mistress?" Daring stood up before swirling the bottle a bit.

"Not just yet.... Just keep him hard.... Should only take but a moment." I gave his shaft a quick lick.... sack to tip. He just stood there just letting it twitch on my face.

"...No issues there.... He seems ready to go.... He looks ready to just leave my face a drooling mess after fucking me...." I heard Daring drink something... More than likely that potion... even saw a little glimmer out of the corner of my eye.

"...He could do that... but why not service us both at once and then we decide...." I glanced over as she stood up... didnt even try to hide the new pair hanging between her legs. Just had her legs opened up a bit as she just rid herself of her top letting her breasts just flop out... no bra... sexy. She turned around and I honestly wasnt surprised to see a horny mare with a dick that was as hard as I was. Sunburst just stared down at her while I just grabbed at it and stroked it for a moment. She blushed as I kissed the tip. She looked over at him. "This was a little 'going away' present for Ryder here... Princess wanted me to surprise him with it and-" Right here I just started downing her like it was nothing making her gasp. "...Y-Yeah... I... I think he likes it..... Dont you you little slut?" I came up for a breath not taking my eyes off her huge member.

"....Oh yes mistress.... I absolutely love it.....Perhaps you're lubed up enough to fuck my tight hole? Please Mistress?" Daring hummed a bit as she waggled it in my face.

"I'd say so.... just make sure you give Sunburst a good prepping too.... He might want a go with you after I'm finished... either that or he can make you what you wanna be.... a slut covered in cum, drooling thinking about nothing but cock.... Our heavy cum filled balls just ready to fill you up...." Oh I was panting like a dog at this point..... She looked to Sunburst as I started to just suck him off a bit. "Willing for sloppy seconds or would you rather give him some desert?"

Sunburst swallowed a bit as I licked the tip. "....Uh.... A-any way to make him stretch a bit?" He asked. "I uh.... I dont wanna.... disrupt dinner nor do I want to uh.... feel the after effect of the stuffing....I'd rather be the first or uh... Not participate?" Daring sighed as she fondled herself.

"You're welcome to walk away at any time.... just grab your things and leave us here.... Maybe I give you something to help you rid yourself of your stiffy there.... All you have to do is push the little puppy away and let him crawl back to his mistress to play."

Sunburst looked down at me blushing a bit. "...I wouldnt worry Master Sunburst...." I said. "....I've been trained well by... Other means.... I mean....." I just downed his shaft..... All the way to the hilt. He just gasped holding my head there. I pulled back and licked my lips. "...This puppy is always hungry for cum....." I could see the glimmer in his eye... He wanted to do this. I just stood up and took his cock in my hand dragging him along as if it were a leash. I lied down on my side and just started to lick his shaft again just as Daring started prodding my ass.

"...Last chance Sunburst.... One word and he's all mine..."

Sunburst sighed as he took hold of his cock and slapped my face with it before pushing it into my mouth. "....He's making it hard not to.... Research can wait but I cant any longer!" He grabbed his cock and just slowly pushed it into my waiting mouth. I only saw his balls as he just started slowly fucking my face. Daring just pushed right into my ass and I swear it felt like she was just lubed up. Daring sighed as she just started fucking me.... Just ass to hips. I wanted to touch myself but she grabbed my arm and held it behind my back.

"Ah ah! No touchy pet... You cant touch until I say you're good and ready to touch yourself! For now.... Just keep a hand on that low hanging fruit...." I took my free hand and just started massaging Sunbursts.... honestly... musky balls. Wasnt bad but you could definitely tell he probably sits in a chair for too long and hasnt bathed for at least a few days. He just kept thrusting into my throat and god I havent been spitroasted like this since.... Well.... Since my anniversary I think.... Whenever Gilda and Applejack did that and Dash joined in I think. Its certainly been a while. Sunburst moaned while Daring just gave my ass a slap. Ooh it made me twitch a bit.... Felt amazing.

I felt Sunburst flare up fast.... Daring I guess wasnt used to the feeling of a cock either because she flared up. Sunburst just kept thrusting though with the way he was panting and moaning he was nearing his limit. "Oh god... D-Daring... Ryder.... I... I'm gonna blow......" He said. Daring huffed keeping it together real well.

"....Blow inside or all over us.... you're call there.... I think the General here deserves at least one cream pie and to touch himself...." Daring released my hand just as I started to flare up. I just grabbed a hold of myself as Sunburst pulled out and started stroking himself fast before everyone just started blowing their loads all over. Mine onto the floor and the bed, Sunburst in my face and all over our bodies and Daring just deep deep inside me.... and god I felt like jelly afterwards. They had to help me up and wrap me in something so I didnt go leaking all over the floor and I was lucky he had a shower that could take this.... Daring washed me... Even uh.... Cleaned me up with her mouth.... Guess she was still horny but I promised to do something about that later. I just got her off with a few fingers in her cunt before going to bed. That night I just held on to her.... Kissed her and just loved her while I had her.... Stayed for breakfast the next morning but when I had to leave they had to use the most tear jerking line from the game this fucking Stable is from.... 'Thank you for your help but you must leave....' God I couldnt take it. Daring just stared at me as I stood outside the door and just watched it as it closed. When I got topside I still felt heart broken but a bit happier knowing I didnt have to walk that far with the safe on my shoulder. About twenty minutes into my walk I was met by a guard vehicle who just ferried me to Canterlot where I just stayed in the castle for.... I think a few days at least.... Twilight came up with AJ, Dash and Rarity.... She was gonna surprise me with Babs and the girls but I guess Sweetie Belle was grounded and Babs wasnt feeling up to coming to Canterlot after an accident that really embarrassed her. I mean.... Her dad was on a video call, Babs was in the background trying to do something but ended up spilling something all over herself and I guess it scared her into wetting her pants making that mess worse. Big Mac agreed to just watch the girls and Spike at the castle. But at Canterlot we watched movies, ate good food and even went to use Celestia's personal spa.... AJ noticed me uh.... a bit walking funny and a little loose from behind still but she understood since Twilight told her. I'm.... I'm still gonna need a bit to recover from this....

To be continued....