Life Anew

Okay its been a few weeks since my scare with Scootaloo... I had a nightmare or two, one may have resulted in a wet bed... AJ wasnt too mad about that because she had a bit of an accident too... With that baby coming any day now her bladder is the least of her worries. We moved into the Castle for at least the last few weeks or so waiting for that foal. For the time being Big Mac took the girls to go live with Babs and Uncle Orange until the Foal is born. They agreed to help with getting the girls to school and help out with work around the farm while we wait to get back to it. Tonight was just another normal night... dinner, visit with AJ seeing how she was. Told me she was just ready for what ever but expected me to visit almost- if not- every day. Promised I would and if something came up I'd let her know.... And tonight I really should've let her know... But i'd rather not put that stress on her... It was stressful for me as a guard to be woken up in the middle of the night, in my own room, while in my underwear, by a guard. What did they say? "GENERAL! SIR!" They yelled startling me out of a dead sleep and almost out of bed. I looked at the guard hiking the covers up and rubbing my eyes. "Apologies for the rude awakening sir but we have reason to believe the castle has been infiltrated! Princesses room is on lockdown and so is the medical wing for your wifes safety as well. We need your assistance as soon as possible!"

I huffed as I threw off the covers. "If it were under any other circumstances I would've told you to fuck off.... Get guards at every exit point and lock down the castle." I ordered as I went for my drawers. I grabbed some pants and a shirt before grabbing my badge. I looked to the guard who was till standing at the door. "And give me your tranq gun. I might need it." He nodded and unclipped the holster from his belt tossing it onto the bed. "Good. Now move out! Have someone ready to lead me in the right direction of where the infiltration took place!" He gave a salute and left the room. I quickly got dressed minus my shoes. I grabbed the gun, strapped it to me and left the room with it drawn and ready. A guard was already waiting for me and beckoned me to follow him. I followed as close as I could. "What's the situation?"

The guard glanced back at me as we rushed down the hall. "Strange noises have been coming from Princess Twilight's Library and we locked it down ready for whoever comes out of there. Heard books falling from shelves, someone mumbling and movement. Nobody checked or has breached just in case."

"Good... How the fuck did they get into her library first off all?"

"Not a clue. More than likely unicorn, teleportation and with exact location of where to go.... No clue on how they could get the layout for this place."

"All exits covered just in case?"

"No way in, no way out."

"Good. Lets bag us an intruder." We rushed through the halls past guard doing patrols keeping it tightly maintained. Ran past the Princesses room. At least four to six guards there. AT LEAST. There's probably a few more inside keeping Twilight safe. You know where. We turned down a few more halls before we came to the library. Got a few different entrances to the library. We were at the east wing entrance. There was a north and west side entrance too but other than those entrances nobody gets in or out with guards at every door. South side? Nothing there but a wall, kitchen and more guards on the other side of that. As we got to the door the guards there looked to me. "I need one to stay out here, radio to the others to make a move on my mark." One guard nodded as the others got their weapons ready and we huddled on the wall. I took a deep breath and opened the door a bit peering in.... Saw a light from someone and darkness. Nothing more. I went in giving a hand signal to hold for a moment while I grabbed some cover by a bookshelf. Guards looked to me as I counted on my fingers to three. Once I hit three? Go time. And on that motion EVERYONE breached the room yelling. I heard a mare scream before seeing a quick flash of light before another right next to me only for me to see a mare running off. I grabbed her quick and hit her with a tranq dart real quick. She tried saying something but quickly passed out in my arms. I slowly lied her down in the hall and looked her over. Unicorn mare, orange coat, red and yellow mane and a little bruising around her face. She was wearing a leather jacket with metal studs, a deep purple tank top, jeans and motorcycle boots. That dart was right in her leg. I looked to a guard who just came out with his weapon ready. "Radio in, say the threat has been neutralized. And notify a medic to get that dart out of her. But for now, cuff her!"

The guard nodded and cuffed her being mindful of the dart. I just sat there next to her as he stepped away and radioed for everything. Once that medic got there they removed the dart and followed me as I went down the hall with her over my shoulder. We went into a spare room where I just laid her down and put a magic restriction ring on her horn. After that I went and grabbed a chair and an energy drink from the kitchen and went back to the room where I just sat for hours sipping that energy drink. Had to have someone get my phone and the charger so i had something to do while watching over her. Had a few texts. One from Scoot showing me how much fun she was having with Babs. Few from Gilda.... One being a cute upskirt while in public... local mall and Dash was right next to her who either knew or was OBLIVIOUS as fuck. Last one was from Applejack responding to my 'goodnight, love you text'. Though I just played a game or two and browsed my photos of the wife, Gilda.... A lot of Gilda... Pinkie showing off her ass and a bit of Fluttershy that Dash sent. Did what I could until she woke up. Scared the shit out of me. "Uh.... Sir... Can you uh... tell me what the hell just happened and where I am?" She asked. I put my phone away and got up just giving her a look.

"Surprised you dont know where you are since you were the one to get in here.... Middle of the god damn night, you're alone and somehow get into a heavily guarded castle.... Swear if this were Canterlot you wouldnt be here talking to me....."

"And... You are....?"

"General Ryder, Royal guard...."

"Oh uh... Ryder.... I uh... Sir.... You must be Twilight's guard... I-If I could just speak with her-"

"THE FUCK YOU WILL! You broke into a castle planning who knows what and now you're wanting to talk to someone who- for all I fucking know- want to kill?"

"Sir just.... Please! I need her help!"

"The only help you're gonna get is help into a cell. Now I expect you to stay quiet until the Princess wakes up.... And appreciate that I didnt leave you on the ground or in an uncomfortable chair.... Now I suggest you get some rest.... Princess likes to wake up pretty early.... She's not gonna be happy waking her up any earlier...."

"...I... Y-Yes sir...."

"Good. A guard will check on you every now and then.... Stay put. Otherwise I'm putting more restraints on." I got up and grabbed my things before leaving. Even took the chair back to the kitchen. And yes. Told someone to stand at the door and wait. I just went up to the landing pad and sat in the middle of it looking out at the world.... I could tell the sun was maybe an hour away from rising. I sat there for a while looking out at Ponyville, out at Canterlot and just off in the foggy distance. Got up leaving my things with a guard before taking a quick flight around waking myself up even more with the cold air before landing and grabbing my stuff and going back inside. Just went to watch TV because I didnt realize how early it was and I was still wired on an energy drink. I stayed there until I ended up nodding off.

Slept on the couch until I ended up being woken up by my alarm scaring the shit out of me and off the couch. I grabbed my phone and turned my alarm off before heading out into the hall. I made my way towards the dining room where I found Spike making some food. "Morning Ryder!" He said. "Heard there was something going on last night. Everything good?"

"Yeah... Mare snooping around.... Nobody is sure how she got in but we're damn sure on how she's getting out."

"Good. Dont need anyone here that doesnt need to be."

"Yeah... Even though I have all right to move her immediately I thought I'd want to know what Twilight wants me to do with her.... That and I do NOT appreciate being woken up out of a dead sleep....."

"I hear that.... Just when Twilight does know about this she might yell at you... Not to mention if she was woken up by guards last night she's gonna be none too happy...."

"Here's hoping she still had a good night's sleep...." I went for the fridge and grabbed a can of juice.... Cracked it open and just sipped from it.

After a little bit I heard a few guards coming down the hall and just as they passed Twilight walked in wearing her tank top and fuzzy sleep pants and slippers. She looked more awake than me that's for sure. She used her magic as she sat down next to me getting a glass of water and conjuring a brush to brush her mane out. "...Morning you two...." She said. "....Sleep well last night?" I gave a huff.

"Not really but hopefully you know why...." I sipped my drink a bit and checked the can. Didnt realize I was empty.

"Luckily I did... Guards woke me up getting me into my safe room but I was able to sleep considering I didnt hear gunfire. What happened if you dont mind me asking?"

"Intruder. Not sure how she got in. Tried escaping the guards, grabbed her, got a tranquilizer into her and she's awaiting movement. Apologies if waiting for your orders wasnt needed." She sighed.

"I'll let it slide this time considering there was minimal yelling and minimal damage.... Guards did tell me I would need to go and fix my library after breakfast... Might as well see who this infiltrator is.... You checked for weapons on her didnt you?" ...I grabbed the can and just flattened it in my hands before just slamming my head on the table. "Ryder...."

"If she had anything it would've fallen out or would've been apparent! She could've even tried using whatever against at least one of the dozen guards who rushed her!" She just smacked herself face palming....

"...Ryder you're an idiot but you get away with some of the dumbest shit and it surprises me...." She got up just as Spike brought the pancakes over. "When we go into the room for me to see her, frisk her assuming she hasnt escaped... You did put someone at her door right?"

"Checking on her every half hour. They would've contacted me if she had escaped."

"Good.... You're safe again... Two out of three... Good thing you still manage to do your job right even when you screw up... Now get eating. Faster we finish, faster we can see our intruder..." I gave a nod and just watched as Spike gave us our food. Ate, rested for a few and then we were on our way.

I followed her through the halls up while still leading her on where the intruder was put. When we got there Twilight waited outside while the other guard and I went inside. The mare was passed out and sleeping on her stomach, snoring a little bit. "Ma'am!" The guard said startling the mare awake. She scrambled to sit up and look at us.

The mare huffed. "Fucking.... What do you want? I was asleep!" She snapped.

I grabbed her and brought her off the bed. "Funny. That's what I said when you had guards wake me the fuck up last night....." I said. "Now stay still. You're actually gonna get your wish you had last night...." The guard started frisking the mare. Pulled a phone out of her front pocket, wallet, few cards and an ID from what I saw before putting it in the bed.

"Hey that's my stuff!"

"No shit. Now quiet." The guard checked her jacket and even her boots before giving me a nod. "Good. Bring her in." The guard gave a nod before walking out. I turned the mare to face the door just as Twilight came in.

Twilight looked the mare up and down and gave a grunt. "Doesnt look like much.... Someone maybe trying to challenge me to a fight of magical power?" She said.

The mare whimpered a bit. "T-Twilight I just-" She said stuttering.

"You just what? Think you're better with Magic?"

"No! I shouldnt be here!"

"OF COURSE YOU SHOULDNT THIS IS MY CASTLE! How did you get in here in the first place?!" The mare flinched a bit... Okay a lot just going to me.... Didnt take long to even hear something wet hitting the floor. Twilight and I looked down only to see the mare pissing herself... She sighed. "Son of a.... She's pissing herself...." She looked to me. "Take her things, clean her up and get her some new clothes. I'm done here." I watches as she left the room while the mare cried into my shoulder embarrassed.... Not her first choice I believe but I'm going to allow it.

I huffed and just nudged the mare a bit and she took a bit of a step over the puddle she made and walked with me out of the room and opposite the way of Twilight. I looked to the mare. "Look," I started. "I agree Twilight was harsh there. I'm willing to work with you if you work with me. We get you to a bathroom, get you cleaned up and then into some dry clothes... I can let you clean yourself up but you are to not do anything but clean. Dont run, dont try to attack me do not even try to do anything to free yourself.... Am I understood?"

The mare sniffled. "Y-Yes sir...." She said.

"Good. Just breathe miss...." I just rubbed her back as we walked down the hall and went into a bathroom. I set her stuff on the counter and went for my pockets before pulling out the key to the cuffs. I uncuffed her and just put a hand on her shoulder as she massaged her wrists. "Doing good so far.... Just grab a towel from the cabinet, cover yourself with it. And I know it's gonna be weird but I have to watch you just so you dont take that ring off your horn. Take that ring off and you're making it worse for yourself. Understood?"

"Yes sir...." I kept an eye on her as I grabbed her wallet pulling out what was an ID but.... this was a weird thing.... It was a High School ID.... 'Canterlot High'. Showed the mare on the picture but... she was kinda strange looking.... Shortened snout, no horn... Younger even. "Sunset Shimmer?"

"....Can you not go through my stuff?"

"Sorry miss but I have to just in case you have drugs or something in here. Protocol." I pulled out the other cards. Credit and Debit cards and even a picture.... I looked at that picture closely and I swear I was tripping.... I saw her, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie and the fucking craziest thing.... TWO TWILIGHTS. One with straight hair, the other with her hair up in a bun and glasses. I looked up at her just seeing her cleaning herself off with the towel she grabbed. "....You really arent from around here.... Are you?"

"....The fuck gave you that idea? Me just randomly appearing in Twilight's library with no way to get home?"

"...That and this picture...." She looked back as I showed her the picture. "...That's my family and friends there.... And why are there two Twilights? And why do you guys look so weird?!" She huffed.

"Would you believe me if I said they were from different universes?"

"From the shit I've seen and experienced with someone who was basically the same as me but genderswapped...? I believe you and if you think I'm crazy for that you're in for a bit of a surprise if you wanna go deeper down that rabbit hole...."

"Deeper than Fluttershy's bunny digs?"

"YES! Someone who gets it! That bunny just can NOT stop digging in the orchard when he's over and I'm still sure gophers take up residence when he does and that bunny digs so much SO FAST!"

"Agreed and I hate it when I'm asked to try to get that bunny out of there.... Also... What was your name again?"

"Ryder Miss Shimmer."

"I thought you looked familiar!" She snapped her fingers.

"You're married to Applejack!"

"Yes! Yes so I exist where you're from too?"

"Yep. Though there you're... a bit less violent and a bit less likely to look through my things as well but.... I get where you're coming from...." I looked to the photo and then back to the mare.

"...Okay I have an idea.... We get you dressed, maybe get you somewhere and have the Princess meet us there so I can show her that... Maybe we might be able to get her to apologize and help you with your problem here.... And I know she would want to make a new friend.... Just dont expect it to happen fast... I have a feeling I'm gonna get yelled at...."

And didnt I know it? After I got a guard to get her new pants and underwear, recuffed her, grabbed her things I led her to the den area where I woke up. Sat her on the couch and called Twilight and just waited outside having a few guards watch over Sunset while I waited out there.... Welp... Yeah I saw it coming. I was forced against the wall by Twilight's magic after I told her we should help her.... Reaction? "I SWEAR RYDER YOU ARE WALKING A THIN FUCKING LINE!" She yelled. "First, you forget to frisk someone who broke in to the castle and now you're pulling THIS SHIT?! WHY SHOULD WE HELP SOMEONE WHO BROKE IN AND FUCKING COULD'VE KILLED ME!?"

"P-Princess please! J-Just let me explain! If you dont like this explanation I'll turn in my badge, go to Celestia herself and make sure I never have a job working for royalty again!" She looked closely at me. I could see the fire in her eyes.

"You have FIVE. SECONDS. Explain or start running if you cant!" She released me and I stumbled a bit. I quickly went for my pockets taking out the ID and the picture before handing it to her.

"Here! Just look! She's not from here! Not from Ponyville and not even from this universe!" Twilight snatched them from my hand and started looking at everything. "How else do you think she could've gotten here if not through some sort of portal or door like we did when we were visiting with Dusk and Rylee?"

"...I was just in my library fixing things up and saw no doors other than the ones to get in to the library. Nothing else... But your portal theory could have some merit.... And these pictures.... I.... I cant explain how there are two of me for one thing and then everyone looking so.... different..." She looked to me. "...Guess I owe her an apology and you uh... Well... Something... Not sure what but... I just.... I owe you something." I sighed.

"Lets just get in there, apologize and see what we can do to help. Sound good?" She nodded. I handed her the rest of Sunset's things before we both entered the den area. I just unlocked the cuffs on Sunset just as Twilight offered her her things.

"Miss Shimmer, from the bottom of my heart please accept my sincerest of apologies.... Scaring you, yelling at you and just... all out refusing to listen to you when I wanted you to explain.... You're just lucky my General here risked everything to get me to listen to reason."

Sunset sighed. "I forgive you Twilight- uh... Princess... Uh... Not sure how you want me to address you since I'm sort of new in your universe...." She said. "Your General here might be an idiot here but he has some ideas."

My eyes widened and I blushed a bit. "HEY!" I snapped. Sunset looked to me as she got up.

"Oh dont you go complaining. I owe you a lot as well for not having me confined in a cell for just being here. Now why dont you get this ring off my horn?" I huffed and got it off handing it to a guard. She sighed as she used her magic to take the items in her hands and put everything into her pockets. "Gotta admit this feels... strange... being on my own two feet but still being able to use my hands other than something for my magic...."

I looked to Twilight. "Spike have any extras from breakfast? Our guest might be hungry." I said.

Twilight shook her head and sighed. "How about I give you some money and you can take her out to get something? Gives you something to do while I clean up the rest of my library." Twilight looked back at Sunset. "And no worries about the misplaced books. I got it." Sunset nodded and just followed me out.

As we walked Sunset looked to me. "So uh... Ryder... What is your world like?" She asked. I can already tell you're like... somewhere half way between a quadraped pony and a human with no discernable features of being able to use magic or fly..."

I glanced at her as we turned a corner towards the elevator. "The fuck is a human?" I asked. I winced as I stepped on something... only then realized i never grabbed shoes... "Never mind lets just.... Let me get to my room to grab some shoes and maybe change my clothes... make it look like I didnt sleep in my clothes maybe...."

"Anything you need to do. Just uh... Mind if I sit in your room while you get ready? Dont want a guard who doesnt get regular updates to know what goes on and get myself cuffed again.... Well.. That and you were in the bathroom while I was half naked so.... Good trade with that?"

"Any comments about size or touching is a bit too far but... yeah. Sure. Whatever."

We got to the room quickly. Changed out of those clothes into something better and I could tell that she was enjoying the view. She didnt say anything while I'm swapping pants and such. Didnt get through changing before my phone rang. Southern fiddle. Applejack. Sunset had to toss me my phone before I answered it. Put it on speaker and just sighed a bit before getting an ear full. "RYDER WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU?!" Applejack yelled. "You said you'd be here this morning and you arent. WHERE. ARE. YOU!?" I huffed.

"Sorry AJ Twilight has me doing something right now! I was going to visit after breakfast but before I could do anything Twilight told me to meet with someone and I'm trying to help them out right now."

"Couldnt you have just told her to wait a bit while you were with me?"

"She insisted it was important I get to it right away! You can ask her yourself!"

"I swear Ry if you're lying to me I'm gonna get up outta this bed and find your ass and string you up by your feet over the landing pad...."

"AJ...."

"DO NOT TELL ME TO CALM DOWN!"

"If I dont the doctors will and the doctors wont be as nice.... Remember what stress does to the baby! Breathing exercises!"

"...I swear Ry I hate it when you're right.... I best see you sometime today though.... Otherwise-"

"Otherwise what? Applejack there's nothing you can do! And dont worry I will. Think of what you want for dinner tonight, I'll come in and bring it. Even if I have to cook it myself!" Applejack stayed silent for a moment. Then sighed.

"Fine... Homecooked meals are always good.... I'll text ya later what I'm feeling. You just go on and do whatcha need to. Love ya sugarcube!" She replied sounding as if nothing was wrong.

"Love you too AJ. Later." I hung up and finished getting dressed.

Sunset gave a giggle. "She's such a sweetheart when she's not pissed off." She said. "How'd you two end up getting married?"

"Proposed after a gunfight, kidnapped by changelings on my wedding day and saved by special forces blowing the fuck out of the sewer system getting me out.... Dont know how many times I had a runin with changelings and nearly got turned into an eggsack or something...." I looked to her. "You know what Changelings are dont you?"

"In a sense... Creatures that change shape and everything... Havent seen any up close... Not sure if I have or not to be honest...."

"Not gonna lie... Both encounters I had made me rethink how well I know my friends and family.... And how bad pheromones are... Seriously I'd rather be in heat rather than be hit with Changeling pheromones again. Neither feeling is enjoyable, one is more enjoyable than the other..."

"Wait... You've been in heat before? You're a stallion! Last I checked you only get hardons." I grabbed a white shirt from the drawer before going for the wardrobe in the corner and grabbing a service jacket.

"Blame Twilight's sister in law for that... My advice? Never go and gamble with a sex deprived princess who has the power to swap genitalia with your significant other and then use a spell to 'start the cycle' as Dash says.... And coming from a stallion who couldnt tell a mare was in heat for who knows how long? You're just... It burns. SO MUCH... I actually feel sorry for you mares who have to deal with that monthly!" She huffed.

"Good to know you know how we feel... Now lets just get me some food... I am STARVING!" I gave a nod making sure I had my keys, phone and my wallet and even the shoes on my feet. We walked down to the elevator, took it to the garage and we hopped into my car. Went from the castle to the nearest place for food that sounded good to her. Despite being a unicorn she only felt comfortable having a salad. After we got her food we just sat in the parking lot. She was just pigging out more than I do with my hayburgers.

"So Sunset.... Just.... Why dont you tell me what happened before you ended up here? Uh... When you have a moment of course." She swallowed the massive bite she took and wiped her mouth before taking a sip of her drink.

"Well... I was invited by Twilight- well... My Twilight but not my Twilight? I guess? It's complicated but... I'll explain later. But I got an invite from Twilight for a bit of a sleep over considering my apartment is getting fumigated and I didnt have anywhere else to go but the portal I went through must've went and closed right as I was going through so I didnt necessarily make it as you can see. That portal is tied to specific days and when I entered it it was near midnight and luckily I didnt really need to bring anything but myself so not really anything lost other than maybe a few hours of sleep... and a way home I guess? "Glad I didnt have to go until I was woken up.... Whatever you hit me with last night really wasnt pleasant but I still managed to wake up well rested.... albeit with a bit of a full bladder. But that went and sorted itself out in a sense.... Surprised you werent grossed out by a grown mare losing her bladder in her pants."

"Eh.... Seen it too many times before..... From just about everyone whether deliberate or accidental so... doesnt really phase me."

"Deliberate? Who the hell is pissing their pants for you?!"

"My wife for one. Gilda, Fluttershy.... Dash on a bet and a few others."

"Gilda? She's such a-"

"Finish that salad rather than that sentence.... Gilda lets me work rage out rather than that accidentally happening on my wife. That and she likes to tease me."

"Well.... I'll give you that but she doesnt like me much.... Scuffed her boot once and you never hear the end of it...."

"Yeah.... Girl got pissed off because I stole her bike at one point but only because I needed to talk with her. She nearly killed me for that until the wife had to pin her."

"Sounds like Gilda..." She started eating more. "But uh.... How good is your Twilight with trying to find a way on how to get me home?"

"She's great with her magical skills if that's what you're asking. She once turned me into a foal but luckily only got me to piss myself more often than I'd like to. Potty training again was HELL." I looked to her. "But uh... About your question.... Are you worried you wont be able to get home at all?" She hesitantly nodded as she ate more of her food. "....I can say its a scary thought..." I leaned back in my seat. "...I was trapped on a mountain once.... Plane crashed and just.... I was injured, scared that was it.... I was gonna be a statue on a mountain and my sister all alone... Friends and family without someone they always saw, smiling, wanting to help them anyway they could.... I was so scared I wouldnt get off that mountain... At least alive anyways.... Freezing temperatures, blood loss and whatever the fuck was in the berries i had to eat to keep the pain from hurting too much...."

"Uh... Do you need a moment? I could finish my food and just stretch my legs for a bit....." I shuttered shaking my head a bit.

"Sorry sorry.... I'm just.... I guess I'm just trying to say I know how you feel.... I guess?"

"Could you maybe do it in a way that doesnt make me feel uncomfortable? Please? I'd rather not be thinking about being trapped here!" I gave a hefty sigh sitting back up in my seat.

"Apologies Sunset... Up to do anything while Twilight gets things ready? We could go to the mall, go take a walk around a park, head back to my place, could even see about taking you to Sugarcube Corner if you wanna have Pinkie get your mind off things. Up to you."

Just as she was about to answer my phone started ringing. I huffed at the classical tones..... Rarity....I held up a finger as I pulled my phone out and answered it on speaker. Immediately I heard background noise. "Sweetie PLEASE keep it down! I'm calling him right now!" She said.

"Yes Rarity?"

"Oh there you are Ryder! Could you come get Gallus? Poor thing didnt sleep well last night and Sweetie Belle wants to take a nap in her room but he's not getting out of her bed, the poor tired thing. He did come around and help me model some things but I think you need to take him back to the castle if you're not busy. I tried contacting Twilight but Spike said she's busy and I'm not sure what is making her so busy, especially for him!" I sighed looking to Sunset.

"I'll be right there Rarity... Just helping Twilight with this issue she's having.... Just uh.... Favor if I can?"

"....Why do you need clothes now Ryder? Shit yourself again on the road?"

"That was ONE time Rarity!" I replied blushing as Sunset snickered. "Blame the chocolate laxative milk that I was given instead of the regular because Mr. Cake mixed up the bottles on accident! And a long drive from Canterlot! But that's not it this time. I just.... Clothes for clothes if you could?"

"Hmmm.... I do have some stallion clients coming through soon so I guess I could use a model for what I have planned.... Is it for Applejack? The foal?"

"An unexpected guest that has Twilight busy. I can explain when I get there."

"An unexpected... Ryder you cant be serious who am I going to be-"

"Rarity. I can explain when I get there! Get me into mares clothes if you have to okay?" She huffed.

"Fine. Just get over here and get Gallus back to his own bed!" She hung up and I just sat back in my seat staring at my roof.

"....Me and my big fucking mouth....."

Sunset sighed packaging what left she had of her food. "What? Not wanting to be put in a pretty dress and panties?" She asked.

"No its not that.... Just couldnt be specific with you and her.... Lets just hope she's still willing to find some clothes for you just in case its not a one day thing... And I'm willing to do everything I can to make sure your stay is a comfortable one. Change of clothes, pajamas. What ever it takes..." I took a deep breath and huffed turning my key and making that engine roar.

"Is this about last night when you hit me with a tranq dart?"

"Maybe? I dont know..."

"Well dont worry about it! You were doing your job!"

"And it was done to a mare who- honestly if I was more pissed- could've gotten killed by my hand! Do you not know how strong I am?"

"Yeah I've seen it.... I've seen your ass rip a tree out of the ground getting ready to throw it at someone."

"And I'm glad it was just that.... Applejack was PISSED at me for that...." Story time. Bad day, asshole decided to try and pull a fast one, that guy ran off, tail between his legs.... AJ was lucky that tree could be easily replanted. Dude I'm pretty sure pissed himself. Never saw him again after that. Good.

"And I'm glad I wasnt the target for your strength. But I'm serious: You. Were. Doing. Your. Job!"

"Job or not I dont want to accidentally hurt someone who doesnt deserve it! Last thing I wanna do is hurt someone, accidetnally OR on purpose and if it is on purpose they must do something that really pissed me off. I've only done that once and it was only because someone messed with my family."

"Are you good? Do you need me to drive? Give you a chance to breathe?" I just sighed.

"...I guess.. would be better to breathe rather than yell at Rarity or Sweetie Belle... Done that before and just-"

"Ryder. BREATHE! Get out, let me in the drivers seat and I swear to Celestia if you say anything more I wont hesitate to use my magic to keep your mouth shut!" ...I was gonna say something but I didnt knowing how uncomfortable it is having my muzzle held shut with someones magic. I just left the engine on, stepped out and walked around as she teleported into the drivers seat. Had to unbuckle the seatbelt and rebuckle it when i sat back down. She sighed as she had to readjust the seat and her mirrors... She tried going for the radio but I grabbed her hand.

"You can drive, I control the radio still. Got me?"

"Fine.... I'll give you this... Just tell me where to go." She took her hand back and I just put on the rock station, just kept it low. I started giving her directions towards the Carousel Boutique. Once we got there she pulled up out front and parked it. I hopped out and went straight for the door while Sunset killed the engine and grabbed my keys.

I knocked on the door and waited a moment. Luckily the door opened just as quick and Rarity was just standing there shushing me. "Thank goodness you're here!" She whispered. "Why dont you get upstairs and get Gallus from Sweetie's bed? Sweetie fell asleep in mine and I'd rather not have her wake up from an accident in it....." She said. She looked over my shoulder at Sunset. "Is she who I'm supposed to be getting clothes for?"

I huffed looking back at her. "Yeah... She's uh.... well... You know how I'm a target for some bullshit and possibly magic more than likely?" I asked whispering back. "Well... I guess she's in the same boat as I am. First seen as a bit of trouble but shown to be better than thought.... Just someone who's lost and needs a bit of help getting home to say the least. And she's just uh.... Well.... Somewhat in an unknown land without things she needs?"

"And what she needs is clothes while you need to get to work....? Correct?"

"Exactly. Take measurements, give her some clothes so she isnt walking around nude and she already pissed herself out of fear once. Rather she have clothes to change into if she gets lost in the castle trying to find a bathroom." She hummed looking at Sunset. Sunset just blushed a bit and just scratched at her neck. Rarity looked back to me.

"I'll see what I can do there. Just go get Gallus and if you can put Sweetie in hers!"

"Should I wake her first or throw her over my shoulder? Cant get him and her at the same time!" She huffed.

"Well hurry. Faster you get him out of bed, faster I can get Sweetie into hers.... and get back to work. And you can be expecting a call any time this week but be sure to let Applejack know. I do not want that mare going screaming bloody murder and you're nowhere to be found except for in my boutique in lacy lingerie!" I huffed.

"Alright... Let me get to work getting Gallus...." She nodded and I went up the stairs while she directed Sunset into her workspace. I went into Sweetie Belle's room only to see Gallus curled up in her bed looking tired as anything... He was wearing jeans and a tee shirt that Celestia got him. His shoes were on the floor next to the bed. I sighed and nudged him. "Gallus? Gallus come on dude wake up!" He groaned a bit and curled up tighter. "Gallus? Wake up dude we need to get you back to the castle! It'll be easier for all of us if you just get your things together and get out to my car. If you can at least wake up long enough to do that...."

Gallus shifted and turned over. "...C'mon Ryder.... five more minutes..." He said.

"Gallus. NOW! Dont make me drag you out of that bed over my shoulder and you know I will!" He huffed and stretched before sitting up. "Get your shoes on, use the toilet if you need to and get downstairs. We need to talk later." He sighed and just started getting his shoes on. I watched as he did and got up before going out and down stairs. Rarity came from her room with Sweetie Belle in her arms just clinging to her cutely before she set her into her bed. I sighed. "There we go... Sorry if I got snippy but I'm not in the best moods today because of our guest down there...."

Rarity sighed as she tucked her sister in. "You're fine Ryder." She replied softly. "Come on. Lets get downstairs so I can do those measurements.... How did she put you in a bad mood if i may ask?" She left the room and I followed closing the door behind me.

"Apparently from what she told me, she fell out of a closing portal into Twilight's library. She has a picture that gives that expatiation some flesh and we've already talked with Twilight so she's to be trusted... Doesnt help what happened woke me up in the middle of the night and that I nearly hurt her trying to capture her.... Not only that, AJ got on my case earlier... Only way I could get her to calm down was offer to make her something tonight.... She- hopefully-... will tell me what she wants... either that or expects me to read her mind...."

"She's been very picky when it comes to what she wants.... When I was spending time with her the other day she said she wanted something with sweetness to it, I gave her several food items that were sweet going from fruit to candy to even a pie and she didnt even want the pie! She took a lemon sucker! Told me it was better than anything else I offered but apologized after she was finished with it! It doesnt help she wanted a milkshake with... Pickle juice mixed in and that Pinkie happily made it!" I sighed as we started into her work space with Sunset just looking at the clothes with Gallus rubbing his eyes struggling to stay awake.

"Yeah.... The way her cravings are making me think that kid might be coming out stranger than even me...." Sunset looked to us and smiled.

"Sunset, Rarity, Rarity, Sunset."

Rarity went for her glasses and measuring tape. "Thank you for agreeing to this Miss Rarity." Sunset said. "I just... I'm not sure how long Twilight will take helping me and I need some clothes so I'm not wearing the same thing every day I am here... Thinking two sets of clothes and some pajamas if you can spare it... maybe underwear as well.... hoping I can get my originals back before I leave...."

Rarity smiled. "Considering what the General here promised I'll happily offer anything that's needed." She replied. "Its strange though... I'm just meeting you for the first time but I feel as if I've known you for quite a while..." Sunset held her arms out and legs spread.

"Its good to know this... I honestly hope its like this with everyone else...." Rarity looked up at Sunset as she measured her legs and inseam.

"What do you mean?"

I sighed leaning on the wall with Gallus. "This goes to what I said about the picture... She had a picture of everyone of our friends, you looked insanely different but what cemented it was Twilight. There was two of her in the picture and before you say it was edited, Twilight looked different... more than originally. One had her hair up in a bun and glasses, the other had her hair straight." Rarity hummed a bit as she got a waistline measurement.

"Interesting... Tell me what was Dash wearing?"

I thought back to the picture.... I only saw who was there... didnt see what they were wearing. "Dash likes wearing Spats instead of underwear.... in that picture she was wearing her spats, shin high socks, running shoes, a short sleeved hoodie and a tanktop with her cutie mark on it? Even a skirt!"

"...Dash wearing a skirt? She does at times but.... Its..... Still strange to hear but... I believe you!" Rarity looked to me. "Why dont you take Gallus back to the castle and come back in about an hour? I need to spend some time here with Sunset here. Measurements and maybe make her feel comfortable while she's here." I gave a nod and put my hand on Gallus's shoulder before leading him out.

"See you later Ryder!" I gave a bit of a wave but stopped before giving a whistle. Didnt take but a second before my keys were thrown into my hand and from there I just left.

As I got Gallus into the car I knelt down next to the passenger side. "Everything good Gallus? You're normally sleeping alright and I havent gotten word from the guards about anything bad from you in a while...." I said.

Gallus sighed a bit buckling in. "...Guess I got a bit scared last night when I heard guards rushing around and yelling.... didnt sleep after that...." He said. ".... I didnt know what was happening and was afraid to ask...."

"Dont be afraid to ask dude... Worst you can get is that we cant say anything but that guard at your door is there to help you if anything. If you're scared, talk to them, if you cant sleep, ask them to take a walk with you or something. I know its weird having help somewhere you have a roof over your head but we're willing to help any way we can so you're comfortable.... and so far you've been doing well so we need to keep that up." I stood up. "Tell you what? I take you back to the castle so you can have a nap in your own bed, and tonight you help me with some dinner I'm making for the wife. Sound good?"

"I... Guess so....?"

"You'll be fine. Might need some help and I wouldnt mind taking you out somewhere to meet with The Wonderbolts, maybe have dinner or something next time I go take one of my sisters friends to work on her fear of heights and she's doing pretty well."

"Well... Alright... But... Can I help with the flying thing too?"

"Sure bud. Just.... try not to scare anyone alright?"

"Yes sir... Now can we go home now? I want a nap...." I gave a nod and closed the door before taking a short flight to the drivers side door.

I didnt really do much for that hour I was away other than help Gallus up to his room... even had a quick look checking if there was anything hidden amongst his belongings which he let me do. Didnt find anything other than a comic that Spike gave him.... I had to take that to Twilight to see if it was tied to any enchantment. Lucky it wasnt. And Twilight did say she screened every comic Spike got since the dog swap incident..... Winona thankfully has listened to me a bit more and I think she knows whats on the way. After that hour I decided to drive back to get Sunset. Pulled up to Rarity's and hopped out only to walk up to the door and hearing laughter coming from inside. I knocked on the door and rang the door bell. Waited for a moment and then the door opened revealing Sweetie Belle. "Here for that mare Rarity's having a glass of wine with?" She asked.

I huffed. "Suppose so... How many glasses?" I asked.

"About two each.... Can you take us to the castle or something? I dont feel like Rarity's gonna be good tonight and I do not wanna be alone with her!" I huffed.

"Get in the car. Let me get Sunset and your sister..." She nodded and rushed past me before I went inside and into the kitchen. There I saw Rarity pouring herself a new glass.... Sunset was enjoying a glass still half full wearing a new set of clothes entirely. New jeans, her boots still, a long sleeve shirt with sequence spelling Canterlot and her mane was a bit different. Rarity changed clothes too but... Yeah she was already gone a bit with her drinking. Light weight to be honest... and with wine nonetheless. "Scuse me for intruding ladies but we have a date at the castle. Not just me and Sunset but you and Sweetie as well Rarity. Not gonna leave you here alone, with or without your sister and would rather you be near someone to help you clean yourself up when the inevitable happens. Everyone in the car, Sunset grab your stuff, and for fucks sake finish the wine before you get in the car... I do not want to be caught with two drunk mares, a filly and an open bottle of wine in my car!"

They both nodded before finishing their wine before I grabbed Sunsets things and ushered both of them to the car.... Had to get em both in the back seat because I was NOT gonna have a drunk mare in the front seat with me.... Especially with Sweetie Belle with us.... Lucky Rarity and Sweetie, Twilight has clothes for them both for when they're over.... Same with Applebloom and Scootaloo... Babs too for when they're there as well. Once we were there I had a guard help me get Sunset and Rarity upstairs and to a room where they could sleep it off. Left them a few bottles of water and a few buckets.... For what they use it for, I'm hoping its only for one thing.... Even placed a guard at the door for them and had a guard help Sweetie Belle around. Later that night I was cooking in the kitchen with the help of Gallus and Spike. Gallus thankfully had a better rest in his own bed, told him after dinner I'd even go and fly around with him to get him tired again for bed for the night. And since Applejack never said what she wanted I made my stirfry and thankfully enough for everyone who wanted a plate. Me and AJ, Spike, Sweetie, Twilight, even Gallus! Even made a bit extra to give to Rarity and Sunset for when they woke up. I had Gallus walk with me and the wifes food all boxed up just in case.... Yeah I'm a butterfingers at times so what? Gallus looked to me as I gave a sigh. "You alright Ryder?" He asked.

"Yeah.... I'll be fine...."

"Who was that mare with Rarity?"

"Long story... I'll tell you later. Just wanna get this food to the wife before she flips out at me and doesnt eat...."

"Are you worried?"

"What am I not worried about right now? I've got a wife who can go into labor any day now, our house still isnt anywhere near to expanded for us to live in with the foal, I've got two drunken mares in a room sleeping off however much wine they drank, one of which is just lost and wanting to go home, I'm still waiting on my fathers old truck to come back from being turned into something usable for the family and just.... I still gotta see how you're doing with all of this... Same with my sisters and brother in law...."

"You got a lot on your plate and I aint talking about the food we're carrying...."

"Yeah.... You got that right.... " I sighed as we took a turn going towards the medic halls. "...Even though I've been told multiple times, I still got that worry in my mind that my wife could pass during childbirth like her mother did....Scares the shit outta me.... Its either that or the health of the foal itself..... Nobody wanted to know the gender, we're just waiting but we have names picked out.... Just havent been set on one to avoid fighting about it or betting on what comes out.... and my cousin would just LOVE to take bets about just about anything." We stopped outside of a room with a guard outside. Door was opened half way. AJ's private room. "Let this be a lesson for you Gallus... if my cousin wants to bet on something? Do not accept. Unless its the stupidest fucking bet ever. Then accept and put her in her place when she loses."

Gallus chuckled a bit before I nodded towards the door. As we entered I saw Applejack in her bed, hospital gown on just holding a pillow close looking as if she was watching a scary movie and she was just waiting for the jumpscare. Either that or a sad movie and she was holding something to cry into.... And more than likely it was the latter. Gallus set her plate down on a side table just as I set mine down on the opposite side. I took the pillow from her gently and hugged her. She just hugged me back tight. "...Oh Sugarcube...." She said. "...Sorry if I was yellin' earlier.... I just miss ya.... Just dont want ya runnin off before our foal comes around...." I sighed.

"There's no way I'm running away now... had plenty of chances but never thought of taking one of em.... Leaving you now would be the queue for the Princess to string me up by the balls... Even with the foal coming along I'm not leaving for shit. We got a foal on the way, that foal is gonna need daddy there to help while mommy is resting... and I definitely mean that AJ. You are resting until further notice after you give birth.... Okay?"

"Alright Ry.... I-I'll go and rest.... You're just... Always right when I should...." She whimpered a bit. I sighed and sat her bed up with the switch.

"Not always right but.... I just want what's best for you." I motioned for Gallus to hand her the plate. "Here AJ, Gallus and I cooked up something special for ya and I know how much you love it when I make it." She nuzzled up to me as I set it down.

"Thank ya sugarcube! Here to eat with me as well I take it?"

...Just as I was about to nod and say something... there was a knock at the door. We all looked up and there was Twilight looking a little stressed and her mane a bit messy. "Uh... Sorry for interrupting here guys but uh.... Can I borrow you for a moment Ryder?" She asked. "It's about our uh... Guest..."

I gave a sigh. "Give me a moment here Princess." I said. She nodded and disappeared around the corner. I looked back at Applejack. "You just get on eating alright? Gallus here will keep you company until I come back. Should only be a few minutes." She gave a nod and kissed me. I gave Gallus a nod before I left the room. The Princess was down a bit away from the door. I just walked down to her and sighed. "Everything okay Princess?" Twilight sighed a bit.

"Well... Yes and no.... No because I just finished looking through all of my library for a book on alternate dimensions... When I found that it didnt have anything I needed to send Sunset back... No creature description matched, no known portal methods and I even tested one out with the doors but they cant even do that. I contacted Princess Celestia and told her the predicament and she was.... hesitant.... Especially after I told her about Sunset.... She said she'd look for a book about alternate dimensions, even with Luna's help trying to help her back.... I asked why she was acting like that but she said she would deliver whatever she found personally.... Makes me worried.... about what she's going to do and our guest.... Speaking of... Where is she?"

"Sleeping off a bit of wine with Rarity.... Sweetie Belle should be around here somewhere too because I am NOT leaving her alone with a drunk Rarity. Nor am I wanting to leave a drunk Rarity alone....." She shuttered a bit.

"I wouldnt either.... Guard watching them both?"

"Yeah... Told them to be aware if one of them starts getting sick or wants to wander but to handle it calmly and get them back to the bed.... Hopefully neither of them uh...."

"If they do, I'll handle it... I know how you were with Rarity... Still feel bad about Sunset earlier but its a good thing she's been adapting well despite being somewhere foreign..." I huffed looking at the door where my wife was... "I know.... Still nervous about that foal..."

"Not only that Princess... We still need to rebuild the house... Rather wouldnt jump right into it and mess something up but I also wouldnt go for it too late and then while we're building that foal comes and we have to drop everything to take care of that foal...."

"Already thought of that General. Apologies if I went behind your back on this but I've already asked everyone of our friends to help with the rebuilding process.... Even had to make Rarity happy by setting her up with an interior decorator job. Told her she'd have to stick to what style you have now with a rustic style... maybe with a bit of an update here and there but its just going to be normal. We're even gonna go as far as maybe one or two magical pieces for easy access while you're caring for the foal. Thinking diaper station and feeding station for when its needed. All it needs is your approval. And if you need some time away from your foal Fluttershy and Pinkie volunteered to help take care of them giving you and AJ a break, even if you're wanting to get some work done and Applejack is willing to help when she really does need to be resting as much as possible... Hopefully."

"And knowing her she'll try, fail, try again and refuse to sit down when telling her to.... But back to our guest?"

"Right right.... Sunset's return to wherever her home is and subsequently her.... as you say 'crash house' might be delayed for a day or two... I'd check with her tomorrow during breakfast, maybe be on alert for her if she and Rarity are drunk... I'd even keep Sweetie Belle nearby just in case she gets a bit restless during the night."

"Understandable. You just get on and get some rest Princess. Send Sweetie Belle to bed soon and put her in a room near mine and have a guard stationed outside hers and have them notify me if anything happens with her during the night." Twilight nodded and then teleported away before I went back to the room where I find... AJ... eating food... her plate was already empty and she was already eating mine.

Gallus looked to me as she ate. "Uh.... She insisted that you wanted her to have your food while you were talking with the Princess..." He said.

Applejack swallowed the bite of food she had. "Sorry sugarcube. Eatin' for two here! Go grab yourself something.... And maybe bring me back a minty tasting dessert." She said. I gave a sigh before just going back out of the room.... Ended up going to get some hayburgers before coming back but when I was bringing the minty desert.... AJ was already asleep. Just put it in the freezer before going to bed. Didnt really help that I was woken up again by the guard... this time it was alright because it was for Sweetie Belle.... Needed someone to sleep with because of a nightmare. Though something sat in my mind... about what the Princess said.... I'm just hoping I can break the news to Sunset easily... maybe with or without Twilight's help... I'm at least hoping she'll take it easy... All we can do is offer a place to stay until we get this sorted out.

To Be Continued.